WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:04.030 align:middle line:90% 00:00:04.030 --> 00:00:15.416 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC PLAYING] Have all members voted who wish to do so? 00:00:15.416 --> 00:00:16.540 align:middle line:90% Time for voting is expired. 00:00:16.540 --> 00:00:18.100 align:middle line:84% The clerk will display the tally. 00:00:18.100 --> 00:00:20.330 align:middle line:90% 157 in the affirmative. 00:00:20.330 --> 00:00:21.780 align:middle line:90% Zero in the negative. 00:00:21.780 --> 00:00:25.040 align:middle line:84% The Consolidated Amendment on Energy and Environmental 00:00:25.040 --> 00:00:26.107 align:middle line:90% Affairs is adopted. 00:00:26.107 --> 00:00:27.440 align:middle line:90% House will be in a brief recess. 00:00:27.440 --> 00:03:44.540 align:middle line:90% So now we have to wait for my-- 00:03:44.540 --> 00:03:45.929 align:middle line:84% Miss Farley-Bouvier of Pittsfield 00:03:45.929 --> 00:03:48.220 align:middle line:84% asks unanimous consent to be recorded on that last roll 00:03:48.220 --> 00:03:48.390 align:middle line:90% call. 00:03:48.390 --> 00:03:49.806 align:middle line:84% Does the chair hear any objection? 00:03:49.806 --> 00:03:52.470 align:middle line:90% Chair hears none. 00:03:52.470 --> 00:03:55.680 align:middle line:84% On roll call number 40, Tricia Farley-Bouvier, yes. 00:03:55.680 --> 00:04:20.353 align:middle line:90% [MUSIC PLAYING] 00:04:20.353 --> 00:04:22.019 align:middle line:84% Chair, I'd like to take this opportunity 00:04:22.019 --> 00:04:24.600 align:middle line:84% to introduce to the right of the rostrum, Brian Barthelmes, 00:04:24.600 --> 00:04:26.060 align:middle line:90% a selectmen from Andover. 00:04:26.060 --> 00:04:28.250 align:middle line:84% He is guest of Representative Walsh and [? 00:04:28.250 --> 00:04:28.910 align:middle line:90% DeCost. 00:04:28.910 --> 00:04:29.520 align:middle line:90% ?] Welcome. 00:04:29.520 --> 00:04:38.110 align:middle line:90% 00:04:38.110 --> 00:05:58.790 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:05:58.790 --> 00:06:00.420 align:middle line:84% Chair would like to inform the members 00:06:00.420 --> 00:06:02.600 align:middle line:84% for their own edification that the Consolidated 00:06:02.600 --> 00:06:04.390 align:middle line:84% Amendment for Social Services and Veterans 00:06:04.390 --> 00:06:06.140 align:middle line:84% are available to the right of the rostrum. 00:06:06.140 --> 00:06:25.920 align:middle line:90% 00:06:25.920 --> 00:06:55.195 align:middle line:90% [MUSIC PLAYING] 00:06:55.195 --> 00:06:57.070 align:middle line:84% Miss O'Connell of Taunton offers an amendment 00:06:57.070 --> 00:06:57.690 align:middle line:90% in the hand of the clerk. 00:06:57.690 --> 00:06:58.939 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 00:06:58.939 --> 00:07:06.330 align:middle line:90% 00:07:06.330 --> 00:07:08.299 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 971. 00:07:08.299 --> 00:07:10.840 align:middle line:84% Miss O'Connell of Taunton and other members of the House vote 00:07:10.840 --> 00:07:14.254 align:middle line:84% to amend the bill by adding the following section, chapter 23B, 00:07:14.254 --> 00:07:15.670 align:middle line:84% of the general laws hereby amended 00:07:15.670 --> 00:07:18.470 align:middle line:84% by adding the following section, section 31. 00:07:18.470 --> 00:07:20.190 align:middle line:84% All applicants and household members 00:07:20.190 --> 00:07:21.190 align:middle line:90% over the age of the 80-- 00:07:21.190 --> 00:07:22.030 align:middle line:90% Chair hears no objection. 00:07:22.030 --> 00:07:23.340 align:middle line:84% The clerk dispense with the further reading 00:07:23.340 --> 00:07:24.048 align:middle line:90% of the amendment. 00:07:24.048 --> 00:07:24.840 align:middle line:90% Chair hears none. 00:07:24.840 --> 00:07:26.589 align:middle line:84% For what purpose does this gentlemen rise? 00:07:26.589 --> 00:07:34.200 align:middle line:90% 00:07:34.200 --> 00:07:36.747 align:middle line:84% Mr. Rushing of Boston offers a further amendment 00:07:36.747 --> 00:07:37.830 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 00:07:37.830 --> 00:07:42.750 align:middle line:90% 00:07:42.750 --> 00:07:46.270 align:middle line:90% Thank you, sir. 00:07:46.270 --> 00:07:48.880 align:middle line:84% The clerk will read the further amendment. 00:07:48.880 --> 00:07:55.060 align:middle line:84% Mr. Rushing of Boston moves to amend the amendment number 971 00:07:55.060 --> 00:07:58.030 align:middle line:84% by striking out the text of said amendment, 00:07:58.030 --> 00:08:00.870 align:middle line:84% and inserting in place the following section. 00:08:00.870 --> 00:08:03.410 align:middle line:84% Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, 00:08:03.410 --> 00:08:06.070 align:middle line:84% the provisions of a section shall not 00:08:06.070 --> 00:08:08.310 align:middle line:84% take effect until completion of the following. 00:08:08.310 --> 00:08:10.540 align:middle line:84% There shall be established pursuant to section 00:08:10.540 --> 00:08:11.790 align:middle line:90% 2A of chapter 4 in the bylaws. 00:08:11.790 --> 00:08:12.850 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 00:08:12.850 --> 00:08:14.349 align:middle line:84% will dispense with a further reading 00:08:14.349 --> 00:08:15.660 align:middle line:90% of the further amendment. 00:08:15.660 --> 00:08:16.750 align:middle line:90% Chair hears none. 00:08:16.750 --> 00:08:18.600 align:middle line:84% Question comes on the further amendment. 00:08:18.600 --> 00:08:21.030 align:middle line:84% The chair recognizes Mr. Rushing of Boston. 00:08:21.030 --> 00:08:31.220 align:middle line:90% 00:08:31.220 --> 00:08:32.909 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. 00:08:32.909 --> 00:08:36.100 align:middle line:84% I rise to submit this further amendment 00:08:36.100 --> 00:08:46.050 align:middle line:84% because the main amendment calls us to do a major unusual set-- 00:08:46.050 --> 00:08:50.530 align:middle line:84% adopt an unusual set of rules for housing 00:08:50.530 --> 00:08:53.030 align:middle line:90% in state-owned public housing. 00:08:53.030 --> 00:08:57.090 align:middle line:84% It would essentially endanger people. 00:08:57.090 --> 00:09:00.760 align:middle line:84% It seems it may endanger people who are already 00:09:00.760 --> 00:09:02.680 align:middle line:90% tenants in that housing. 00:09:02.680 --> 00:09:05.450 align:middle line:84% And it certainly changes the process 00:09:05.450 --> 00:09:10.830 align:middle line:84% by which we would have additional people be 00:09:10.830 --> 00:09:15.230 align:middle line:84% able to qualify for state public housing. 00:09:15.230 --> 00:09:18.970 align:middle line:84% We in the state understand that there 00:09:18.970 --> 00:09:20.520 align:middle line:84% are two forms of public housing-- 00:09:20.520 --> 00:09:24.150 align:middle line:84% federal public housing, which is controlled by federal laws 00:09:24.150 --> 00:09:26.740 align:middle line:84% and regulations, and state public housing, which 00:09:26.740 --> 00:09:30.190 align:middle line:84% is controlled by state laws and state regulations. 00:09:30.190 --> 00:09:36.360 align:middle line:84% This main amendment that is proposed for us this afternoon 00:09:36.360 --> 00:09:40.330 align:middle line:84% would significantly change all of the rules pertaining 00:09:40.330 --> 00:09:41.370 align:middle line:90% to that housing. 00:09:41.370 --> 00:09:44.070 align:middle line:84% And what this amendment says is let 00:09:44.070 --> 00:09:48.250 align:middle line:84% us understand the implications of those changes 00:09:48.250 --> 00:09:51.590 align:middle line:84% and what effect it will have, not only 00:09:51.590 --> 00:09:54.630 align:middle line:84% on the tenants in that public housing, 00:09:54.630 --> 00:10:00.110 align:middle line:84% but on anyone who might be thinking about qualifying 00:10:00.110 --> 00:10:03.950 align:middle line:84% for that housing, anyone who is on waiting lists 00:10:03.950 --> 00:10:04.890 align:middle line:90% for that housing. 00:10:04.890 --> 00:10:08.440 align:middle line:84% So let us understand the implications of this 00:10:08.440 --> 00:10:13.020 align:middle line:84% before we make a judgment on changing completely 00:10:13.020 --> 00:10:18.370 align:middle line:84% the rules of admittance and residence at public housing. 00:10:18.370 --> 00:10:19.740 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 00:10:19.740 --> 00:10:23.480 align:middle line:90% 00:10:23.480 --> 00:10:25.480 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Miss O'Connell of Taunton. 00:10:25.480 --> 00:10:39.052 align:middle line:90% 00:10:39.052 --> 00:10:40.010 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 00:10:40.010 --> 00:10:42.730 align:middle line:84% I would like to address the concerns of the gentleman 00:10:42.730 --> 00:10:44.240 align:middle line:84% who was just at the rostrum and who 00:10:44.240 --> 00:10:47.120 align:middle line:90% offered the further amendments. 00:10:47.120 --> 00:10:50.680 align:middle line:84% The underlying amendment does not 00:10:50.680 --> 00:10:55.250 align:middle line:84% give us an unusual set of rules by which to follow. 00:10:55.250 --> 00:10:59.110 align:middle line:84% It more closely aligns with federal guidelines, 00:10:59.110 --> 00:11:05.070 align:middle line:84% and it simply states that we can ask for a social security 00:11:05.070 --> 00:11:09.800 align:middle line:84% number for people who are applying for public housing. 00:11:09.800 --> 00:11:13.340 align:middle line:84% And the reason that I have filed this amendment, 00:11:13.340 --> 00:11:15.870 align:middle line:84% and the reason we know there are people in public housing 00:11:15.870 --> 00:11:20.690 align:middle line:84% without social security numbers, is because housing authorities 00:11:20.690 --> 00:11:21.940 align:middle line:90% came to me. 00:11:21.940 --> 00:11:25.320 align:middle line:84% And they said that this is a problem. 00:11:25.320 --> 00:11:27.500 align:middle line:84% And I'm going to quote you some information 00:11:27.500 --> 00:11:32.270 align:middle line:84% from an article by a housing authority director. 00:11:32.270 --> 00:11:35.760 align:middle line:84% She said, unlike the federal Section 8 program, 00:11:35.760 --> 00:11:38.380 align:middle line:84% the Mass Rental Voucher Program does not 00:11:38.380 --> 00:11:41.340 align:middle line:84% ask an applicant to provide a social security card. 00:11:41.340 --> 00:11:44.640 align:middle line:84% Stateside, they don't ask for anything at all. 00:11:44.640 --> 00:11:49.130 align:middle line:84% The current law all too often puts legitimate applicants 00:11:49.130 --> 00:11:51.250 align:middle line:90% at a disadvantage. 00:11:51.250 --> 00:11:55.330 align:middle line:84% We can move in an illegal alien even before someone who is here 00:11:55.330 --> 00:11:59.250 align:middle line:84% legally because we cannot ask that question. 00:11:59.250 --> 00:12:00.640 align:middle line:90% That is wrong. 00:12:00.640 --> 00:12:05.330 align:middle line:84% That needs to be changed, and we should be asking that question. 00:12:05.330 --> 00:12:08.950 align:middle line:84% In addition, this underlying amendment 00:12:08.950 --> 00:12:15.392 align:middle line:84% provides exceptions for certain people that are applying. 00:12:15.392 --> 00:12:17.350 align:middle line:84% Chair apologizes to the lady at the microphone. 00:12:17.350 --> 00:12:18.849 align:middle line:84% For what purpose does the lady rise? 00:12:18.849 --> 00:12:21.230 align:middle line:90% 00:12:21.230 --> 00:12:22.740 align:middle line:90% Does the lady yield? 00:12:22.740 --> 00:12:24.170 align:middle line:84% I'm sorry-- just a minute, please. 00:12:24.170 --> 00:12:25.230 align:middle line:90% The lady does not yield. 00:12:25.230 --> 00:12:28.430 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Miss O'Connell of Taunton. 00:12:28.430 --> 00:12:30.540 align:middle line:84% The underlying amendment provides exceptions 00:12:30.540 --> 00:12:32.710 align:middle line:90% for people with special status. 00:12:32.710 --> 00:12:36.850 align:middle line:84% And it actually protects people in housing, 00:12:36.850 --> 00:12:40.320 align:middle line:84% because right now, there are people in housing 00:12:40.320 --> 00:12:43.070 align:middle line:84% that we don't know who they are because we don't have 00:12:43.070 --> 00:12:45.970 align:middle line:84% their social security number or we don't have their alien ID 00:12:45.970 --> 00:12:46.610 align:middle line:90% number. 00:12:46.610 --> 00:12:49.070 align:middle line:84% We cannot verify that they belong there, 00:12:49.070 --> 00:12:51.590 align:middle line:84% we cannot verify that they qualify, 00:12:51.590 --> 00:12:56.170 align:middle line:84% and we cannot do a CORI check on someone if we don't have that 00:12:56.170 --> 00:12:56.960 align:middle line:90% information. 00:12:56.960 --> 00:12:59.180 align:middle line:84% So not having that information, it 00:12:59.180 --> 00:13:02.780 align:middle line:84% puts our senior citizens, our veterans, women and children 00:13:02.780 --> 00:13:04.970 align:middle line:90% in danger. 00:13:04.970 --> 00:13:08.340 align:middle line:84% Another quote from this housing authority director is she said, 00:13:08.340 --> 00:13:11.850 align:middle line:84% "We have no idea who is living in public housing because we 00:13:11.850 --> 00:13:14.360 align:middle line:90% cannot do background checks." 00:13:14.360 --> 00:13:20.950 align:middle line:84% There are 53,973 state housing units. 00:13:20.950 --> 00:13:24.640 align:middle line:84% If there was just even 1% of people living 00:13:24.640 --> 00:13:32.060 align:middle line:84% there that did not qualify, that would mean 539 available units. 00:13:32.060 --> 00:13:38.940 align:middle line:84% If it was just even a 1/2%, that would be 270 available units. 00:13:38.940 --> 00:13:42.450 align:middle line:84% Think about how many constituents call your office 00:13:42.450 --> 00:13:44.340 align:middle line:90% desperate for housing. 00:13:44.340 --> 00:13:48.160 align:middle line:84% And they cannot get in because there are waiting lists of two, 00:13:48.160 --> 00:13:50.540 align:middle line:90% three, and five years long. 00:13:50.540 --> 00:13:52.460 align:middle line:90% This is the right thing to do. 00:13:52.460 --> 00:13:54.760 align:middle line:84% The housing authorities want it done. 00:13:54.760 --> 00:13:59.980 align:middle line:84% I hope that the further amendment is not adopted. 00:13:59.980 --> 00:14:01.885 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Miss Decker of Cambridge. 00:14:01.885 --> 00:14:13.700 align:middle line:90% 00:14:13.700 --> 00:14:15.010 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 00:14:15.010 --> 00:14:17.460 align:middle line:84% With all due respect to the gentlelady from Taunton, 00:14:17.460 --> 00:14:19.390 align:middle line:84% we actually really know what this is about. 00:14:19.390 --> 00:14:21.480 align:middle line:84% This is not about actually ensuring 00:14:21.480 --> 00:14:23.810 align:middle line:84% the safety of public housing tenants, 00:14:23.810 --> 00:14:26.780 align:middle line:84% both those who are documented and undocumented. 00:14:26.780 --> 00:14:29.250 align:middle line:84% This is not about creating more affordable housing. 00:14:29.250 --> 00:14:30.950 align:middle line:84% There's a lot of paths to do that, 00:14:30.950 --> 00:14:32.630 align:middle line:84% and given the gentlelady from Taunton 00:14:32.630 --> 00:14:34.730 align:middle line:84% and I are both privileged to have 00:14:34.730 --> 00:14:37.360 align:middle line:84% been housed in public housing, I'm 00:14:37.360 --> 00:14:39.700 align:middle line:90% happy to work on those paths. 00:14:39.700 --> 00:14:43.210 align:middle line:84% There are many people in this country who are documented 00:14:43.210 --> 00:14:46.110 align:middle line:84% but who do not have access to social security. 00:14:46.110 --> 00:14:48.000 align:middle line:84% But we already know that, because that's not 00:14:48.000 --> 00:14:49.770 align:middle line:90% what this debate is about. 00:14:49.770 --> 00:14:54.910 align:middle line:84% We're talking about families, who under federal law and state 00:14:54.910 --> 00:14:58.150 align:middle line:84% law, who live in state publicly funded housing, 00:14:58.150 --> 00:15:00.110 align:middle line:90% are allowed to be there. 00:15:00.110 --> 00:15:03.010 align:middle line:84% To suggest that we move them out is also 00:15:03.010 --> 00:15:07.420 align:middle line:84% to suggest that we are talking about displacing citizens who 00:15:07.420 --> 00:15:12.230 align:middle line:84% happen to also be children, many women who also happen to be 00:15:12.230 --> 00:15:14.330 align:middle line:90% victims of domestic violence. 00:15:14.330 --> 00:15:16.480 align:middle line:84% And we've heard from testimony over the years 00:15:16.480 --> 00:15:19.120 align:middle line:84% at a number of housing committee meetings-- 00:15:19.120 --> 00:15:22.410 align:middle line:84% I have not heard any cry from the housing authorities, 00:15:22.410 --> 00:15:25.510 align:middle line:84% and I work closely with the housing authority associations 00:15:25.510 --> 00:15:27.820 align:middle line:84% here in Massachusetts and around the country. 00:15:27.820 --> 00:15:30.610 align:middle line:84% I've been asked many times to come and speak before them. 00:15:30.610 --> 00:15:32.760 align:middle line:84% Not once have I been told there's 00:15:32.760 --> 00:15:34.530 align:middle line:90% a problem here to be solved. 00:15:34.530 --> 00:15:37.360 align:middle line:84% It's still unclear to me what the problem here 00:15:37.360 --> 00:15:39.690 align:middle line:84% is to be solved, unless it's to pile 00:15:39.690 --> 00:15:43.000 align:middle line:84% on the vulnerability, the hardship 00:15:43.000 --> 00:15:46.520 align:middle line:84% that many immigrants come to this country and already face. 00:15:46.520 --> 00:15:48.450 align:middle line:84% And let's be clear, this has not been 00:15:48.450 --> 00:15:49.700 align:middle line:90% a great year for many of them. 00:15:49.700 --> 00:15:51.700 align:middle line:84% Their lives have not been made safer. 00:15:51.700 --> 00:15:54.480 align:middle line:84% They have not been made stronger or healthier. 00:15:54.480 --> 00:15:56.890 align:middle line:84% We here in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, 00:15:56.890 --> 00:15:58.510 align:middle line:90% we are a welcoming place. 00:15:58.510 --> 00:16:00.780 align:middle line:84% And under the current laws, they are 00:16:00.780 --> 00:16:03.720 align:middle line:84% entitled to be in the housing that they are entitled to. 00:16:03.720 --> 00:16:08.390 align:middle line:84% To suggest that somehow we should create a vacuum of units 00:16:08.390 --> 00:16:11.350 align:middle line:84% and create homelessness amongst children, 00:16:11.350 --> 00:16:14.060 align:middle line:84% and to suggest that that doesn't cost us anything, 00:16:14.060 --> 00:16:17.350 align:middle line:84% we push people out right now who are legally entitled 00:16:17.350 --> 00:16:20.070 align:middle line:84% to be there onto the streets with their children, many 00:16:20.070 --> 00:16:22.060 align:middle line:84% again, who I will remind you are citizens-- 00:16:22.060 --> 00:16:24.960 align:middle line:84% that does not mean that there is more money for the Commonwealth 00:16:24.960 --> 00:16:26.290 align:middle line:90% to house other people. 00:16:26.290 --> 00:16:28.410 align:middle line:84% We don't ignore people who are homeless. 00:16:28.410 --> 00:16:30.570 align:middle line:84% We don't ignore people who are in need. 00:16:30.570 --> 00:16:32.790 align:middle line:84% We are a place that helps people. 00:16:32.790 --> 00:16:34.070 align:middle line:90% We problem solve. 00:16:34.070 --> 00:16:36.320 align:middle line:84% We do not create hardships and problems 00:16:36.320 --> 00:16:37.870 align:middle line:90% on the backs of people. 00:16:37.870 --> 00:16:41.030 align:middle line:84% So if we together want to join forces and create 00:16:41.030 --> 00:16:43.510 align:middle line:84% more affordable housing, because it's certainly needed here 00:16:43.510 --> 00:16:46.010 align:middle line:90% in Massachusetts, let's do that. 00:16:46.010 --> 00:16:48.760 align:middle line:84% We both have benefited from living in public housing. 00:16:48.760 --> 00:16:51.130 align:middle line:84% We stand here today on the backs of people 00:16:51.130 --> 00:16:54.300 align:middle line:84% who believed that everybody should have a safe place 00:16:54.300 --> 00:16:55.340 align:middle line:90% to live. 00:16:55.340 --> 00:16:58.050 align:middle line:84% By trying to step on the backs of those 00:16:58.050 --> 00:16:59.740 align:middle line:84% who are living in public housing now 00:16:59.740 --> 00:17:01.670 align:middle line:84% and put them into the streets, that's not 00:17:01.670 --> 00:17:03.100 align:middle line:90% who we are as a commonwealth. 00:17:03.100 --> 00:17:04.130 align:middle line:90% That is not kind. 00:17:04.130 --> 00:17:05.369 align:middle line:90% It's not compassionate. 00:17:05.369 --> 00:17:07.089 align:middle line:90% It's not fiscally sound. 00:17:07.089 --> 00:17:08.209 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 00:17:08.209 --> 00:17:10.750 align:middle line:84% When this is adopted, I hope the further amendment is passed. 00:17:10.750 --> 00:17:17.589 align:middle line:90% 00:17:17.589 --> 00:17:18.089 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:17:18.089 --> 00:17:20.390 align:middle line:84% The chair recognizes Mr. Lyons of Andover. 00:17:20.390 --> 00:17:37.220 align:middle line:90% 00:17:37.220 --> 00:17:38.920 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 00:17:38.920 --> 00:17:43.160 align:middle line:84% I appreciate the passion of the gentlelady from Cambridge. 00:17:43.160 --> 00:17:46.150 align:middle line:84% Just for the record, nobody wants to throw anybody out 00:17:46.150 --> 00:17:46.790 align:middle line:90% on the street. 00:17:46.790 --> 00:17:49.350 align:middle line:84% Nobody wants to put children out on the street. 00:17:49.350 --> 00:17:51.570 align:middle line:84% Nobody wants to create homelessness. 00:17:51.570 --> 00:17:53.110 align:middle line:90% We're just a simple thing. 00:17:53.110 --> 00:17:55.030 align:middle line:84% When you apply for public housing, 00:17:55.030 --> 00:17:56.450 align:middle line:84% you need a social security number. 00:17:56.450 --> 00:17:57.670 align:middle line:90% Why do we have to study it? 00:17:57.670 --> 00:18:01.340 align:middle line:84% If you don't want that to be the case, just vote against it. 00:18:01.340 --> 00:18:02.790 align:middle line:90% Just say, we don't care. 00:18:02.790 --> 00:18:04.630 align:middle line:84% We don't have a problem with that. 00:18:04.630 --> 00:18:06.630 align:middle line:84% But this charade that we're going through-- five 00:18:06.630 --> 00:18:08.140 align:middle line:90% for five, Mr. Speaker. 00:18:08.140 --> 00:18:10.140 align:middle line:84% Andrew Benintendi, five for five, 00:18:10.140 --> 00:18:12.050 align:middle line:84% broke Babe Ruth's record the other day. 00:18:12.050 --> 00:18:14.370 align:middle line:84% It keeps going and going and going. 00:18:14.370 --> 00:18:16.150 align:middle line:84% You don't want to vote on things. 00:18:16.150 --> 00:18:18.950 align:middle line:84% If that's what you want, just vote for it. 00:18:18.950 --> 00:18:21.250 align:middle line:84% We think that in order for us to make sure 00:18:21.250 --> 00:18:22.740 align:middle line:84% that the citizens of Massachusetts 00:18:22.740 --> 00:18:26.170 align:middle line:84% are protected first, then we need social security numbers. 00:18:26.170 --> 00:18:28.510 align:middle line:84% It's not that we want to throw anyone out on the street. 00:18:28.510 --> 00:18:32.570 align:middle line:84% I appreciate your passion, but to suggest that we do is crazy. 00:18:32.570 --> 00:18:34.300 align:middle line:84% That's not what this amendment is about. 00:18:34.300 --> 00:18:37.500 align:middle line:84% It's not what we've been talking about for six years, which 00:18:37.500 --> 00:18:40.900 align:middle line:84% is we believe there has to be some form of determinations 00:18:40.900 --> 00:18:41.400 align:middle line:90% made. 00:18:41.400 --> 00:18:44.470 align:middle line:84% We believe that there has to be some standards put in place. 00:18:44.470 --> 00:18:47.220 align:middle line:84% And all we're saying is we believe that you should 00:18:47.220 --> 00:18:48.620 align:middle line:90% have social security numbers. 00:18:48.620 --> 00:18:51.180 align:middle line:84% If you don't think that, just vote it. 00:18:51.180 --> 00:18:52.764 align:middle line:90% It's simple, but don't give us-- 00:18:52.764 --> 00:18:54.930 align:middle line:84% Chair apologizes to the gentlemen at the microphone. 00:18:54.930 --> 00:18:56.560 align:middle line:84% For what purpose does the lady rise? 00:18:56.560 --> 00:18:57.890 align:middle line:90% Does the gentleman yield? 00:18:57.890 --> 00:18:58.390 align:middle line:90% No, sir. 00:18:58.390 --> 00:18:59.598 align:middle line:90% The gentlemen does not yield. 00:18:59.598 --> 00:19:01.830 align:middle line:84% The chair recognizes Mr. Lyons of Andover. 00:19:01.830 --> 00:19:03.330 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 00:19:03.330 --> 00:19:05.580 align:middle line:90% So that's our position on it. 00:19:05.580 --> 00:19:08.900 align:middle line:84% If you want to take the position that you don't think 00:19:08.900 --> 00:19:11.040 align:middle line:84% social security numbers should be 00:19:11.040 --> 00:19:14.180 align:middle line:84% required, I don't have a problem with that position, 00:19:14.180 --> 00:19:16.470 align:middle line:90% but why continue the charade? 00:19:16.470 --> 00:19:18.920 align:middle line:84% Just get up and say, we're going to vote on it. 00:19:18.920 --> 00:19:20.550 align:middle line:90% Our position is clear. 00:19:20.550 --> 00:19:23.860 align:middle line:84% We don't think social security numbers are even relevant. 00:19:23.860 --> 00:19:29.610 align:middle line:84% And I think that would be being more forthright with the people 00:19:29.610 --> 00:19:30.470 align:middle line:90% of Massachusetts. 00:19:30.470 --> 00:19:32.320 align:middle line:90% Of course it would be. 00:19:32.320 --> 00:19:33.760 align:middle line:90% We're saying you need them. 00:19:33.760 --> 00:19:35.620 align:middle line:84% You are saying you don't want them. 00:19:35.620 --> 00:19:36.610 align:middle line:90% Take the vote. 00:19:36.610 --> 00:19:38.030 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. 00:19:38.030 --> 00:19:41.170 align:middle line:90% 00:19:41.170 --> 00:19:43.265 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Miss Decker of Cambridge. 00:19:43.265 --> 00:19:45.880 align:middle line:90% 00:19:45.880 --> 00:19:46.450 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:19:46.450 --> 00:19:50.220 align:middle line:84% I want to be clear that this will absolutely displace 00:19:50.220 --> 00:19:51.560 align:middle line:90% people and make them homeless. 00:19:51.560 --> 00:19:53.490 align:middle line:84% Let's not pretend that that won't happen. 00:19:53.490 --> 00:19:54.410 align:middle line:90% It will. 00:19:54.410 --> 00:19:56.980 align:middle line:84% And again, I want to reiterate many people are not 00:19:56.980 --> 00:19:59.360 align:middle line:84% eligible for social security numbers, people 00:19:59.360 --> 00:20:02.370 align:middle line:84% who are here who are also here and who are documented. 00:20:02.370 --> 00:20:03.750 align:middle line:90% And that's a well known fact. 00:20:03.750 --> 00:20:06.590 align:middle line:84% So if we want to stop the charade, you've lost this. 00:20:06.590 --> 00:20:07.870 align:middle line:90% It's not what it's about. 00:20:07.870 --> 00:20:09.410 align:middle line:84% It's about making people homeless. 00:20:09.410 --> 00:20:12.600 align:middle line:84% It's a mean spirited thing, allowing people who are legally 00:20:12.600 --> 00:20:14.977 align:middle line:84% living in housing, including citizens who are children, 00:20:14.977 --> 00:20:16.310 align:middle line:90% and putting them in the streets. 00:20:16.310 --> 00:20:18.260 align:middle line:84% So let's stop the charade and actually talk 00:20:18.260 --> 00:20:19.650 align:middle line:90% what it's really about. 00:20:19.650 --> 00:20:24.460 align:middle line:90% Mr. Speaker, speaker. 00:20:24.460 --> 00:20:29.510 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Mr. Frost of Auburn. 00:20:29.510 --> 00:20:31.430 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 00:20:31.430 --> 00:20:35.470 align:middle line:84% And I would just like to say that this is a great debate. 00:20:35.470 --> 00:20:39.130 align:middle line:84% But yet what we're really supposed to be debating, 00:20:39.130 --> 00:20:42.650 align:middle line:84% and we're reminded time after time when folks get up 00:20:42.650 --> 00:20:45.210 align:middle line:84% to-- when members get up to talk, 00:20:45.210 --> 00:20:50.120 align:middle line:84% is we're supposed to be debating the need for further amendment. 00:20:50.120 --> 00:20:52.410 align:middle line:84% Though the gentlelady from Cambridge 00:20:52.410 --> 00:20:56.220 align:middle line:84% is making an eloquent argument on why we shouldn't 00:20:56.220 --> 00:20:59.760 align:middle line:84% do the underlying amendment, as the lady from Taunton 00:20:59.760 --> 00:21:03.750 align:middle line:84% is making an argument on why we should do her underlying 00:21:03.750 --> 00:21:07.770 align:middle line:84% amendment, let's do away with the further amendment. 00:21:07.770 --> 00:21:10.660 align:middle line:84% Let's get to the crux of the matter, and let's 00:21:10.660 --> 00:21:12.870 align:middle line:84% actually debate this, whether you're 00:21:12.870 --> 00:21:16.200 align:middle line:84% for or against it, because that's 00:21:16.200 --> 00:21:18.620 align:middle line:90% what we're debating right now. 00:21:18.620 --> 00:21:21.400 align:middle line:84% So why do we need this further amendment to try to kill it? 00:21:21.400 --> 00:21:23.340 align:middle line:84% Get rid of the further amendment. 00:21:23.340 --> 00:21:26.800 align:middle line:84% Let's debate the main issue no matter where you fall. 00:21:26.800 --> 00:21:29.044 align:middle line:84% Let's have an up or down vote on it no matter what. 00:21:29.044 --> 00:21:31.210 align:middle line:84% Chair apologizes to the gentleman at the microphone. 00:21:31.210 --> 00:21:32.710 align:middle line:84% For what purpose does the lady rise? 00:21:32.710 --> 00:21:39.490 align:middle line:90% 00:21:39.490 --> 00:21:41.360 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Mr. Frost of Auburn. 00:21:41.360 --> 00:21:44.090 align:middle line:90% 00:21:44.090 --> 00:21:45.790 align:middle line:84% Therefore I just ask the membership 00:21:45.790 --> 00:21:47.990 align:middle line:84% to please vote down the further amendment. 00:21:47.990 --> 00:21:49.420 align:middle line:90% It's not necessary. 00:21:49.420 --> 00:21:50.980 align:middle line:84% I think people know where they are 00:21:50.980 --> 00:21:52.880 align:middle line:90% on this one way or the other. 00:21:52.880 --> 00:21:56.010 align:middle line:84% Let's continue this great debate, this great discussion 00:21:56.010 --> 00:21:58.660 align:middle line:84% on this important issue, and let's 00:21:58.660 --> 00:22:02.750 align:middle line:84% put it to the floor for a vote and let the membership decide 00:22:02.750 --> 00:22:03.710 align:middle line:90% which way it should go. 00:22:03.710 --> 00:22:04.740 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 00:22:04.740 --> 00:22:06.700 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Miss Provost of Somerville. 00:22:06.700 --> 00:22:25.900 align:middle line:90% 00:22:25.900 --> 00:22:29.400 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and through you to the members. 00:22:29.400 --> 00:22:32.140 align:middle line:84% The gentleman from Auburn has asked 00:22:32.140 --> 00:22:36.660 align:middle line:84% why it is that we should support the further amendment rather 00:22:36.660 --> 00:22:39.590 align:middle line:84% than the underlying amendment in this case. 00:22:39.590 --> 00:22:41.900 align:middle line:84% And there is an answer for that, which 00:22:41.900 --> 00:22:46.820 align:middle line:84% is that the further amendment would 00:22:46.820 --> 00:22:53.120 align:middle line:84% have us look at a lot of the nuance of the law of state 00:22:53.120 --> 00:22:58.730 align:middle line:84% assisted housing, which is not clear at first blush. 00:22:58.730 --> 00:23:04.480 align:middle line:84% It has been suggested that the laws governing access 00:23:04.480 --> 00:23:07.170 align:middle line:84% to state assisted public housing are 00:23:07.170 --> 00:23:09.810 align:middle line:84% unfair because they are different 00:23:09.810 --> 00:23:10.985 align:middle line:90% from the federal laws. 00:23:10.985 --> 00:23:13.790 align:middle line:90% 00:23:13.790 --> 00:23:15.252 align:middle line:90% The fact is-- 00:23:15.252 --> 00:23:17.210 align:middle line:84% Chair apologizes to the lady at the microphone. 00:23:17.210 --> 00:23:18.918 align:middle line:84% For what purpose does the gentleman rise? 00:23:18.918 --> 00:23:22.342 align:middle line:84% Suggest the lady yield for a question. 00:23:22.342 --> 00:23:23.800 align:middle line:84% Will the lady yield for a question? 00:23:23.800 --> 00:23:25.591 align:middle line:84% Later on, but not at this point, thank you. 00:23:25.591 --> 00:23:26.640 align:middle line:90% The lady does not yield. 00:23:26.640 --> 00:23:28.900 align:middle line:84% The chair recognizes Miss Provost of Somerville. 00:23:28.900 --> 00:23:30.780 align:middle line:90% Thank you very much. 00:23:30.780 --> 00:23:35.560 align:middle line:84% We are told that the state law of access 00:23:35.560 --> 00:23:40.250 align:middle line:84% to state-funded public housing is unfair because it's 00:23:40.250 --> 00:23:42.120 align:middle line:90% different from the federal law. 00:23:42.120 --> 00:23:45.820 align:middle line:84% Certainly, it is different, but let me emphasize some 00:23:45.820 --> 00:23:47.810 align:middle line:90% of these points of unfairness. 00:23:47.810 --> 00:23:51.540 align:middle line:84% Under state law, veterans get preference 00:23:51.540 --> 00:23:54.880 align:middle line:84% across every category of public housing. 00:23:54.880 --> 00:23:58.210 align:middle line:84% They don't get that preference under federal law. 00:23:58.210 --> 00:24:01.870 align:middle line:84% Federal law leaves it up to the local housing authorities, 00:24:01.870 --> 00:24:05.360 align:middle line:84% some of which do not prefer veterans. 00:24:05.360 --> 00:24:09.250 align:middle line:84% Some people might think the veterans preference is unfair. 00:24:09.250 --> 00:24:12.700 align:middle line:84% We might be inclined to keep that preference. 00:24:12.700 --> 00:24:16.600 align:middle line:84% Another interesting fact-- we have undocumented veterans 00:24:16.600 --> 00:24:19.680 align:middle line:84% because, in fact, serving in the armed forces 00:24:19.680 --> 00:24:24.500 align:middle line:84% is a way that individuals who are not in the country 00:24:24.500 --> 00:24:27.510 align:middle line:84% lawfully can regularize their status. 00:24:27.510 --> 00:24:32.590 align:middle line:84% Military service is a way of acquiring status. 00:24:32.590 --> 00:24:35.260 align:middle line:84% And it's very popular, especially 00:24:35.260 --> 00:24:37.270 align:middle line:84% with young people who are brought 00:24:37.270 --> 00:24:39.870 align:middle line:90% to this country as minors. 00:24:39.870 --> 00:24:42.470 align:middle line:90% So we've got that complication. 00:24:42.470 --> 00:24:44.780 align:middle line:84% Another complication I think is the fact 00:24:44.780 --> 00:24:48.210 align:middle line:84% that what may be characterized as unfair 00:24:48.210 --> 00:24:53.970 align:middle line:84% is a point of view, which is at variance 00:24:53.970 --> 00:24:58.590 align:middle line:84% with the interpretation of our US Constitution, which 00:24:58.590 --> 00:25:03.290 align:middle line:84% says that we do not discriminate against individuals 00:25:03.290 --> 00:25:09.470 align:middle line:84% on the basis of alienage, of not being born in this country. 00:25:09.470 --> 00:25:13.970 align:middle line:84% And back in the '70s, there was a lawsuit 00:25:13.970 --> 00:25:17.840 align:middle line:84% brought in a federal district court against a housing 00:25:17.840 --> 00:25:23.080 align:middle line:84% authority that was determined to discriminate 00:25:23.080 --> 00:25:27.160 align:middle line:84% in favor of individuals, applicants 00:25:27.160 --> 00:25:29.770 align:middle line:90% on the basis of alienage. 00:25:29.770 --> 00:25:32.430 align:middle line:90% Now, that lawsuit was settled. 00:25:32.430 --> 00:25:36.720 align:middle line:84% And it was settled by a consent agreement. 00:25:36.720 --> 00:25:40.090 align:middle line:84% And by the terms of that consent agreement, 00:25:40.090 --> 00:25:43.840 align:middle line:84% individuals are allowed to access 00:25:43.840 --> 00:25:48.890 align:middle line:84% state-funded public housing regardless of their alienage. 00:25:48.890 --> 00:25:52.220 align:middle line:84% And as the gentlelady from Cambridge has pointed out, 00:25:52.220 --> 00:25:55.470 align:middle line:84% many families these days are what you would 00:25:55.470 --> 00:25:58.570 align:middle line:90% call mixed status families. 00:25:58.570 --> 00:26:03.280 align:middle line:84% Not everybody in the family has the same status 00:26:03.280 --> 00:26:09.150 align:middle line:84% as citizen or non-citizen or even as category of immigrant. 00:26:09.150 --> 00:26:15.820 align:middle line:84% So this is not the simple black and white, fair or unfair 00:26:15.820 --> 00:26:18.730 align:middle line:84% situation that has been characterized. 00:26:18.730 --> 00:26:20.390 align:middle line:90% There is a lot to look at. 00:26:20.390 --> 00:26:26.600 align:middle line:84% And the consequences of violating the consent agreement 00:26:26.600 --> 00:26:31.160 align:middle line:84% from 1977 could be serious, and would certainly 00:26:31.160 --> 00:26:34.300 align:middle line:84% put the Commonwealth or some of its housing authorities 00:26:34.300 --> 00:26:36.390 align:middle line:90% or both back in court. 00:26:36.390 --> 00:26:38.710 align:middle line:84% So that is the reason why we would 00:26:38.710 --> 00:26:41.010 align:middle line:84% want to support the amendment today, 00:26:41.010 --> 00:26:45.490 align:middle line:84% to look at the full situation and not just 00:26:45.490 --> 00:26:50.460 align:middle line:84% the rhetorical surface of the question which is raised 00:26:50.460 --> 00:26:51.950 align:middle line:90% by the underlying amendment. 00:26:51.950 --> 00:26:55.470 align:middle line:84% And so I would urge everyone to vote in support 00:26:55.470 --> 00:26:56.780 align:middle line:90% of the further amendment. 00:26:56.780 --> 00:26:57.510 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:26:57.510 --> 00:26:59.830 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Miss O'Connell of Taunton. 00:26:59.830 --> 00:27:07.220 align:middle line:90% 00:27:07.220 --> 00:27:08.570 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 00:27:08.570 --> 00:27:13.710 align:middle line:84% So we keep hearing people talk about documented citizens. 00:27:13.710 --> 00:27:17.410 align:middle line:84% If you are a documented citizen, this is not a problem for you. 00:27:17.410 --> 00:27:19.350 align:middle line:90% This does not affect you. 00:27:19.350 --> 00:27:21.870 align:middle line:84% And we've heard about the hardship 00:27:21.870 --> 00:27:23.140 align:middle line:90% that this will put on people. 00:27:23.140 --> 00:27:25.490 align:middle line:84% Well, what about people that are in line 00:27:25.490 --> 00:27:30.150 align:middle line:84% waiting that are here legally that can not get into housing? 00:27:30.150 --> 00:27:34.370 align:middle line:84% And also, that it will affect many, many, many families 00:27:34.370 --> 00:27:34.990 align:middle line:90% and people. 00:27:34.990 --> 00:27:37.290 align:middle line:84% Well, you know what, you have no idea 00:27:37.290 --> 00:27:39.460 align:middle line:84% how many it will effect because you don't know 00:27:39.460 --> 00:27:42.670 align:middle line:84% how many people are in housing without a social security 00:27:42.670 --> 00:27:43.220 align:middle line:90% number. 00:27:43.220 --> 00:27:46.690 align:middle line:84% I have some idea because some of the Housing Authority directors 00:27:46.690 --> 00:27:50.430 align:middle line:84% have told me, and it is a small number. 00:27:50.430 --> 00:27:54.690 align:middle line:84% A small number, but housing that we need available for people-- 00:27:54.690 --> 00:27:56.770 align:middle line:84% senior citizens, children-- people 00:27:56.770 --> 00:27:58.650 align:middle line:84% that are waiting in line right now. 00:27:58.650 --> 00:28:00.440 align:middle line:84% We're not ignoring people in need. 00:28:00.440 --> 00:28:03.020 align:middle line:84% We're trying to help people in need. 00:28:03.020 --> 00:28:05.610 align:middle line:84% And let me point out a few things 00:28:05.610 --> 00:28:08.020 align:middle line:84% that almost all of you in here have 00:28:08.020 --> 00:28:11.750 align:middle line:84% voted for that require a social security number-- 00:28:11.750 --> 00:28:15.130 align:middle line:84% for a program of short-term housing assistance to help 00:28:15.130 --> 00:28:18.180 align:middle line:84% families in addressing obstacles to maintaining or securing 00:28:18.180 --> 00:28:22.620 align:middle line:84% housing, provided further that any family in which a member 00:28:22.620 --> 00:28:25.970 align:middle line:84% of the family fails to provide a social security number for use 00:28:25.970 --> 00:28:28.010 align:middle line:84% in verifying the family's income eligibility-- 00:28:28.010 --> 00:28:29.760 align:middle line:84% Chair apologizes to the lady at the microphone. 00:28:29.760 --> 00:28:31.468 align:middle line:84% For what purpose does the gentleman rise? 00:28:31.468 --> 00:28:32.500 align:middle line:90% Will the lady yield? 00:28:32.500 --> 00:28:33.630 align:middle line:90% Would the lady yield? 00:28:33.630 --> 00:28:34.130 align:middle line:90% No. 00:28:34.130 --> 00:28:35.450 align:middle line:90% The lady does not yield. 00:28:35.450 --> 00:28:38.470 align:middle line:84% The chair recognizes Miss O'Connell of Taunton. 00:28:38.470 --> 00:28:40.370 align:middle line:84% Something that you all voted for-- 00:28:40.370 --> 00:28:42.640 align:middle line:84% I'm going to have to read it again. 00:28:42.640 --> 00:28:45.480 align:middle line:84% For the program of short-term housing assistance 00:28:45.480 --> 00:28:47.830 align:middle line:84% to help families in addressing obstacles 00:28:47.830 --> 00:28:50.830 align:middle line:84% to maintaining secure housing, provided further 00:28:50.830 --> 00:28:54.240 align:middle line:84% that any family in which any member of the family 00:28:54.240 --> 00:28:56.870 align:middle line:84% prevails to provide a social security number 00:28:56.870 --> 00:29:00.260 align:middle line:84% shall no longer be eligible to receive benefits 00:29:00.260 --> 00:29:01.680 align:middle line:90% from this program. 00:29:01.680 --> 00:29:02.700 align:middle line:90% Here's another one. 00:29:02.700 --> 00:29:04.680 align:middle line:84% For a program by rental assistance 00:29:04.680 --> 00:29:06.490 align:middle line:84% for low income and elderly persons, 00:29:06.490 --> 00:29:08.960 align:middle line:84% provided further that any household 00:29:08.960 --> 00:29:12.180 align:middle line:84% in which a participant or a member of the participant's 00:29:12.180 --> 00:29:15.380 align:middle line:84% household fails to provide a social security number 00:29:15.380 --> 00:29:19.350 align:middle line:84% shall no longer be eligible for a voucher or to receive 00:29:19.350 --> 00:29:21.200 align:middle line:84% benefits from the voucher program. 00:29:21.200 --> 00:29:23.310 align:middle line:84% So you've all voted on it before. 00:29:23.310 --> 00:29:25.830 align:middle line:84% There's nothing different going on here right now. 00:29:25.830 --> 00:29:27.170 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 00:29:27.170 --> 00:29:29.310 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Mr. Markey of Dartmouth. 00:29:29.310 --> 00:29:32.910 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 00:29:32.910 --> 00:29:39.420 align:middle line:84% I would just make one comment that gentlelady Taunton-- 00:29:39.420 --> 00:29:43.400 align:middle line:84% I think the gentlelady from Taunton answered the reason why 00:29:43.400 --> 00:29:45.270 align:middle line:90% we have the further amendment. 00:29:45.270 --> 00:29:49.280 align:middle line:84% She asked the question in a rhetorical fashion-- 00:29:49.280 --> 00:29:51.700 align:middle line:84% well, how many people are in line? 00:29:51.700 --> 00:29:53.000 align:middle line:90% We don't know. 00:29:53.000 --> 00:29:54.530 align:middle line:90% I don't know. 00:29:54.530 --> 00:29:56.030 align:middle line:90% That's why we have a study. 00:29:56.030 --> 00:29:57.116 align:middle line:90% Let's study it. 00:29:57.116 --> 00:29:58.990 align:middle line:84% Let's figure out how many people are in line. 00:29:58.990 --> 00:30:02.700 align:middle line:84% Let's see how many families who have social security numbers 00:30:02.700 --> 00:30:07.370 align:middle line:84% are held in line, and people with undocumented individuals 00:30:07.370 --> 00:30:09.350 align:middle line:84% who are cutting them for some reason. 00:30:09.350 --> 00:30:11.670 align:middle line:84% Maybe we should study that, and then we 00:30:11.670 --> 00:30:14.980 align:middle line:84% can make a deliberate, thoughtful decision and not 00:30:14.980 --> 00:30:20.380 align:middle line:84% just a political statement to try 00:30:20.380 --> 00:30:26.330 align:middle line:84% to get in focus on a constituency that has this 00:30:26.330 --> 00:30:30.190 align:middle line:90% as their one political issue. 00:30:30.190 --> 00:30:32.080 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Mr. Cabral of New Bedford. 00:30:32.080 --> 00:30:38.600 align:middle line:90% 00:30:38.600 --> 00:30:40.930 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. Speaker, through you to the members. 00:30:40.930 --> 00:30:45.710 align:middle line:84% It's actually fascinating that the good lady from Taunton 00:30:45.710 --> 00:30:47.890 align:middle line:84% seems to know the numbers of those 00:30:47.890 --> 00:30:53.200 align:middle line:84% who are in line because she claims that some housing 00:30:53.200 --> 00:30:56.700 align:middle line:84% authorities have provided that information, at least 00:30:56.700 --> 00:30:59.300 align:middle line:84% that's what seems to be what she's saying, 00:30:59.300 --> 00:31:03.077 align:middle line:84% that some housing authorities have provided that information. 00:31:03.077 --> 00:31:05.410 align:middle line:84% I would like to know which housing authorities those are 00:31:05.410 --> 00:31:07.540 align:middle line:84% because that's private information. 00:31:07.540 --> 00:31:11.070 align:middle line:84% The housing authority cannot provide information to no one 00:31:11.070 --> 00:31:14.240 align:middle line:84% except the person that actually living there or without 00:31:14.240 --> 00:31:17.450 align:middle line:84% their permission, so we would like to know-- 00:31:17.450 --> 00:31:20.850 align:middle line:84% I would like to request if the lady has 00:31:20.850 --> 00:31:25.410 align:middle line:84% that information with her to provide to this House 00:31:25.410 --> 00:31:29.680 align:middle line:84% which housing authority has provided that information. 00:31:29.680 --> 00:31:33.210 align:middle line:84% That's private information that cannot be released by housing 00:31:33.210 --> 00:31:34.040 align:middle line:90% authorities-- 00:31:34.040 --> 00:31:36.550 align:middle line:84% if the person has a social security number or not 00:31:36.550 --> 00:31:38.140 align:middle line:84% because a social security number-- 00:31:38.140 --> 00:31:42.300 align:middle line:84% there are reasons why they cannot release that without 00:31:42.300 --> 00:31:44.990 align:middle line:84% the permission, a petition that has to be signed, 00:31:44.990 --> 00:31:48.550 align:middle line:84% a form that has to be signed by that particular individual. 00:31:48.550 --> 00:31:52.860 align:middle line:84% So please provide to us the housing authorities 00:31:52.860 --> 00:31:55.980 align:middle line:84% because they are violating the rights of those individuals who 00:31:55.980 --> 00:32:01.250 align:middle line:84% are presently residing or in line to apply for housing. 00:32:01.250 --> 00:32:04.140 align:middle line:84% That's a violation of the privacy of those individuals, 00:32:04.140 --> 00:32:07.590 align:middle line:84% and I think they ought to be taken to court. 00:32:07.590 --> 00:32:12.300 align:middle line:84% And perhaps the lady probably could be a witness to that 00:32:12.300 --> 00:32:14.610 align:middle line:90% since she has that information. 00:32:14.610 --> 00:32:18.610 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Mr. Dooley of Norfolk. 00:32:18.610 --> 00:32:20.640 align:middle line:84% I also had a point of clarification. 00:32:20.640 --> 00:32:24.700 align:middle line:84% On this, since the entire further amendment was not 00:32:24.700 --> 00:32:28.280 align:middle line:84% read in its entirety, is this an actual study 00:32:28.280 --> 00:32:30.410 align:middle line:84% or is this gamesmanship yet again? 00:32:30.410 --> 00:32:33.030 align:middle line:84% Is there a set date that this study 00:32:33.030 --> 00:32:35.360 align:middle line:84% is going to be reported back to this body? 00:32:35.360 --> 00:32:37.550 align:middle line:84% Is there a make up of this study? 00:32:37.550 --> 00:32:40.450 align:middle line:84% Is this a real legitimate study, or is this 00:32:40.450 --> 00:32:45.860 align:middle line:84% once again the majority party being gamesmanship, 00:32:45.860 --> 00:32:49.359 align:middle line:84% playing gamesmanship by saying, we don't want to take a vote 00:32:49.359 --> 00:32:50.900 align:middle line:84% because we're afraid it's going to be 00:32:50.900 --> 00:32:53.160 align:middle line:90% used against us in an election? 00:32:53.160 --> 00:32:55.350 align:middle line:84% Or is this going to be a real study? 00:32:55.350 --> 00:32:58.687 align:middle line:84% If this is a real study, I'm all for it, 100%. 00:32:58.687 --> 00:32:59.520 align:middle line:90% I think everything-- 00:32:59.520 --> 00:33:02.510 align:middle line:84% Mr. Markey, the gentleman from Dartmouth, 00:33:02.510 --> 00:33:03.760 align:middle line:90% had a wonderful point. 00:33:03.760 --> 00:33:05.350 align:middle line:90% We should find this out. 00:33:05.350 --> 00:33:07.430 align:middle line:84% But if this is not a real study-- so 00:33:07.430 --> 00:33:11.500 align:middle line:84% my question to the chair, is this a legitimate study? 00:33:11.500 --> 00:33:14.370 align:middle line:84% Have we set forth parameters, or is this 00:33:14.370 --> 00:33:17.330 align:middle line:84% a quote unquote "study" that's meant just 00:33:17.330 --> 00:33:18.440 align:middle line:90% to kill this measure? 00:33:18.440 --> 00:33:20.440 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 00:33:20.440 --> 00:33:22.470 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Mr. Lyons of Andover. 00:33:22.470 --> 00:33:25.960 align:middle line:84% I'm going to answer that question for you. 00:33:25.960 --> 00:33:27.880 align:middle line:90% I've been here for seven years. 00:33:27.880 --> 00:33:31.040 align:middle line:84% I have yet to see any study done. 00:33:31.040 --> 00:33:34.410 align:middle line:84% So the suggestion that we need this study-- 00:33:34.410 --> 00:33:37.580 align:middle line:84% with all due respect to the gentleman from Dartmouth, 00:33:37.580 --> 00:33:40.270 align:middle line:84% he knows very well that that study is never, ever 00:33:40.270 --> 00:33:41.570 align:middle line:90% going to happen. 00:33:41.570 --> 00:33:44.290 align:middle line:84% The question is real simple because we 00:33:44.290 --> 00:33:47.630 align:middle line:84% have a different opinion of what kind of regulations 00:33:47.630 --> 00:33:49.010 align:middle line:90% ought to be in place. 00:33:49.010 --> 00:33:53.660 align:middle line:84% And if the majority party wants to put rules and regulations 00:33:53.660 --> 00:33:57.530 align:middle line:84% in place that says you don't need a social security number, 00:33:57.530 --> 00:33:58.950 align:middle line:90% then just vote it. 00:33:58.950 --> 00:34:01.820 align:middle line:84% This charade that we go through every time we bring up 00:34:01.820 --> 00:34:03.840 align:middle line:90% these issues, it really is-- 00:34:03.840 --> 00:34:07.060 align:middle line:84% I mean, the public has to be-- if they even knew about it, 00:34:07.060 --> 00:34:08.760 align:middle line:90% they would certainly be bored. 00:34:08.760 --> 00:34:12.110 align:middle line:84% We've got five amendments so far, five studies. 00:34:12.110 --> 00:34:14.460 align:middle line:84% Every one of us in here-- every one of us in here 00:34:14.460 --> 00:34:16.820 align:middle line:90% knows there's no study coming. 00:34:16.820 --> 00:34:18.897 align:middle line:90% Forget about it. 00:34:18.897 --> 00:34:21.230 align:middle line:84% I'm going to read to you what the amendment says though, 00:34:21.230 --> 00:34:22.989 align:middle line:90% just so people understand. 00:34:22.989 --> 00:34:25.780 align:middle line:84% Applicants who you do not provide a social security 00:34:25.780 --> 00:34:28.150 align:middle line:84% number shall not be eligible for housing 00:34:28.150 --> 00:34:31.820 align:middle line:84% unless under lawfully protected status. 00:34:31.820 --> 00:34:34.050 align:middle line:84% We're not trying to throw anybody out in the street. 00:34:34.050 --> 00:34:35.540 align:middle line:90% I'm just so sick of that. 00:34:35.540 --> 00:34:37.940 align:middle line:84% Every time we come up with an amendment, 00:34:37.940 --> 00:34:40.090 align:middle line:84% we're going to throw people out in the street. 00:34:40.090 --> 00:34:42.790 align:middle line:84% I grew up in the projects too, all right, 00:34:42.790 --> 00:34:45.280 align:middle line:84% so I really don't need that anymore. 00:34:45.280 --> 00:34:47.870 align:middle line:84% We are here-- we believe in the rule of law. 00:34:47.870 --> 00:34:49.719 align:middle line:84% We believe we should set standards. 00:34:49.719 --> 00:34:53.360 align:middle line:84% And yet every time we come up and make a position like that, 00:34:53.360 --> 00:34:56.139 align:middle line:84% it's that we want to throw people out in the street. 00:34:56.139 --> 00:34:59.010 align:middle line:90% I would ask Mr. Speaker-- 00:34:59.010 --> 00:35:04.540 align:middle line:84% Mr. Speaker, I would ask when this vote was taken, 00:35:04.540 --> 00:35:06.720 align:middle line:84% it would be taking my call of yeas or nays. 00:35:06.720 --> 00:35:08.750 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 00:35:08.750 --> 00:35:11.550 align:middle line:84% Mr. Lyons of Andover asked when a vote of this matter is taken, 00:35:11.550 --> 00:35:12.860 align:middle line:84% be taken be call of the yeas and nays. 00:35:12.860 --> 00:35:14.160 align:middle line:84% Those joining with them will please rise. 00:35:14.160 --> 00:35:15.490 align:middle line:90% Monitors and return the count. 00:35:15.490 --> 00:35:17.120 align:middle line:90% First division, one. 00:35:17.120 --> 00:35:20.020 align:middle line:90% Second division-- 00:35:20.020 --> 00:35:20.580 align:middle line:90% 19. 00:35:20.580 --> 00:35:20.890 align:middle line:90% 19. 00:35:20.890 --> 00:35:23.080 align:middle line:84% Sufficient amount having arisen, a roll call in this matter 00:35:23.080 --> 00:35:25.580 align:middle line:84% will be called forthwith and remain open for three minutes. 00:35:25.580 --> 00:35:27.246 align:middle line:84% Court officer will notify the membership 00:35:27.246 --> 00:35:29.730 align:middle line:84% that a roll call is in progress and will remain open 00:35:29.730 --> 00:35:30.490 align:middle line:90% for three minutes. 00:35:30.490 --> 00:36:24.232 align:middle line:90% 00:36:24.232 --> 00:36:25.940 align:middle line:84% Chair would like to take this opportunity 00:36:25.940 --> 00:36:27.990 align:middle line:84% to introduce to the right of the rostrum, 00:36:27.990 --> 00:36:32.860 align:middle line:84% Miss Rebecca Busansky of the Northhampton School Committee 00:36:32.860 --> 00:36:37.196 align:middle line:84% and Elena Frogameni a student representative 00:36:37.196 --> 00:36:38.820 align:middle line:84% from the Northhampton School Committee. 00:36:38.820 --> 00:36:39.600 align:middle line:90% Welcome, ladies. 00:36:39.600 --> 00:36:50.660 align:middle line:90% 00:36:50.660 --> 00:38:50.862 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:38:50.862 --> 00:38:52.570 align:middle line:84% Have all members voted who wish to do so? 00:38:52.570 --> 00:39:40.292 align:middle line:90% 00:39:40.292 --> 00:39:42.000 align:middle line:84% Have all members voted who wish to do so? 00:39:42.000 --> 00:39:49.680 align:middle line:90% 00:39:49.680 --> 00:39:51.920 align:middle line:84% On the previous roll call, Miss Provost of Somerville 00:39:51.920 --> 00:39:53.300 align:middle line:84% asks unanimous consent to be recorded. 00:39:53.300 --> 00:39:54.550 align:middle line:90% Does chair hear any objection? 00:39:54.550 --> 00:39:55.330 align:middle line:90% Chair hears none. 00:39:55.330 --> 00:39:57.600 align:middle line:84% Roll call number 40, Denise Provost, yes. 00:39:57.600 --> 00:40:01.820 align:middle line:90% 00:40:01.820 --> 00:40:03.820 align:middle line:84% Have all members voted who wish to do so? 00:40:03.820 --> 00:40:05.350 align:middle line:90% Time for voting has expired. 00:40:05.350 --> 00:40:06.950 align:middle line:84% The clerk will display the tally. 00:40:06.950 --> 00:40:10.480 align:middle line:84% 124 in the affirmative, 36 in the negative. 00:40:10.480 --> 00:40:12.450 align:middle line:84% The further amendment is adopted. 00:40:12.450 --> 00:40:15.130 align:middle line:84% Re-occurring question now comes on the adoption 00:40:15.130 --> 00:40:16.390 align:middle line:90% of the consolidated-- 00:40:16.390 --> 00:40:20.329 align:middle line:84% Mr. Dempsey of Haverhill offers a consolidated amendment 00:40:20.329 --> 00:40:21.370 align:middle line:90% to the hand of the clerk. 00:40:21.370 --> 00:40:22.120 align:middle line:90% Chair is in error. 00:40:22.120 --> 00:40:23.830 align:middle line:90% We didn't read it in yet. 00:40:23.830 --> 00:40:33.205 align:middle line:90% 00:40:33.205 --> 00:40:35.330 align:middle line:84% Question now comes on the adoption of the amendment 00:40:35.330 --> 00:40:36.580 align:middle line:90% as amended by Miss O'Connell. 00:40:36.580 --> 00:40:38.580 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, or those opposed no. 00:40:38.580 --> 00:40:39.288 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 00:40:39.288 --> 00:40:40.560 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 00:40:40.560 --> 00:40:42.770 align:middle line:90% Now I can do the consolidated? 00:40:42.770 --> 00:40:45.800 align:middle line:84% Now Mr. Dempsey of Haverhill offers a consolidated-- 00:40:45.800 --> 00:40:48.600 align:middle line:90% 00:40:48.600 --> 00:40:51.707 align:middle line:84% Mr. Dempsey of Haverhill offers a consolidated amendment 00:40:51.707 --> 00:40:52.790 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 00:40:52.790 --> 00:40:54.039 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 00:40:54.039 --> 00:41:05.090 align:middle line:90% 00:41:05.090 --> 00:41:10.640 align:middle line:84% Does consolidated amendment D in the category of Housing, Mental 00:41:10.640 --> 00:41:16.240 align:middle line:84% Health and Disability Services fiscal note, $3,050,611. 00:41:16.240 --> 00:41:18.150 align:middle line:84% All the amendments have them accounted for. 00:41:18.150 --> 00:41:20.532 align:middle line:84% Mr. Dempsey of Haverhill moves and others 00:41:20.532 --> 00:41:22.490 align:middle line:84% move to amend the bill in Section 2 and Item [? 00:41:22.490 --> 00:41:25.012 align:middle line:84% 41 ?] 10 1,000 by striking out the figures. 00:41:25.012 --> 00:41:26.470 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 00:41:26.470 --> 00:41:27.780 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the further reading 00:41:27.780 --> 00:41:28.820 align:middle line:90% of the consolidated amendment. 00:41:28.820 --> 00:41:29.520 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 00:41:29.520 --> 00:41:30.880 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the adoption 00:41:30.880 --> 00:41:32.130 align:middle line:90% of the consolidated amendment. 00:41:32.130 --> 00:41:36.980 align:middle line:84% The chair recognizes Mr. Honan of Boston. 00:41:36.980 --> 00:41:39.710 align:middle line:84% Members will please take their seats. 00:41:39.710 --> 00:41:44.490 align:middle line:84% Chair respectfully requests they subdue their conversations 00:41:44.490 --> 00:41:47.560 align:middle line:84% and pay due attention to the gentleman at the microphone. 00:41:47.560 --> 00:41:51.360 align:middle line:84% The chair recognizes Mr. Honan of Boston. 00:41:51.360 --> 00:41:53.920 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and through you to the members. 00:41:53.920 --> 00:41:56.530 align:middle line:84% I rise today as the chair of housing 00:41:56.530 --> 00:41:59.890 align:middle line:84% in support of the Consolidated Housing Amendment. 00:41:59.890 --> 00:42:04.830 align:middle line:84% I want to thank the speaker for your leadership on housing. 00:42:04.830 --> 00:42:06.790 align:middle line:84% It's a critically important issue, 00:42:06.790 --> 00:42:08.620 align:middle line:84% and I thank you for your continued support. 00:42:08.620 --> 00:42:10.036 align:middle line:84% I also want to thank the gentleman 00:42:10.036 --> 00:42:13.000 align:middle line:84% from Haverhill, who is so knowledgeable on all 00:42:13.000 --> 00:42:13.610 align:middle line:90% these issues. 00:42:13.610 --> 00:42:17.040 align:middle line:84% And I want to thank him for his tireless work and the work 00:42:17.040 --> 00:42:20.500 align:middle line:84% of his two assistant chairs, who have been so helpful as we've 00:42:20.500 --> 00:42:23.210 align:middle line:90% gone through this process. 00:42:23.210 --> 00:42:28.710 align:middle line:84% This budget will build on our annual commitment to housing. 00:42:28.710 --> 00:42:30.600 align:middle line:84% I also want to thank the gentleman 00:42:30.600 --> 00:42:34.170 align:middle line:84% from the South End, our Assistant Majority Leader, who 00:42:34.170 --> 00:42:37.060 align:middle line:84% has been an extraordinary advocate on behalf 00:42:37.060 --> 00:42:39.180 align:middle line:84% of the homeless in Massachusetts. 00:42:39.180 --> 00:42:41.810 align:middle line:84% This year's budget is a reflection 00:42:41.810 --> 00:42:46.980 align:middle line:84% of our shared efforts to protect and advocate for those in need. 00:42:46.980 --> 00:42:51.900 align:middle line:84% The legislature increased the homeless individuals line item 00:42:51.900 --> 00:42:53.650 align:middle line:90% by $1 million. 00:42:53.650 --> 00:42:56.610 align:middle line:84% We support programs for the chronically homeless, 00:42:56.610 --> 00:43:00.530 align:middle line:84% like Home and Healthy For Good at $2.2 million 00:43:00.530 --> 00:43:03.530 align:middle line:84% and vouchers for low income individuals 00:43:03.530 --> 00:43:07.490 align:middle line:90% with disabilities at $5 million. 00:43:07.490 --> 00:43:09.580 align:middle line:84% We fund the Massachusetts Rental Voucher 00:43:09.580 --> 00:43:12.750 align:middle line:90% Program at $100 million. 00:43:12.750 --> 00:43:15.980 align:middle line:84% The MRVP program and the Commonwealth 00:43:15.980 --> 00:43:18.800 align:middle line:84% provides low income families with an opportunity 00:43:18.800 --> 00:43:22.450 align:middle line:84% for safe, permanent, decent, affordable housing. 00:43:22.450 --> 00:43:26.380 align:middle line:84% This year's budget will also make a language change 00:43:26.380 --> 00:43:30.480 align:middle line:84% that will incentivize work by allowing families 00:43:30.480 --> 00:43:34.070 align:middle line:84% to earn additional income while maintaining their voucher. 00:43:34.070 --> 00:43:37.820 align:middle line:84% It's an important change that will support working families 00:43:37.820 --> 00:43:41.370 align:middle line:90% as they try to make ends meet. 00:43:41.370 --> 00:43:44.290 align:middle line:84% We also fund the Residential Assistance for Families 00:43:44.290 --> 00:43:46.220 align:middle line:90% in Transition at $15 million. 00:43:46.220 --> 00:43:49.760 align:middle line:84% RAFT helps families in transition out of shelters 00:43:49.760 --> 00:43:53.560 align:middle line:84% and stay out of the shelter system altogether. 00:43:53.560 --> 00:43:57.070 align:middle line:84% The vast majority of the people who receive RAFT 00:43:57.070 --> 00:43:59.890 align:middle line:84% are single mothers with two children. 00:43:59.890 --> 00:44:04.470 align:middle line:84% The median income is less than $20,000 a year. 00:44:04.470 --> 00:44:08.480 align:middle line:84% It's a tremendous program with profound impact. 00:44:08.480 --> 00:44:12.240 align:middle line:84% Past years, it's helped over 4,000 families 00:44:12.240 --> 00:44:14.160 align:middle line:90% avoid homelessness. 00:44:14.160 --> 00:44:17.460 align:middle line:84% This year's $15 million appropriation 00:44:17.460 --> 00:44:20.810 align:middle line:84% will help families remain in stable housing 00:44:20.810 --> 00:44:24.170 align:middle line:84% rather than motel, car, or emergency room. 00:44:24.170 --> 00:44:27.160 align:middle line:84% In the issue of public housing, which 00:44:27.160 --> 00:44:31.840 align:middle line:84% I know the legislature has a lot of interest in from our debate, 00:44:31.840 --> 00:44:35.980 align:middle line:84% we have over a million dollars for the operating subsidy 00:44:35.980 --> 00:44:40.530 align:middle line:84% which we recognize as a group here the importance 00:44:40.530 --> 00:44:43.360 align:middle line:84% of public housing in our commonwealth. 00:44:43.360 --> 00:44:47.700 align:middle line:84% We recognize from a housing committee and advocate for it 00:44:47.700 --> 00:44:50.990 align:middle line:84% very strongly, so I thank the legislature for your commitment 00:44:50.990 --> 00:44:54.180 align:middle line:84% to public housing in Massachusetts. 00:44:54.180 --> 00:44:56.970 align:middle line:84% The cost of housing is so high in our commonwealth 00:44:56.970 --> 00:45:00.020 align:middle line:84% that working families are having a very difficult time, 00:45:00.020 --> 00:45:03.574 align:middle line:90% so we recognize that here. 00:45:03.574 --> 00:45:04.990 align:middle line:84% I also want to thank the gentleman 00:45:04.990 --> 00:45:07.150 align:middle line:84% from Mattapan, who's vice chairman, 00:45:07.150 --> 00:45:12.260 align:middle line:84% and the lady from Cambridge, who are working diligently 00:45:12.260 --> 00:45:15.140 align:middle line:84% to make sure that the reforms that we passed 00:45:15.140 --> 00:45:18.620 align:middle line:84% in public housing over the last few years are implemented. 00:45:18.620 --> 00:45:22.620 align:middle line:84% In closing, I just want to acknowledge again there 00:45:22.620 --> 00:45:24.800 align:middle line:84% is a tremendous lack of affordable housing 00:45:24.800 --> 00:45:26.240 align:middle line:90% in Massachusetts. 00:45:26.240 --> 00:45:29.760 align:middle line:84% And the efforts that we put forth today in this budget 00:45:29.760 --> 00:45:31.860 align:middle line:90% are good and decent efforts. 00:45:31.860 --> 00:45:35.080 align:middle line:84% It's money well spent, so I thank all of you 00:45:35.080 --> 00:45:36.610 align:middle line:90% for your help on that. 00:45:36.610 --> 00:45:38.130 align:middle line:84% And I ask when a vote is taken, it 00:45:38.130 --> 00:45:40.379 align:middle line:90% be called by the yeas and nays. 00:45:40.379 --> 00:45:41.920 align:middle line:84% And I obviously, again, am in support 00:45:41.920 --> 00:45:43.211 align:middle line:90% of this consolidated amendment. 00:45:43.211 --> 00:45:44.689 align:middle line:90% Thank you very much. 00:45:44.689 --> 00:45:45.730 align:middle line:90% Roll call being required. 00:45:45.730 --> 00:45:46.990 align:middle line:84% Roll call will be called forthwith 00:45:46.990 --> 00:45:48.210 align:middle line:90% and remain open for two minutes. 00:45:48.210 --> 00:45:49.793 align:middle line:84% Court officers will notify the members 00:45:49.793 --> 00:45:52.070 align:middle line:84% that a roll call is in progress and will remain open 00:45:52.070 --> 00:45:52.770 align:middle line:90% for two minutes. 00:45:52.770 --> 00:45:56.330 align:middle line:90% 00:45:56.330 --> 00:46:07.850 align:middle line:90% There's not much to look at. 00:46:07.850 --> 00:46:08.780 align:middle line:90% Not much to look at. 00:46:08.780 --> 00:46:09.300 align:middle line:90% [INTERPOSING VOICES] 00:46:09.300 --> 00:46:10.049 align:middle line:90% So after all-- oh. 00:46:10.049 --> 00:46:51.100 align:middle line:90% Turn you microphone-- 00:46:51.100 --> 00:48:57.930 align:middle line:90% 00:48:57.930 --> 00:48:59.470 align:middle line:84% Have all members who wish to do so? 00:48:59.470 --> 00:49:02.574 align:middle line:90% 00:49:02.574 --> 00:49:03.740 align:middle line:90% Time for voting has expired. 00:49:03.740 --> 00:49:05.270 align:middle line:84% The clerk will display the tally. 00:49:05.270 --> 00:49:07.950 align:middle line:84% 160 in the affirmative, zero in negative. 00:49:07.950 --> 00:49:10.440 align:middle line:84% The Consolidated Amendment in Housing is adopted. 00:49:10.440 --> 00:49:12.950 align:middle line:90% House will be in a brief recess. 00:49:12.950 --> 00:49:13.780 align:middle line:90% What was it, 160? 00:49:13.780 --> 00:49:17.690 align:middle line:90% 160. 00:49:17.690 --> 00:49:20.737 align:middle line:84% Chairman would ask all members to take their seats. 00:49:20.737 --> 00:49:22.570 align:middle line:84% The chair would respectfully ask all members 00:49:22.570 --> 00:49:23.403 align:middle line:90% to take their seats. 00:49:23.403 --> 00:49:31.240 align:middle line:90% 00:49:31.240 --> 00:49:32.720 align:middle line:84% Chair would also respectfully ask 00:49:32.720 --> 00:49:35.070 align:middle line:84% members to clear all items from their desk. 00:49:35.070 --> 00:49:46.150 align:middle line:90% 00:49:46.150 --> 00:49:49.730 align:middle line:90% [MUSIC PLAYING] 00:49:49.730 --> 00:49:56.370 align:middle line:84% AT 2: 00 PM will be economic development and labor. 00:49:56.370 --> 00:49:59.590 align:middle line:90% 00:49:59.590 --> 00:50:01.310 align:middle line:84% Chair would like to take this opportunity 00:50:01.310 --> 00:50:04.090 align:middle line:84% to introduce to the right of the rostrum 00:50:04.090 --> 00:50:08.570 align:middle line:84% the guest of Representative Ferguson of Holden, Loring 00:50:08.570 --> 00:50:11.080 align:middle line:90% of NEADS, the service dog. 00:50:11.080 --> 00:50:16.420 align:middle line:84% She's a real service dog, and she is the most friendliest dog 00:50:16.420 --> 00:50:17.990 align:middle line:90% who we have in the house. 00:50:17.990 --> 00:50:20.225 align:middle line:90% So welcome to Loring. 00:50:20.225 --> 00:50:27.320 align:middle line:90% 00:50:27.320 --> 00:51:15.920 align:middle line:90% [MUSIC PLAYING] 00:51:15.920 --> 00:51:19.470 align:middle line:90% This will be an honor. 00:51:19.470 --> 00:51:23.020 align:middle line:90% Gentleman will rise. 00:51:23.020 --> 00:51:28.750 align:middle line:90% 00:51:28.750 --> 00:51:31.030 align:middle line:84% Miss O'Connel of the Taunton offers an amendment 00:51:31.030 --> 00:51:32.480 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 00:51:32.480 --> 00:51:33.990 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 00:51:33.990 --> 00:51:41.210 align:middle line:90% 00:51:41.210 --> 00:51:43.840 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 347. 00:51:43.840 --> 00:51:45.820 align:middle line:84% Representative O'Connell of Taunton 00:51:45.820 --> 00:51:47.340 align:middle line:84% and other members of the House move 00:51:47.340 --> 00:51:50.740 align:middle line:84% to amend the bill by adding the following section, Section [? 00:51:50.740 --> 00:51:54.130 align:middle line:84% 55-IB ?] of Chapter 18 of the general laws, 00:51:54.130 --> 00:51:57.062 align:middle line:84% as appearing in the 2014 official [? dismiss, 00:51:57.062 --> 00:51:59.270 align:middle line:84% ?] hereby amended by striking out the last sentence-- 00:51:59.270 --> 00:52:01.740 align:middle line:84% court should be replaced rather than following court 00:52:01.740 --> 00:52:05.570 align:middle line:84% or marijuana or marijuana products not prescribed under 00:52:05.570 --> 00:52:10.750 align:middle line:84% the law for medicinal purposes, and by striking out section 5J 00:52:10.750 --> 00:52:13.532 align:middle line:84% or on cruise ships in a certain place-- 00:52:13.532 --> 00:52:14.990 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 00:52:14.990 --> 00:52:17.407 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of paper. 00:52:17.407 --> 00:52:18.490 align:middle line:90% Purpose of gentlemen rise? 00:52:18.490 --> 00:52:23.270 align:middle line:90% 00:52:23.270 --> 00:52:25.420 align:middle line:84% Mr. Cusack offers the further amendment, 00:52:25.420 --> 00:52:26.670 align:middle line:90% which he'll hand to the clerk. 00:52:26.670 --> 00:52:44.300 align:middle line:90% 00:52:44.300 --> 00:52:47.510 align:middle line:84% Clerk will read the further amendment. 00:52:47.510 --> 00:52:54.700 align:middle line:84% Mr. Cusack of Braintree posts to amend the amendment number 00:52:54.700 --> 00:52:59.840 align:middle line:84% 347 by inserting the following section, 00:52:59.840 --> 00:53:01.980 align:middle line:84% notwithstanding any general or special law 00:53:01.980 --> 00:53:04.480 align:middle line:84% to the contrary, the provisions of that section shall not 00:53:04.480 --> 00:53:09.210 align:middle line:84% take effect until July 1, 2018 or until such time as the Joint 00:53:09.210 --> 00:53:11.260 align:middle line:84% Committee on Marijuana Policy has filed a report, 00:53:11.260 --> 00:53:14.480 align:middle line:84% the legislation has been filed, and acted pursuant to Part 2, 00:53:14.480 --> 00:53:18.717 align:middle line:84% Chapter 1, Section 1, of Article 2 of the Constitution. 00:53:18.717 --> 00:53:20.050 align:middle line:90% House will be in a brief recess. 00:53:20.050 --> 00:54:37.430 align:middle line:90% 00:54:37.430 --> 00:54:40.677 align:middle line:84% Clerk will read the further amendment. 00:54:40.677 --> 00:54:43.260 align:middle line:84% Mr. Kinzinger minding a a motion to amend the amendment number 00:54:43.260 --> 00:54:45.840 align:middle line:84% 347 by inserting the following section. 00:54:45.840 --> 00:54:48.340 align:middle line:84% "Not withstanding the general special order to the contrary, 00:54:48.340 --> 00:54:51.390 align:middle line:84% the provisions of the section shall not take effect until 00:54:51.390 --> 00:54:55.100 align:middle line:84% July 01, 2018, or until such time as the Joint Committee 00:54:55.100 --> 00:54:58.040 align:middle line:84% on Marijuana Policy has filed a report and legislation has been 00:54:58.040 --> 00:55:01.820 align:middle line:84% filed and acted pursuant to part two, chapter one, section one, 00:55:01.820 --> 00:55:04.750 align:middle line:90% Article II of the Constitution." 00:55:04.750 --> 00:55:06.487 align:middle line:90% Question comes on the amendment. 00:55:06.487 --> 00:55:07.570 align:middle line:90% On the further amendment-- 00:55:07.570 --> 00:55:09.120 align:middle line:90% I was made to rephrase that. 00:55:09.120 --> 00:55:46.130 align:middle line:90% 00:55:46.130 --> 00:55:48.350 align:middle line:84% Question now is on the further amendment. 00:55:48.350 --> 00:55:52.624 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Ms O'Connel of Taunton. 00:55:52.624 --> 00:55:53.790 align:middle line:90% Is it a quorum, Mr. Speaker? 00:55:53.790 --> 00:55:56.867 align:middle line:90% 00:55:56.867 --> 00:55:58.700 align:middle line:84% Ms. O'Connel notes the presence of a quorum. 00:55:58.700 --> 00:56:00.950 align:middle line:84% As you can ascertain a quorum is not present. 00:56:00.950 --> 00:56:02.640 align:middle line:84% Court officers summon the members 00:56:02.640 --> 00:56:05.250 align:middle line:84% indicating quorum roll call is now in progress. 00:56:05.250 --> 01:01:59.582 align:middle line:90% 01:01:59.582 --> 01:02:01.290 align:middle line:84% Have all members voted who wish to do so? 01:02:01.290 --> 01:04:20.990 align:middle line:90% 01:04:20.990 --> 01:04:23.240 align:middle line:84% Ms. O'Connel of Taunton asks unanimous consent 01:04:23.240 --> 01:04:25.160 align:middle line:90% to withdraw the quorum recall-- 01:04:25.160 --> 01:04:26.400 align:middle line:90% request. 01:04:26.400 --> 01:04:27.575 align:middle line:90% Chair objection? 01:04:27.575 --> 01:04:28.200 align:middle line:90% Chair has none. 01:04:28.200 --> 01:04:33.640 align:middle line:90% 01:04:33.640 --> 01:04:35.380 align:middle line:84% Question now is on the further amendment. 01:04:35.380 --> 01:04:37.370 align:middle line:84% The chair recognizes Ms. O'Connel of Taunton. 01:04:37.370 --> 01:04:50.410 align:middle line:90% 01:04:50.410 --> 01:04:51.710 align:middle line:90% Further amendment, yes. 01:04:51.710 --> 01:04:53.290 align:middle line:90% So, the further amendment. 01:04:53.290 --> 01:04:55.650 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and through you to the members. 01:04:55.650 --> 01:04:58.210 align:middle line:84% The underlying amendment, just so you know, 01:04:58.210 --> 01:05:02.500 align:middle line:84% is to prohibit the use of EBT cash assistance 01:05:02.500 --> 01:05:06.430 align:middle line:84% in any form to purchase recreational marijuana. 01:05:06.430 --> 01:05:11.920 align:middle line:84% The further amendment is just another delay tactic so 01:05:11.920 --> 01:05:15.170 align:middle line:84% that we don't have to vote on the underlying amendment. 01:05:15.170 --> 01:05:19.410 align:middle line:84% We're supposed to wait and see if it's included in something 01:05:19.410 --> 01:05:22.870 align:middle line:90% next year in July, 2018. 01:05:22.870 --> 01:05:25.730 align:middle line:84% Now the Commission on marijuana policy 01:05:25.730 --> 01:05:27.050 align:middle line:90% is doing a lot of good work. 01:05:27.050 --> 01:05:29.010 align:middle line:84% I know they have a lot of work ahead of them. 01:05:29.010 --> 01:05:30.750 align:middle line:84% This is actually something that we 01:05:30.750 --> 01:05:35.180 align:middle line:84% can take off their plate right now, and get it done for them. 01:05:35.180 --> 01:05:39.980 align:middle line:84% All of the items that are prohibited from being purchased 01:05:39.980 --> 01:05:44.450 align:middle line:84% with cash assistance are included in chapter 18, section 01:05:44.450 --> 01:05:48.690 align:middle line:84% 5 A and J. There's no special consideration, 01:05:48.690 --> 01:05:51.180 align:middle line:84% no special statute, no special section, 01:05:51.180 --> 01:05:56.180 align:middle line:84% for any of them-- for alcohol, tobacco, lottery tickets, 01:05:56.180 --> 01:05:58.480 align:middle line:90% tattoos, jewelry. 01:05:58.480 --> 01:06:04.160 align:middle line:84% And keep in mind, when we passed gambling, back in 2011, 01:06:04.160 --> 01:06:08.110 align:middle line:84% that was immediately included in this list, 01:06:08.110 --> 01:06:13.050 align:middle line:84% in chapter 18, that you-- as a prohibited item 01:06:13.050 --> 01:06:15.670 align:middle line:90% from using your EBT cash funds. 01:06:15.670 --> 01:06:19.530 align:middle line:84% We didn't wait for the Gaming Commission to set the policy. 01:06:19.530 --> 01:06:23.820 align:middle line:84% We didn't wait for the first facility to open. 01:06:23.820 --> 01:06:27.250 align:middle line:84% We were proactive and we did something about it right then. 01:06:27.250 --> 01:06:30.680 align:middle line:84% This is simply just avoiding the issue. 01:06:30.680 --> 01:06:33.570 align:middle line:84% All of these other reforms have been done through the budget 01:06:33.570 --> 01:06:34.430 align:middle line:90% process. 01:06:34.430 --> 01:06:37.270 align:middle line:84% We have the opportunity to be proactive, 01:06:37.270 --> 01:06:40.370 align:middle line:84% to tell the taxpayers that we're paying attention. 01:06:40.370 --> 01:06:42.200 align:middle line:90% We care about this program. 01:06:42.200 --> 01:06:44.740 align:middle line:84% We want to make sure people use their assistance 01:06:44.740 --> 01:06:46.090 align:middle line:90% for necessities. 01:06:46.090 --> 01:06:48.940 align:middle line:84% We want to help people become self-sufficient. 01:06:48.940 --> 01:06:52.920 align:middle line:84% And we should be adding this to the statute right now. 01:06:52.920 --> 01:06:55.500 align:middle line:90% 01:06:55.500 --> 01:06:58.000 align:middle line:84% There's no reason to kick the can down the road any further. 01:06:58.000 --> 01:07:00.540 align:middle line:84% I hope the underlying amendment is defeated. 01:07:00.540 --> 01:07:03.680 align:middle line:84% I mean-- excuse me, I hope the further amendment is defeated, 01:07:03.680 --> 01:07:05.570 align:middle line:84% and the underlying amendment is adopted. 01:07:05.570 --> 01:07:06.680 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. speaker. 01:07:06.680 --> 01:07:08.580 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Mr. Cusak of Braintree. 01:07:08.580 --> 01:07:16.519 align:middle line:90% 01:07:16.519 --> 01:07:18.810 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and through you to the members. 01:07:18.810 --> 01:07:24.420 align:middle line:84% The underlying amendment speaks about EBT cash assistance, 01:07:24.420 --> 01:07:26.650 align:middle line:84% not for medical but for recreational, which will 01:07:26.650 --> 01:07:29.030 align:middle line:90% take effect on July 1st, 2018. 01:07:29.030 --> 01:07:30.710 align:middle line:84% Reading the further amendment, you 01:07:30.710 --> 01:07:34.280 align:middle line:84% would understand that the further amendment simply 01:07:34.280 --> 01:07:36.470 align:middle line:84% says that if the committee does not 01:07:36.470 --> 01:07:40.424 align:middle line:84% address cash assistance in our legislation, which 01:07:40.424 --> 01:07:41.840 align:middle line:84% we had the final hearing yesterday 01:07:41.840 --> 01:07:43.830 align:middle line:84% and we're working on a six week process-- 01:07:43.830 --> 01:07:46.950 align:middle line:84% that if it is not addressed, this underlying amendment still 01:07:46.950 --> 01:07:48.940 align:middle line:90% takes effect July, 2018. 01:07:48.940 --> 01:07:52.190 align:middle line:84% So either way this is a win, and it's not 01:07:52.190 --> 01:07:54.600 align:middle line:84% kicking the can down the road or delaying it. 01:07:54.600 --> 01:07:56.450 align:middle line:84% Reading the further amendment, understanding 01:07:56.450 --> 01:07:57.730 align:middle line:90% what it actually says-- 01:07:57.730 --> 01:08:01.130 align:middle line:84% that this will take effect if the legislation addresses it 01:08:01.130 --> 01:08:01.800 align:middle line:90% or not. 01:08:01.800 --> 01:08:04.850 align:middle line:84% But the committee finished our final hearing yesterday-- 01:08:04.850 --> 01:08:06.620 align:middle line:84% five hearings, 30 hours of testimony-- 01:08:06.620 --> 01:08:10.080 align:middle line:84% and we are on track to draft legislation over the next six 01:08:10.080 --> 01:08:11.860 align:middle line:84% weeks to get something done by July-- 01:08:11.860 --> 01:08:14.970 align:middle line:84% July 1st of this year, in order for it to get up 01:08:14.970 --> 01:08:17.990 align:middle line:84% and running a year out from the implementation 01:08:17.990 --> 01:08:20.080 align:middle line:84% of recreational marijuana sales, which 01:08:20.080 --> 01:08:22.450 align:middle line:84% is also what your underlying amendment does do. 01:08:22.450 --> 01:08:25.080 align:middle line:84% So I ask that the further amendment 01:08:25.080 --> 01:08:33.760 align:middle line:90% is adopted, Mr. Speaker. 01:08:33.760 --> 01:08:40.300 align:middle line:90% 01:08:40.300 --> 01:08:49.590 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:08:49.590 --> 01:08:52.960 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Ms. O'Connel of Taunton. 01:08:52.960 --> 01:08:54.850 align:middle line:84% Congratulations to the gentleman. 01:08:54.850 --> 01:08:57.010 align:middle line:90% Mr. Speaker, I did understand. 01:08:57.010 --> 01:09:00.180 align:middle line:84% I did say we were expected to wait and see if it's 01:09:00.180 --> 01:09:01.770 align:middle line:90% included in any legislation. 01:09:01.770 --> 01:09:03.318 align:middle line:84% There's no reason to wait and see. 01:09:03.318 --> 01:09:04.359 align:middle line:90% We're all here right now. 01:09:04.359 --> 01:09:06.080 align:middle line:90% We can all vote on it right now. 01:09:06.080 --> 01:09:08.330 align:middle line:90% It's a bipartisan issue. 01:09:08.330 --> 01:09:11.140 align:middle line:84% There was an op ed where it said the Speaker of the House 01:09:11.140 --> 01:09:11.800 align:middle line:90% agrees with it. 01:09:11.800 --> 01:09:13.260 align:middle line:90% The governor agrees with it. 01:09:13.260 --> 01:09:16.020 align:middle line:84% The folks for Yes on Four agree with it. 01:09:16.020 --> 01:09:18.100 align:middle line:84% There's no reason, no good reason, 01:09:18.100 --> 01:09:19.332 align:middle line:90% not to pass this right now. 01:09:19.332 --> 01:09:20.290 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 01:09:20.290 --> 01:09:24.470 align:middle line:90% 01:09:24.470 --> 01:09:28.250 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Ms. Balser of Newton. 01:09:28.250 --> 01:09:30.399 align:middle line:84% The lady says there's no good reason. 01:09:30.399 --> 01:09:37.819 align:middle line:84% With all due respect, one reason is called public input. 01:09:37.819 --> 01:09:43.550 align:middle line:84% The lady is suggesting that in the middle of a process where, 01:09:43.550 --> 01:09:48.990 align:middle line:84% of an issue that was of tremendous interest 01:09:48.990 --> 01:09:52.939 align:middle line:84% to the public, there were public hearings going on. 01:09:52.939 --> 01:09:57.030 align:middle line:84% The lady would have us ignore the public input 01:09:57.030 --> 01:10:00.900 align:middle line:84% and just do it today during the budget. 01:10:00.900 --> 01:10:05.160 align:middle line:84% I would just ask the membership to be respectful of the fact 01:10:05.160 --> 01:10:07.320 align:middle line:84% that there's a very good reason for not 01:10:07.320 --> 01:10:09.850 align:middle line:84% doing this kind of legislation in the budget. 01:10:09.850 --> 01:10:12.150 align:middle line:84% And that's out of respect for the constituents 01:10:12.150 --> 01:10:15.027 align:middle line:90% who we represent. 01:10:15.027 --> 01:10:17.360 align:middle line:84% Question it comes under the option of further amendment. 01:10:17.360 --> 01:10:22.022 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Ms. O'Connel of Taunton. 01:10:22.022 --> 01:10:24.230 align:middle line:84% I would just like to point out that there was already 01:10:24.230 --> 01:10:26.110 align:middle line:84% a hearing on the bill that I filed 01:10:26.110 --> 01:10:27.680 align:middle line:90% for this, the same exact bill. 01:10:27.680 --> 01:10:31.600 align:middle line:84% And no one testified against it at that hearing. 01:10:31.600 --> 01:10:34.850 align:middle line:84% So there already was public input on this matter. 01:10:34.850 --> 01:10:35.990 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 01:10:35.990 --> 01:10:36.790 align:middle line:90% And as for-- 01:10:36.790 --> 01:10:39.557 align:middle line:90% 01:10:39.557 --> 01:10:41.140 align:middle line:84% Question now on the further amendment. 01:10:41.140 --> 01:10:42.264 align:middle line:90% All those in favor say Aye. 01:10:42.264 --> 01:10:46.200 align:middle line:84% Ms. O'Connel asks for call of the yeas and nays. 01:10:46.200 --> 01:10:49.410 align:middle line:84% Those joining with her will rise and the monitor 01:10:49.410 --> 01:10:50.530 align:middle line:90% will return the count. 01:10:50.530 --> 01:10:53.380 align:middle line:90% First division zero. 01:10:53.380 --> 01:10:57.440 align:middle line:84% Second division-- second division-- 01:10:57.440 --> 01:11:02.140 align:middle line:90% 01:11:02.140 --> 01:11:05.330 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 01:11:05.330 --> 01:11:10.570 align:middle line:84% The division leader will count the second division. 01:11:10.570 --> 01:11:13.020 align:middle line:90% Recount the second division. 01:11:13.020 --> 01:11:16.040 align:middle line:84% Recount the second division, Ms. division leader. 01:11:16.040 --> 01:11:23.910 align:middle line:90% 01:11:23.910 --> 01:11:24.410 align:middle line:90% 17. 01:11:24.410 --> 01:11:27.010 align:middle line:84% A sufficient number having a resume when 01:11:27.010 --> 01:11:32.260 align:middle line:84% the matter is taken, be taken by a count of the yeas and nays. 01:11:32.260 --> 01:11:35.160 align:middle line:84% Roll call machine is now open, remain open for three minutes. 01:11:35.160 --> 01:11:37.710 align:middle line:84% Court officers, summon the members, indicating roll call 01:11:37.710 --> 01:11:38.360 align:middle line:90% is in progress. 01:11:38.360 --> 01:14:34.090 align:middle line:84% Have all members voted who wish to do so? 01:14:34.090 --> 01:14:48.612 align:middle line:90% 01:14:48.612 --> 01:14:49.570 align:middle line:90% Have all members voted? 01:14:49.570 --> 01:14:59.750 align:middle line:90% 01:14:59.750 --> 01:15:00.926 align:middle line:90% Time for voting is expired. 01:15:00.926 --> 01:15:02.300 align:middle line:84% The clerk will display the tally. 01:15:02.300 --> 01:15:06.090 align:middle line:84% On this matter, 121 members voting in the affirmative, 37 01:15:06.090 --> 01:15:06.970 align:middle line:90% in the negative. 01:15:06.970 --> 01:15:09.110 align:middle line:84% The further amendment is adopted. 01:15:09.110 --> 01:15:13.760 align:middle line:90% 01:15:13.760 --> 01:15:15.760 align:middle line:84% Question now is on the underlying amendment, 01:15:15.760 --> 01:15:17.580 align:middle line:84% as amended with the further amendment. 01:15:17.580 --> 01:15:20.030 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, all those opposed nay. 01:15:20.030 --> 01:15:20.910 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 01:15:20.910 --> 01:15:23.110 align:middle line:84% The underlying amendment with the further amendment 01:15:23.110 --> 01:15:23.637 align:middle line:90% is adopted. 01:15:23.637 --> 01:15:24.720 align:middle line:90% House will be in a recess. 01:15:24.720 --> 01:19:22.612 align:middle line:90% 01:19:22.612 --> 01:19:23.570 align:middle line:90% House will be in order. 01:19:23.570 --> 01:19:24.559 align:middle line:90% Mr. Lyons of Andover. 01:19:24.559 --> 01:19:26.600 align:middle line:84% Officer, the amendment in the hands of the clerk. 01:19:26.600 --> 01:19:28.016 align:middle line:84% The clerk will read the amendment. 01:19:28.016 --> 01:19:40.390 align:middle line:90% 01:19:40.390 --> 01:19:43.620 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 864, by representatives 01:19:43.620 --> 01:19:46.940 align:middle line:84% Lyons of Andover, O'Connel of Tuanton, Lombardo of Billerico 01:19:46.940 --> 01:19:49.240 align:middle line:84% move to amend the bill by adding the following section, 01:19:49.240 --> 01:19:51.055 align:middle line:84% Chapter one to 18 of the general law 01:19:51.055 --> 01:19:53.430 align:middle line:84% is hereby amended by inserting the following new section. 01:19:53.430 --> 01:19:55.860 align:middle line:84% "Notwithstanding any general or special order to the contrary, 01:19:55.860 --> 01:19:57.280 align:middle line:84% there shall be an independent commission 01:19:57.280 --> 01:19:58.380 align:middle line:84% to study the report of the recent--" 01:19:58.380 --> 01:19:59.660 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 01:19:59.660 --> 01:20:01.140 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 01:20:01.140 --> 01:20:02.180 align:middle line:90% The chair has none. 01:20:02.180 --> 01:20:05.010 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Mr. Lyons of Andover. 01:20:05.010 --> 01:20:10.680 align:middle line:90% 01:20:10.680 --> 01:20:14.220 align:middle line:84% Court officers, close the doors so that the chair can count. 01:20:14.220 --> 01:20:16.610 align:middle line:90% Court officers, close the doors. 01:20:16.610 --> 01:20:19.590 align:middle line:90% Members please take your seats. 01:20:19.590 --> 01:20:21.580 align:middle line:90% Members will take their seats. 01:20:21.580 --> 01:20:37.987 align:middle line:90% 01:20:37.987 --> 01:20:39.320 align:middle line:90% Court officers, close the doors. 01:20:39.320 --> 01:20:42.310 align:middle line:84% Members will take their seats so we can count the House. 01:20:42.310 --> 01:21:00.420 align:middle line:90% 01:21:00.420 --> 01:21:02.860 align:middle line:84% First division, the monitor will return the count-- 01:21:02.860 --> 01:21:04.090 align:middle line:90% 15. 01:21:04.090 --> 01:21:07.570 align:middle line:84% Second division-- second division-- 01:21:07.570 --> 01:21:12.632 align:middle line:90% 01:21:12.632 --> 01:21:14.340 align:middle line:84% court officer, count the second division. 01:21:14.340 --> 01:21:24.890 align:middle line:90% 01:21:24.890 --> 01:21:29.130 align:middle line:90% 30-- third division. 01:21:29.130 --> 01:21:32.680 align:middle line:90% Third Division-- 24. 01:21:32.680 --> 01:21:37.641 align:middle line:84% Fourth division-- fourth division-- 01:21:37.641 --> 01:21:38.140 align:middle line:90% 18. 01:21:38.140 --> 01:21:42.780 align:middle line:90% 01:21:42.780 --> 01:21:45.550 align:middle line:84% More than-- sufficient number are in the house. 01:21:45.550 --> 01:21:48.630 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Mr. Lyons of Andover. 01:21:48.630 --> 01:22:13.330 align:middle line:90% 01:22:13.330 --> 01:22:14.910 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 01:22:14.910 --> 01:22:17.760 align:middle line:84% Mr. Speaker, this is a commission 01:22:17.760 --> 01:22:22.100 align:middle line:90% to study medical abuse claims. 01:22:22.100 --> 01:22:26.020 align:middle line:84% Many of us in the chamber remember Justina Pelletier, 01:22:26.020 --> 01:22:28.740 align:middle line:84% who was taken away from her parents 01:22:28.740 --> 01:22:33.270 align:middle line:84% because her parents decided to seek 01:22:33.270 --> 01:22:36.430 align:middle line:84% another type of medical treatment. 01:22:36.430 --> 01:22:38.630 align:middle line:84% And the Commonwealth of Massachusetts 01:22:38.630 --> 01:22:42.140 align:middle line:84% engaged in a process that lasted over two years 01:22:42.140 --> 01:22:45.610 align:middle line:84% where this young girl was kept away 01:22:45.610 --> 01:22:47.620 align:middle line:90% from her family and her parents. 01:22:47.620 --> 01:22:53.070 align:middle line:84% She was kept away from her religious services. 01:22:53.070 --> 01:22:55.240 align:middle line:84% And she was basically kept in isolation 01:22:55.240 --> 01:22:58.380 align:middle line:90% for a long period of time. 01:22:58.380 --> 01:23:02.620 align:middle line:84% And the Commonwealth expended incredible amount of dollars 01:23:02.620 --> 01:23:06.350 align:middle line:84% on keeping, basically, her parents away from her. 01:23:06.350 --> 01:23:09.510 align:middle line:84% And we've never had an explanation 01:23:09.510 --> 01:23:12.550 align:middle line:84% as to where the money went, and why 01:23:12.550 --> 01:23:15.240 align:middle line:90% we spent so much money on this. 01:23:15.240 --> 01:23:18.270 align:middle line:84% So what this commission basically does, 01:23:18.270 --> 01:23:20.680 align:middle line:84% it should be an independent commission 01:23:20.680 --> 01:23:23.210 align:middle line:84% to study and report on the case-- recent case 01:23:23.210 --> 01:23:25.470 align:middle line:84% before the Department of Children and Families, 01:23:25.470 --> 01:23:27.890 align:middle line:90% regarding Justina Pelletier. 01:23:27.890 --> 01:23:32.060 align:middle line:84% The commission should consist of an Inspector General, 01:23:32.060 --> 01:23:36.180 align:middle line:84% or a designee, the attorney general, or a designee, 01:23:36.180 --> 01:23:38.530 align:middle line:84% the state auditor, or a designee, 01:23:38.530 --> 01:23:41.020 align:middle line:84% and two members of the House of Representatives-- 01:23:41.020 --> 01:23:43.350 align:middle line:84% one who will be appointed by the minority leader, 01:23:43.350 --> 01:23:45.740 align:middle line:90% and two members of the Senate. 01:23:45.740 --> 01:23:48.010 align:middle line:84% The commission shall research and assess 01:23:48.010 --> 01:23:51.340 align:middle line:84% the cost of the case and the evidence and reasoning 01:23:51.340 --> 01:23:53.930 align:middle line:84% that led to the Department of Children and Families 01:23:53.930 --> 01:23:57.440 align:middle line:84% to take Justina Pelletier away from her family. 01:23:57.440 --> 01:24:00.600 align:middle line:84% The commission shall also conduct an investigation 01:24:00.600 --> 01:24:04.940 align:middle line:84% of Massachusetts General law chapter 119, section 51(a), 01:24:04.940 --> 01:24:08.260 align:middle line:84% focusing the number of families affected 01:24:08.260 --> 01:24:10.470 align:middle line:84% and any changes that can be made to the law 01:24:10.470 --> 01:24:12.800 align:middle line:90% and its improper use. 01:24:12.800 --> 01:24:15.660 align:middle line:84% Said report shall be filed with the chair, 01:24:15.660 --> 01:24:18.480 align:middle line:84% and the ranking minority member of the House Committee 01:24:18.480 --> 01:24:20.360 align:middle line:90% on the Ways and Means. 01:24:20.360 --> 01:24:23.980 align:middle line:84% I think this is absolutely imperative to us understanding 01:24:23.980 --> 01:24:29.939 align:middle line:84% what goes on with the Department of Children and Families. 01:24:29.939 --> 01:24:31.480 align:middle line:84% There are a number of representatives 01:24:31.480 --> 01:24:34.730 align:middle line:84% that got involved in this case several years back. 01:24:34.730 --> 01:24:36.640 align:middle line:84% The gentleman from Billerica was the one 01:24:36.640 --> 01:24:38.440 align:middle line:90% who brought it to my attention. 01:24:38.440 --> 01:24:42.870 align:middle line:84% And what we found out was that we had a parent, a father 01:24:42.870 --> 01:24:44.090 align:middle line:90% and a mother. 01:24:44.090 --> 01:24:48.010 align:middle line:84% Who had children who also had this disease in one 01:24:48.010 --> 01:24:49.750 align:middle line:84% of the younger child's, and they had 01:24:49.750 --> 01:24:54.730 align:middle line:84% to fight for the kind of medical care that they needed. 01:24:54.730 --> 01:24:57.400 align:middle line:84% However, in Massachusetts-- what happened was, 01:24:57.400 --> 01:25:00.190 align:middle line:84% these folks came up from Connecticut. 01:25:00.190 --> 01:25:03.650 align:middle line:84% And it was on a snowy Valentine's Day 01:25:03.650 --> 01:25:05.950 align:middle line:84% that they went to Tufts medical center, 01:25:05.950 --> 01:25:08.490 align:middle line:84% and then were transferred over to the Boston Children's 01:25:08.490 --> 01:25:09.480 align:middle line:90% Hospital. 01:25:09.480 --> 01:25:11.590 align:middle line:84% And Mr. Pelletier tells the story 01:25:11.590 --> 01:25:16.990 align:middle line:84% that he was sitting in a room, and they decided as parents 01:25:16.990 --> 01:25:19.430 align:middle line:84% that they wanted to take their child back 01:25:19.430 --> 01:25:21.550 align:middle line:90% to Tufts Medical Center. 01:25:21.550 --> 01:25:24.640 align:middle line:84% And he tells the story that, as he 01:25:24.640 --> 01:25:27.610 align:middle line:84% was sitting in the room making this decision, 01:25:27.610 --> 01:25:29.730 align:middle line:84% he saw the doors lock around him. 01:25:29.730 --> 01:25:32.660 align:middle line:84% He saw security guards come at him. 01:25:32.660 --> 01:25:34.530 align:middle line:90% And they took his child away. 01:25:34.530 --> 01:25:36.680 align:middle line:90% Just picture that. 01:25:36.680 --> 01:25:40.310 align:middle line:84% Just picture that, that happens to you. 01:25:40.310 --> 01:25:42.210 align:middle line:90% That they take your child away. 01:25:42.210 --> 01:25:45.640 align:middle line:84% Just picture that you're out in Montana, or Illinois, 01:25:45.640 --> 01:25:48.207 align:middle line:84% or some other part of the country, because that's 01:25:48.207 --> 01:25:48.790 align:middle line:90% what happened. 01:25:48.790 --> 01:25:52.520 align:middle line:84% He was coming here from Connecticut. 01:25:52.520 --> 01:25:54.500 align:middle line:84% And what happened was, they immediately 01:25:54.500 --> 01:25:57.060 align:middle line:90% went to have a court hearing. 01:25:57.060 --> 01:25:59.120 align:middle line:90% He didn't even have an attorney. 01:25:59.120 --> 01:26:01.800 align:middle line:84% And then they put a gag order on him-- 01:26:01.800 --> 01:26:04.630 align:middle line:84% a gag order in place that said he couldn't say anything, 01:26:04.630 --> 01:26:08.110 align:middle line:90% or he would risk going to jail. 01:26:08.110 --> 01:26:10.600 align:middle line:90% I mean, picture this. 01:26:10.600 --> 01:26:12.440 align:middle line:84% Your child was taken away from you. 01:26:12.440 --> 01:26:16.160 align:middle line:84% You're trying to help your child, and because you decide-- 01:26:16.160 --> 01:26:20.170 align:middle line:84% you decide to seek medical attention elsewhere, 01:26:20.170 --> 01:26:25.180 align:middle line:84% the state comes in and takes your child away. 01:26:25.180 --> 01:26:29.320 align:middle line:84% And it went on for over 18 months. 01:26:29.320 --> 01:26:32.480 align:middle line:84% And during that process, the Patrick administration 01:26:32.480 --> 01:26:36.580 align:middle line:84% spent millions of dollars keeping this child away 01:26:36.580 --> 01:26:40.050 align:middle line:84% from her family, all because they 01:26:40.050 --> 01:26:43.700 align:middle line:84% decided that they wanted to use a different type 01:26:43.700 --> 01:26:47.340 align:middle line:90% of medical practice. 01:26:47.340 --> 01:26:50.670 align:middle line:84% That should not happen here ever again. 01:26:50.670 --> 01:26:54.890 align:middle line:84% And I think we as a legislature have a responsibility. 01:26:54.890 --> 01:26:56.910 align:middle line:84% This is a real commission that we're 01:26:56.910 --> 01:27:00.860 align:middle line:84% asking for, with real people, to give us a real report, 01:27:00.860 --> 01:27:06.350 align:middle line:84% as to how much money and why the state was allowed to do this. 01:27:06.350 --> 01:27:09.360 align:middle line:84% Mr. Speaker, I would ask that when we have a vote on this, 01:27:09.360 --> 01:27:14.130 align:middle line:84% that we have a vote call of the yeas and nays. 01:27:14.130 --> 01:27:16.090 align:middle line:84% Mr. Lyons asks when matter is taken, 01:27:16.090 --> 01:27:18.420 align:middle line:84% be taken by a call of the yeas and nays. 01:27:18.420 --> 01:27:19.994 align:middle line:84% Those joining with him will rise. 01:27:19.994 --> 01:27:21.410 align:middle line:84% The monitor will return the count. 01:27:21.410 --> 01:27:23.600 align:middle line:90% First division-- zero. 01:27:23.600 --> 01:27:28.640 align:middle line:84% Second division-- will the second division rise? 01:27:28.640 --> 01:27:31.780 align:middle line:84% I would ask for a recess, Mr. Chairman. 01:27:31.780 --> 01:27:34.690 align:middle line:90% 01:27:34.690 --> 01:27:36.360 align:middle line:90% We're counting the house. 01:27:36.360 --> 01:27:37.730 align:middle line:90% Sarah, count the house. 01:27:37.730 --> 01:27:48.440 align:middle line:90% 01:27:48.440 --> 01:27:49.010 align:middle line:90% 13. 01:27:49.010 --> 01:27:51.110 align:middle line:90% Third division-- zero. 01:27:51.110 --> 01:27:53.730 align:middle line:90% Fourth division-- zero. 01:27:53.730 --> 01:27:56.690 align:middle line:84% Less than sufficient number, there will be no roll call. 01:27:56.690 --> 01:28:00.060 align:middle line:84% Our question is on the amendment. 01:28:00.060 --> 01:28:02.450 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, all those opposed, no. 01:28:02.450 --> 01:28:03.232 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 01:28:03.232 --> 01:28:04.440 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 01:28:04.440 --> 01:28:08.160 align:middle line:90% 01:28:08.160 --> 01:28:10.000 align:middle line:84% Mr. Lyons of Andover offers an amendment 01:28:10.000 --> 01:28:10.810 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 01:28:10.810 --> 01:28:12.226 align:middle line:84% The clerk will read the amendment. 01:28:12.226 --> 01:28:22.660 align:middle line:90% 01:28:22.660 --> 01:28:26.950 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 892, Representative Lyons 01:28:26.950 --> 01:28:28.780 align:middle line:84% of Andover, Lombardo of Billerica 01:28:28.780 --> 01:28:31.810 align:middle line:84% move to amend the bill by adding the following section. 01:28:31.810 --> 01:28:35.530 align:middle line:84% Subsection B of section two of chapter 18 of the general laws 01:28:35.530 --> 01:28:37.300 align:middle line:84% as appearing in the 2014 official edition 01:28:37.300 --> 01:28:39.650 align:middle line:84% is hereby amended by adding the following clause. 01:28:39.650 --> 01:28:43.290 align:middle line:84% "T. Verify than an applicant for benefits 01:28:43.290 --> 01:28:44.810 align:middle line:84% through any transitional assistance, 01:28:44.810 --> 01:28:47.270 align:middle line:84% financial assistance program administered by the department 01:28:47.270 --> 01:28:50.590 align:middle line:84% is a United States citizen, or lawfully present alien 01:28:50.590 --> 01:28:52.550 align:middle line:90% prior to providing any benefits. 01:28:52.550 --> 01:28:55.850 align:middle line:84% The department shall register for the systematic alien 01:28:55.850 --> 01:28:58.060 align:middle line:84% verification entitlements program established 01:28:58.060 --> 01:29:00.720 align:middle line:84% by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services 01:29:00.720 --> 01:29:02.990 align:middle line:84% and shall use said program to verify 01:29:02.990 --> 01:29:06.930 align:middle line:84% an applicant's eligibility pursuant to this clause." 01:29:06.930 --> 01:29:09.820 align:middle line:84% Section three of chapter 23, via the general laws is [INAUDIBLE] 01:29:09.820 --> 01:29:13.070 align:middle line:84% is hereby amended by adding the following section. 01:29:13.070 --> 01:29:16.590 align:middle line:84% "W. Verify that an applicant for benefits through any housing 01:29:16.590 --> 01:29:18.470 align:middle line:84% program for low and moderate income families 01:29:18.470 --> 01:29:20.590 align:middle line:84% administered by the department is a United States citizen 01:29:20.590 --> 01:29:21.420 align:middle line:90% or lawfully present--" 01:29:21.420 --> 01:29:22.730 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection the clerk 01:29:22.730 --> 01:29:24.100 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 01:29:24.100 --> 01:29:24.980 align:middle line:90% The chair has none. 01:29:24.980 --> 01:29:30.800 align:middle line:84% Question now-- chair recognizes Mr. Lyons of Andover. 01:29:30.800 --> 01:29:32.100 align:middle line:90% Speaker, thank you. 01:29:32.100 --> 01:29:36.660 align:middle line:84% Mr. Speaker, this is another amendment, and basically 01:29:36.660 --> 01:29:41.490 align:middle line:84% what this bill does, it says, chapter 109-- 01:29:41.490 --> 01:29:45.040 align:middle line:84% chapter 119 of the Massachusetts general laws 01:29:45.040 --> 01:29:47.840 align:middle line:90% is hereby amended as follows. 01:29:47.840 --> 01:29:53.090 align:middle line:84% A parent or legal guardian cannot be charged with abusing 01:29:53.090 --> 01:29:56.330 align:middle line:84% or neglecting a child's need for medical care if the parent 01:29:56.330 --> 01:29:59.910 align:middle line:84% or legal guardian has sought medical care for a child from 01:29:59.910 --> 01:30:03.470 align:middle line:84% a licensed medical or health-- mental health provider. 01:30:03.470 --> 01:30:07.380 align:middle line:84% The licensed medical or mental health provider 01:30:07.380 --> 01:30:10.190 align:middle line:90% has made a diagnosis. 01:30:10.190 --> 01:30:13.360 align:middle line:84% The licensed medical or mental health provider 01:30:13.360 --> 01:30:15.770 align:middle line:84% has prescribed a lawful course of treatment, 01:30:15.770 --> 01:30:17.770 align:middle line:84% and the parent of a legal guardian 01:30:17.770 --> 01:30:19.890 align:middle line:84% is following, or willing to follow, 01:30:19.890 --> 01:30:22.270 align:middle line:84% the recommended course of treatment. 01:30:22.270 --> 01:30:25.860 align:middle line:90% 01:30:25.860 --> 01:30:28.590 align:middle line:84% No mandatory repoke-- mandatory reporter as defined 01:30:28.590 --> 01:30:31.060 align:middle line:84% in section 21 of this chapter shall 01:30:31.060 --> 01:30:33.180 align:middle line:84% file a report of abuse or neglect 01:30:33.180 --> 01:30:37.770 align:middle line:84% under section 51 of this chapter based solely on a parent's 01:30:37.770 --> 01:30:40.830 align:middle line:84% or legal guardian's decision to follow the recommended 01:30:40.830 --> 01:30:44.320 align:middle line:84% treatment of a licensed medical or mental health provider. 01:30:44.320 --> 01:30:46.650 align:middle line:84% A parent or legal guardian has the right 01:30:46.650 --> 01:30:50.030 align:middle line:84% to follow the advice and treatment of a planned-- 01:30:50.030 --> 01:30:56.690 align:middle line:84% a licensed medical or mental health provider 01:30:56.690 --> 01:30:59.360 align:middle line:84% over a contrary opinion or recommended treatment 01:30:59.360 --> 01:31:02.510 align:middle line:84% of another licensed medical or mental health provider, 01:31:02.510 --> 01:31:03.140 align:middle line:90% when the des-- 01:31:03.140 --> 01:31:07.110 align:middle line:84% For what purpose does the gentleman rise? 01:31:07.110 --> 01:31:11.080 align:middle line:90% Does the gentleman yield? 01:31:11.080 --> 01:31:13.560 align:middle line:90% No, Mr.-- Mr. Chairman. 01:31:13.560 --> 01:31:17.470 align:middle line:84% Mr. Speaker, I was told that we were doing 870. 01:31:17.470 --> 01:31:19.040 align:middle line:90% You want me to talk on 892? 01:31:19.040 --> 01:31:21.570 align:middle line:90% 01:31:21.570 --> 01:31:22.500 align:middle line:90% Talking on 892. 01:31:22.500 --> 01:31:22.530 align:middle line:90% Oh. 01:31:22.530 --> 01:31:24.140 align:middle line:84% Well, I can talk about that one also. 01:31:24.140 --> 01:31:25.730 align:middle line:90% Does the gentleman yield? 01:31:25.730 --> 01:31:27.360 align:middle line:90% No. 01:31:27.360 --> 01:31:30.290 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Mr. Lyons of Andover. 01:31:30.290 --> 01:31:34.970 align:middle line:90% 01:31:34.970 --> 01:31:37.200 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Mr. Lyons of Andover. 01:31:37.200 --> 01:31:38.280 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 01:31:38.280 --> 01:31:40.160 align:middle line:90% So this is amendment 892. 01:31:40.160 --> 01:31:44.674 align:middle line:90% I apologize for the error. 01:31:44.674 --> 01:31:46.340 align:middle line:84% This goes to the heart, I think, of what 01:31:46.340 --> 01:31:51.220 align:middle line:84% the gentleman from Dartmouth was looking for a few minutes ago. 01:31:51.220 --> 01:31:56.060 align:middle line:84% This is a verification for entitlement programs. 01:31:56.060 --> 01:32:02.790 align:middle line:84% And what this basically does, it instructs 01:32:02.790 --> 01:32:04.810 align:middle line:84% that we verify the applicant for benefits 01:32:04.810 --> 01:32:07.470 align:middle line:84% through a transitional assistance financial assistance 01:32:07.470 --> 01:32:11.340 align:middle line:84% program, administered by the Department, 01:32:11.340 --> 01:32:15.290 align:middle line:84% is a United States citizen or lawfully present alien prior 01:32:15.290 --> 01:32:17.250 align:middle line:90% to providing any benefits. 01:32:17.250 --> 01:32:19.620 align:middle line:84% So what would this basic amendment does, 01:32:19.620 --> 01:32:22.250 align:middle line:84% and it's the third or fourth year that we've filed it-- 01:32:22.250 --> 01:32:26.550 align:middle line:84% what it does is make sure that we know who, in fact, 01:32:26.550 --> 01:32:29.960 align:middle line:84% are receiving benefits, provides exactly the information that 01:32:29.960 --> 01:32:32.976 align:middle line:90% the gentleman from-- 01:32:32.976 --> 01:32:34.850 align:middle line:84% the gentleman from Dartmouth was looking for, 01:32:34.850 --> 01:32:38.440 align:middle line:84% because as he pointed out, it's important to know 01:32:38.440 --> 01:32:42.200 align:middle line:84% who these people are and who are receiving benefits. 01:32:42.200 --> 01:32:47.470 align:middle line:84% Just as a matter of course that we know who are receiving 01:32:47.470 --> 01:32:49.380 align:middle line:84% and where our tax dollars are going. 01:32:49.380 --> 01:32:52.680 align:middle line:84% So consistent with the request of the gentleman 01:32:52.680 --> 01:32:56.420 align:middle line:84% from Dartmouth, I would hope that the-- 01:32:56.420 --> 01:32:59.600 align:middle line:84% my colleagues would support this amendment. 01:32:59.600 --> 01:33:03.270 align:middle line:84% Mr. Speaker, I would also ask that when this vote is taken, 01:33:03.270 --> 01:33:06.526 align:middle line:84% it is taken with a call of the yeas and nays. 01:33:06.526 --> 01:33:07.900 align:middle line:84% Those joining with him will rise, 01:33:07.900 --> 01:33:09.540 align:middle line:84% the monitor will return the count. 01:33:09.540 --> 01:33:13.150 align:middle line:90% First division-- zero. 01:33:13.150 --> 01:33:18.450 align:middle line:84% Second division-- the division chair will count the second 01:33:18.450 --> 01:33:19.340 align:middle line:90% division-- 01:33:19.340 --> 01:33:20.580 align:middle line:90% 14. 01:33:20.580 --> 01:33:23.190 align:middle line:90% Third Division-- zero. 01:33:23.190 --> 01:33:26.200 align:middle line:90% Fourth division-- zero. 01:33:26.200 --> 01:33:28.380 align:middle line:84% Less than sufficient number count. 01:33:28.380 --> 01:33:30.580 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Mr. Rushing of Boston. 01:33:30.580 --> 01:33:39.337 align:middle line:90% 01:33:39.337 --> 01:33:40.670 align:middle line:90% House will be in a brief recess. 01:33:40.670 --> 01:33:51.325 align:middle line:84% Will you come up-- the [AUDIO OUT] 01:33:51.325 --> 01:33:52.700 align:middle line:84% Question now is on the amendment. 01:33:52.700 --> 01:33:54.783 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, all those opposed, no. 01:33:54.783 --> 01:33:55.660 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 01:33:55.660 --> 01:33:56.900 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 01:33:56.900 --> 01:34:05.820 align:middle line:90% 01:34:05.820 --> 01:34:07.270 align:middle line:90% Mr. Lyons of-- 01:34:07.270 --> 01:34:09.417 align:middle line:84% Mr. Lyons of Andover offers an amendment 01:34:09.417 --> 01:34:10.500 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 01:34:10.500 --> 01:34:11.749 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 01:34:11.749 --> 01:34:18.970 align:middle line:90% 01:34:18.970 --> 01:34:22.050 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 870, representatives Lyons 01:34:22.050 --> 01:34:24.230 align:middle line:84% of Andover and Lombardo of Billerica move to amend 01:34:24.230 --> 01:34:25.938 align:middle line:84% the bill by adding the following section, 01:34:25.938 --> 01:34:28.620 align:middle line:84% chapter 119 of the general laws as appear in the 2014 official 01:34:28.620 --> 01:34:31.420 align:middle line:84% edition is hereby amended by adding the following subsection 01:34:31.420 --> 01:34:33.452 align:middle line:90% section-- new section 5(i)-- 01:34:33.452 --> 01:34:34.910 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 01:34:34.910 --> 01:34:36.310 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 01:34:36.310 --> 01:34:37.250 align:middle line:90% The chair has none. 01:34:37.250 --> 01:34:39.800 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Mr. Lyons of Andover. 01:34:39.800 --> 01:35:01.430 align:middle line:90% 01:35:01.430 --> 01:35:02.720 align:middle line:90% Thank you Mr. Speaker. 01:35:02.720 --> 01:35:04.930 align:middle line:84% This is the one I was talking about earlier. 01:35:04.930 --> 01:35:07.280 align:middle line:84% I won't bore everybody with it again, 01:35:07.280 --> 01:35:09.630 align:middle line:84% but basically what this does, it prevents people 01:35:09.630 --> 01:35:12.950 align:middle line:84% from getting arrested and, I mean, losing their children 01:35:12.950 --> 01:35:16.640 align:middle line:84% and having DCF come in and be charged with a 51(a) claim 01:35:16.640 --> 01:35:18.770 align:middle line:84% because they simply want to change doctors. 01:35:18.770 --> 01:35:22.120 align:middle line:84% It's a very simple amendment to the ledger-- 01:35:22.120 --> 01:35:25.370 align:middle line:84% to our budget, which makes it so that when 01:35:25.370 --> 01:35:27.910 align:middle line:84% a parent goes in and has to take care of their child, 01:35:27.910 --> 01:35:32.110 align:middle line:84% they don't get charged with any kind of violation of any law 01:35:32.110 --> 01:35:35.520 align:middle line:84% or-- when they simply want to use a another medical provider. 01:35:35.520 --> 01:35:37.650 align:middle line:84% And I would ask, Mr. Speaker, when 01:35:37.650 --> 01:35:39.970 align:middle line:84% this amendment is taken, that it be taken 01:35:39.970 --> 01:35:44.010 align:middle line:90% by a call of the yeas and nays. 01:35:44.010 --> 01:35:46.410 align:middle line:84% Mr. Lyons of Andover asks when the matter 01:35:46.410 --> 01:35:49.720 align:middle line:84% is taken, it be taken by a call of the yeas and nays. 01:35:49.720 --> 01:35:51.180 align:middle line:84% Those joining with him will rise. 01:35:51.180 --> 01:35:53.980 align:middle line:90% The first division-- zero. 01:35:53.980 --> 01:35:57.270 align:middle line:90% Second division-- 15. 01:35:57.270 --> 01:35:59.320 align:middle line:90% Third Division-- zero. 01:35:59.320 --> 01:36:01.660 align:middle line:90% Fourth division-- zero. 01:36:01.660 --> 01:36:03.290 align:middle line:90% Less than sufficient number. 01:36:03.290 --> 01:36:04.720 align:middle line:90% Mr. Speaker [INAUDIBLE]. 01:36:04.720 --> 01:36:20.476 align:middle line:90% 01:36:20.476 --> 01:36:22.600 align:middle line:84% Sufficient number having risen the matter is taken. 01:36:22.600 --> 01:36:26.120 align:middle line:84% Be taking call of yeas and nays, roll call machine is now open. 01:36:26.120 --> 01:36:27.530 align:middle line:90% Remain open for three minutes. 01:36:27.530 --> 01:36:29.050 align:middle line:84% Court officer, summon the members, 01:36:29.050 --> 01:36:30.680 align:middle line:84% indicate a roll call is in progress. 01:36:30.680 --> 01:37:38.822 align:middle line:90% 01:37:38.822 --> 01:37:39.530 align:middle line:90% Mr. [INAUDIBLE]-- 01:37:39.530 --> 01:37:40.840 align:middle line:90% Now it's working, sorry. 01:37:40.840 --> 01:37:43.750 align:middle line:90% 01:37:43.750 --> 01:37:45.910 align:middle line:84% Mr. McGonagle of Everett has unanimous consent 01:37:45.910 --> 01:37:47.451 align:middle line:84% to be recorded in the last roll call. 01:37:47.451 --> 01:37:50.360 align:middle line:90% Chair objection, chair has none. 01:37:50.360 --> 01:37:55.405 align:middle line:84% On roll call number, 43 Joe McGonagle, yes. 01:37:55.405 --> 01:39:32.350 align:middle line:90% 01:39:32.350 --> 01:39:34.490 align:middle line:84% Mr. Naughton of Clinton asks unanimous consent 01:39:34.490 --> 01:39:38.310 align:middle line:84% to be recorded on the last roll call. 01:39:38.310 --> 01:39:40.610 align:middle line:90% Chair objection, chair has non. 01:39:40.610 --> 01:39:43.380 align:middle line:84% Roll call number 43, Harold P. Naughton Jr., yes. 01:39:43.380 --> 01:40:01.960 align:middle line:90% 01:40:01.960 --> 01:41:49.280 align:middle line:84% The moment is voted for us to do so. 01:41:49.280 --> 01:41:55.882 align:middle line:90% 01:41:55.882 --> 01:41:56.840 align:middle line:90% Have all members voted? 01:41:56.840 --> 01:41:58.056 align:middle line:90% Time for voting has expired. 01:41:58.056 --> 01:41:59.430 align:middle line:84% The clerk will display the tally. 01:41:59.430 --> 01:42:01.910 align:middle line:84% On this matter, 30 members voting in the affirmative, 01:42:01.910 --> 01:42:03.880 align:middle line:90% 126 in the negative. 01:42:03.880 --> 01:42:46.040 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not [AUDIO OUT] 01:42:46.040 --> 01:42:47.800 align:middle line:90% What purpose does the lady rise? 01:42:47.800 --> 01:42:50.240 align:middle line:84% Mr. Speaker, could I ask for unanimous consent 01:42:50.240 --> 01:42:53.620 align:middle line:84% to be heard on an issue that was just brought before the House, 01:42:53.620 --> 01:42:56.170 align:middle line:84% and I was not able to speak on it? 01:42:56.170 --> 01:42:59.600 align:middle line:84% Lady from Groton asks unanimous consent to make a statement. 01:42:59.600 --> 01:43:00.730 align:middle line:90% Chair objection? 01:43:00.730 --> 01:43:01.770 align:middle line:90% Chair has none. 01:43:01.770 --> 01:43:03.770 align:middle line:84% Chair recognized Ms. Harrington of Groton. 01:43:03.770 --> 01:43:14.300 align:middle line:90% 01:43:14.300 --> 01:43:17.230 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and through you to the members. 01:43:17.230 --> 01:43:20.590 align:middle line:84% I don't usually make a habit of trying to speak about an issue 01:43:20.590 --> 01:43:23.240 align:middle line:84% after we've already had a vote on the issue, 01:43:23.240 --> 01:43:25.620 align:middle line:84% but this issue is an overriding issue 01:43:25.620 --> 01:43:28.510 align:middle line:84% that's going to face us throughout this session 01:43:28.510 --> 01:43:31.620 align:middle line:84% outside of budget, with regard to some bills that 01:43:31.620 --> 01:43:34.770 align:middle line:84% will be coming forward this year relative to the protection 01:43:34.770 --> 01:43:35.920 align:middle line:90% of children. 01:43:35.920 --> 01:43:38.480 align:middle line:84% Some of you that were here before me 01:43:38.480 --> 01:43:41.990 align:middle line:84% remember that I spoke a few years ago when this issue came 01:43:41.990 --> 01:43:45.490 align:middle line:84% up, and along with the Chairman from Natick 01:43:45.490 --> 01:43:49.480 align:middle line:84% and the rest of the Post Audit and Oversight Committee, 01:43:49.480 --> 01:43:52.990 align:middle line:84% we did an extensive investigation that year 01:43:52.990 --> 01:43:56.410 align:middle line:84% into the Department of Children and Families, and into the-- 01:43:56.410 --> 01:44:00.590 align:middle line:84% and we actually looked into their interaction 01:44:00.590 --> 01:44:03.010 align:middle line:84% with children in need and parents. 01:44:03.010 --> 01:44:05.860 align:middle line:84% And we did get information relative to the Justina 01:44:05.860 --> 01:44:07.250 align:middle line:90% Pelletier case. 01:44:07.250 --> 01:44:10.060 align:middle line:84% What I'll say to you with regard to the issue 01:44:10.060 --> 01:44:14.560 align:middle line:84% of medical treatment and parents authority over children is, 01:44:14.560 --> 01:44:17.030 align:middle line:84% in my opinion, it does not exist. 01:44:17.030 --> 01:44:21.530 align:middle line:84% I recently have received a book called, "The Constitutional 01:44:21.530 --> 01:44:22.430 align:middle line:90% Parent." 01:44:22.430 --> 01:44:25.280 align:middle line:84% And what it basically spells out for us 01:44:25.280 --> 01:44:32.610 align:middle line:84% is that a child, like any other citizen of these United States, 01:44:32.610 --> 01:44:34.830 align:middle line:90% has civil rights. 01:44:34.830 --> 01:44:39.820 align:middle line:84% And they have the right to be protected at all costs. 01:44:39.820 --> 01:44:43.010 align:middle line:84% I hope that our commonwealth changes our standard 01:44:43.010 --> 01:44:45.630 align:middle line:84% in care and protection cases this session 01:44:45.630 --> 01:44:48.890 align:middle line:84% to advocate in the best interest of the child. 01:44:48.890 --> 01:44:54.660 align:middle line:84% But prior to that time, I will remind you that no other human 01:44:54.660 --> 01:44:56.350 align:middle line:90% being's rights-- 01:44:56.350 --> 01:45:00.810 align:middle line:84% a parent included-- is superior to that child. 01:45:00.810 --> 01:45:04.030 align:middle line:84% And if there are medical professionals, 01:45:04.030 --> 01:45:06.450 align:middle line:84% and social service professionals, 01:45:06.450 --> 01:45:10.620 align:middle line:84% that find an issue with those parents-- 01:45:10.620 --> 01:45:13.200 align:middle line:84% I don't care if it's their parents, their teachers, 01:45:13.200 --> 01:45:15.390 align:middle line:84% their friends, their grandparents, 01:45:15.390 --> 01:45:17.200 align:middle line:90% I don't care who it is. 01:45:17.200 --> 01:45:20.980 align:middle line:84% No one's rights to be protected is 01:45:20.980 --> 01:45:23.970 align:middle line:84% superior to their own civil rights. 01:45:23.970 --> 01:45:28.460 align:middle line:84% And I think that we need to approach every single issue 01:45:28.460 --> 01:45:31.270 align:middle line:84% involving children in our care and protection 01:45:31.270 --> 01:45:34.950 align:middle line:84% system with the realization that we will not 01:45:34.950 --> 01:45:39.410 align:middle line:84% deprive those vulnerable children to losing 01:45:39.410 --> 01:45:41.020 align:middle line:90% their civil rights. 01:45:41.020 --> 01:45:43.710 align:middle line:84% And I thank you for the opportunity to be heard, 01:45:43.710 --> 01:45:45.270 align:middle line:84% even though the decision was made. 01:45:45.270 --> 01:45:47.050 align:middle line:84% And I hope that when future bills 01:45:47.050 --> 01:45:49.120 align:middle line:84% come before this legislative body 01:45:49.120 --> 01:45:52.770 align:middle line:84% that we consider the civil rights of all of our children. 01:45:52.770 --> 01:45:53.340 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:45:53.340 --> 01:46:03.510 align:middle line:90% 01:46:03.510 --> 01:46:05.577 align:middle line:84% Ms. O'Connel of Taunton offers an amendment 01:46:05.577 --> 01:46:06.660 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 01:46:06.660 --> 01:46:07.909 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 01:46:07.909 --> 01:46:18.700 align:middle line:90% 01:46:18.700 --> 01:46:21.761 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 966, of representative O'Connel 01:46:21.761 --> 01:46:23.510 align:middle line:84% of Taunton and other members of the House, 01:46:23.510 --> 01:46:26.800 align:middle line:84% move to amend the bill by adding the following three sections. 01:46:26.800 --> 01:46:30.700 align:middle line:84% Subsection A of section 5(i) of chapter 18 of the general laws 01:46:30.700 --> 01:46:31.200 align:middle line:90% as-- 01:46:31.200 --> 01:46:32.570 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 01:46:32.570 --> 01:46:34.403 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 01:46:34.403 --> 01:46:36.220 align:middle line:84% What purpose does the gentlemen rise? 01:46:36.220 --> 01:46:39.517 align:middle line:84% Mr. Kulik of Worthington offers a further amendment 01:46:39.517 --> 01:46:40.600 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 01:46:40.600 --> 01:46:42.349 align:middle line:84% The clerk will read the further amendment. 01:46:42.349 --> 01:47:13.210 align:middle line:90% 01:47:13.210 --> 01:47:18.150 align:middle line:84% Mr. Kulik of Worthington moves to amend amendment number 966, 01:47:18.150 --> 01:47:21.060 align:middle line:84% by inserting the following section. 01:47:21.060 --> 01:47:23.760 align:middle line:84% "Notwithstanding any general or special order to the contrary, 01:47:23.760 --> 01:47:25.260 align:middle line:84% the provisions of the three sections 01:47:25.260 --> 01:47:27.250 align:middle line:84% shall not take effect until such time 01:47:27.250 --> 01:47:29.800 align:middle line:84% as the Executive Office for Administration of Finance, 01:47:29.800 --> 01:47:32.086 align:middle line:84% in conjunction with the Executive Office of Health 01:47:32.086 --> 01:47:32.960 align:middle line:90% and Human Services--" 01:47:32.960 --> 01:47:34.190 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 01:47:34.190 --> 01:47:35.510 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 01:47:35.510 --> 01:47:36.450 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 01:47:36.450 --> 01:47:38.630 align:middle line:84% Question now on the further amendment. 01:47:38.630 --> 01:47:41.340 align:middle line:84% Chair recognize Ms. O'Connell of Taunton. 01:47:41.340 --> 01:47:53.627 align:middle line:90% 01:47:53.627 --> 01:47:55.960 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and through you, to the members. 01:47:55.960 --> 01:48:00.340 align:middle line:84% Mr. Speaker, so, of course, the underlying amendment 01:48:00.340 --> 01:48:05.520 align:middle line:84% was to stop the spending of cash assistance in other states 01:48:05.520 --> 01:48:08.090 align:middle line:84% except for border states, because we recognize 01:48:08.090 --> 01:48:10.610 align:middle line:84% that people may live right near New Hampshire or right 01:48:10.610 --> 01:48:15.770 align:middle line:84% near Rhode Island and need to spend their money there. 01:48:15.770 --> 01:48:20.170 align:middle line:84% The problem is, we're seeing money, cash assistance, 01:48:20.170 --> 01:48:22.900 align:middle line:84% this is a-- it's a temporary program. 01:48:22.900 --> 01:48:26.970 align:middle line:84% It is meant to help people in need for a short time. 01:48:26.970 --> 01:48:29.720 align:middle line:84% It's meant to help them get back on their feet. 01:48:29.720 --> 01:48:31.820 align:middle line:84% Unfortunately, we're seeing money 01:48:31.820 --> 01:48:35.530 align:middle line:84% spent in California, Hawaii, Florida, 01:48:35.530 --> 01:48:38.720 align:middle line:90% the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico. 01:48:38.720 --> 01:48:43.000 align:middle line:84% That's not really consistent with necessities and someone 01:48:43.000 --> 01:48:45.650 align:middle line:84% who is trying to get back on their feet. 01:48:45.650 --> 01:48:47.660 align:middle line:84% I think the goal of this program, 01:48:47.660 --> 01:48:50.160 align:middle line:84% and a goal we all share, is to help 01:48:50.160 --> 01:48:52.310 align:middle line:90% people become self-sufficient. 01:48:52.310 --> 01:48:55.110 align:middle line:84% But people do not become self-sufficient, 01:48:55.110 --> 01:48:57.580 align:middle line:84% and they're not encouraged to become self-sufficient, 01:48:57.580 --> 01:49:00.590 align:middle line:84% if we don't have rules in place that encourage 01:49:00.590 --> 01:49:02.660 align:middle line:90% a certain type of behavior. 01:49:02.660 --> 01:49:04.600 align:middle line:84% I know many people in here are fond 01:49:04.600 --> 01:49:08.610 align:middle line:84% of taxing people to encourage a certain type of behavior. 01:49:08.610 --> 01:49:11.880 align:middle line:84% Let's tax sugar so people won't drink so much soda 01:49:11.880 --> 01:49:13.380 align:middle line:90% or eat so much candy. 01:49:13.380 --> 01:49:16.000 align:middle line:84% But when we're talking about taxpayer money, 01:49:16.000 --> 01:49:18.890 align:middle line:84% about a program that only has a certain amount of funding, 01:49:18.890 --> 01:49:22.520 align:middle line:84% you don't want to put any rules in it, any regulations on it. 01:49:22.520 --> 01:49:25.950 align:middle line:84% And I will remind the members that similar language 01:49:25.950 --> 01:49:28.430 align:middle line:84% to stop out-of-state spending was 01:49:28.430 --> 01:49:30.720 align:middle line:84% included in one of our previous budgets, 01:49:30.720 --> 01:49:32.600 align:middle line:90% so you all voted for it then. 01:49:32.600 --> 01:49:35.160 align:middle line:84% But now, all of a sudden, you want to study it. 01:49:35.160 --> 01:49:36.720 align:middle line:90% It's hypocritical. 01:49:36.720 --> 01:49:39.510 align:middle line:84% It's just another fake study that's 01:49:39.510 --> 01:49:41.850 align:middle line:84% never going to happen, to avoid voting 01:49:41.850 --> 01:49:43.290 align:middle line:90% on the underlying amendment. 01:49:43.290 --> 01:49:46.000 align:middle line:84% I hope the further amendment is not adopted. 01:49:46.000 --> 01:49:47.540 align:middle line:84% Question on the further amendment. 01:49:47.540 --> 01:49:48.840 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 01:49:48.840 --> 01:49:51.040 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, no. 01:49:51.040 --> 01:49:51.960 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 01:49:51.960 --> 01:49:53.337 align:middle line:84% The further amendment is adopted. 01:49:53.337 --> 01:49:54.670 align:middle line:90% What purpose the gentleman rise? 01:49:54.670 --> 01:49:57.230 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 01:49:57.230 --> 01:49:59.840 align:middle line:84% Gentleman [INAUDIBLE] ask for call of yeas and nays. 01:49:59.840 --> 01:50:01.950 align:middle line:84% Those joining with him will rise. 01:50:01.950 --> 01:50:05.280 align:middle line:84% And the division chairs will return the count. 01:50:05.280 --> 01:50:06.621 align:middle line:90% First division. 01:50:06.621 --> 01:50:07.120 align:middle line:90% Zero. 01:50:07.120 --> 01:50:07.620 align:middle line:90% Zero. 01:50:07.620 --> 01:50:08.510 align:middle line:90% Second division. 01:50:08.510 --> 01:50:19.640 align:middle line:90% 01:50:19.640 --> 01:50:20.220 align:middle line:90% 17. 01:50:20.220 --> 01:50:22.660 align:middle line:84% Sufficient [INAUDIBLE] the roll call machine 01:50:22.660 --> 01:50:25.240 align:middle line:84% will now be open and remain open for three minutes. 01:50:25.240 --> 01:50:26.850 align:middle line:84% Court officers, some of the members 01:50:26.850 --> 01:50:28.810 align:middle line:84% indicate a roll call is in progress. 01:50:28.810 --> 01:53:49.780 align:middle line:90% 01:53:49.780 --> 01:53:51.850 align:middle line:84% Mr. Wagner of Chicopee asks unanimous consent 01:53:51.850 --> 01:53:53.450 align:middle line:84% to be recorded on the last roll call. 01:53:53.450 --> 01:53:54.490 align:middle line:90% Chair hear objection? 01:53:54.490 --> 01:53:55.490 align:middle line:90% Chair hears none. 01:53:55.490 --> 01:53:59.370 align:middle line:84% In roll call number 44, Joseph F. Wagner, no. 01:53:59.370 --> 01:54:59.742 align:middle line:90% 01:54:59.742 --> 01:55:01.450 align:middle line:84% Have all members voted who wish to do so? 01:55:01.450 --> 01:55:12.390 align:middle line:90% 01:55:12.390 --> 01:55:14.000 align:middle line:90% More members voted? 01:55:14.000 --> 01:55:17.140 align:middle line:84% Time for voting is-- by the clerk will display the tally. 01:55:17.140 --> 01:55:20.520 align:middle line:84% On this matter, 123 members vote in the affirmative, 01:55:20.520 --> 01:55:22.410 align:middle line:90% 35 in the negative. 01:55:22.410 --> 01:55:24.420 align:middle line:84% The further amendment is adopted. 01:55:24.420 --> 01:55:28.315 align:middle line:84% Question now is on the underlying amendment, amended 01:55:28.315 --> 01:55:29.440 align:middle line:90% with the further amendment. 01:55:29.440 --> 01:55:30.664 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 01:55:30.664 --> 01:55:31.580 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, no. 01:55:31.580 --> 01:55:32.600 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 01:55:32.600 --> 01:55:35.930 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] move the further amendment is adopted. 01:55:35.930 --> 01:55:39.720 align:middle line:84% Mr. Atkins of Concord asks unanimous consent 01:55:39.720 --> 01:55:42.030 align:middle line:84% to be recorded on the previous roll call. 01:55:42.030 --> 01:55:43.372 align:middle line:90% Chair hear objection? 01:55:43.372 --> 01:55:44.080 align:middle line:90% Chair hears none. 01:55:44.080 --> 01:55:51.340 align:middle line:90% 01:55:51.340 --> 01:55:54.260 align:middle line:84% Roll call number 44, Cory Atkins, no. 01:55:54.260 --> 01:56:09.950 align:middle line:90% 01:56:09.950 --> 01:56:12.610 align:middle line:84% Mr. Linsky of Natick asks unanimous consent 01:56:12.610 --> 01:56:14.920 align:middle line:84% to be recorded on the last roll call. 01:56:14.920 --> 01:56:15.912 align:middle line:90% Chair hear objections? 01:56:15.912 --> 01:56:16.620 align:middle line:90% Chair hears none. 01:56:16.620 --> 01:56:35.880 align:middle line:84% Mr. Kane of Shrewsbury asks unanimous consent 01:56:35.880 --> 01:56:37.560 align:middle line:84% to be recorded on the last roll call. 01:56:37.560 --> 01:56:38.610 align:middle line:90% Chair hear objection? 01:56:38.610 --> 01:56:41.100 align:middle line:90% Chair hears none. 01:56:41.100 --> 01:56:44.045 align:middle line:84% Representative Kane of Shrewsbury, no. 01:56:44.045 --> 01:56:46.790 align:middle line:90% 01:56:46.790 --> 01:56:49.050 align:middle line:84% Question now is on the consolidated amendment. 01:56:49.050 --> 01:56:52.930 align:middle line:90% 01:56:52.930 --> 01:56:54.850 align:middle line:84% Mr. Dempsey of Haverhill offers an amendment 01:56:54.850 --> 01:56:55.780 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 01:56:55.780 --> 01:56:57.029 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 01:56:57.029 --> 01:57:12.030 align:middle line:90% 01:57:12.030 --> 01:57:14.710 align:middle line:84% Mr. Dempsey of Haverhill offers a consolidated amendment 01:57:14.710 --> 01:57:16.750 align:middle line:84% in the category of social services 01:57:16.750 --> 01:57:19.910 align:middle line:84% and veterans services and soldiers homes. 01:57:19.910 --> 01:57:24.562 align:middle line:84% The fiscal note is $1 million, $969 million. 01:57:24.562 --> 01:57:26.520 align:middle line:84% And all the amendments have been accounted for. 01:57:26.520 --> 01:57:28.270 align:middle line:84% Mr. Dempsey of Haverhill and others 01:57:28.270 --> 01:57:30.430 align:middle line:84% move to amend the bill in second two, an item-- 01:57:30.430 --> 01:57:31.970 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 01:57:31.970 --> 01:57:33.390 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 01:57:33.390 --> 01:57:34.410 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 01:57:34.410 --> 01:57:38.630 align:middle line:84% Question now, on approval of the consolidated amendment. 01:57:38.630 --> 01:57:39.930 align:middle line:90% Mr. Hay votes. 01:57:39.930 --> 01:57:42.900 align:middle line:90% 01:57:42.900 --> 01:57:44.655 align:middle line:84% Roll call vote on a roll call machine 01:57:44.655 --> 01:57:46.780 align:middle line:84% is now open and will remain open for three minutes. 01:57:46.780 --> 01:57:55.580 align:middle line:90% 01:57:55.580 --> 01:57:57.620 align:middle line:84% Clerk will call Mr. Hay of Fitchburg. 01:57:57.620 --> 01:57:59.410 align:middle line:90% Stephan Hay answers present. 01:57:59.410 --> 01:59:51.762 align:middle line:90% 01:59:51.762 --> 01:59:53.470 align:middle line:84% Have all members voted who wish to do so? 01:59:53.470 --> 02:00:26.650 align:middle line:90% 02:00:26.650 --> 02:00:27.700 align:middle line:90% Have all members voted? 02:00:27.700 --> 02:00:48.690 align:middle line:90% 02:00:48.690 --> 02:00:49.540 align:middle line:90% All members voted? 02:00:49.540 --> 02:01:12.154 align:middle line:90% 02:01:12.154 --> 02:01:13.320 align:middle line:90% Time for voting has expired. 02:01:13.320 --> 02:01:15.710 align:middle line:84% The clerk will display the tally. 02:01:15.710 --> 02:01:19.810 align:middle line:84% On this matter, 157 members voted in the affirmative, none 02:01:19.810 --> 02:01:20.610 align:middle line:90% in the negative. 02:01:20.610 --> 02:01:23.990 align:middle line:84% The consolidated amendment is adopted. 02:01:23.990 --> 02:01:24.490 align:middle line:90% [? 02:01:24.490 --> 02:01:30.875 align:middle line:90% 02:01:30.875 --> 02:01:31.750 align:middle line:90% For the ?] committee. 02:01:31.750 --> 02:01:48.112 align:middle line:90% 02:01:48.112 --> 02:01:49.820 align:middle line:84% --committee on public service [INAUDIBLE] 02:01:49.820 --> 02:01:53.532 align:middle line:84% referred the petition, the joint petition, 02:01:53.532 --> 02:01:54.990 align:middle line:84% of Robert M. Koczera and Mark C. [? 02:01:54.990 --> 02:01:56.840 align:middle line:90% Montigne ?] by vote of the town. 02:01:56.840 --> 02:01:59.430 align:middle line:84% What's recommended in the accompanying bill, 02:01:59.430 --> 02:02:02.130 align:middle line:84% an act amending the charter of the town of Acushnet 02:02:02.130 --> 02:02:04.040 align:middle line:84% to eliminate the residency requirements 02:02:04.040 --> 02:02:05.490 align:middle line:90% for town administrator. 02:02:05.490 --> 02:02:09.660 align:middle line:84% House number 1409 ought to pass [INAUDIBLE].. 02:02:09.660 --> 02:02:12.509 align:middle line:84% Committee on Steering, Policy and Scheduling 02:02:12.509 --> 02:02:14.550 align:middle line:84% reports recommending that the matter is scheduled 02:02:14.550 --> 02:02:16.370 align:middle line:90% for consideration by the House. 02:02:16.370 --> 02:02:39.790 align:middle line:90% 02:02:39.790 --> 02:02:42.310 align:middle line:84% Mr. Murphy of Weymouth moves suspension of the rules. 02:02:42.310 --> 02:02:43.520 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:02:43.520 --> 02:02:44.478 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:02:44.478 --> 02:02:45.200 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:02:45.200 --> 02:02:46.260 align:middle line:90% Rules are suspended. 02:02:46.260 --> 02:02:47.385 align:middle line:90% Second reading of the bill. 02:02:47.385 --> 02:02:50.275 align:middle line:90% 02:02:50.275 --> 02:02:52.400 align:middle line:84% An act amending the charter of the town of Acushnet 02:02:52.400 --> 02:02:54.170 align:middle line:84% to eliminate the residency requirement 02:02:54.170 --> 02:02:55.510 align:middle line:90% for town administrator. 02:02:55.510 --> 02:02:57.604 align:middle line:90% House number 1409. 02:02:57.604 --> 02:03:00.020 align:middle line:84% Question now is on honoring the bill with a third reading. 02:03:00.020 --> 02:03:01.250 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:03:01.250 --> 02:03:02.110 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:03:02.110 --> 02:03:02.818 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:03:02.818 --> 02:03:04.554 align:middle line:84% The bill is honored to a third reading. 02:03:04.554 --> 02:03:05.470 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] committee. 02:03:05.470 --> 02:03:17.710 align:middle line:90% 02:03:17.710 --> 02:03:19.100 align:middle line:90% Committee on Public Service. 02:03:19.100 --> 02:03:20.980 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] you've heard the joint petition 02:03:20.980 --> 02:03:23.137 align:middle line:90% of Hannah Kane and Michael [? 02:03:23.137 --> 02:03:24.470 align:middle line:90% O. Moore ?] by vote of the town. 02:03:24.470 --> 02:03:26.900 align:middle line:84% Reports recommending its accompanying bill, 02:03:26.900 --> 02:03:28.850 align:middle line:84% an act amending the residency requirement 02:03:28.850 --> 02:03:31.790 align:middle line:84% for the town manager of the town of Shrewsbury. 02:03:31.790 --> 02:03:34.690 align:middle line:90% House number 2795. 02:03:34.690 --> 02:03:37.480 align:middle line:84% Local approval received, ought to pass. 02:03:37.480 --> 02:03:39.960 align:middle line:84% The Committee on Steering, Policy and Scheduling 02:03:39.960 --> 02:03:42.460 align:middle line:84% votes recommending the matter be scheduled for consideration 02:03:42.460 --> 02:03:43.390 align:middle line:90% by the House. 02:03:43.390 --> 02:03:46.500 align:middle line:84% Mr. Murphy of Weymouth moves suspension of the rules. 02:03:46.500 --> 02:03:48.020 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:03:48.020 --> 02:03:49.122 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:03:49.122 --> 02:03:49.830 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:03:49.830 --> 02:03:50.730 align:middle line:90% Rules are suspended. 02:03:50.730 --> 02:03:52.540 align:middle line:90% Second reading of the bill. 02:03:52.540 --> 02:03:54.520 align:middle line:84% An act to amend the residency requirement 02:03:54.520 --> 02:03:57.510 align:middle line:84% for the town manager of the town of Shrewsbury, House number 02:03:57.510 --> 02:03:58.904 align:middle line:90% 2795. 02:03:58.904 --> 02:04:01.320 align:middle line:84% Question now is on honoring the bill with a third reading. 02:04:01.320 --> 02:04:02.550 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:04:02.550 --> 02:04:03.508 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:04:03.508 --> 02:04:04.220 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:04:04.220 --> 02:04:05.820 align:middle line:84% Bill is honored to a third reading. 02:04:05.820 --> 02:04:10.650 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] House will be in a brief recess. 02:04:10.650 --> 02:04:34.994 align:middle line:90% 02:04:34.994 --> 02:04:35.910 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] committee. 02:04:35.910 --> 02:04:47.550 align:middle line:90% 02:04:47.550 --> 02:04:49.550 align:middle line:84% The Committee on Steering, Policy and Scheduling 02:04:49.550 --> 02:04:51.780 align:middle line:84% reports recommending that the House bill establishing 02:04:51.780 --> 02:04:53.071 align:middle line:90% a sick leave bank for Donald [? 02:04:53.071 --> 02:04:56.070 align:middle line:84% Stewart, ?] an employee of the Department of Correction, 02:04:56.070 --> 02:04:59.990 align:middle line:84% House number 3647, be scheduled for consideration by the House. 02:04:59.990 --> 02:05:03.280 align:middle line:90% 02:05:03.280 --> 02:05:05.594 align:middle line:84% Mr. Murphy of Weymouth moves suspension of rule 7A. 02:05:05.594 --> 02:05:06.760 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:05:06.760 --> 02:05:07.530 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:05:07.530 --> 02:05:08.320 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:05:08.320 --> 02:05:09.620 align:middle line:90% Rule 7A is suspended. 02:05:09.620 --> 02:05:12.080 align:middle line:90% Second reading of the bill. 02:05:12.080 --> 02:05:15.067 align:middle line:84% An act to establish a sick leave bank for Donald [? 02:05:15.067 --> 02:05:17.400 align:middle line:84% Stewart, ?] an employee of the Department of Correction. 02:05:17.400 --> 02:06:02.100 align:middle line:90% House number 3647. 02:06:02.100 --> 02:06:04.584 align:middle line:84% Question comes on honoring the bill with a third reading. 02:06:04.584 --> 02:06:05.750 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:06:05.750 --> 02:06:06.550 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:06:06.550 --> 02:06:07.279 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:06:07.279 --> 02:06:08.820 align:middle line:84% Bill is honored with a third reading. 02:06:08.820 --> 02:06:09.611 align:middle line:90% Board of committee. 02:06:09.611 --> 02:06:21.461 align:middle line:90% 02:06:21.461 --> 02:06:23.460 align:middle line:84% The Committee on Steering, Policy and Scheduling 02:06:23.460 --> 02:06:25.918 align:middle line:84% reports recommending a House bill establishing a sick leave 02:06:25.918 --> 02:06:28.730 align:middle line:84% bank for Elizabeth C. Cox, an employee of the Department 02:06:28.730 --> 02:06:31.960 align:middle line:84% of Public Health, House number 3645, be scheduled 02:06:31.960 --> 02:06:34.500 align:middle line:90% for consideration by the House. 02:06:34.500 --> 02:06:37.530 align:middle line:84% Mr. Murphy of Weymouth moves suspension of rule 7A. 02:06:37.530 --> 02:06:38.710 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:06:38.710 --> 02:06:39.668 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:06:39.668 --> 02:06:40.430 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:06:40.430 --> 02:06:41.860 align:middle line:90% Rule 7A is suspended. 02:06:41.860 --> 02:06:43.790 align:middle line:90% Second reading of the bill. 02:06:43.790 --> 02:06:45.650 align:middle line:84% An act establishing a sick leave bank 02:06:45.650 --> 02:06:47.030 align:middle line:84% for Elizabeth C. Cox, an employee 02:06:47.030 --> 02:06:50.304 align:middle line:84% of the Department of Public Health, House number 3645. 02:06:50.304 --> 02:06:52.720 align:middle line:84% Question now is on honoring the bill with a third reading, 02:06:52.720 --> 02:06:54.634 align:middle line:84% pending which Mr. Puppolo of Springfield 02:06:54.634 --> 02:06:56.550 align:middle line:84% offers an amendment in the hands of the clerk. 02:06:56.550 --> 02:06:58.130 align:middle line:84% The clerk will read the amendment. 02:06:58.130 --> 02:07:00.170 align:middle line:84% Amendment number one, Mr. Puppolo 02:07:00.170 --> 02:07:01.850 align:middle line:84% of Springfield moves to amend the bill 02:07:01.850 --> 02:07:05.600 align:middle line:84% by inserting in line four, after the name Cox, the following. 02:07:05.600 --> 02:07:07.945 align:middle line:90% "To care for her child." 02:07:07.945 --> 02:07:09.320 align:middle line:84% Question now is on the amendment. 02:07:09.320 --> 02:07:10.410 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:07:10.410 --> 02:07:11.380 align:middle line:90% And those opposed, nay. 02:07:11.380 --> 02:07:12.210 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:07:12.210 --> 02:07:13.252 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 02:07:13.252 --> 02:07:15.751 align:middle line:84% Question now is on honoring the bill with a third reading as 02:07:15.751 --> 02:07:16.320 align:middle line:90% amended. 02:07:16.320 --> 02:07:17.642 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:07:17.642 --> 02:07:18.600 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:07:18.600 --> 02:07:19.450 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:07:19.450 --> 02:07:21.570 align:middle line:84% Bill is honored to a third reading as amended. 02:07:21.570 --> 02:07:39.120 align:middle line:90% House will be in a recess. 02:07:39.120 --> 02:07:42.390 align:middle line:90% [MUSIC PLAYING] 02:07:42.390 --> 02:07:49.100 align:middle line:84% Roll call number [INAUDIBLE],, Claire Cronin, yes. 02:07:49.100 --> 02:07:53.180 align:middle line:84% Mr. Walsh of Framingham asks consent to be recorded on roll 02:07:53.180 --> 02:07:54.940 align:middle line:90% calls 44 and 45. 02:07:54.940 --> 02:07:56.200 align:middle line:90% Chair hear objection? 02:07:56.200 --> 02:07:58.070 align:middle line:90% Chair hears none. 02:07:58.070 --> 02:08:01.650 align:middle line:84% Roll call number 44, Chris Walsh, no. 02:08:01.650 --> 02:08:04.500 align:middle line:90% 02:08:04.500 --> 02:08:09.750 align:middle line:84% Roll call number 45, Chris Walsh, yes. 02:08:09.750 --> 02:08:32.980 align:middle line:90% 02:08:32.980 --> 02:08:34.950 align:middle line:84% For the edification of the members, 02:08:34.950 --> 02:08:40.830 align:middle line:84% in room 348 at 4:00 PM, the last categories 02:08:40.830 --> 02:08:43.790 align:middle line:84% will be public safety and judiciary. 02:08:43.790 --> 02:08:49.270 align:middle line:84% So in room 348 at 4:00 PM, public safety and judiciary. 02:08:49.270 --> 02:10:17.160 align:middle line:90% 02:10:17.160 --> 02:10:29.410 align:middle line:90% [MUSIC PLAYING] 02:10:29.410 --> 02:10:32.890 align:middle line:84% Chair would like to announce that public health is now 02:10:32.890 --> 02:10:35.020 align:middle line:90% on the third reading desk. 02:10:35.020 --> 02:10:37.360 align:middle line:90% No, on the rostrum. 02:10:37.360 --> 02:10:39.280 align:middle line:90% And available for the members. 02:10:39.280 --> 02:10:45.934 align:middle line:90% 02:10:45.934 --> 02:10:47.850 align:middle line:84% Mr. Straus of Mattapoisett offers an amendment 02:10:47.850 --> 02:10:48.640 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 02:10:48.640 --> 02:10:49.890 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 02:10:49.890 --> 02:11:01.330 align:middle line:90% 02:11:01.330 --> 02:11:03.340 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 659. 02:11:03.340 --> 02:11:06.560 align:middle line:84% Mr. Straus of Mattapoisett, Ms. Peake of Provincetown, 02:11:06.560 --> 02:11:10.250 align:middle line:84% move to amend the bill by adding the following section. 02:11:10.250 --> 02:11:12.700 align:middle line:84% "The director of the Division of Marine Fisheries, 02:11:12.700 --> 02:11:14.500 align:middle line:84% in consultation with the commissioner of the Department 02:11:14.500 --> 02:11:17.083 align:middle line:84% of Fish and Game, shall conduct a study of the current lobster 02:11:17.083 --> 02:11:18.600 align:middle line:84% fishery and provide recommendations 02:11:18.600 --> 02:11:20.950 align:middle line:84% as to the advisability of enacting 02:11:20.950 --> 02:11:25.870 align:middle line:84% statutory or regulatory changes to allow 02:11:25.870 --> 02:11:27.940 align:middle line:84% the processing of lobster parts for the sale--" 02:11:27.940 --> 02:11:29.200 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 02:11:29.200 --> 02:11:30.600 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 02:11:30.600 --> 02:11:31.270 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 02:11:31.270 --> 02:11:32.811 align:middle line:84% The question now is on the amendment. 02:11:32.811 --> 02:11:33.992 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:11:33.992 --> 02:11:34.950 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:11:34.950 --> 02:11:35.658 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:11:35.658 --> 02:11:38.044 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 02:11:38.044 --> 02:11:39.960 align:middle line:84% Mr. Straus of Mattapoisett offers an amendment 02:11:39.960 --> 02:11:40.730 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 02:11:40.730 --> 02:11:41.980 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 02:11:41.980 --> 02:11:56.500 align:middle line:90% 02:11:56.500 --> 02:11:58.300 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 548. 02:11:58.300 --> 02:12:00.510 align:middle line:84% Mr. Straus of Mattapoisett moves to amend the bill 02:12:00.510 --> 02:12:02.479 align:middle line:84% by adding the following section to general laws 02:12:02.479 --> 02:12:04.520 align:middle line:84% as appearing in the 2014 official edition, hereby 02:12:04.520 --> 02:12:05.470 align:middle line:90% amended by inserting-- 02:12:05.470 --> 02:12:06.840 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 02:12:06.840 --> 02:12:08.120 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 02:12:08.120 --> 02:12:09.020 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 02:12:09.020 --> 02:12:10.290 align:middle line:90% Question now on the amendment. 02:12:10.290 --> 02:12:11.480 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:12:11.480 --> 02:12:12.270 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:12:12.270 --> 02:12:13.100 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:12:13.100 --> 02:12:14.180 align:middle line:90% Amendment is adopted. 02:12:14.180 --> 02:12:16.880 align:middle line:90% 02:12:16.880 --> 02:12:19.070 align:middle line:84% Ms. Peake of Provincetown offers an amendment 02:12:19.070 --> 02:12:19.820 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 02:12:19.820 --> 02:12:21.069 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 02:12:21.069 --> 02:12:27.660 align:middle line:90% 02:12:27.660 --> 02:12:29.840 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 636 changed. 02:12:29.840 --> 02:12:32.510 align:middle line:84% Ms. Peake of Provincetown moves to amend the bill 02:12:32.510 --> 02:12:36.750 align:middle line:84% by inserting, after section 9, the following section, section 02:12:36.750 --> 02:12:38.092 align:middle line:90% 9b, chapter 10 of the-- 02:12:38.092 --> 02:12:39.550 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 02:12:39.550 --> 02:12:40.900 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 02:12:40.900 --> 02:12:41.460 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 02:12:41.460 --> 02:12:43.130 align:middle line:84% The question now is on the amendment. 02:12:43.130 --> 02:12:44.612 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:12:44.612 --> 02:12:45.570 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:12:45.570 --> 02:12:46.590 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:12:46.590 --> 02:12:47.850 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 02:12:47.850 --> 02:12:53.017 align:middle line:90% 02:12:53.017 --> 02:12:54.600 align:middle line:84% Mr. Khan of Newton offers an amendment 02:12:54.600 --> 02:12:55.290 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 02:12:55.290 --> 02:12:56.540 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 02:12:56.540 --> 02:13:01.110 align:middle line:90% 02:13:01.110 --> 02:13:02.760 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 1059. 02:13:02.760 --> 02:13:05.569 align:middle line:84% Representative Khan of Newton and other members of the House 02:13:05.569 --> 02:13:07.860 align:middle line:84% move to amend the bill by adding the following section, 02:13:07.860 --> 02:13:10.150 align:middle line:84% section 5 of chapter 18 in general laws appearing 02:13:10.150 --> 02:13:12.740 align:middle line:84% in the 2014 [INAUDIBLE] is hereby amended by-- 02:13:12.740 --> 02:13:14.290 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 02:13:14.290 --> 02:13:15.600 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 02:13:15.600 --> 02:13:16.430 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 02:13:16.430 --> 02:13:17.680 align:middle line:90% Question is on the amendment. 02:13:17.680 --> 02:13:18.870 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:13:18.870 --> 02:13:19.630 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:13:19.630 --> 02:13:20.480 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:13:20.480 --> 02:13:23.710 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 02:13:23.710 --> 02:13:26.067 align:middle line:84% Mr. Puppolo of Springfield offers an amendment 02:13:26.067 --> 02:13:27.150 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 02:13:27.150 --> 02:13:28.400 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 02:13:28.400 --> 02:13:33.230 align:middle line:90% 02:13:33.230 --> 02:13:36.730 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 71, Mr. Puppolo of Springfield 02:13:36.730 --> 02:13:39.840 align:middle line:84% moves to amend the bill by adding the following section. 02:13:39.840 --> 02:13:43.680 align:middle line:84% Section 1AF of chapter 164 of the general laws, most recently 02:13:43.680 --> 02:13:44.860 align:middle line:90% amended by chapter 75. 02:13:44.860 --> 02:13:47.270 align:middle line:84% The act of 2016 is hereby amended in line 6 02:13:47.270 --> 02:13:50.600 align:middle line:84% by deleting the words "and are constructed prior to December 02:13:50.600 --> 02:13:53.440 align:middle line:84% 31, 2017" is replaced with the following words, 02:13:53.440 --> 02:13:56.725 align:middle line:84% "and are constructed prior to December 31, 2019." 02:13:56.725 --> 02:13:58.100 align:middle line:84% Question now is on the amendment. 02:13:58.100 --> 02:13:59.270 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:13:59.270 --> 02:14:00.090 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:14:00.090 --> 02:14:00.710 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:14:00.710 --> 02:14:01.751 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 02:14:01.751 --> 02:14:12.830 align:middle line:90% 02:14:12.830 --> 02:14:15.977 align:middle line:84% Mr. Parisella of Beverly offers an amendment 02:14:15.977 --> 02:14:17.060 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 02:14:17.060 --> 02:14:18.309 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 02:14:18.309 --> 02:14:23.340 align:middle line:90% 02:14:23.340 --> 02:14:25.370 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 1024. 02:14:25.370 --> 02:14:27.720 align:middle line:84% Mr. Parisella of Beverly moves to amend the bill 02:14:27.720 --> 02:14:29.760 align:middle line:84% by adding the following two sections, chapter 02:14:29.760 --> 02:14:32.040 align:middle line:84% 32 of the general laws appearing in the 2014-- 02:14:32.040 --> 02:14:33.510 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 02:14:33.510 --> 02:14:34.840 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 02:14:34.840 --> 02:14:35.760 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 02:14:35.760 --> 02:14:37.010 align:middle line:90% Question now on the amendment. 02:14:37.010 --> 02:14:38.180 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:14:38.180 --> 02:14:39.000 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:14:39.000 --> 02:14:39.820 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:14:39.820 --> 02:14:40.870 align:middle line:90% Amendment is adopted. 02:14:40.870 --> 02:14:43.920 align:middle line:90% 02:14:43.920 --> 02:14:48.117 align:middle line:84% Mr. Khan of Newton offers an amendment 02:14:48.117 --> 02:14:49.200 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 02:14:49.200 --> 02:14:50.450 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 02:14:50.450 --> 02:14:56.280 align:middle line:90% 02:14:56.280 --> 02:14:58.802 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 1030, Representative Khan of Newton 02:14:58.802 --> 02:15:00.260 align:middle line:84% and other members of the House move 02:15:00.260 --> 02:15:03.040 align:middle line:84% to amend the bill by adding the following section. 02:15:03.040 --> 02:15:05.102 align:middle line:84% "There shall be a task force on child welfare." 02:15:05.102 --> 02:15:06.560 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 02:15:06.560 --> 02:15:07.910 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 02:15:07.910 --> 02:15:08.890 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 02:15:08.890 --> 02:15:10.210 align:middle line:90% Question now on the amendment. 02:15:10.210 --> 02:15:11.990 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:15:11.990 --> 02:15:13.322 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:15:13.322 --> 02:15:14.030 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:15:14.030 --> 02:15:15.071 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 02:15:15.071 --> 02:15:18.087 align:middle line:90% 02:15:18.087 --> 02:15:19.670 align:middle line:84% Mr. Khan of Newton offers an amendment 02:15:19.670 --> 02:15:20.490 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 02:15:20.490 --> 02:15:21.740 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 02:15:21.740 --> 02:15:29.600 align:middle line:90% 02:15:29.600 --> 02:15:31.600 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 1049 changed. 02:15:31.600 --> 02:15:33.970 align:middle line:84% Mr. Kahn of Newton moves to amend the bill 02:15:33.970 --> 02:15:37.210 align:middle line:84% by inserting after section 58 the following section, section 02:15:37.210 --> 02:15:38.662 align:middle line:90% 58C. 02:15:38.662 --> 02:15:40.120 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 02:15:40.120 --> 02:15:41.520 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 02:15:41.520 --> 02:15:42.470 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 02:15:42.470 --> 02:15:43.780 align:middle line:90% Question is on the amendment. 02:15:43.780 --> 02:15:44.947 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:15:44.947 --> 02:15:45.905 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:15:45.905 --> 02:15:46.650 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:15:46.650 --> 02:15:47.960 align:middle line:90% Amendment is adopted. 02:15:47.960 --> 02:16:02.990 align:middle line:90% 02:16:02.990 --> 02:16:04.830 align:middle line:84% Mr. Mariano of Quincy offers an amendment 02:16:04.830 --> 02:16:05.640 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 02:16:05.640 --> 02:16:06.890 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 02:16:06.890 --> 02:16:15.780 align:middle line:90% 02:16:15.780 --> 02:16:18.780 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 377, change, Mr. Mariano of Quincy moves 02:16:18.780 --> 02:16:21.420 align:middle line:84% to amend a bill by inserting after section 63 02:16:21.420 --> 02:16:22.892 align:middle line:90% the following section, section-- 02:16:22.892 --> 02:16:24.350 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 02:16:24.350 --> 02:16:25.590 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 02:16:25.590 --> 02:16:26.465 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 02:16:26.465 --> 02:16:27.715 align:middle line:90% Question now on the amendment. 02:16:27.715 --> 02:16:28.900 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:16:28.900 --> 02:16:29.690 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:16:29.690 --> 02:16:30.520 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:16:30.520 --> 02:16:31.882 align:middle line:90% Amendment is adopted. 02:16:31.882 --> 02:16:33.590 align:middle line:84% Chair would like to take this opportunity 02:16:33.590 --> 02:16:36.370 align:middle line:84% to wish Mr. Frost of Auburn a very happy birthday. 02:16:36.370 --> 02:16:42.209 align:middle line:90% 02:16:42.209 --> 02:17:06.440 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 02:17:06.440 --> 02:17:08.129 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the chair 02:17:08.129 --> 02:17:12.510 align:middle line:84% will consider no action on amendment number 636 02:17:12.510 --> 02:17:14.920 align:middle line:84% by Representative Peake of Provincetown. 02:17:14.920 --> 02:17:15.942 align:middle line:90% Chair hear objection? 02:17:15.942 --> 02:17:16.650 align:middle line:90% Chair hears none. 02:17:16.650 --> 02:17:42.268 align:middle line:90% 02:17:42.268 --> 02:17:44.059 align:middle line:84% Mr. Cassidy of Brockton offers an amendment 02:17:44.059 --> 02:17:44.879 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 02:17:44.879 --> 02:17:46.129 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 02:17:46.129 --> 02:17:53.870 align:middle line:90% 02:17:53.870 --> 02:17:56.309 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 613. 02:17:56.309 --> 02:17:59.494 align:middle line:84% Mr. Cassidy of Brockton moves to amend the bill by adding 02:17:59.494 --> 02:18:00.410 align:middle line:90% the following section. 02:18:00.410 --> 02:18:03.200 align:middle line:90% 02:18:03.200 --> 02:18:05.222 align:middle line:90% Section 1A of chapter 164-- 02:18:05.222 --> 02:18:06.680 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 02:18:06.680 --> 02:18:07.990 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 02:18:07.990 --> 02:18:08.865 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 02:18:08.865 --> 02:18:09.969 align:middle line:90% Question on the amendment. 02:18:09.969 --> 02:18:11.251 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:18:11.251 --> 02:18:12.209 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:18:12.209 --> 02:18:12.770 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:18:12.770 --> 02:18:13.650 align:middle line:90% Amendment is adopted. 02:18:13.650 --> 02:18:28.556 align:middle line:84% Mr. Carvalho of Boston offers an amendment 02:18:28.556 --> 02:18:29.639 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 02:18:29.639 --> 02:18:30.889 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 02:18:30.889 --> 02:18:39.000 align:middle line:90% 02:18:39.000 --> 02:18:42.600 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 1006. 02:18:42.600 --> 02:18:45.740 align:middle line:84% Mr. Carvalho of Boston moves to amend the bill 02:18:45.740 --> 02:18:46.809 align:middle line:90% by adding the following. 02:18:46.809 --> 02:18:49.334 align:middle line:84% "There shall be a special legislative commission 02:18:49.334 --> 02:18:50.750 align:middle line:84% established pursuant to section--" 02:18:50.750 --> 02:18:52.330 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 02:18:52.330 --> 02:18:53.670 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 02:18:53.670 --> 02:18:54.549 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 02:18:54.549 --> 02:18:55.760 align:middle line:90% Question now on the amendment. 02:18:55.760 --> 02:18:56.959 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:18:56.959 --> 02:18:57.770 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:18:57.770 --> 02:18:58.478 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:18:58.478 --> 02:18:59.890 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 02:18:59.890 --> 02:19:03.320 align:middle line:90% 02:19:03.320 --> 02:19:05.129 align:middle line:84% Mr. Collins of Boston offers an amendment 02:19:05.129 --> 02:19:05.840 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 02:19:05.840 --> 02:19:07.090 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 02:19:07.090 --> 02:19:16.730 align:middle line:90% 02:19:16.730 --> 02:19:18.370 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 993. 02:19:18.370 --> 02:19:21.010 align:middle line:84% Mr. Collins of Boston and other members of the House 02:19:21.010 --> 02:19:25.600 align:middle line:84% move to amend the bill by adding the following section. 02:19:25.600 --> 02:19:28.931 align:middle line:84% "Any contract issued for services--" 02:19:28.931 --> 02:19:30.389 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 02:19:30.389 --> 02:19:31.820 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 02:19:31.820 --> 02:19:32.694 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 02:19:32.694 --> 02:19:33.809 align:middle line:90% Question on the amendment. 02:19:33.809 --> 02:19:35.052 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:19:35.052 --> 02:19:36.010 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:19:36.010 --> 02:19:36.629 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:19:36.629 --> 02:19:37.670 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 02:19:37.670 --> 02:19:42.990 align:middle line:90% 02:19:42.990 --> 02:19:45.067 align:middle line:84% Mr. Donahue of Worcester offers an amendment 02:19:45.067 --> 02:19:46.150 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 02:19:46.150 --> 02:19:49.480 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 02:19:49.480 --> 02:19:51.430 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 302. 02:19:51.430 --> 02:19:54.880 align:middle line:84% Mr. Donahue of Worcester moves to amend the bill in section 49 02:19:54.880 --> 02:19:57.442 align:middle line:84% and [INAUDIBLE] by striking out "disability" and-- 02:19:57.442 --> 02:19:58.900 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 02:19:58.900 --> 02:20:00.260 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 02:20:00.260 --> 02:20:01.200 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 02:20:01.200 --> 02:20:02.304 align:middle line:90% Question on the amendment. 02:20:02.304 --> 02:20:03.470 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:20:03.470 --> 02:20:04.250 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:20:04.250 --> 02:20:04.850 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:20:04.850 --> 02:20:05.891 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 02:20:05.891 --> 02:20:14.500 align:middle line:90% 02:20:14.500 --> 02:20:16.300 align:middle line:84% Ms. Ferguson of Holden offers an amendment 02:20:16.300 --> 02:20:17.150 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 02:20:17.150 --> 02:20:18.400 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 02:20:18.400 --> 02:20:24.250 align:middle line:90% 02:20:24.250 --> 02:20:26.010 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 529. 02:20:26.010 --> 02:20:27.392 align:middle line:84% Representative Ferguson of Holden 02:20:27.392 --> 02:20:28.850 align:middle line:84% and other members of the House move 02:20:28.850 --> 02:20:31.700 align:middle line:84% to amend the bill by adding the following section. 02:20:31.700 --> 02:20:35.090 align:middle line:90% Section 5D of chapter 164-- 02:20:35.090 --> 02:20:36.600 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 02:20:36.600 --> 02:20:37.830 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 02:20:37.830 --> 02:20:38.740 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 02:20:38.740 --> 02:20:39.834 align:middle line:90% Question on the amendment. 02:20:39.834 --> 02:20:41.000 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:20:41.000 --> 02:20:41.830 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, nay. 02:20:41.830 --> 02:20:42.610 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:20:42.610 --> 02:20:43.880 align:middle line:90% Amendment is adopted. 02:20:43.880 --> 02:20:59.497 align:middle line:90% 02:20:59.497 --> 02:21:01.330 align:middle line:84% Ms. O'Connell of Taunton offers an amendment 02:21:01.330 --> 02:21:02.180 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 02:21:02.180 --> 02:21:03.430 align:middle line:90% Clerk will read the amendment. 02:21:03.430 --> 02:21:07.180 align:middle line:90% 02:21:07.180 --> 02:21:08.691 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 1069. 02:21:08.691 --> 02:21:11.190 align:middle line:84% Representatives O'Connell of Taunton, Lombardo of Billerica, 02:21:11.190 --> 02:21:13.120 align:middle line:84% and Diehl of Whitman move to amend the bill by adding 02:21:13.120 --> 02:21:14.260 align:middle line:90% the following section. 02:21:14.260 --> 02:21:17.060 align:middle line:84% "The governor shall annually issue a proclamation setting 02:21:17.060 --> 02:21:20.110 align:middle line:84% apart the first Saturday and Sunday following Thanksgiving 02:21:20.110 --> 02:21:23.190 align:middle line:84% Day as Small Business Weekend, and recommend 02:21:23.190 --> 02:21:25.850 align:middle line:84% that said weekend be observed by the people 02:21:25.850 --> 02:21:28.432 align:middle line:90% in an appropriate manner." 02:21:28.432 --> 02:21:29.640 align:middle line:90% Question is on the amendment. 02:21:29.640 --> 02:21:32.040 align:middle line:84% Chair recognize Ms. O'Connell of Taunton. 02:21:32.040 --> 02:21:34.649 align:middle line:90% 02:21:34.649 --> 02:21:35.940 align:middle line:90% Doubt the presence of a quorum. 02:21:35.940 --> 02:21:42.920 align:middle line:90% 02:21:42.920 --> 02:21:45.470 align:middle line:84% Ms. O'Connell doubts the presence of a quorum. 02:21:45.470 --> 02:21:47.940 align:middle line:84% Chair can ascertain a quorum is not present. 02:21:47.940 --> 02:21:50.557 align:middle line:84% Court officers, summon the members, indicating quorum roll 02:21:50.557 --> 02:21:51.390 align:middle line:90% call is in progress. 02:21:51.390 --> 02:28:33.720 align:middle line:90% 02:28:33.720 --> 02:28:35.564 align:middle line:84% Representative O'Connell of Taunton 02:28:35.564 --> 02:28:37.480 align:middle line:84% asks unanimous consent to withdraw her request 02:28:37.480 --> 02:28:38.230 align:middle line:90% for a quorum. 02:28:38.230 --> 02:28:39.220 align:middle line:90% Chair hear objection? 02:28:39.220 --> 02:28:40.170 align:middle line:90% Chair hears none. 02:28:40.170 --> 02:28:43.340 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Ms. O'Connell of Taunton. 02:28:43.340 --> 02:28:51.820 align:middle line:90% 02:28:51.820 --> 02:28:54.640 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and through you, to the members. 02:28:54.640 --> 02:28:58.730 align:middle line:84% This is an amendment to promote small businesses 02:28:58.730 --> 02:29:00.830 align:middle line:90% in all of our communities. 02:29:00.830 --> 02:29:03.860 align:middle line:84% We are all fond of saying how small businesses are 02:29:03.860 --> 02:29:06.375 align:middle line:84% the backbone of all of our communities. 02:29:06.375 --> 02:29:13.500 align:middle line:90% 02:29:13.500 --> 02:29:15.610 align:middle line:90% What purpose the gentleman rise? 02:29:15.610 --> 02:29:19.800 align:middle line:84% Gentleman having difficulty, as members are, 02:29:19.800 --> 02:29:22.250 align:middle line:84% in hearing the gentle lady at the microphone. 02:29:22.250 --> 02:29:24.240 align:middle line:84% Court officers, clear the aisles. 02:29:24.240 --> 02:29:29.130 align:middle line:84% Members, please subdue your conversation. 02:29:29.130 --> 02:29:31.740 align:middle line:84% Pay attention to the lady at the microphone. 02:29:31.740 --> 02:29:35.172 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes Ms. O'Connell of Taunton. 02:29:35.172 --> 02:29:37.380 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the members, 02:29:37.380 --> 02:29:37.879 align:middle line:90% as well. 02:29:37.879 --> 02:29:39.970 align:middle line:84% I know this will be an important amendment to you, 02:29:39.970 --> 02:29:43.800 align:middle line:84% because it is to recognize all small businesses in each 02:29:43.800 --> 02:29:45.510 align:middle line:84% and every one of our communities. 02:29:45.510 --> 02:29:48.380 align:middle line:84% As I was saying, we are all fond of saying 02:29:48.380 --> 02:29:51.470 align:middle line:84% how small businesses are the backbones of our communities. 02:29:51.470 --> 02:29:55.640 align:middle line:84% They create three out of every four new jobs. 02:29:55.640 --> 02:29:57.730 align:middle line:90% They hire locally. 02:29:57.730 --> 02:30:01.890 align:middle line:84% They contribute to good, charitable causes. 02:30:01.890 --> 02:30:04.310 align:middle line:84% And they volunteer in our communities. 02:30:04.310 --> 02:30:07.330 align:middle line:84% So they are deserving of recognition and praise. 02:30:07.330 --> 02:30:10.170 align:middle line:84% This amendment simply directs the governor 02:30:10.170 --> 02:30:16.220 align:middle line:84% to issue an annual proclamation naming the Saturday 02:30:16.220 --> 02:30:20.490 align:middle line:84% and Sunday after Thanksgiving as Small Business Weekend. 02:30:20.490 --> 02:30:23.290 align:middle line:84% And putting this in statute is really important. 02:30:23.290 --> 02:30:25.800 align:middle line:84% It shows our commitment to small businesses. 02:30:25.800 --> 02:30:28.600 align:middle line:90% And it also shows our gratitude. 02:30:28.600 --> 02:30:32.970 align:middle line:84% And it will allow our local chambers and small businesses 02:30:32.970 --> 02:30:36.350 align:middle line:84% to prepare for this weekend, to advertise, to promote it, 02:30:36.350 --> 02:30:39.600 align:middle line:84% and to really make blockbuster sales, hopefully, 02:30:39.600 --> 02:30:41.650 align:middle line:84% on that weekend after Thanksgiving, 02:30:41.650 --> 02:30:44.440 align:middle line:90% when everyone is out shopping. 02:30:44.440 --> 02:30:48.090 align:middle line:84% And I looked up some other awareness months, 02:30:48.090 --> 02:30:51.930 align:middle line:84% and we have in statute, Literacy Awareness Month, Lupus 02:30:51.930 --> 02:30:55.350 align:middle line:84% Awareness Month, Thrombosis Awareness Month, 02:30:55.350 --> 02:31:00.310 align:middle line:84% Stalking Awareness Month, Head Injury Awareness Month. 02:31:00.310 --> 02:31:03.060 align:middle line:84% So doing this for small business, 02:31:03.060 --> 02:31:05.030 align:middle line:90% we should add them to that list. 02:31:05.030 --> 02:31:08.750 align:middle line:84% And I hope you will join me in supporting small businesses 02:31:08.750 --> 02:31:11.370 align:middle line:84% throughout our communities and recognizing 02:31:11.370 --> 02:31:13.220 align:middle line:90% them each and every year. 02:31:13.220 --> 02:31:14.461 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 02:31:14.461 --> 02:31:15.710 align:middle line:90% Question now on the amendment. 02:31:15.710 --> 02:31:16.900 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:31:16.900 --> 02:31:17.816 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, no. 02:31:17.816 --> 02:31:18.690 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:31:18.690 --> 02:31:20.560 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:31:20.560 --> 02:31:24.987 align:middle line:90% 02:31:24.987 --> 02:31:26.320 align:middle line:90% What purpose the gentleman rise? 02:31:26.320 --> 02:31:28.180 align:middle line:90% I doubt the vote. 02:31:28.180 --> 02:31:29.330 align:middle line:90% Gentleman doubts the vote. 02:31:29.330 --> 02:31:37.360 align:middle line:90% 02:31:37.360 --> 02:31:39.920 align:middle line:84% Division chairs will monitor the count. 02:31:39.920 --> 02:31:50.857 align:middle line:90% 02:31:50.857 --> 02:31:52.190 align:middle line:90% What purpose the gentleman rise? 02:31:52.190 --> 02:31:58.960 align:middle line:90% 02:31:58.960 --> 02:31:59.460 align:middle line:90% Yes? 02:31:59.460 --> 02:32:03.510 align:middle line:90% 02:32:03.510 --> 02:32:05.220 align:middle line:90% First division. 02:32:05.220 --> 02:32:06.530 align:middle line:90% Zero. 02:32:06.530 --> 02:32:07.760 align:middle line:90% Second division. 02:32:07.760 --> 02:32:12.020 align:middle line:84% Second division, the chair, division chair, 02:32:12.020 --> 02:32:14.140 align:middle line:90% will count the division. 02:32:14.140 --> 02:32:15.610 align:middle line:90% 15. 02:32:15.610 --> 02:32:17.420 align:middle line:90% Second-- third division. 02:32:17.420 --> 02:32:18.260 align:middle line:90% Zero. 02:32:18.260 --> 02:32:19.440 align:middle line:90% Fourth division. 02:32:19.440 --> 02:32:20.560 align:middle line:90% Zero. 02:32:20.560 --> 02:32:22.645 align:middle line:90% Less than sufficient. 02:32:22.645 --> 02:32:24.020 align:middle line:84% Question now is on the amendment. 02:32:24.020 --> 02:32:25.210 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:32:25.210 --> 02:32:26.126 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, no. 02:32:26.126 --> 02:32:26.970 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:32:26.970 --> 02:32:28.470 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:32:28.470 --> 02:44:43.539 align:middle line:90% 02:44:43.539 --> 02:44:45.330 align:middle line:84% Sir, we would like to take this opportunity 02:44:45.330 --> 02:44:47.890 align:middle line:84% to introduce to the right of the rostrum, Terinan 02:44:47.890 --> 02:44:51.010 align:middle line:84% Ash, the son of representative Brian Ash, 02:44:51.010 --> 02:44:53.191 align:middle line:84% who's a freshman in Endicott College. 02:44:53.191 --> 02:44:53.690 align:middle line:90% Welcome. 02:44:53.690 --> 02:46:31.662 align:middle line:90% 02:46:31.662 --> 02:46:32.620 align:middle line:90% House will be in order. 02:46:32.620 --> 02:46:34.987 align:middle line:84% Mr. Lyons of Andover offers an amendment 02:46:34.987 --> 02:46:36.070 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 02:46:36.070 --> 02:46:37.540 align:middle line:84% The clerk will read the amendment. 02:46:37.540 --> 02:46:48.850 align:middle line:90% 02:46:48.850 --> 02:46:51.870 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 880, Representative Lyons 02:46:51.870 --> 02:46:56.120 align:middle line:84% of Andover, DeCoste of Norwell, and Lombardo of Billerica 02:46:56.120 --> 02:46:59.840 align:middle line:84% move to amend the bill by adding the following section. 02:46:59.840 --> 02:47:02.777 align:middle line:84% A Mass One, AA, MassHealth expenditures 02:47:02.777 --> 02:47:05.110 align:middle line:84% from the executive office of Health and Human Services-- 02:47:05.110 --> 02:47:06.530 align:middle line:84% If there'd be no objection, the clerk 02:47:06.530 --> 02:47:08.100 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 02:47:08.100 --> 02:47:10.300 align:middle line:84% The Chair hears objection, the Chair hears none. 02:47:10.300 --> 02:47:13.535 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes Mr. Lombardo of Andover. 02:47:13.535 --> 02:47:18.000 align:middle line:90% 02:47:18.000 --> 02:47:18.500 align:middle line:90% Mr. Lyons. 02:47:18.500 --> 02:47:21.510 align:middle line:90% 02:47:21.510 --> 02:47:22.670 align:middle line:90% Mr. Lyons of Andover. 02:47:22.670 --> 02:47:36.820 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes Mr. Lyons of Andover. 02:47:36.820 --> 02:47:50.030 align:middle line:90% 02:47:50.030 --> 02:47:51.930 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 02:47:51.930 --> 02:47:54.520 align:middle line:84% Mr. Speaker, I would ask when this amendment 02:47:54.520 --> 02:48:00.970 align:middle line:84% is voted on we vote it with a call of the yeas and nays, Mr. 02:48:00.970 --> 02:48:01.770 align:middle line:90% Speaker. 02:48:01.770 --> 02:48:04.000 align:middle line:84% Mr. Lyons moves that when a call is taken, 02:48:04.000 --> 02:48:06.070 align:middle line:84% it be called by the yeas and nays. 02:48:06.070 --> 02:48:10.934 align:middle line:84% Those joining him will rise and the division chairs 02:48:10.934 --> 02:48:11.850 align:middle line:90% will return the count. 02:48:11.850 --> 02:48:13.420 align:middle line:90% First division, zero. 02:48:13.420 --> 02:48:19.840 align:middle line:90% Second division, 10. 02:48:19.840 --> 02:48:25.520 align:middle line:84% Third division, fourth division, insufficient number have risen. 02:48:25.520 --> 02:48:27.770 align:middle line:90% The matter will be taken. 02:48:27.770 --> 02:48:29.130 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 02:48:29.130 --> 02:48:33.260 align:middle line:84% Mr. Speaker, the issue that I'm talking 02:48:33.260 --> 02:48:36.705 align:middle line:84% about with this amendment is MassHealth. 02:48:36.705 --> 02:48:44.500 align:middle line:90% 02:48:44.500 --> 02:48:46.435 align:middle line:84% I have several amendments here, Mr. Speaker. 02:48:46.435 --> 02:48:49.184 align:middle line:90% 02:48:49.184 --> 02:48:51.100 align:middle line:84% I just want to make sure I have the right one. 02:48:51.100 --> 02:48:55.410 align:middle line:90% 02:48:55.410 --> 02:48:58.200 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 880, Representative. 02:48:58.200 --> 02:48:59.700 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. 02:48:59.700 --> 02:49:04.700 align:middle line:90% 02:49:04.700 --> 02:49:12.490 align:middle line:84% So currently, Mr. Speaker, MassHealth is almost 40% 02:49:12.490 --> 02:49:16.190 align:middle line:90% of the state budget. 02:49:16.190 --> 02:49:20.240 align:middle line:84% And the gentleman from Hyde Park yesterday I think 02:49:20.240 --> 02:49:23.020 align:middle line:84% did an excellent job articulating 02:49:23.020 --> 02:49:25.810 align:middle line:84% how much money MassHealth is actually 02:49:25.810 --> 02:49:29.720 align:middle line:90% costing the Commonwealth. 02:49:29.720 --> 02:49:34.920 align:middle line:84% He talked about $275 million in MassHealth 02:49:34.920 --> 02:49:38.920 align:middle line:90% being spent in the '17 budget. 02:49:38.920 --> 02:49:46.680 align:middle line:84% And he talked about $322 million being spent in the '18 budget. 02:49:46.680 --> 02:49:53.360 align:middle line:84% Just to put that in context, that's $597 million 02:49:53.360 --> 02:49:54.800 align:middle line:90% in the last two years. 02:49:54.800 --> 02:49:58.040 align:middle line:90% 02:49:58.040 --> 02:50:00.510 align:middle line:84% If you take a look at the local aid 02:50:00.510 --> 02:50:05.690 align:middle line:84% and Chapter 70 money from fiscal year 2009, 02:50:05.690 --> 02:50:10.690 align:middle line:84% the increase in both of those line items combined 02:50:10.690 --> 02:50:13.990 align:middle line:90% was $211 million dollars. 02:50:13.990 --> 02:50:17.890 align:middle line:84% So in the last two budget cycles alone, 02:50:17.890 --> 02:50:23.220 align:middle line:84% we spent almost three times as much money 02:50:23.220 --> 02:50:26.790 align:middle line:84% as was spent to our local cities and towns 02:50:26.790 --> 02:50:30.210 align:middle line:90% since fiscal year 2009. 02:50:30.210 --> 02:50:32.670 align:middle line:90% Something has to give. 02:50:32.670 --> 02:50:36.690 align:middle line:84% Mr. Speaker, as the Speaker of the House said, 02:50:36.690 --> 02:50:40.500 align:middle line:84% we cannot continue to go down this path. 02:50:40.500 --> 02:50:43.170 align:middle line:90% 02:50:43.170 --> 02:50:47.490 align:middle line:84% And what we are attempting to do is to offer suggestions, 02:50:47.490 --> 02:50:52.770 align:middle line:84% offer ideas, so that the legislature actually 02:50:52.770 --> 02:50:59.820 align:middle line:84% knows what makes up this $16 billion in spending. 02:50:59.820 --> 02:51:05.100 align:middle line:84% Because I would challenge anyone to be able to tell us that 02:51:05.100 --> 02:51:07.840 align:middle line:90% they have any idea. 02:51:07.840 --> 02:51:10.950 align:middle line:90% So what has happened since 2009? 02:51:10.950 --> 02:51:15.170 align:middle line:84% Well, first of all, on the government's own website-- 02:51:15.170 --> 02:51:19.070 align:middle line:84% I refer to it as the government's solicitation 02:51:19.070 --> 02:51:20.930 align:middle line:90% for free health care-- 02:51:20.930 --> 02:51:27.680 align:middle line:84% it says on line 1, even if you work or have private health 02:51:27.680 --> 02:51:33.810 align:middle line:84% insurance, you may still be able to get no cost, or low cost 02:51:33.810 --> 02:51:36.870 align:middle line:84% health insurance, or help paying your premiums 02:51:36.870 --> 02:51:41.400 align:middle line:84% and out-of-pocket costs through MassHealth. 02:51:41.400 --> 02:51:44.670 align:middle line:84% So I want everyone to understand from the beginning 02:51:44.670 --> 02:51:47.930 align:middle line:84% so we don't have this discussion later on, 02:51:47.930 --> 02:51:50.910 align:middle line:84% that in the language of one of our amendments, 02:51:50.910 --> 02:51:57.260 align:middle line:84% it says provided that any such appropriation shall continue 02:51:57.260 --> 02:52:03.480 align:middle line:84% to fund all required MassHealth programs that serve individuals 02:52:03.480 --> 02:52:09.400 align:middle line:84% with disabilities, seniors, pregnant mothers, individuals 02:52:09.400 --> 02:52:12.590 align:middle line:84% with breast or cervical cancer, individuals who 02:52:12.590 --> 02:52:17.520 align:middle line:84% are HIV positive, and all those eligible individuals who 02:52:17.520 --> 02:52:23.560 align:middle line:84% are at or below the federal poverty line. 02:52:23.560 --> 02:52:28.550 align:middle line:84% So since the explosion took place in MassHealth, 02:52:28.550 --> 02:52:33.410 align:middle line:84% we had an 82% increase in the numbers 02:52:33.410 --> 02:52:39.650 align:middle line:84% of people who came onto MassHealth from June of 2013 02:52:39.650 --> 02:52:44.810 align:middle line:90% till January of 2016. 02:52:44.810 --> 02:52:51.450 align:middle line:84% That's an 82% increase in the number of people on MassHealth. 02:52:51.450 --> 02:52:58.520 align:middle line:84% At the same time that we had an 82% increase, 360 to 390,000 02:52:58.520 --> 02:53:05.350 align:middle line:84% people, the uninsured rate remained the same or went up. 02:53:05.350 --> 02:53:08.690 align:middle line:84% So we conclude, as others have, that those folks had 02:53:08.690 --> 02:53:10.870 align:middle line:84% private insurance somewhere else, 02:53:10.870 --> 02:53:16.780 align:middle line:84% or they were people who newly came to Massachusetts. 02:53:16.780 --> 02:53:22.960 align:middle line:84% And I think if we're serious about controlling health care 02:53:22.960 --> 02:53:26.260 align:middle line:84% costs, then that's what we have to do. 02:53:26.260 --> 02:53:29.880 align:middle line:84% And what this amendment does is it 02:53:29.880 --> 02:53:34.830 align:middle line:84% provides for a way for MassHealth 02:53:34.830 --> 02:53:40.820 align:middle line:84% to actually have folks share in the costs 02:53:40.820 --> 02:53:43.630 align:middle line:84% of the subsidized health program. 02:53:43.630 --> 02:53:57.150 align:middle line:84% And what we've done is we've put in place a series of reforms 02:53:57.150 --> 02:53:59.990 align:middle line:90% that address this very issue. 02:53:59.990 --> 02:54:07.580 align:middle line:84% And what we're doing is we're limiting the cost 02:54:07.580 --> 02:54:14.140 align:middle line:84% under the line item budget to no more than 30% 02:54:14.140 --> 02:54:15.740 align:middle line:90% of the MassHealth budget. 02:54:15.740 --> 02:54:21.910 align:middle line:84% In 2009, the MassHealth budget was 30% 02:54:21.910 --> 02:54:23.750 align:middle line:90% of the overall state budget. 02:54:23.750 --> 02:54:29.150 align:middle line:84% At that point in time, we spent $8 billion, $700 million 02:54:29.150 --> 02:54:32.590 align:middle line:90% on MassHealth. 02:54:32.590 --> 02:54:37.900 align:middle line:84% This year we're going to spend $16 billion, 02:54:37.900 --> 02:54:44.200 align:middle line:90% 100% increase over 2009. 02:54:44.200 --> 02:54:46.700 align:middle line:84% So what we're proposing is that we take 02:54:46.700 --> 02:54:50.700 align:middle line:84% and we limit the spending to 30% of this year's budget, which 02:54:50.700 --> 02:54:56.010 align:middle line:84% is approximately $40 billion, which would give MassHealth 02:54:56.010 --> 02:54:57.700 align:middle line:90% $12 billion dollars to spend. 02:54:57.700 --> 02:55:02.780 align:middle line:84% And we're also putting in place a mechanism 02:55:02.780 --> 02:55:05.890 align:middle line:84% for those who are above the federal poverty limit 02:55:05.890 --> 02:55:12.770 align:middle line:84% to share in the costs, as all the tax payers of Massachusetts 02:55:12.770 --> 02:55:15.050 align:middle line:90% have to do. 02:55:15.050 --> 02:55:17.410 align:middle line:84% Persons above the federal poverty level 02:55:17.410 --> 02:55:21.350 align:middle line:84% may qualify for health insurance subsidies 02:55:21.350 --> 02:55:24.850 align:middle line:84% paid for by the working families of Massachusetts. 02:55:24.850 --> 02:55:27.000 align:middle line:84% For example, a person may qualify 02:55:27.000 --> 02:55:29.830 align:middle line:84% for 80% of their health insurance premium paid 02:55:29.830 --> 02:55:31.400 align:middle line:90% by the working taxpayers. 02:55:31.400 --> 02:55:35.260 align:middle line:84% The beneficiary would then be responsible for the remaining 02:55:35.260 --> 02:55:40.520 align:middle line:84% 20% of the premium, along with any co-pays or deductibles. 02:55:40.520 --> 02:55:43.230 align:middle line:84% This will be a very progressive benefit, 02:55:43.230 --> 02:55:47.970 align:middle line:84% so the less off financially, and the larger the family, 02:55:47.970 --> 02:55:51.170 align:middle line:84% the greater the subsidy will amount to. 02:55:51.170 --> 02:55:53.220 align:middle line:84% That's exactly what the hard working families 02:55:53.220 --> 02:55:55.650 align:middle line:84% of Massachusetts are responsible to do. 02:55:55.650 --> 02:55:58.460 align:middle line:84% So we're asking no more than what 02:55:58.460 --> 02:56:00.400 align:middle line:90% we're all responsible to do. 02:56:00.400 --> 02:56:03.980 align:middle line:90% 02:56:03.980 --> 02:56:06.610 align:middle line:84% We think it's time to level the playing field. 02:56:06.610 --> 02:56:09.730 align:middle line:84% We think it's time that we give consideration 02:56:09.730 --> 02:56:15.300 align:middle line:84% to those who pay the bills and those who play by the rules. 02:56:15.300 --> 02:56:17.900 align:middle line:84% One of the things that we uncovered in our discovery 02:56:17.900 --> 02:56:25.300 align:middle line:84% process was that 4%, according to the Deval Patrick 02:56:25.300 --> 02:56:27.820 align:middle line:90% administration, roughly 4%-- 02:56:27.820 --> 02:56:30.860 align:middle line:84% 4% to 7% of the population on MassHealth, 02:56:30.860 --> 02:56:33.330 align:middle line:84% according to Deval Patrick's administration 02:56:33.330 --> 02:56:37.760 align:middle line:84% were those who were undocumented immigrants, 02:56:37.760 --> 02:56:42.620 align:middle line:84% or folks who were not yet qualified. 02:56:42.620 --> 02:56:44.610 align:middle line:84% If you take a look at that number, 02:56:44.610 --> 02:56:48.860 align:middle line:84% and you add in what the cost of health care is today, 02:56:48.860 --> 02:56:54.740 align:middle line:90% it's roughly $8,500 per person. 02:56:54.740 --> 02:57:00.390 align:middle line:84% That means that somewhere between $650 million and $1.1 02:57:00.390 --> 02:57:06.500 align:middle line:84% billion are being paid to people who basically are not 02:57:06.500 --> 02:57:10.940 align:middle line:84% in the country with proper documentation. 02:57:10.940 --> 02:57:14.010 align:middle line:84% Now, if the Commonwealth wants to do that, 02:57:14.010 --> 02:57:18.450 align:middle line:84% if they want that to be the regulation that's in place, 02:57:18.450 --> 02:57:21.150 align:middle line:84% then we ought to just tell the people of Massachusetts, 02:57:21.150 --> 02:57:27.190 align:middle line:84% when you're spending 40% of your state budget on health care, 02:57:27.190 --> 02:57:32.020 align:middle line:84% it is critically important that people understand just where 02:57:32.020 --> 02:57:34.130 align:middle line:90% their money is going. 02:57:34.130 --> 02:57:37.490 align:middle line:84% And what we're trying to do through a series of amendments 02:57:37.490 --> 02:57:41.800 align:middle line:84% is to control the cost of Mass Health. 02:57:41.800 --> 02:57:48.390 align:middle line:90% 02:57:48.390 --> 02:57:52.310 align:middle line:84% We also put in place what we call a Massachusetts Control 02:57:52.310 --> 02:57:58.690 align:middle line:84% Board, very similar to what was put in place at MBTA. 02:57:58.690 --> 02:58:01.030 align:middle line:84% The kind of growth that took place 02:58:01.030 --> 02:58:05.010 align:middle line:84% at the end of the Deval Patrick administration 02:58:05.010 --> 02:58:09.510 align:middle line:84% is simply beyond what most administrations 02:58:09.510 --> 02:58:10.920 align:middle line:90% need to deal with. 02:58:10.920 --> 02:58:16.320 align:middle line:84% The Baker administration however has taken this issue on head 02:58:16.320 --> 02:58:18.940 align:middle line:90% on, head on. 02:58:18.940 --> 02:58:22.760 align:middle line:84% They looked at the beginning to begin the redetermination 02:58:22.760 --> 02:58:27.300 align:middle line:84% efforts by taking a look at the overall population. 02:58:27.300 --> 02:58:32.080 align:middle line:84% And initially ruled, I think, anywhere from 180,000 02:58:32.080 --> 02:58:35.720 align:middle line:84% to a quarter of a million people off of the rolls of MassHealth. 02:58:35.720 --> 02:58:37.580 align:middle line:84% So the problem that we're dealing 02:58:37.580 --> 02:58:42.060 align:middle line:84% with today, if it wasn't for the work of the administration, 02:58:42.060 --> 02:58:44.120 align:middle line:90% would be far greater. 02:58:44.120 --> 02:58:47.930 align:middle line:84% However, we believe given the scope, 02:58:47.930 --> 02:58:51.850 align:middle line:84% given the scope of this particular issue, 02:58:51.850 --> 02:58:53.770 align:middle line:84% that of fiscal control board, based 02:58:53.770 --> 02:58:58.280 align:middle line:84% on what we see happening at the MBTA, could be very productive. 02:58:58.280 --> 02:59:02.360 align:middle line:84% When you take a look at the comparisons between a billion 02:59:02.360 --> 02:59:07.500 align:middle line:84% dollar agency and a $17, $16 billion agency, 02:59:07.500 --> 02:59:11.910 align:middle line:84% one can see the problems that exist. 02:59:11.910 --> 02:59:16.470 align:middle line:90% 02:59:16.470 --> 02:59:22.900 align:middle line:84% So Mr. Speaker, it is our intent to have a conversation 02:59:22.900 --> 02:59:25.840 align:middle line:90% about MassHealth. 02:59:25.840 --> 02:59:33.380 align:middle line:84% And the conversation should be about making sure, making sure 02:59:33.380 --> 02:59:39.370 align:middle line:84% that the poor and the disabled don't get crowded out. 02:59:39.370 --> 02:59:47.730 align:middle line:84% Because when an agency goes from 1,200,000 to 1,900,000 02:59:47.730 --> 02:59:52.780 align:middle line:84% in less than 25 months, that's a significant amount of growth. 02:59:52.780 --> 02:59:56.800 align:middle line:84% And I challenge any government agency 02:59:56.800 --> 03:00:02.230 align:middle line:84% to be able to handle that without additional help. 03:00:02.230 --> 03:00:05.520 align:middle line:84% So let's talk about the 1.2 million people that 03:00:05.520 --> 03:00:09.570 align:middle line:84% are on MassHealth, who are above the federal poverty line. 03:00:09.570 --> 03:00:13.100 align:middle line:84% We think it's only fair that we take a look-- 03:00:13.100 --> 03:00:15.986 align:middle line:90% 03:00:15.986 --> 03:00:17.110 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] gentlemen rise. 03:00:17.110 --> 03:00:22.480 align:middle line:84% The Chair would respectfully ask the members 03:00:22.480 --> 03:00:24.600 align:middle line:84% to subdue their conversation, pay attention 03:00:24.600 --> 03:00:26.140 align:middle line:84% to the gentleman at the microphone. 03:00:26.140 --> 03:00:29.810 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes Mr. Lyons of Andover. 03:00:29.810 --> 03:00:33.540 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. 03:00:33.540 --> 03:00:40.210 align:middle line:84% So we think it is only fair that the folks who are benefiting 03:00:40.210 --> 03:00:43.310 align:middle line:84% become part of the cost sharing burden 03:00:43.310 --> 03:00:45.000 align:middle line:90% that MassHealth has become. 03:00:45.000 --> 03:00:47.530 align:middle line:90% 03:00:47.530 --> 03:00:50.510 align:middle line:84% Everyone's talking about increased revenue, that we 03:00:50.510 --> 03:00:52.320 align:middle line:90% don't have enough money. 03:00:52.320 --> 03:00:57.310 align:middle line:84% Well, when you have an agency or an organization that 03:00:57.310 --> 03:01:03.270 align:middle line:84% grows from 8 billion a year to 16 billion 03:01:03.270 --> 03:01:08.100 align:middle line:84% in a very short period of time, it's no wonder, 03:01:08.100 --> 03:01:11.230 align:middle line:84% it's no wonder that we don't have any money 03:01:11.230 --> 03:01:12.510 align:middle line:90% for any other programs. 03:01:12.510 --> 03:01:16.960 align:middle line:90% 03:01:16.960 --> 03:01:23.890 align:middle line:84% So 40% of our state budget is being spent in MassHealth. 03:01:23.890 --> 03:01:27.760 align:middle line:84% The growth has been absolutely off the charts. 03:01:27.760 --> 03:01:32.480 align:middle line:84% When you compare $8 billion increase in MassHealth 03:01:32.480 --> 03:01:37.420 align:middle line:84% versus $300 million for our local cities and towns, 03:01:37.420 --> 03:01:40.890 align:middle line:84% one has to ask what are our priorities. 03:01:40.890 --> 03:01:43.490 align:middle line:90% What are our priorities? 03:01:43.490 --> 03:01:48.610 align:middle line:84% Are our priorities to take care of 1.2 million people 03:01:48.610 --> 03:01:51.220 align:middle line:84% who are above the federal poverty line 03:01:51.220 --> 03:01:53.840 align:middle line:90% and put everybody on MassHealth? 03:01:53.840 --> 03:01:54.620 align:middle line:90% Is that our goal? 03:01:54.620 --> 03:01:58.320 align:middle line:84% To let this go down the road, so six years from now, 03:01:58.320 --> 03:02:01.770 align:middle line:84% instead of spending $16 billion, we're 03:02:01.770 --> 03:02:03.900 align:middle line:90% going to spend $32 billion? 03:02:03.900 --> 03:02:07.570 align:middle line:90% 03:02:07.570 --> 03:02:09.190 align:middle line:90% I mean, just think about that. 03:02:09.190 --> 03:02:12.410 align:middle line:84% That's what we've done in the last six years. 03:02:12.410 --> 03:02:20.650 align:middle line:84% We've grown from 8.7 billion in 2009, to 16 billion. 03:02:20.650 --> 03:02:24.370 align:middle line:84% If we continue on this path, there 03:02:24.370 --> 03:02:28.610 align:middle line:84% will be no more money, simply no money. 03:02:28.610 --> 03:02:34.610 align:middle line:84% So when the gentleman from Hyde Park was here yesterday, 03:02:34.610 --> 03:02:37.850 align:middle line:90% he was right, he was right. 03:02:37.850 --> 03:02:43.650 align:middle line:84% This MassHealth is eating up all of our budget. 03:02:43.650 --> 03:02:49.260 align:middle line:84% And we have a responsibility as legislators, at least, 03:02:49.260 --> 03:02:52.745 align:middle line:84% at the very least, to understand why. 03:02:52.745 --> 03:02:55.930 align:middle line:90% 03:02:55.930 --> 03:02:58.200 align:middle line:84% And I don't think we have any idea why. 03:02:58.200 --> 03:03:01.040 align:middle line:90% 03:03:01.040 --> 03:03:03.490 align:middle line:84% So I know there are some members of the House 03:03:03.490 --> 03:03:04.990 align:middle line:84% who are going to be able to speak 03:03:04.990 --> 03:03:09.510 align:middle line:84% to certain things in this budget, and I appreciate that. 03:03:09.510 --> 03:03:12.620 align:middle line:84% But I really do think that anyone 03:03:12.620 --> 03:03:16.240 align:middle line:84% that can look at this number and say that this is what we should 03:03:16.240 --> 03:03:21.620 align:middle line:84% continue to do just doesn't understand simple math, 03:03:21.620 --> 03:03:24.460 align:middle line:84% let alone some of the complex issues that 03:03:24.460 --> 03:03:26.300 align:middle line:90% are involved in MassHealth. 03:03:26.300 --> 03:03:29.960 align:middle line:84% So Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity 03:03:29.960 --> 03:03:32.080 align:middle line:90% to speak to this issue. 03:03:32.080 --> 03:03:36.886 align:middle line:90% And I'm done. 03:03:36.886 --> 03:03:38.010 align:middle line:90% Questions on the amendment? 03:03:38.010 --> 03:03:40.120 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, all those opposed, no. 03:03:40.120 --> 03:03:40.820 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 03:03:40.820 --> 03:03:44.170 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 03:03:44.170 --> 03:03:45.980 align:middle line:84% Mr. Lyon of Andover, offers an amendment 03:03:45.980 --> 03:03:46.840 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 03:03:46.840 --> 03:03:48.256 align:middle line:84% The clerk will read the amendment. 03:03:48.256 --> 03:04:03.270 align:middle line:90% 03:04:03.270 --> 03:04:05.530 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 876. 03:04:05.530 --> 03:04:08.444 align:middle line:84% Representative Lyons of Andover, and DeCoste of Norwell, 03:04:08.444 --> 03:04:10.860 align:middle line:84% and Lombardo of Billerica move to amend the bill by adding 03:04:10.860 --> 03:04:12.030 align:middle line:90% the following section. 03:04:12.030 --> 03:04:14.920 align:middle line:84% As used in sections 108, the following words 03:04:14.920 --> 03:04:17.491 align:middle line:84% will have the following meanings unless the context records 03:04:17.491 --> 03:04:17.990 align:middle line:90% otherwise. 03:04:17.990 --> 03:04:19.330 align:middle line:84% If there be no objection, the clerk 03:04:19.330 --> 03:04:20.700 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading the paper. 03:04:20.700 --> 03:04:21.575 align:middle line:90% The Chair hears none. 03:04:21.575 --> 03:04:24.490 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes Mr. Lyons of Andover. 03:04:24.490 --> 03:04:26.800 align:middle line:84% Mr. Speaker, should I repeat what I just said? 03:04:26.800 --> 03:04:29.550 align:middle line:90% 03:04:29.550 --> 03:04:31.970 align:middle line:90% The question comes on adoption. 03:04:31.970 --> 03:04:35.010 align:middle line:90% The purpose the gentleman rise? 03:04:35.010 --> 03:04:38.800 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes Mr. Lombardo of Billerica. 03:04:38.800 --> 03:04:58.560 align:middle line:90% 03:04:58.560 --> 03:05:01.570 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 03:05:01.570 --> 03:05:04.910 align:middle line:84% I appreciate the comments from the gentleman from Andover, 03:05:04.910 --> 03:05:09.140 align:middle line:84% laying out the huge challenges that the MassHealth 03:05:09.140 --> 03:05:12.950 align:middle line:84% budget provides to this body and to the Commonwealth. 03:05:12.950 --> 03:05:17.920 align:middle line:84% You know, here in budget week, we all gather in room 348, 03:05:17.920 --> 03:05:19.570 align:middle line:84% and we advocate for those things that 03:05:19.570 --> 03:05:24.060 align:middle line:84% are really important to us, that are important to our districts. 03:05:24.060 --> 03:05:27.330 align:middle line:84% The funding that we want to put forth to programs that really 03:05:27.330 --> 03:05:32.520 align:middle line:84% matter to the people throughout the Commonwealth. 03:05:32.520 --> 03:05:35.500 align:middle line:84% And unfortunately, we can't fund everything. 03:05:35.500 --> 03:05:39.280 align:middle line:84% The Chairman has told us of the challenges of revenues 03:05:39.280 --> 03:05:44.710 align:middle line:84% that we're facing in regards to the request for expenses. 03:05:44.710 --> 03:05:46.900 align:middle line:84% The Governor in this year's budget 03:05:46.900 --> 03:05:50.210 align:middle line:84% has introduced 9C cuts because revenues are not meeting what 03:05:50.210 --> 03:05:51.570 align:middle line:90% benchmark was expected to be. 03:05:51.570 --> 03:05:54.830 align:middle line:84% And when you look at this budget, 03:05:54.830 --> 03:06:00.430 align:middle line:84% the elephant in the room is MassHealth and the explosion 03:06:00.430 --> 03:06:02.910 align:middle line:90% of growth and the costs. 03:06:02.910 --> 03:06:08.020 align:middle line:84% This year, MassHealth is nearly 40% of this budget. 03:06:08.020 --> 03:06:12.730 align:middle line:84% One line item, 40% of our budget. 03:06:12.730 --> 03:06:17.420 align:middle line:84% Now in 2009, when the budget was $29 billion, 03:06:17.420 --> 03:06:19.830 align:middle line:90% MassHealth was $8 billion. 03:06:19.830 --> 03:06:25.720 align:middle line:84% In this budget of $40 billion, MassHealth is $16 billion. 03:06:25.720 --> 03:06:29.680 align:middle line:84% So the overall growth in our budget in the last eight years 03:06:29.680 --> 03:06:35.860 align:middle line:84% of $11 billion, MassHealth has accounted for nearly 75% 03:06:35.860 --> 03:06:37.760 align:middle line:90% of those dollars. 03:06:37.760 --> 03:06:40.205 align:middle line:90% It's simply unsustainable. 03:06:40.205 --> 03:06:43.140 align:middle line:90% 03:06:43.140 --> 03:06:47.010 align:middle line:84% We believe we need to look at eligibility of MassHealth 03:06:47.010 --> 03:06:50.670 align:middle line:84% to protect the poor and the disabled, 03:06:50.670 --> 03:06:54.280 align:middle line:84% to ensure that this program is viable for those 03:06:54.280 --> 03:06:58.460 align:middle line:90% who truly need this program. 03:06:58.460 --> 03:07:02.210 align:middle line:84% I don't believe that those earning at the median income 03:07:02.210 --> 03:07:05.100 align:middle line:84% or above in Massachusetts should receive 03:07:05.100 --> 03:07:07.260 align:middle line:90% free or subsidized health care. 03:07:07.260 --> 03:07:10.380 align:middle line:84% I don't believe that those who have millions of dollars 03:07:10.380 --> 03:07:13.850 align:middle line:84% in assets, who don't have those assets 03:07:13.850 --> 03:07:16.850 align:middle line:84% checked upon for their eligibility, 03:07:16.850 --> 03:07:21.180 align:middle line:84% those individuals should not get free or subsidized health care 03:07:21.180 --> 03:07:21.995 align:middle line:90% through MassHealth. 03:07:21.995 --> 03:07:25.180 align:middle line:90% 03:07:25.180 --> 03:07:29.060 align:middle line:84% This amendment would put in place a fiscal control board. 03:07:29.060 --> 03:07:31.190 align:middle line:84% And the overall package of amendments 03:07:31.190 --> 03:07:35.420 align:middle line:84% would start to get MassHealth under control. 03:07:35.420 --> 03:07:38.570 align:middle line:84% We've seen the tremendous success the fiscal control 03:07:38.570 --> 03:07:41.240 align:middle line:90% board has had over at the MBTA. 03:07:41.240 --> 03:07:45.630 align:middle line:84% That billion dollar organization has seen $500 million 03:07:45.630 --> 03:07:47.260 align:middle line:90% in savings already. 03:07:47.260 --> 03:07:51.150 align:middle line:84% MassHealth being a $16 billion dollar organization, 03:07:51.150 --> 03:07:53.720 align:middle line:84% I'm sure we could find substantial savings 03:07:53.720 --> 03:07:57.420 align:middle line:84% to ensure that this program is viable, but fiscally 03:07:57.420 --> 03:07:59.560 align:middle line:90% responsible going forward. 03:07:59.560 --> 03:08:01.170 align:middle line:84% I don't think anyone in this room 03:08:01.170 --> 03:08:04.950 align:middle line:84% would say that MassHealth is operating at its most 03:08:04.950 --> 03:08:06.780 align:middle line:90% efficient and pristine level. 03:08:06.780 --> 03:08:08.860 align:middle line:84% Together, we need to send the message 03:08:08.860 --> 03:08:13.080 align:middle line:84% that we need to change to ensure the program will exist 03:08:13.080 --> 03:08:16.160 align:middle line:84% into the future for the poor, the disabled, and those 03:08:16.160 --> 03:08:17.130 align:middle line:90% who truly need it. 03:08:17.130 --> 03:08:21.080 align:middle line:84% So I would ask my colleagues to please join us 03:08:21.080 --> 03:08:22.436 align:middle line:90% in supporting this amendment. 03:08:22.436 --> 03:08:23.810 align:middle line:84% I ask when this vote be taken, it 03:08:23.810 --> 03:08:27.880 align:middle line:84% be taken with the call the yeas and nays. 03:08:27.880 --> 03:08:30.510 align:middle line:84% Mr. Lombardo of Billerica asks that the matter 03:08:30.510 --> 03:08:33.410 align:middle line:84% is taken, to be taken by a call of the yeas and nays. 03:08:33.410 --> 03:08:35.800 align:middle line:84% Those joining with him will rise. 03:08:35.800 --> 03:08:39.200 align:middle line:84% And the division chairs will return the count. 03:08:39.200 --> 03:08:42.030 align:middle line:90% First division, zero. 03:08:42.030 --> 03:08:45.520 align:middle line:90% Second division, six. 03:08:45.520 --> 03:08:47.900 align:middle line:90% Third division, zero. 03:08:47.900 --> 03:08:52.570 align:middle line:90% Fourth division, zero. 03:08:52.570 --> 03:08:54.270 align:middle line:84% Less than sufficient having arrised, 03:08:54.270 --> 03:08:55.860 align:middle line:84% the question is on the amendment. 03:08:55.860 --> 03:08:58.420 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, those opposed, nay. 03:08:58.420 --> 03:08:59.270 align:middle line:90% The nays have it. 03:08:59.270 --> 03:09:02.190 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 03:09:02.190 --> 03:09:04.100 align:middle line:84% Mr. Lyons of Andover offers an amendment 03:09:04.100 --> 03:09:04.920 align:middle line:90% in the hands of the clerk. 03:09:04.920 --> 03:09:06.336 align:middle line:84% The clerk will read the amendment. 03:09:06.336 --> 03:09:16.010 align:middle line:90% 03:09:16.010 --> 03:09:18.490 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 878, Representative Lyons 03:09:18.490 --> 03:09:20.240 align:middle line:84% of Andover, and other members of the House 03:09:20.240 --> 03:09:23.020 align:middle line:84% move to amend the bill by inserting 03:09:23.020 --> 03:09:24.920 align:middle line:84% at [INAUDIBLE] of the following sections. 03:09:24.920 --> 03:09:27.990 align:middle line:84% Section 9A of Chapter 118, of the general laws 03:09:27.990 --> 03:09:29.920 align:middle line:84% as appearing in the 2014 official edition 03:09:29.920 --> 03:09:31.900 align:middle line:84% is hereby amended by inserting after paragraph 03:09:31.900 --> 03:09:32.700 align:middle line:90% 8, the following paragraph. 03:09:32.700 --> 03:09:33.840 align:middle line:84% There being no objection, the clerk 03:09:33.840 --> 03:09:35.673 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the reading of the paper. 03:09:35.673 --> 03:09:37.970 align:middle line:84% The Chair did not want to interrupt the clerk while he 03:09:37.970 --> 03:09:40.330 align:middle line:90% was reading the amendment. 03:09:40.330 --> 03:09:43.230 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes Mr. Lyons of Andover. 03:09:43.230 --> 03:09:45.800 align:middle line:84% I doubt the presence of a quorum. 03:09:45.800 --> 03:09:48.250 align:middle line:84% The court offices will close the doors. 03:09:48.250 --> 03:09:52.450 align:middle line:90% 03:09:52.450 --> 03:09:53.700 align:middle line:90% Members will take their seats. 03:09:53.700 --> 03:10:00.370 align:middle line:90% 03:10:00.370 --> 03:10:10.140 align:middle line:84% Check and ascertain a quorum is not present. 03:10:10.140 --> 03:10:11.900 align:middle line:84% Court officers summon the members, 03:10:11.900 --> 03:13:11.215 align:middle line:84% indicate a quorum roll call is in progress. 03:13:11.215 --> 03:13:48.567 align:middle line:90% 03:13:48.567 --> 03:13:49.525 align:middle line:90% Have all members voted? 03:13:49.525 --> 03:14:39.750 align:middle line:90% 03:14:39.750 --> 03:14:46.816 align:middle line:90% Time for voting has expired. 03:14:46.816 --> 03:14:48.190 align:middle line:84% The clerk will display the tally. 03:14:48.190 --> 03:14:51.760 align:middle line:84% On this matter, 156 members have indicated the presence. 03:14:51.760 --> 03:14:54.300 align:middle line:84% The question now is on the amendment. 03:14:54.300 --> 03:14:54.800 align:middle line:90% All those-- 03:14:54.800 --> 03:14:57.720 align:middle line:90% 03:14:57.720 --> 03:15:00.500 align:middle line:90% The purpose the gentlemen rise? 03:15:00.500 --> 03:15:05.710 align:middle line:90% 03:15:05.710 --> 03:15:06.990 align:middle line:90% Put his mic on. 03:15:06.990 --> 03:15:09.780 align:middle line:84% Mr. Speaker, when this amendment is heard, 03:15:09.780 --> 03:15:12.245 align:middle line:84% I would like it to be a call of the yeas and nays. 03:15:12.245 --> 03:15:29.910 align:middle line:90% 03:15:29.910 --> 03:15:33.380 align:middle line:84% Mr. Lyons of Andover asks when the matter 03:15:33.380 --> 03:15:36.010 align:middle line:84% is taken, it be taken by a call of the yeas and nays. 03:15:36.010 --> 03:15:40.000 align:middle line:84% Those joining with him will rise and the division chairs 03:15:40.000 --> 03:15:41.700 align:middle line:90% will return the count. 03:15:41.700 --> 03:15:45.160 align:middle line:90% First division, zero. 03:15:45.160 --> 03:15:50.670 align:middle line:84% Second division, second division, 12. 03:15:50.670 --> 03:15:53.230 align:middle line:90% Third Division, zero. 03:15:53.230 --> 03:15:55.830 align:middle line:90% Fourth division, zero. 03:15:55.830 --> 03:15:57.920 align:middle line:90% Less than sufficient have risen. 03:15:57.920 --> 03:16:01.200 align:middle line:84% The chair recognizes Mr. Lyons of Andover. 03:16:01.200 --> 03:16:07.920 align:middle line:90% 03:16:07.920 --> 03:16:09.510 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. 03:16:09.510 --> 03:16:16.070 align:middle line:84% It really is remarkable, 40% % of the state budget, 03:16:16.070 --> 03:16:20.480 align:middle line:84% we're trying to come up with a solution, and yet, 03:16:20.480 --> 03:16:23.090 align:middle line:90% we cannot even get a roll call. 03:16:23.090 --> 03:16:26.210 align:middle line:90% I mean that is simply amazing. 03:16:26.210 --> 03:16:30.240 align:middle line:84% When you look at the fact that this budget has blown up 03:16:30.240 --> 03:16:32.760 align:middle line:90% in the last six years. 03:16:32.760 --> 03:16:35.000 align:middle line:84% And we can't even get a roll call 03:16:35.000 --> 03:16:40.900 align:middle line:84% to discuss one of the most important parts of this budget. 03:16:40.900 --> 03:16:42.880 align:middle line:90% It really is amazing. 03:16:42.880 --> 03:16:47.990 align:middle line:84% If anyone wants to know why that this budget has exploded, 03:16:47.990 --> 03:16:50.740 align:middle line:90% it's simply because of that. 03:16:50.740 --> 03:16:55.830 align:middle line:84% We are not serious about the way we take 03:16:55.830 --> 03:16:58.120 align:middle line:84% and we look at spending our tax dollars. 03:16:58.120 --> 03:16:59.600 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. 03:16:59.600 --> 03:17:10.500 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the adoption of the amendment. 03:17:10.500 --> 03:17:12.580 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, oppose nay. 03:17:12.580 --> 03:17:13.330 align:middle line:90% The nays have it. 03:17:13.330 --> 03:17:14.496 align:middle line:90% The amendment's not adopted. 03:17:14.496 --> 03:22:18.580 align:middle line:90% 03:22:18.580 --> 03:22:21.830 align:middle line:84% The Chair would announce that Amendment number 293 has 03:22:21.830 --> 03:22:24.920 align:middle line:84% been recategorized from Elder Affairs 03:22:24.920 --> 03:22:29.140 align:middle line:84% to the category of Legislative Non-budget. 03:22:29.140 --> 03:22:33.170 align:middle line:84% And Amendment 856 has been recategorized 03:22:33.170 --> 03:22:36.722 align:middle line:84% from Public Health to the category 03:22:36.722 --> 03:22:37.805 align:middle line:90% of Legislative Non-budget. 03:22:37.805 --> 03:23:18.230 align:middle line:90% 03:23:18.230 --> 03:23:30.680 align:middle line:84% This is consolidated Amendment F in the categories 03:23:30.680 --> 03:23:37.620 align:middle line:84% of Health and Human Services and Elder Affairs. 03:23:37.620 --> 03:23:44.040 align:middle line:90% The fiscal note is $7,562,000. 03:23:44.040 --> 03:23:46.411 align:middle line:84% All of the amendments within the category 03:23:46.411 --> 03:23:47.410 align:middle line:90% have been accounted for. 03:23:47.410 --> 03:23:49.200 align:middle line:84% If the Chair hears no objection, the clerk 03:23:49.200 --> 03:23:52.299 align:middle line:84% will dispense with the further reading of the amendment. 03:23:52.299 --> 03:23:53.590 align:middle line:90% Does that Chair hear objection? 03:23:53.590 --> 03:23:56.740 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 03:23:56.740 --> 03:23:58.420 align:middle line:84% On a consolidated amendment, the chair 03:23:58.420 --> 03:24:01.100 align:middle line:84% would recognize Mr. Sanchez of Boston. 03:24:01.100 --> 03:24:10.600 align:middle line:90% 03:24:10.600 --> 03:24:14.620 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and through you, to the members. 03:24:14.620 --> 03:24:21.510 align:middle line:84% I stand here before you to thank the hard work of the Chairman 03:24:21.510 --> 03:24:26.310 align:middle line:84% of Ways and Means, and their incredible staff, 03:24:26.310 --> 03:24:31.290 align:middle line:84% in putting together a consolidated amendment that 03:24:31.290 --> 03:24:34.020 align:middle line:84% is built, and continues to build on the success 03:24:34.020 --> 03:24:37.980 align:middle line:84% that we've had in so many ways in the area of Health and Human 03:24:37.980 --> 03:24:42.680 align:middle line:84% Services, and all the agencies and throughout 03:24:42.680 --> 03:24:44.610 align:middle line:90% that secretariat. 03:24:44.610 --> 03:24:48.940 align:middle line:84% This consolidated amendment, within the budget, 03:24:48.940 --> 03:24:52.920 align:middle line:84% makes significant investments in Health and Human Services 03:24:52.920 --> 03:24:54.400 align:middle line:90% and Elder Affairs. 03:24:54.400 --> 03:24:57.920 align:middle line:84% For example, there's $35.5 million 03:24:57.920 --> 03:25:02.760 align:middle line:84% for wages for direct care workers at nursing homes, 03:25:02.760 --> 03:25:08.120 align:middle line:84% the nursing home supplemental rate is actually $18 million 03:25:08.120 --> 03:25:12.560 align:middle line:84% above House One, and includes $15 million 03:25:12.560 --> 03:25:17.580 align:middle line:84% for recognizing Medicaid's share of the nursing home assessment, 03:25:17.580 --> 03:25:21.510 align:middle line:84% as well as $2.8 million for the Nursing Home 03:25:21.510 --> 03:25:24.530 align:middle line:90% Pay for Performance program. 03:25:24.530 --> 03:25:28.650 align:middle line:84% There's also $4 million for the Adult Health Rates 03:25:28.650 --> 03:25:31.080 align:middle line:84% program, which so many of us value 03:25:31.080 --> 03:25:34.810 align:middle line:84% within our communities, that keep our seniors active and out 03:25:34.810 --> 03:25:37.830 align:middle line:84% of the nursing homes, and in environments in which they 03:25:37.830 --> 03:25:41.810 align:middle line:84% thrive with their neighbors, with their friends, 03:25:41.810 --> 03:25:43.790 align:middle line:90% and with their families. 03:25:43.790 --> 03:25:49.350 align:middle line:84% Not only that, we've also protected adult foster care 03:25:49.350 --> 03:25:52.740 align:middle line:90% rates at 2016 levels. 03:25:52.740 --> 03:25:55.560 align:middle line:84% And we've also included $15 million 03:25:55.560 --> 03:25:59.030 align:middle line:84% for the Health Safety Net Trust Fund, which 03:25:59.030 --> 03:26:01.740 align:middle line:84% fills the gap in funding from House One, 03:26:01.740 --> 03:26:06.330 align:middle line:84% which did not fund any contribution to the Health 03:26:06.330 --> 03:26:09.530 align:middle line:90% Safety Net Trust Fund at all. 03:26:09.530 --> 03:26:13.580 align:middle line:84% There's also $13 million in supplemental payments 03:26:13.580 --> 03:26:19.340 align:middle line:84% for hospitals that serve a high share of Medicaid enrollees. 03:26:19.340 --> 03:26:24.510 align:middle line:84% And we also have a $225.7 million 03:26:24.510 --> 03:26:28.540 align:middle line:84% transfer from MassHealth for community choices, 03:26:28.540 --> 03:26:31.260 align:middle line:84% while consolidating the Home Care Services 03:26:31.260 --> 03:26:34.650 align:middle line:90% program into Home Care. 03:26:34.650 --> 03:26:39.190 align:middle line:84% This consolidated amendment provides important investments 03:26:39.190 --> 03:26:42.510 align:middle line:84% into the FY18 House, Ways and Means 03:26:42.510 --> 03:26:48.700 align:middle line:84% budget, which include a $75,000 increase in homelessness 03:26:48.700 --> 03:26:53.040 align:middle line:84% prevention services, which will aid in the process of helping 03:26:53.040 --> 03:26:59.620 align:middle line:84% homeless and at-risk elders, $642,000 for providers 03:26:59.620 --> 03:27:03.100 align:middle line:84% of naturally occurring retirement communities, 03:27:03.100 --> 03:27:05.070 align:middle line:84% and it's going to allow more seniors 03:27:05.070 --> 03:27:08.640 align:middle line:84% to stay in their community, and keep seniors 03:27:08.640 --> 03:27:11.270 align:middle line:90% from costly nursing homes. 03:27:11.270 --> 03:27:17.460 align:middle line:84% There will also be $750,000 for home delivered meals 03:27:17.460 --> 03:27:21.420 align:middle line:84% under the Elder Nutrition program, which will increase 03:27:21.420 --> 03:27:26.970 align:middle line:84% the funding for 22 nutrition programs 03:27:26.970 --> 03:27:32.110 align:middle line:84% that support ASAPs throughout the state, that provide home 03:27:32.110 --> 03:27:35.360 align:middle line:84% delivered meals to our elders, that program, which 03:27:35.360 --> 03:27:40.780 align:middle line:84% we all value, Wheels on Meals, that has been on the attack 03:27:40.780 --> 03:27:44.340 align:middle line:84% in Washington, but definitely not here, 03:27:44.340 --> 03:27:47.510 align:middle line:84% in our Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 03:27:47.510 --> 03:27:53.720 align:middle line:84% We also have a $337,500 increase for various Council 03:27:53.720 --> 03:27:56.880 align:middle line:84% of Aging facilities, and half a million dollars 03:27:56.880 --> 03:27:59.970 align:middle line:84% for housing and support services to address 03:27:59.970 --> 03:28:04.630 align:middle line:84% the needs of unaccompanied homeless youths. 03:28:04.630 --> 03:28:09.020 align:middle line:84% We also direct the Executive Office of Health and Human 03:28:09.020 --> 03:28:13.560 align:middle line:84% Services to offer MassHealth applications 03:28:13.560 --> 03:28:20.450 align:middle line:84% and other materials in various Chinese translations. 03:28:20.450 --> 03:28:24.470 align:middle line:84% Mr. Speaker, once again, the hard work of all of us 03:28:24.470 --> 03:28:29.920 align:middle line:84% here in this body, really this work 03:28:29.920 --> 03:28:34.010 align:middle line:84% that you, the Chair of the Ways and Means, and the staff, 03:28:34.010 --> 03:28:37.950 align:middle line:84% and everybody that put their hard work into this 03:28:37.950 --> 03:28:39.700 align:middle line:84% will continue to make a difference 03:28:39.700 --> 03:28:42.500 align:middle line:84% and build on so many good things that we've 03:28:42.500 --> 03:28:44.750 align:middle line:90% worked on for so many years. 03:28:44.750 --> 03:28:48.100 align:middle line:84% Make no mistake about it, we're hearing a lot 03:28:48.100 --> 03:28:51.390 align:middle line:90% coming from Washington, D.C. 03:28:51.390 --> 03:28:52.940 align:middle line:90% It is just the beginning. 03:28:52.940 --> 03:28:57.740 align:middle line:84% These investments will continue to build on our successes, 03:28:57.740 --> 03:29:01.550 align:middle line:84% while at the same time, we keep our ears to the grindstone, 03:29:01.550 --> 03:29:04.200 align:middle line:84% and we keep our eyes focused on where 03:29:04.200 --> 03:29:06.560 align:middle line:84% our principles and our values lie, 03:29:06.560 --> 03:29:11.560 align:middle line:84% in terms of making sure that we provide health care and quality 03:29:11.560 --> 03:29:15.970 align:middle line:84% care to everyone here in the Commonwealth. 03:29:15.970 --> 03:29:19.470 align:middle line:84% I hope when a vote is called, that the vote is called 03:29:19.470 --> 03:29:21.140 align:middle line:90% by a call of the yeas and nays. 03:29:21.140 --> 03:29:26.450 align:middle line:90% 03:29:26.450 --> 03:29:47.900 align:middle line:84% The question comes on acceptance of the consolidated amendment. 03:29:47.900 --> 03:29:51.550 align:middle line:84% Roll call having been ordered, the roll call 03:29:51.550 --> 03:29:55.860 align:middle line:84% is now open and will be open for three minutes. 03:29:55.860 --> 03:30:00.390 align:middle line:84% Court officers will summon the members, 03:30:00.390 --> 03:30:02.615 align:middle line:84% and inform them that a roll call is in progress. 03:30:02.615 --> 03:31:46.420 align:middle line:90% 03:31:46.420 --> 03:31:48.330 align:middle line:84% For the edification of the members, 03:31:48.330 --> 03:31:51.780 align:middle line:84% upon the completion of the roll call vote, 03:31:51.780 --> 03:31:55.140 align:middle line:90% there will be a maiden speech. 03:31:55.140 --> 03:31:58.350 align:middle line:84% So the Chair would request that all members remain 03:31:58.350 --> 03:32:00.260 align:middle line:90% in or around the chambers. 03:32:00.260 --> 03:32:06.301 align:middle line:84% And the House will break for the dinner period 03:32:06.301 --> 03:32:07.300 align:middle line:90% after the maiden speech. 03:32:07.300 --> 03:32:41.530 align:middle line:90% 03:32:41.530 --> 03:32:43.950 align:middle line:84% Have all members voted who wish to do so? 03:32:43.950 --> 03:32:45.400 align:middle line:90% Have all members voted? 03:32:45.400 --> 03:32:48.910 align:middle line:90% 03:32:48.910 --> 03:32:50.510 align:middle line:90% The time for voting has expired. 03:32:50.510 --> 03:32:55.370 align:middle line:84% The clerk will display the tally. 03:32:55.370 --> 03:32:58.560 align:middle line:84% On this matter, 157 in the affirmative. 03:32:58.560 --> 03:33:00.050 align:middle line:90% One in the negative. 03:33:00.050 --> 03:33:03.770 align:middle line:84% The consolidated amendment is adopted. 03:33:03.770 --> 03:33:06.740 align:middle line:84% The House will be in a brief recess. 03:33:06.740 --> 03:33:13.003 align:middle line:90%