WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:03.920 align:middle line:90% 00:00:03.920 --> 00:00:08.320 align:middle line:90% Senate will come to order. 00:00:08.320 --> 00:00:09.790 align:middle line:90% Senate will come to order. 00:00:09.790 --> 00:00:14.050 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr. 00:00:14.050 --> 00:00:16.430 align:middle line:84% Madam President, I'm sensing victory in the wind. 00:00:16.430 --> 00:00:19.450 align:middle line:84% I also do not think we need an exclamation mark, 00:00:19.450 --> 00:00:22.710 align:middle line:84% and so I'm anticipating that we may 00:00:22.710 --> 00:00:25.760 align:middle line:84% have a very unanimous expression of support anyway. 00:00:25.760 --> 00:00:31.360 align:middle line:84% So I request unanimous consent to withdraw my request 00:00:31.360 --> 00:00:33.820 align:middle line:84% for a roll call on the pending amendment. 00:00:33.820 --> 00:00:35.867 align:middle line:84% The senator asked by unanimous consent 00:00:35.867 --> 00:00:36.950 align:middle line:90% to withdraw his amendment. 00:00:36.950 --> 00:00:37.699 align:middle line:90% Is there anybody-- 00:00:37.699 --> 00:00:38.320 align:middle line:90% The roll call. 00:00:38.320 --> 00:00:40.520 align:middle line:84% The roll call-- request for a roll call. 00:00:40.520 --> 00:00:42.250 align:middle line:90% Is there any opposition? 00:00:42.250 --> 00:00:43.080 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:00:43.080 --> 00:00:46.960 align:middle line:84% So the question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:00:46.960 --> 00:00:48.400 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 00:00:48.400 --> 00:00:49.090 align:middle line:90% Opposed, no. 00:00:49.090 --> 00:00:50.730 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment 00:00:50.730 --> 00:00:52.555 align:middle line:90% is definitely adopted. 00:00:52.555 --> 00:00:57.920 align:middle line:90% 00:00:57.920 --> 00:00:59.670 align:middle line:90% Number 90. 00:00:59.670 --> 00:01:05.269 align:middle line:84% The same senator from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr, moves-- 00:01:05.269 --> 00:01:09.040 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, Amendment number 90, the title 00:01:09.040 --> 00:01:10.520 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:01:10.520 --> 00:01:14.140 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 90 by Mr. Tarr, Pension Benefits Review. 00:01:14.140 --> 00:01:16.850 align:middle line:90% You're getting lucky twice? 00:01:16.850 --> 00:01:20.520 align:middle line:90% 00:01:20.520 --> 00:01:27.700 align:middle line:84% Madam President-- luck is in the eyes of the beholder, Madam 00:01:27.700 --> 00:01:28.490 align:middle line:90% President. 00:01:28.490 --> 00:01:31.840 align:middle line:84% The instant amendment deals with a situation 00:01:31.840 --> 00:01:35.670 align:middle line:84% that, from time to time, we see salaries 00:01:35.670 --> 00:01:38.030 align:middle line:84% of those that are in institutions 00:01:38.030 --> 00:01:39.720 align:middle line:90% of higher learning published. 00:01:39.720 --> 00:01:43.050 align:middle line:84% And folks oftentimes question whether those salaries 00:01:43.050 --> 00:01:46.060 align:middle line:84% and those compensation levels are appropriate. 00:01:46.060 --> 00:01:49.350 align:middle line:84% And so in order to determine whether or not that's the case, 00:01:49.350 --> 00:01:52.440 align:middle line:84% and to do it in a comprehensive and a reasonable way, 00:01:52.440 --> 00:01:54.680 align:middle line:84% rather than in a reactionary way, 00:01:54.680 --> 00:01:58.160 align:middle line:84% the instant amendment tasks the auditor 00:01:58.160 --> 00:02:00.900 align:middle line:84% working with the Secretary of Education 00:02:00.900 --> 00:02:02.400 align:middle line:84% and the Board of Higher Education 00:02:02.400 --> 00:02:05.390 align:middle line:84% to look at the compensation of those that 00:02:05.390 --> 00:02:07.880 align:middle line:84% are in administrative positions and staff 00:02:07.880 --> 00:02:10.300 align:middle line:84% positions at our institutions of higher learning, 00:02:10.300 --> 00:02:13.920 align:middle line:84% so that we can ensure that that compensation is appropriate 00:02:13.920 --> 00:02:17.810 align:middle line:84% and it's appropriately being used as a resource, 00:02:17.810 --> 00:02:21.460 align:middle line:84% rather than diverting resources from actual education 00:02:21.460 --> 00:02:22.980 align:middle line:90% of students in other ways. 00:02:22.980 --> 00:02:26.780 align:middle line:84% So Madam President, I hope that the amendment is adopted. 00:02:26.780 --> 00:02:29.160 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:02:29.160 --> 00:02:30.330 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 00:02:30.330 --> 00:02:31.180 align:middle line:90% Opposed, no. 00:02:31.180 --> 00:02:34.750 align:middle line:84% The nos have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 00:02:34.750 --> 00:02:36.521 align:middle line:84% Senator Pacheco has some guests that he 00:02:36.521 --> 00:02:37.520 align:middle line:90% would like to introduce. 00:02:37.520 --> 00:02:41.430 align:middle line:90% 00:02:41.430 --> 00:02:44.580 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much, Madam President. 00:02:44.580 --> 00:02:52.880 align:middle line:84% And it's my honor at this time to introduce Professor Wing-Kai 00:02:52.880 --> 00:02:57.990 align:middle line:84% To from Bridgewater State University, who 00:02:57.990 --> 00:03:02.930 align:middle line:84% has with him today, visiting us here 00:03:02.930 --> 00:03:06.810 align:middle line:84% in Massachusetts at the Senate chamber, 00:03:06.810 --> 00:03:09.880 align:middle line:84% a group of foreign exchange students 00:03:09.880 --> 00:03:14.160 align:middle line:84% that are studying at Bridgewater State University. 00:03:14.160 --> 00:03:19.640 align:middle line:84% And they're here from Shanghai Normal University in Shanghai. 00:03:19.640 --> 00:03:20.720 align:middle line:90% We welcome you. 00:03:20.720 --> 00:03:36.150 align:middle line:90% 00:03:36.150 --> 00:03:40.250 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:03:40.250 --> 00:03:42.150 align:middle line:90% Session is in order. 00:03:42.150 --> 00:03:44.970 align:middle line:90% The next amendment is-- 00:03:44.970 --> 00:03:45.530 align:middle line:90% oh. 00:03:45.530 --> 00:03:48.750 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr, 00:03:48.750 --> 00:03:50.590 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 00:03:50.590 --> 00:03:51.880 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:03:51.880 --> 00:03:55.380 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 91 by Mr. Tarr, Special Education Services 00:03:55.380 --> 00:03:55.880 align:middle line:90% Delivery. 00:03:55.880 --> 00:03:58.210 align:middle line:90% 00:03:58.210 --> 00:03:58.710 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:03:58.710 --> 00:04:00.680 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex and Middlesex. 00:04:00.680 --> 00:04:03.210 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Madam President, and through you to the members. 00:04:03.210 --> 00:04:05.350 align:middle line:84% I move that this amendment be held so that it 00:04:05.350 --> 00:04:06.516 align:middle line:90% can be further contemplated. 00:04:06.516 --> 00:04:08.750 align:middle line:90% 00:04:08.750 --> 00:04:10.230 align:middle line:90% The amendment will be held. 00:04:10.230 --> 00:04:14.280 align:middle line:90% Amendment 92 is on hold. 00:04:14.280 --> 00:04:18.250 align:middle line:90% Amendment 93 has been withdrawn. 00:04:18.250 --> 00:04:20.500 align:middle line:90% Amendment 94 has been withdrawn. 00:04:20.500 --> 00:04:22.440 align:middle line:90% Amendment 95 is on hold. 00:04:22.440 --> 00:04:24.380 align:middle line:90% Amendment 96 is on hold. 00:04:24.380 --> 00:04:27.010 align:middle line:90% Amendment 97 has been withdrawn. 00:04:27.010 --> 00:04:28.490 align:middle line:90% And Amendment-- yes? 00:04:28.490 --> 00:04:31.920 align:middle line:90% 00:04:31.920 --> 00:04:34.420 align:middle line:90% I will speak louder. 00:04:34.420 --> 00:04:39.590 align:middle line:84% So Amendment number 97 is withdrawn. 00:04:39.590 --> 00:04:44.320 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 98 is withdrawn. 00:04:44.320 --> 00:04:47.130 align:middle line:90% Amendment 99 is on hold. 00:04:47.130 --> 00:04:50.280 align:middle line:90% Amendment 100 is withdrawn. 00:04:50.280 --> 00:04:53.640 align:middle line:90% Amendment 91, the senator-- 00:04:53.640 --> 00:04:54.750 align:middle line:90% 101. 00:04:54.750 --> 00:04:55.440 align:middle line:90% I'm sorry. 00:04:55.440 --> 00:04:58.380 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester, Hampden, Hampshire, 00:04:58.380 --> 00:04:59.430 align:middle line:90% and Middlesex-- 00:04:59.430 --> 00:05:01.550 align:middle line:90% it's on hold. 00:05:01.550 --> 00:05:04.190 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 102. 00:05:04.190 --> 00:05:06.540 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester, Hampden, Hampshire, 00:05:06.540 --> 00:05:09.150 align:middle line:84% and Middlesex has filed an amendment, the title 00:05:09.150 --> 00:05:10.600 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:05:10.600 --> 00:05:13.930 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 102 by Ms. Gobi, Regional School 00:05:13.930 --> 00:05:17.480 align:middle line:90% Transportation Reimbursements. 00:05:17.480 --> 00:05:19.000 align:middle line:90% The question comes on adoption-- 00:05:19.000 --> 00:05:20.730 align:middle line:90% oh, I'm sorry, yes. 00:05:20.730 --> 00:05:23.880 align:middle line:84% Senator from Worcester, Hampden, Hampshire, and Middlesex, 00:05:23.880 --> 00:05:25.560 align:middle line:90% Ms. Gobi. 00:05:25.560 --> 00:05:27.010 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 00:05:27.010 --> 00:05:29.960 align:middle line:84% And this just adds a little bit of money 00:05:29.960 --> 00:05:32.740 align:middle line:84% to the regional school transportation line item. 00:05:32.740 --> 00:05:34.840 align:middle line:84% As you know, this is an initiative 00:05:34.840 --> 00:05:37.720 align:middle line:84% that I speak on year after year after year. 00:05:37.720 --> 00:05:40.330 align:middle line:84% When regional schools were adopted in Massachusetts, 00:05:40.330 --> 00:05:41.760 align:middle line:84% it was sort of a carrot and stick. 00:05:41.760 --> 00:05:44.190 align:middle line:84% They were promised 100% reimbursement. 00:05:44.190 --> 00:05:46.800 align:middle line:84% That has never happened since that 00:05:46.800 --> 00:05:49.330 align:middle line:90% was allowed back in the 1970s. 00:05:49.330 --> 00:05:53.390 align:middle line:84% This would get it up to a very modest 73% of reimbursement 00:05:53.390 --> 00:05:56.224 align:middle line:84% and would mean a lot to the numerous real school districts 00:05:56.224 --> 00:05:57.390 align:middle line:90% throughout the Commonwealth. 00:05:57.390 --> 00:05:59.710 align:middle line:84% And I would ask that it pass favorably. 00:05:59.710 --> 00:06:00.230 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:06:00.230 --> 00:06:02.140 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:06:02.140 --> 00:06:03.200 align:middle line:90% All those in favor say-- 00:06:03.200 --> 00:06:07.155 align:middle line:84% I would ask that the when the vote 00:06:07.155 --> 00:06:09.280 align:middle line:84% be taken, it be taken by call of the yeas and nays. 00:06:09.280 --> 00:06:11.790 align:middle line:84% The senator asks when a vote be taken, that it be taken 00:06:11.790 --> 00:06:14.090 align:middle line:90% by a call of the yeas and nays. 00:06:14.090 --> 00:06:19.230 align:middle line:84% Those members joining with her, please rise and be counted. 00:06:19.230 --> 00:06:21.680 align:middle line:84% A sufficient number of members have risen. 00:06:21.680 --> 00:06:23.230 align:middle line:84% The yeas and nays will be ordered, 00:06:23.230 --> 00:06:26.380 align:middle line:84% and the clerk will call the roll. 00:06:26.380 --> 00:06:45.730 align:middle line:90% 00:06:45.730 --> 00:06:48.080 align:middle line:90% Barrett. 00:06:48.080 --> 00:06:49.190 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:06:49.190 --> 00:06:50.460 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:06:50.460 --> 00:06:52.520 align:middle line:90% Joseph A. Boncore. 00:06:52.520 --> 00:06:53.240 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:06:53.240 --> 00:06:54.320 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:06:54.320 --> 00:06:56.030 align:middle line:90% Michael D. Brady. 00:06:56.030 --> 00:06:58.760 align:middle line:90% 00:06:58.760 --> 00:06:59.760 align:middle line:90% William N. Brownsberger. 00:06:59.760 --> 00:07:02.290 align:middle line:90% 00:07:02.290 --> 00:07:03.061 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:03.061 --> 00:07:03.560 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:03.560 --> 00:07:04.930 align:middle line:90% Harriette L. Chandler. 00:07:04.930 --> 00:07:09.270 align:middle line:90% 00:07:09.270 --> 00:07:11.131 align:middle line:90% Sonia Chang-Diaz. 00:07:11.131 --> 00:07:11.630 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:11.630 --> 00:07:12.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:12.500 --> 00:07:14.580 align:middle line:90% Cynthia Stone Creem. 00:07:14.580 --> 00:07:15.130 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:15.130 --> 00:07:16.280 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:16.280 --> 00:07:17.680 align:middle line:90% Julian Cyr. 00:07:17.680 --> 00:07:18.600 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:18.600 --> 00:07:19.530 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:19.530 --> 00:07:22.061 align:middle line:90% Viriato M. deMacedo. 00:07:22.061 --> 00:07:22.560 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:22.560 --> 00:07:23.190 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:23.190 --> 00:07:25.521 align:middle line:90% Sal N. DeDomenico. 00:07:25.521 --> 00:07:26.020 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:26.020 --> 00:07:26.670 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:26.670 --> 00:07:29.081 align:middle line:90% Eileen M. Donoghue. 00:07:29.081 --> 00:07:29.580 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:29.580 --> 00:07:30.310 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:30.310 --> 00:07:32.440 align:middle line:90% James B. Eldridge. 00:07:32.440 --> 00:07:32.940 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:32.940 --> 00:07:33.760 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:33.760 --> 00:07:35.650 align:middle line:90% Ryan C. Fattman. 00:07:35.650 --> 00:07:36.150 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:36.150 --> 00:07:36.690 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:36.690 --> 00:07:39.070 align:middle line:90% Jennifer L Flanagan. 00:07:39.070 --> 00:07:39.570 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:39.570 --> 00:07:40.110 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:40.110 --> 00:07:43.810 align:middle line:90% Linda Dorcena Forry. 00:07:43.810 --> 00:07:45.000 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:45.000 --> 00:07:45.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:45.500 --> 00:07:46.260 align:middle line:90% Anne M. Gobi. 00:07:46.260 --> 00:07:46.820 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:46.820 --> 00:07:47.810 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:47.810 --> 00:07:50.211 align:middle line:90% Adam G. Hinds. 00:07:50.211 --> 00:07:50.710 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:50.710 --> 00:07:51.260 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:51.260 --> 00:07:53.250 align:middle line:90% Donald F. Humason, Jr. 00:07:53.250 --> 00:07:53.750 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:53.750 --> 00:07:54.560 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:54.560 --> 00:07:57.100 align:middle line:90% Patricia D. Jehlen. 00:07:57.100 --> 00:07:57.600 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:57.600 --> 00:07:58.100 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:07:58.100 --> 00:08:00.080 align:middle line:90% John F. Keenan. 00:08:00.080 --> 00:08:00.580 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:00.580 --> 00:08:01.110 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:01.110 --> 00:08:03.091 align:middle line:90% Eric P. Leser. 00:08:03.091 --> 00:08:03.590 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:03.590 --> 00:08:04.620 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:04.620 --> 00:08:06.300 align:middle line:90% Jason M. Lewis. 00:08:06.300 --> 00:08:07.110 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:07.110 --> 00:08:07.960 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:07.960 --> 00:08:09.500 align:middle line:90% Barbara A. L'Italien. 00:08:09.500 --> 00:08:10.270 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:10.270 --> 00:08:11.150 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:11.150 --> 00:08:13.320 align:middle line:90% Joan B. Lovely. 00:08:13.320 --> 00:08:13.820 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:13.820 --> 00:08:14.610 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:14.610 --> 00:08:17.011 align:middle line:90% Thomas M. McGee. 00:08:17.011 --> 00:08:17.510 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:17.510 --> 00:08:18.250 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:18.250 --> 00:08:20.390 align:middle line:90% Mark C. Montigny. 00:08:20.390 --> 00:08:20.890 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:20.890 --> 00:08:21.780 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:21.780 --> 00:08:23.040 align:middle line:90% Michael O. Moore. 00:08:23.040 --> 00:08:24.040 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:24.040 --> 00:08:25.270 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:25.270 --> 00:08:27.311 align:middle line:90% Patrick M. O'Connor. 00:08:27.311 --> 00:08:27.810 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:27.810 --> 00:08:28.650 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:28.650 --> 00:08:31.160 align:middle line:90% Kathleen O'Connor Ives. 00:08:31.160 --> 00:08:31.660 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:31.660 --> 00:08:32.159 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:32.159 --> 00:08:33.799 align:middle line:90% Marc R. Pacheco. 00:08:33.799 --> 00:08:34.409 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:34.409 --> 00:08:35.159 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:35.159 --> 00:08:36.860 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Rodrigues. 00:08:36.860 --> 00:08:37.530 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:37.530 --> 00:08:38.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:38.500 --> 00:08:40.570 align:middle line:90% Stanley C. Rosenberg. 00:08:40.570 --> 00:08:41.070 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:41.070 --> 00:08:42.010 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:42.010 --> 00:08:43.679 align:middle line:90% Richard J. Ross. 00:08:43.679 --> 00:08:44.179 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:44.179 --> 00:08:45.120 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:45.120 --> 00:08:46.980 align:middle line:90% Michael F. Rush. 00:08:46.980 --> 00:08:47.480 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:47.480 --> 00:08:48.450 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:48.450 --> 00:08:49.645 align:middle line:90% Karen E. Spilka. 00:08:49.645 --> 00:08:52.520 align:middle line:90% 00:08:52.520 --> 00:08:53.550 align:middle line:90% Bruce E. Tarr. 00:08:53.550 --> 00:08:54.090 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:54.090 --> 00:08:55.880 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:55.880 --> 00:08:56.380 align:middle line:90% Walter. 00:08:56.380 --> 00:08:57.381 align:middle line:90% F. Timilty. 00:08:57.381 --> 00:08:57.880 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:57.880 --> 00:08:58.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:08:58.500 --> 00:09:00.030 align:middle line:90% James T. Welch. 00:09:00.030 --> 00:09:02.560 align:middle line:90% 00:09:02.560 --> 00:09:03.240 align:middle line:90% 34. 00:09:03.240 --> 00:09:05.180 align:middle line:90% Have all members been recorded? 00:09:05.180 --> 00:09:15.630 align:middle line:90% 00:09:15.630 --> 00:09:16.970 align:middle line:90% [CHATTER] 00:09:16.970 --> 00:09:18.910 align:middle line:90% Karen E. Spilka. 00:09:18.910 --> 00:09:19.410 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:09:19.410 --> 00:09:25.831 align:middle line:90% 00:09:25.831 --> 00:09:26.330 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:09:26.330 --> 00:09:27.190 align:middle line:90% [CHATTER] 00:09:27.190 --> 00:09:56.475 align:middle line:90% Harriette L. Chandler. 00:09:56.475 --> 00:09:56.975 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:09:56.975 --> 00:10:21.221 align:middle line:90% 00:10:21.221 --> 00:10:21.720 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:10:21.720 --> 00:10:31.850 align:middle line:90% Thirty-eight in the affirmative. 00:10:31.850 --> 00:10:32.860 align:middle line:90% None in the negative. 00:10:32.860 --> 00:10:34.500 align:middle line:90% The amendment has been adopted. 00:10:34.500 --> 00:10:38.580 align:middle line:90% 00:10:38.580 --> 00:10:39.080 align:middle line:90% No. 00:10:39.080 --> 00:10:43.350 align:middle line:84% 103, the senator from Suffolk, Senator Chang-Diaz 00:10:43.350 --> 00:10:45.410 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 00:10:45.410 --> 00:10:46.899 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:10:46.899 --> 00:10:47.440 align:middle line:90% Amendment No. 00:10:47.440 --> 00:10:49.810 align:middle line:84% 103 by Ms. Chang-Diaz [INAUDIBLE].. 00:10:49.810 --> 00:10:54.950 align:middle line:90% 00:10:54.950 --> 00:10:57.650 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:10:57.650 --> 00:11:00.310 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say, "aye;" opposed, "no." 00:11:00.310 --> 00:11:04.650 align:middle line:84% The aye's have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:11:04.650 --> 00:11:09.360 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 104-- the senator from First Essex 00:11:09.360 --> 00:11:12.610 align:middle line:84% and Middlesex has filed an amendment, the title 00:11:12.610 --> 00:11:13.910 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:11:13.910 --> 00:11:16.020 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 104 by Mr. Tarr-- 00:11:16.020 --> 00:11:18.731 align:middle line:90% loan forgiveness task force. 00:11:18.731 --> 00:11:20.730 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:11:20.730 --> 00:11:22.605 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say, "aye;" opposed, "no." 00:11:22.605 --> 00:11:24.860 align:middle line:84% The no's have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 00:11:24.860 --> 00:11:28.880 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 105-- the senator from Worcester, 00:11:28.880 --> 00:11:31.750 align:middle line:84% Hampden, Hampshire, and Middlesex, Miss Gobi, 00:11:31.750 --> 00:11:34.420 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title of which the clerk will 00:11:34.420 --> 00:11:34.920 align:middle line:90% be read. 00:11:34.920 --> 00:11:36.930 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 105 by Miss Gobi-- 00:11:36.930 --> 00:11:40.370 align:middle line:84% non-member vote transportation reimbursement. 00:11:40.370 --> 00:11:42.370 align:middle line:84% The question comes in adoption of the amendment. 00:11:42.370 --> 00:11:44.245 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say, "aye;" opposed, "no." 00:11:44.245 --> 00:11:46.820 align:middle line:84% The no's have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 00:11:46.820 --> 00:11:50.910 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 106-- the senator 00:11:50.910 --> 00:11:53.380 align:middle line:84% from Cape and the Islands, Senator Cyr, 00:11:53.380 --> 00:11:55.820 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 00:11:55.820 --> 00:11:57.210 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:11:57.210 --> 00:12:00.350 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 106 by Mr. Cyr-- affordable child 00:12:00.350 --> 00:12:02.660 align:middle line:90% care for Barnstable County. 00:12:02.660 --> 00:12:04.660 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:12:04.660 --> 00:12:06.535 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say, "aye;" opposed, "no." 00:12:06.535 --> 00:12:08.710 align:middle line:84% The no's have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 00:12:08.710 --> 00:12:11.850 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 107-- the senator 00:12:11.850 --> 00:12:15.550 align:middle line:84% from Worcester and Middlesex, Miss Flanagan, 00:12:15.550 --> 00:12:17.930 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 00:12:17.930 --> 00:12:19.500 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:12:19.500 --> 00:12:22.050 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 107 by Miss Flanagan-- 00:12:22.050 --> 00:12:25.340 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] rate increase. 00:12:25.340 --> 00:12:25.930 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:12:25.930 --> 00:12:31.114 align:middle line:84% The senator from Second Hampden and Hampshire, Senate Humason-- 00:12:31.114 --> 00:12:32.280 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madame President. 00:12:32.280 --> 00:12:33.290 align:middle line:84% Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. 00:12:33.290 --> 00:12:36.050 align:middle line:84% It's nice to be with you for another year of budget debate. 00:12:36.050 --> 00:12:39.720 align:middle line:84% I was hoping that the sponsor of the pending amendment 00:12:39.720 --> 00:12:41.130 align:middle line:90% would rise and explain it to us. 00:12:41.130 --> 00:12:41.630 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:12:41.630 --> 00:12:43.838 align:middle line:84% Senator from Worcester and Middlesex, Miss Flanagan-- 00:12:43.838 --> 00:12:47.310 align:middle line:90% 00:12:47.310 --> 00:12:48.654 align:middle line:90% Did she say something? 00:12:48.654 --> 00:12:49.820 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madame President. 00:12:49.820 --> 00:12:51.736 align:middle line:84% And through you to the members, this amendment 00:12:51.736 --> 00:12:55.370 align:middle line:84% would allow for the modest 1.51% cost inflation factor 00:12:55.370 --> 00:12:57.360 align:middle line:90% rate increase on tuition rates. 00:12:57.360 --> 00:12:59.070 align:middle line:84% The private specialized schools already 00:12:59.070 --> 00:13:01.250 align:middle line:84% operate in a deficit in most cases. 00:13:01.250 --> 00:13:03.500 align:middle line:84% And not increasing the cost inflation factor rate 00:13:03.500 --> 00:13:06.350 align:middle line:84% creates challenges in retaining talented teachers and increases 00:13:06.350 --> 00:13:09.000 align:middle line:84% disparities between the public and private teacher pay. 00:13:09.000 --> 00:13:12.270 align:middle line:84% Allowing the chapter 766 schools to increase tuition rates 00:13:12.270 --> 00:13:14.160 align:middle line:84% will provide private special ed schools 00:13:14.160 --> 00:13:16.270 align:middle line:84% with the ability to make critical programs 00:13:16.270 --> 00:13:18.000 align:middle line:90% reconstruction adjustments. 00:13:18.000 --> 00:13:19.970 align:middle line:84% This also supports the special circumstance 00:13:19.970 --> 00:13:22.170 align:middle line:84% for salary upgrades, out-of-state rate letters, 00:13:22.170 --> 00:13:23.870 align:middle line:84% and extraordinary relief requests. 00:13:23.870 --> 00:13:26.020 align:middle line:84% The amendment would help provide the chapter 00:13:26.020 --> 00:13:27.760 align:middle line:84% 766 schools with the tools needed 00:13:27.760 --> 00:13:30.260 align:middle line:84% to meet the continually evolving needs of the commonwealth's 00:13:30.260 --> 00:13:31.670 align:middle line:90% most vulnerable students. 00:13:31.670 --> 00:13:35.110 align:middle line:84% I hope that this amendment is adopted. 00:13:35.110 --> 00:13:38.270 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] she's saying. 00:13:38.270 --> 00:13:40.550 align:middle line:84% Plymouth-- the senator from Norfolk and Plymouth, 00:13:40.550 --> 00:13:41.510 align:middle line:90% Senator Keenan. 00:13:41.510 --> 00:13:45.354 align:middle line:90% 00:13:45.354 --> 00:13:47.020 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] we have a similar amendment, 00:13:47.020 --> 00:13:50.400 align:middle line:84% which, at the appropriate time, I will ask to be withdrawn. 00:13:50.400 --> 00:13:53.380 align:middle line:84% And just to follow up on the comments that were made, 00:13:53.380 --> 00:13:55.990 align:middle line:84% I think we sometimes forget that the students who 00:13:55.990 --> 00:13:57.640 align:middle line:84% attend these schools are public school 00:13:57.640 --> 00:13:58.890 align:middle line:90% students, at least in my mind. 00:13:58.890 --> 00:14:01.990 align:middle line:84% And oftentimes, when we talk about committing resources 00:14:01.990 --> 00:14:04.830 align:middle line:84% to what I would call our traditional public schools, 00:14:04.830 --> 00:14:09.620 align:middle line:84% we do not or fail or forget sometimes 00:14:09.620 --> 00:14:12.730 align:middle line:84% to make sure that these schools get the resources that they 00:14:12.730 --> 00:14:13.540 align:middle line:90% need. 00:14:13.540 --> 00:14:15.911 align:middle line:84% These schools educate a great many 00:14:15.911 --> 00:14:17.160 align:middle line:90% of our public school students. 00:14:17.160 --> 00:14:18.868 align:middle line:84% And in fact, over the last several years, 00:14:18.868 --> 00:14:21.050 align:middle line:90% we've seen about a 41,000-- 00:14:21.050 --> 00:14:23.177 align:middle line:84% and that's the total numbers-- increase 00:14:23.177 --> 00:14:25.510 align:middle line:84% in those who've been diagnosed with some conditions that 00:14:25.510 --> 00:14:27.400 align:middle line:84% would result in them going to these schools. 00:14:27.400 --> 00:14:29.590 align:middle line:84% Those conditions are autism, health, neurological, 00:14:29.590 --> 00:14:32.710 align:middle line:84% communication, developmental, and emotional disabilities. 00:14:32.710 --> 00:14:33.910 align:middle line:90% And that's since 2003. 00:14:33.910 --> 00:14:35.736 align:middle line:84% So the number of students in need 00:14:35.736 --> 00:14:38.110 align:middle line:84% of the types of services that these schools are providing 00:14:38.110 --> 00:14:39.500 align:middle line:90% is increasing dramatically. 00:14:39.500 --> 00:14:42.400 align:middle line:84% And so how do we get them the resources that they need? 00:14:42.400 --> 00:14:44.430 align:middle line:84% How do we get them, more than anything else, 00:14:44.430 --> 00:14:46.420 align:middle line:90% the educators that they need? 00:14:46.420 --> 00:14:49.190 align:middle line:84% We get them, at least in part, what 00:14:49.190 --> 00:14:52.100 align:middle line:84% they need as a result of this amendment and similar efforts. 00:14:52.100 --> 00:14:54.630 align:middle line:84% There is about a $24,000 wage gap 00:14:54.630 --> 00:14:56.520 align:middle line:84% between a teacher in a public school 00:14:56.520 --> 00:14:58.330 align:middle line:84% or traditional public school and a teacher in one of our [? 00:14:58.330 --> 00:14:59.070 align:middle line:90% MAP ?] schools. 00:14:59.070 --> 00:15:00.640 align:middle line:84% That is a significant difference. 00:15:00.640 --> 00:15:02.480 align:middle line:84% And it results in a great many teachers 00:15:02.480 --> 00:15:04.940 align:middle line:84% coming into these schools and then leaving 00:15:04.940 --> 00:15:07.620 align:middle line:84% once they get a job offer at a public school-- 00:15:07.620 --> 00:15:09.210 align:middle line:90% a traditional public school. 00:15:09.210 --> 00:15:12.330 align:middle line:84% So this, while it doesn't solve all those problems, 00:15:12.330 --> 00:15:14.080 align:middle line:84% is a step in the right direction-- 00:15:14.080 --> 00:15:16.330 align:middle line:84% providing the resources that are needed, 00:15:16.330 --> 00:15:19.060 align:middle line:84% resources that these students desperately need, 00:15:19.060 --> 00:15:21.760 align:middle line:84% resources that go to our public school students 00:15:21.760 --> 00:15:22.566 align:middle line:90% across the board. 00:15:22.566 --> 00:15:24.440 align:middle line:84% So I urge favorable action on this amendment. 00:15:24.440 --> 00:15:25.870 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madame President. 00:15:25.870 --> 00:15:28.415 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:15:28.415 --> 00:15:30.290 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say, "aye;" opposed, "no." 00:15:30.290 --> 00:15:33.340 align:middle line:84% The aye's have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:15:33.340 --> 00:15:41.150 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 899-- no, no, 108. 00:15:41.150 --> 00:15:43.670 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 108-- the senator 00:15:43.670 --> 00:15:46.620 align:middle line:84% from Worcester and Middlesex, Senator Flanagan, 00:15:46.620 --> 00:15:48.070 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 00:15:48.070 --> 00:15:49.490 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will call. 00:15:49.490 --> 00:15:51.580 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 108 by Miss Flanagan-- 00:15:51.580 --> 00:15:54.580 align:middle line:84% Mount Wachusett Community College Brewer Center 00:15:54.580 --> 00:15:57.270 align:middle line:84% for Civic Learning and Community Engagement. 00:15:57.270 --> 00:16:00.500 align:middle line:84% The senator from Second Hampden and Hampshire-- 00:16:00.500 --> 00:16:02.840 align:middle line:84% My ears perked up when I heard the name Brewer. 00:16:02.840 --> 00:16:05.050 align:middle line:84% I remember that name from somewhere. 00:16:05.050 --> 00:16:08.880 align:middle line:84% I'm hoping that the gentle-lady will explain her amendment, why 00:16:08.880 --> 00:16:11.220 align:middle line:90% that name is so familiar to us. 00:16:11.220 --> 00:16:14.390 align:middle line:90% Do it during the budget. 00:16:14.390 --> 00:16:16.974 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester and Middlesex, Senator Flanagan. 00:16:16.974 --> 00:16:18.140 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madame President. 00:16:18.140 --> 00:16:20.010 align:middle line:84% Through you to the members, I will tell my colleague 00:16:20.010 --> 00:16:22.290 align:middle line:84% that the reason why the name is so familiar to you 00:16:22.290 --> 00:16:25.260 align:middle line:84% is that in my district, we have the Senator Stephen M. Brewer 00:16:25.260 --> 00:16:28.010 align:middle line:84% Center for Civic Learning and Community Engagement at Mount 00:16:28.010 --> 00:16:29.630 align:middle line:90% Wachusett Community College. 00:16:29.630 --> 00:16:32.120 align:middle line:84% And this amendment allows for an increase 00:16:32.120 --> 00:16:34.910 align:middle line:84% of $100,000 in funding for the center 00:16:34.910 --> 00:16:37.812 align:middle line:84% at Mount Wachusett, because it will increase the service 00:16:37.812 --> 00:16:39.770 align:middle line:84% learning and volunteerism in North Central Mass 00:16:39.770 --> 00:16:41.872 align:middle line:84% by supporting the development of a food pantry 00:16:41.872 --> 00:16:43.580 align:middle line:84% and other emergency services for students 00:16:43.580 --> 00:16:47.500 align:middle line:84% at risk of dropping out, due to financial circumstances. 00:16:47.500 --> 00:16:49.620 align:middle line:84% I hope this amendment is adopted. 00:16:49.620 --> 00:16:50.300 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:16:50.300 --> 00:16:52.666 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:16:52.666 --> 00:16:54.540 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say, "aye;" opposed, "no." 00:16:54.540 --> 00:16:58.920 align:middle line:84% The aye's have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:16:58.920 --> 00:17:03.250 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 109, the same senator 00:17:03.250 --> 00:17:04.760 align:middle line:90% from Worcester, Flanagan. 00:17:04.760 --> 00:17:07.950 align:middle line:84% Miss Flanagan has filed an amendment, the title 00:17:07.950 --> 00:17:09.190 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:17:09.190 --> 00:17:11.210 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 109 by Miss Flanagan-- 00:17:11.210 --> 00:17:14.119 align:middle line:84% Mount Wachusett Community College Automotive Technology 00:17:14.119 --> 00:17:15.420 align:middle line:90% Center. 00:17:15.420 --> 00:17:18.420 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester and Middlesex, Miss Flanagan-- 00:17:18.420 --> 00:17:20.160 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madame President-- 00:17:20.160 --> 00:17:25.790 align:middle line:84% [AUDIO OUT] --in funding, which would allow Mount Wachusett 00:17:25.790 --> 00:17:28.010 align:middle line:84% Community College to relocate their tech 00:17:28.010 --> 00:17:29.760 align:middle line:90% program to the Fitchburg area. 00:17:29.760 --> 00:17:32.070 align:middle line:84% The space where the program currently is housed 00:17:32.070 --> 00:17:33.970 align:middle line:84% is lacking in both sufficient square footage 00:17:33.970 --> 00:17:35.101 align:middle line:90% and modern equipment. 00:17:35.101 --> 00:17:36.600 align:middle line:84% The relocation of this program would 00:17:36.600 --> 00:17:39.010 align:middle line:84% address both of these needs to be situated closer 00:17:39.010 --> 00:17:40.640 align:middle line:84% to a more diverse student population 00:17:40.640 --> 00:17:42.030 align:middle line:90% in North Central Massachusetts. 00:17:42.030 --> 00:17:44.962 align:middle line:84% I ask that the amendment be adopted. 00:17:44.962 --> 00:17:46.670 align:middle line:84% --comes on the adoption of the amendment. 00:17:46.670 --> 00:17:48.545 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say, "aye;" opposed, "no." 00:17:48.545 --> 00:17:50.880 align:middle line:84% The aye's have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:17:50.880 --> 00:17:55.710 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 110-- the senator 00:17:55.710 --> 00:17:58.810 align:middle line:84% from Worcester and Middlesex, Miss Flanagan, 00:17:58.810 --> 00:18:00.280 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 00:18:00.280 --> 00:18:02.200 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:18:02.200 --> 00:18:04.400 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 110 by Miss Flanagan-- 00:18:04.400 --> 00:18:06.830 align:middle line:84% quality grading improvement system, 00:18:06.830 --> 00:18:11.020 align:middle line:90% QRIS technical assistance. 00:18:11.020 --> 00:18:13.200 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:18:13.200 --> 00:18:15.190 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say, "aye;" opposed, "no." 00:18:15.190 --> 00:18:17.990 align:middle line:84% The no's have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 00:18:17.990 --> 00:18:21.450 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 111-- the senator 00:18:21.450 --> 00:18:23.240 align:middle line:84% from Norfolk and Suffolk, Mr. Rush, 00:18:23.240 --> 00:18:25.350 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 00:18:25.350 --> 00:18:26.820 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:18:26.820 --> 00:18:29.940 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 111 by Mr. Rush-- auto tech training 00:18:29.940 --> 00:18:31.781 align:middle line:90% program. 00:18:31.781 --> 00:18:32.280 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:18:32.280 --> 00:18:36.225 align:middle line:84% The senator from Second Hampden and Hampshire, Mr. Humason. 00:18:36.225 --> 00:18:38.100 align:middle line:84% I'm hoping that the sponsor of this amendment 00:18:38.100 --> 00:18:41.190 align:middle line:84% will explain to the members what it does for our benefit. 00:18:41.190 --> 00:18:41.900 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:18:41.900 --> 00:18:44.170 align:middle line:90% Norfolk and Suffolk, Mr. Rush-- 00:18:44.170 --> 00:18:46.410 align:middle line:90% --through to the members. 00:18:46.410 --> 00:18:48.380 align:middle line:84% This amendment seeks an appropriation 00:18:48.380 --> 00:18:51.990 align:middle line:84% of roughly $75,000 in the higher ed line item 00:18:51.990 --> 00:18:55.040 align:middle line:84% to provide initial seed money to a program 00:18:55.040 --> 00:18:58.090 align:middle line:84% that the legislature created within the economic development 00:18:58.090 --> 00:19:00.270 align:middle line:84% law signed by the governor last August-- 00:19:00.270 --> 00:19:06.560 align:middle line:84% section 94 of chapter 129 of the Acts of 2016. 00:19:06.560 --> 00:19:10.410 align:middle line:84% That law created a new section to establish a grant program 00:19:10.410 --> 00:19:14.760 align:middle line:84% for recruiting, training, and hiring qualified auto 00:19:14.760 --> 00:19:18.390 align:middle line:84% tech-trained students by repair, employers 00:19:18.390 --> 00:19:21.860 align:middle line:84% through high school and post-secondary ed institutions 00:19:21.860 --> 00:19:25.510 align:middle line:84% so that they have better auto tech training programs. 00:19:25.510 --> 00:19:30.540 align:middle line:84% We know there's a huge gap in the commonwealth in this area. 00:19:30.540 --> 00:19:33.220 align:middle line:84% And I know Secretary Ash has been talking 00:19:33.220 --> 00:19:35.030 align:middle line:90% about this gap that exists. 00:19:35.030 --> 00:19:37.930 align:middle line:84% And we need to get this training money into place 00:19:37.930 --> 00:19:39.540 align:middle line:84% and get these programs into place 00:19:39.540 --> 00:19:41.760 align:middle line:84% so that we are better able to meet 00:19:41.760 --> 00:19:44.070 align:middle line:84% the needs of the automotive world. 00:19:44.070 --> 00:19:46.710 align:middle line:84% I know in my district, we have what's called the Auto Mile. 00:19:46.710 --> 00:19:48.800 align:middle line:84% It's key critical for those businesses 00:19:48.800 --> 00:19:53.400 align:middle line:84% to survive that we have programs that train individuals who 00:19:53.400 --> 00:19:56.480 align:middle line:84% are ready, able, qualified, and willing 00:19:56.480 --> 00:20:00.180 align:middle line:84% to work in this field, which is critical to our economic 00:20:00.180 --> 00:20:02.124 align:middle line:90% development in Massachusetts. 00:20:02.124 --> 00:20:04.040 align:middle line:84% The House and the Senate supported the concept 00:20:04.040 --> 00:20:07.860 align:middle line:84% of a comprehensive cooperative effort between schools 00:20:07.860 --> 00:20:10.090 align:middle line:84% and employees to help address youth employment 00:20:10.090 --> 00:20:13.820 align:middle line:84% issues while filling these jobs with qualified applicants. 00:20:13.820 --> 00:20:16.130 align:middle line:84% This amendment would do just that. 00:20:16.130 --> 00:20:20.350 align:middle line:84% It would provide the funds to help jumpstart that effort 00:20:20.350 --> 00:20:23.240 align:middle line:84% where the current gap exists today 00:20:23.240 --> 00:20:25.580 align:middle line:84% in dealing with our economic development 00:20:25.580 --> 00:20:27.210 align:middle line:84% for the greater good moving forward. 00:20:27.210 --> 00:20:28.400 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madame President. 00:20:28.400 --> 00:20:29.960 align:middle line:90% I hope the amendment is adopted. 00:20:29.960 --> 00:20:31.730 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:20:31.730 --> 00:20:33.330 align:middle line:84% All those who in favor say, "aye;" opposed, "no." 00:20:33.330 --> 00:20:35.710 align:middle line:84% The aye's have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:20:35.710 --> 00:20:43.270 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 113-- number 112 has been withdrawn. 00:20:43.270 --> 00:20:48.010 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 113, filed by the senator from Suffolk, 00:20:48.010 --> 00:20:51.020 align:middle line:84% Senator Chang-Diaz, has filed an amendment, the title 00:20:51.020 --> 00:20:52.320 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:20:52.320 --> 00:20:54.810 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 113 by Miss Chang-Diaz-- 00:20:54.810 --> 00:20:58.860 align:middle line:84% school to career connecting activities. 00:20:58.860 --> 00:21:02.920 align:middle line:84% The senator from Second Hampden and Hampshire, Mr. Humason. 00:21:02.920 --> 00:21:04.140 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madame President. 00:21:04.140 --> 00:21:07.250 align:middle line:84% I was looking around the chamber to see if the sponsor is here 00:21:07.250 --> 00:21:09.900 align:middle line:84% and able to talk about the amendment. 00:21:09.900 --> 00:21:11.280 align:middle line:90% OK. 00:21:11.280 --> 00:21:12.750 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] brief recess. 00:21:12.750 --> 00:21:28.980 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] brief recess. 00:21:28.980 --> 00:21:32.300 align:middle line:90% 00:21:32.300 --> 00:21:34.260 align:middle line:84% It's a modest amendment-- a redraft-- 00:21:34.260 --> 00:21:38.370 align:middle line:84% to add $350,000 to the school to [INAUDIBLE] connecting 00:21:38.370 --> 00:21:39.610 align:middle line:90% activities line item. 00:21:39.610 --> 00:21:43.260 align:middle line:84% This is a line item, the funds from which 00:21:43.260 --> 00:21:48.230 align:middle line:84% go for staff and local work for investment and boards 00:21:48.230 --> 00:21:52.010 align:middle line:84% to work, to recruit local employers who, 00:21:52.010 --> 00:21:56.870 align:middle line:84% through their private dollar, fund paid internship 00:21:56.870 --> 00:21:59.460 align:middle line:84% placements for young people to get some work 00:21:59.460 --> 00:22:01.370 align:middle line:84% experience under their belts, better 00:22:01.370 --> 00:22:03.230 align:middle line:90% prepare them for the future. 00:22:03.230 --> 00:22:05.390 align:middle line:84% This is a great investment for the state to make, 00:22:05.390 --> 00:22:09.210 align:middle line:84% because we're using our state dollar to leverage 00:22:09.210 --> 00:22:12.200 align:middle line:84% so much private investment in the worthy cause of youth 00:22:12.200 --> 00:22:14.450 align:middle line:84% development and work force development for the future. 00:22:14.450 --> 00:22:17.615 align:middle line:90% I hope the amendment passes. 00:22:17.615 --> 00:22:19.490 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say, "aye;" opposed, "no." 00:22:19.490 --> 00:22:22.070 align:middle line:84% The aye's have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:22:22.070 --> 00:22:25.150 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 114-- the senator 00:22:25.150 --> 00:22:27.290 align:middle line:84% from Suffolk, Senator Chang-Diaz, 00:22:27.290 --> 00:22:28.852 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 00:22:28.852 --> 00:22:30.060 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:22:30.060 --> 00:22:32.710 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 114 by Miss Chang-Diaz-- 00:22:32.710 --> 00:22:36.220 align:middle line:84% Reggie Lewis Track and Athletic Center retain revenue. 00:22:36.220 --> 00:22:38.220 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:22:38.220 --> 00:22:40.094 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say, "aye;" opposed, "no." 00:22:40.094 --> 00:22:42.380 align:middle line:84% The no's have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 00:22:42.380 --> 00:22:45.230 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 115-- the senator 00:22:45.230 --> 00:22:46.730 align:middle line:84% from Essex, Senator McGee, has filed 00:22:46.730 --> 00:22:50.080 align:middle line:84% an amendment, the title of which the clerk will read. 00:22:50.080 --> 00:22:52.000 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 115 by Mr. McGee-- 00:22:52.000 --> 00:22:53.880 align:middle line:84% educational services for students 00:22:53.880 --> 00:22:56.547 align:middle line:84% with limited or interrupted formal education. 00:22:56.547 --> 00:22:58.380 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:22:58.380 --> 00:23:00.110 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say, "aye;" opposed, "no." 00:23:00.110 --> 00:23:02.240 align:middle line:84% The no's have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 00:23:02.240 --> 00:23:06.466 align:middle line:84% Amendment 116-- senator from Essex, Senator McGee, 00:23:06.466 --> 00:23:07.840 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 00:23:07.840 --> 00:23:09.630 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:23:09.630 --> 00:23:11.880 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 116 by Mr. McGee-- pay 00:23:11.880 --> 00:23:13.971 align:middle line:90% raises for early educators. 00:23:13.971 --> 00:23:15.970 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:23:15.970 --> 00:23:17.580 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say, "aye;" opposed, "no." 00:23:17.580 --> 00:23:19.720 align:middle line:84% The no's have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 00:23:19.720 --> 00:23:22.790 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 118 is withdrawn. 00:23:22.790 --> 00:23:26.240 align:middle line:84% Amendment 119-- the senator from Worcester and Middlesex, 00:23:26.240 --> 00:23:28.912 align:middle line:84% Miss Flanagan, has filed an amendment, the title 00:23:28.912 --> 00:23:30.120 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:23:30.120 --> 00:23:33.700 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 119 by Miss Flanagan-- 00:23:33.700 --> 00:23:37.532 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] Yes, We Care Teach Training Program for Teens. 00:23:37.532 --> 00:23:39.990 align:middle line:84% The senator from [INAUDIBLE] and Middlesex, Miss Flanagan-- 00:23:39.990 --> 00:23:47.887 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madame President. 00:23:47.887 --> 00:23:50.220 align:middle line:84% [AUDIO OUT] --will go towards the cost of food supplies, 00:23:50.220 --> 00:23:52.800 align:middle line:84% purchasing materials, and the administrative costs 00:23:52.800 --> 00:23:55.300 align:middle line:84% related to the program, as well as for additional workshops 00:23:55.300 --> 00:23:56.360 align:middle line:90% throughout the year. 00:23:56.360 --> 00:23:58.780 align:middle line:84% This organization is a volunteer, grassroot, 00:23:58.780 --> 00:24:01.180 align:middle line:84% not-for-profit charity designed to help improve 00:24:01.180 --> 00:24:03.590 align:middle line:84% the quality of life for our veterans, children, and those 00:24:03.590 --> 00:24:06.580 align:middle line:84% with cancer and life-threatening ailments, the homeless, 00:24:06.580 --> 00:24:07.680 align:middle line:90% and the forgotten. 00:24:07.680 --> 00:24:09.820 align:middle line:84% It fills the need for information, emergency 00:24:09.820 --> 00:24:12.380 align:middle line:84% assistance, rides, health and wellness information, 00:24:12.380 --> 00:24:15.000 align:middle line:84% and resource lists, food pantries, and mental health 00:24:15.000 --> 00:24:15.500 align:middle line:90% aid. 00:24:15.500 --> 00:24:18.717 align:middle line:90% I ask this amendment be adopted. 00:24:18.717 --> 00:24:19.800 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] the amendment. 00:24:19.800 --> 00:24:21.674 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say, "aye;" opposed, "no." 00:24:21.674 --> 00:24:24.050 align:middle line:84% The aye's have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:24:24.050 --> 00:24:27.200 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 120-- the senator from Middlesex, 00:24:27.200 --> 00:24:29.392 align:middle line:84% Miss Donahue, has filed an amendment, the title 00:24:29.392 --> 00:24:30.600 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:24:30.600 --> 00:24:33.950 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 120 by Miss Donoghue, Westford school 00:24:33.950 --> 00:24:35.740 align:middle line:90% technology upgrade. 00:24:35.740 --> 00:24:38.514 align:middle line:84% The senator from Middlesex, Miss Donoghue-- 00:24:38.514 --> 00:24:39.680 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madame President. 00:24:39.680 --> 00:24:41.120 align:middle line:84% And through you to the members, I 00:24:41.120 --> 00:24:43.260 align:middle line:84% rise in favor of this amendment, which 00:24:43.260 --> 00:24:46.430 align:middle line:84% would provide $100,000 to the town of Westford's 00:24:46.430 --> 00:24:49.370 align:middle line:84% public schools for a technology upgrade. 00:24:49.370 --> 00:24:52.430 align:middle line:84% Westford has been working to better integrate technology 00:24:52.430 --> 00:24:53.650 align:middle line:90% into the classrooms. 00:24:53.650 --> 00:24:55.640 align:middle line:84% But of course, with budgets being tight, 00:24:55.640 --> 00:24:57.880 align:middle line:84% it's been difficult to find the money 00:24:57.880 --> 00:24:59.800 align:middle line:90% for those necessary upgrades. 00:24:59.800 --> 00:25:01.990 align:middle line:84% The funding would pay for those upgrades 00:25:01.990 --> 00:25:04.710 align:middle line:84% so that Westford can provide new and innovative learning 00:25:04.710 --> 00:25:06.740 align:middle line:90% opportunities to its students. 00:25:06.740 --> 00:25:08.100 align:middle line:90% I hope the amendment passes. 00:25:08.100 --> 00:25:11.850 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] all in favor say, "aye;" opposed, "no." 00:25:11.850 --> 00:25:14.410 align:middle line:84% The aye's have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:25:14.410 --> 00:25:21.690 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 121-- the same senator from Middlesex has 00:25:21.690 --> 00:25:24.050 align:middle line:84% filed an amendment-- that's Senator Donoghue-- 00:25:24.050 --> 00:25:25.750 align:middle line:84% the title of which the clerk will read. 00:25:25.750 --> 00:25:27.850 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 121 by Miss Donoghue-- 00:25:27.850 --> 00:25:30.520 align:middle line:90% Youth Build grants. 00:25:30.520 --> 00:25:31.130 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:25:31.130 --> 00:25:33.280 align:middle line:90% And thank you, Madame President. 00:25:33.280 --> 00:25:34.660 align:middle line:84% And through you to the members, I 00:25:34.660 --> 00:25:36.840 align:middle line:90% rise in favor of this amendment. 00:25:36.840 --> 00:25:40.240 align:middle line:84% This would fund the Massachusetts Youth Build 00:25:40.240 --> 00:25:43.740 align:middle line:84% Coalition at the amount of $2.25 million. 00:25:43.740 --> 00:25:46.670 align:middle line:84% The Massachusetts Youth Build Coalition 00:25:46.670 --> 00:25:49.660 align:middle line:84% provides essential services to at-risk youth 00:25:49.660 --> 00:25:52.350 align:middle line:84% in a loving community across the commonwealth, 00:25:52.350 --> 00:25:54.330 align:middle line:84% primarily serving gateway cities, 00:25:54.330 --> 00:25:57.140 align:middle line:84% including my own hometown city of Lowell. 00:25:57.140 --> 00:26:00.860 align:middle line:84% Youth Build offers a combination of course work, workforce 00:26:00.860 --> 00:26:04.130 align:middle line:84% development training, and empowers disconnected youth 00:26:04.130 --> 00:26:06.700 align:middle line:84% that previously have been out of school 00:26:06.700 --> 00:26:09.660 align:middle line:90% to become involved and employed. 00:26:09.660 --> 00:26:12.320 align:middle line:84% Its programs have a tremendous record of success 00:26:12.320 --> 00:26:16.380 align:middle line:84% in breaking the cycle of poverty and particularly reducing 00:26:16.380 --> 00:26:17.900 align:middle line:90% repeat offenders. 00:26:17.900 --> 00:26:22.620 align:middle line:84% Youth Build has placed 83% of Massachusetts participants 00:26:22.620 --> 00:26:25.950 align:middle line:84% in post-secondary institutions or employment 00:26:25.950 --> 00:26:29.800 align:middle line:84% and has assisted 58.3% of participants 00:26:29.800 --> 00:26:32.430 align:middle line:84% in earning a high school equivalency degree 00:26:32.430 --> 00:26:35.590 align:middle line:84% and reduced recidivism rate among participants 00:26:35.590 --> 00:26:38.970 align:middle line:90% to an astonishing 5.2%. 00:26:38.970 --> 00:26:41.450 align:middle line:84% Over the last decade alone, state investment 00:26:41.450 --> 00:26:45.060 align:middle line:84% in Youth Build programming has remained largely unchanged, 00:26:45.060 --> 00:26:46.860 align:middle line:90% hovering around $2 million. 00:26:46.860 --> 00:26:49.600 align:middle line:84% In the same time span, Youth Build 00:26:49.600 --> 00:26:51.660 align:middle line:84% has served more and more young people 00:26:51.660 --> 00:26:54.240 align:middle line:84% who have much more complicated needs. 00:26:54.240 --> 00:26:57.800 align:middle line:84% Increasing the funding would enable it to reach additional 00:26:57.800 --> 00:27:01.050 align:middle line:84% at-risk youth, provide them with a more comprehensive set 00:27:01.050 --> 00:27:04.710 align:middle line:84% of services and supports, which is incredibly important since 00:27:04.710 --> 00:27:07.970 align:middle line:84% it affords so many a second chance-- 00:27:07.970 --> 00:27:12.530 align:middle line:84% thousands of young people in our commonwealth, especially those 00:27:12.530 --> 00:27:14.790 align:middle line:90% in the most marginalized areas. 00:27:14.790 --> 00:27:16.842 align:middle line:90% I hope the amendment passes. 00:27:16.842 --> 00:27:18.550 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] on adoption of the amendment. 00:27:18.550 --> 00:27:20.424 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say, "aye;" opposed, "no." 00:27:20.424 --> 00:27:22.740 align:middle line:84% The aye's have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:27:22.740 --> 00:27:25.380 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 122 is on hold. 00:27:25.380 --> 00:27:28.310 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 123, the senator 00:27:28.310 --> 00:27:30.640 align:middle line:84% from Worcester, Middlesex, Ms. Flanagan 00:27:30.640 --> 00:27:33.670 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment the title of which the clerk will call. 00:27:33.670 --> 00:27:36.770 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 123 by Ms. Flanagan, Center for Public 00:27:36.770 --> 00:27:38.981 align:middle line:90% Policy at LaSell College. 00:27:38.981 --> 00:27:40.980 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:27:40.980 --> 00:27:42.050 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 00:27:42.050 --> 00:27:42.620 align:middle line:90% Opposed, no. 00:27:42.620 --> 00:27:43.290 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 00:27:43.290 --> 00:27:45.140 align:middle line:84% And the amendment is not adopted. 00:27:45.140 --> 00:27:47.510 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 124, the senator 00:27:47.510 --> 00:27:50.070 align:middle line:84% from Suffolk in Middlesex, Mr. Boncore 00:27:50.070 --> 00:27:52.200 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 00:27:52.200 --> 00:27:54.200 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:27:54.200 --> 00:27:58.320 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 124 by Mr. Boncore, Keverian School 00:27:58.320 --> 00:28:01.030 align:middle line:90% flooring. 00:28:01.030 --> 00:28:03.270 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:28:03.270 --> 00:28:06.180 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:28:06.180 --> 00:28:09.940 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:28:09.940 --> 00:28:13.110 align:middle line:84% The same senator from Suffolk in Middlesex, Mr. Boncore, 00:28:13.110 --> 00:28:17.350 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment number 125, the title 00:28:17.350 --> 00:28:18.650 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:28:18.650 --> 00:28:21.010 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 125 Mr. Boncore, 00:28:21.010 --> 00:28:23.651 align:middle line:90% Kennedy Center facility. 00:28:23.651 --> 00:28:25.650 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:28:25.650 --> 00:28:26.950 align:middle line:90% All those in favor say aye. 00:28:26.950 --> 00:28:27.890 align:middle line:90% All opposed, no. 00:28:27.890 --> 00:28:30.360 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:28:30.360 --> 00:28:32.490 align:middle line:84% And again, the same senator from Suffolk 00:28:32.490 --> 00:28:35.810 align:middle line:84% in Middlesex, Mr. Boncore, has filed an amendment number 00:28:35.810 --> 00:28:39.020 align:middle line:84% 126, the title of which the clerk will read. 00:28:39.020 --> 00:28:43.830 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 126 by Mr. Boncore, Reach Out and Read. 00:28:43.830 --> 00:28:45.950 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment-- 00:28:45.950 --> 00:28:47.130 align:middle line:90% all those in-- oh. 00:28:47.130 --> 00:28:50.615 align:middle line:84% The senator from Suffolk in Middlesex, Mr. Boncore. 00:28:50.615 --> 00:28:51.740 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 00:28:51.740 --> 00:28:53.365 align:middle line:84% And thanks for the opportunity to allow 00:28:53.365 --> 00:28:55.210 align:middle line:84% me to join in this robust debate we've 00:28:55.210 --> 00:28:56.800 align:middle line:84% been having all morning and afternoon. 00:28:56.800 --> 00:28:59.895 align:middle line:84% I rise in support of this amendment for Reach 00:28:59.895 --> 00:29:02.270 align:middle line:84% out and Read, which creates a line item for the Reach Out 00:29:02.270 --> 00:29:05.530 align:middle line:84% and Read program, which provides underserved children 00:29:05.530 --> 00:29:07.150 align:middle line:90% with literacy skills. 00:29:07.150 --> 00:29:10.440 align:middle line:84% The program works between pediatricians and parents, 00:29:10.440 --> 00:29:13.090 align:middle line:84% so the children are reading at a younger age. 00:29:13.090 --> 00:29:15.860 align:middle line:84% We know that acquiring literary skills at an earlier age 00:29:15.860 --> 00:29:19.420 align:middle line:84% has proven to strengthen vocabulary, language skills, 00:29:19.420 --> 00:29:22.560 align:middle line:84% as well as ensure future academic success 00:29:22.560 --> 00:29:25.669 align:middle line:90% for kindergarten students. 00:29:25.669 --> 00:29:27.210 align:middle line:84% We know that is a cost-saving measure 00:29:27.210 --> 00:29:29.290 align:middle line:84% by bringing children to the table 00:29:29.290 --> 00:29:31.360 align:middle line:84% and teaching them to read sooner. 00:29:31.360 --> 00:29:36.120 align:middle line:84% It eliminates, later, very expensive school-based 00:29:36.120 --> 00:29:37.700 align:middle line:90% reading intervention programs. 00:29:37.700 --> 00:29:41.390 align:middle line:84% Reach Out and Read is a program that currently serves 00:29:41.390 --> 00:29:45.640 align:middle line:84% 93% of our commonwealth's lowest income students, 00:29:45.640 --> 00:29:47.480 align:middle line:84% and your support of this amendment 00:29:47.480 --> 00:29:50.440 align:middle line:84% will ensure that every dollar the commonwealth spends 00:29:50.440 --> 00:29:52.250 align:middle line:84% will be matched by a matching donor. 00:29:52.250 --> 00:29:53.930 align:middle line:84% I'd ask that this amendment be adopted. 00:29:53.930 --> 00:29:54.990 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 00:29:54.990 --> 00:29:55.480 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:29:55.480 --> 00:29:57.480 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:29:57.480 --> 00:29:59.370 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye-- opposed, no. 00:29:59.370 --> 00:30:02.560 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:30:02.560 --> 00:30:07.730 align:middle line:90% Amendments 128, 129, 131. 00:30:07.730 --> 00:30:13.820 align:middle line:84% Amendments number 128, 129, 130, and 131 are on hold. 00:30:13.820 --> 00:30:16.380 align:middle line:84% Item number [INAUDIBLE],, the senator 00:30:16.380 --> 00:30:18.700 align:middle line:84% from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr, 00:30:18.700 --> 00:30:20.550 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 00:30:20.550 --> 00:30:21.840 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:30:21.840 --> 00:30:24.040 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 132 by Mr. Tarr-- 00:30:24.040 --> 00:30:24.870 align:middle line:90% LIFT Fund. 00:30:24.870 --> 00:30:29.636 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr. 00:30:29.636 --> 00:30:31.760 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Madam President and [INAUDIBLE] members. 00:30:31.760 --> 00:30:35.250 align:middle line:84% Madam President, we continue to talk about the Foundation 00:30:35.250 --> 00:30:37.450 align:middle line:84% Budget Review Commission and the importance of it, 00:30:37.450 --> 00:30:39.070 align:middle line:84% and in fact, this budget actually 00:30:39.070 --> 00:30:41.490 align:middle line:84% makes some initial strides to begin 00:30:41.490 --> 00:30:43.609 align:middle line:84% to fund some of the recommendations 00:30:43.609 --> 00:30:45.400 align:middle line:84% of the Foundation Budget Review Commission. 00:30:45.400 --> 00:30:49.660 align:middle line:84% But we know, Madam President, that since that report was 00:30:49.660 --> 00:30:54.260 align:middle line:84% issued in 2015, not much has happened 00:30:54.260 --> 00:30:55.530 align:middle line:90% to be able to advance this. 00:30:55.530 --> 00:30:58.500 align:middle line:84% And so that need has been not only unmet for the two 00:30:58.500 --> 00:31:01.780 align:middle line:84% years following the issuance of the report, 00:31:01.780 --> 00:31:04.450 align:middle line:84% but it hasn't been met since the time 00:31:04.450 --> 00:31:07.150 align:middle line:84% that the problem began to develop after the Education 00:31:07.150 --> 00:31:11.940 align:middle line:84% Reform Act was initially passed, and the Foundation Budget 00:31:11.940 --> 00:31:15.230 align:middle line:84% started to diverge from the actual cost of educating 00:31:15.230 --> 00:31:15.780 align:middle line:90% students. 00:31:15.780 --> 00:31:18.030 align:middle line:84% And so we all know it's a problem. 00:31:18.030 --> 00:31:20.840 align:middle line:84% There's a number of amendments that have been filed. 00:31:20.840 --> 00:31:23.960 align:middle line:84% There have been a series of endless discussions 00:31:23.960 --> 00:31:27.440 align:middle line:84% about how important it is that we address this. 00:31:27.440 --> 00:31:31.040 align:middle line:84% And yet, Madam President, there is more that we can do. 00:31:31.040 --> 00:31:33.330 align:middle line:84% And so this amendment, which is one 00:31:33.330 --> 00:31:36.640 align:middle line:84% that we have offered in the past in other contexts, 00:31:36.640 --> 00:31:41.060 align:middle line:84% actually creates the LIFT Fund, Madam President, 00:31:41.060 --> 00:31:44.080 align:middle line:84% known as the Learning Innovation For Tomorrow. 00:31:44.080 --> 00:31:46.970 align:middle line:84% And Madam President, this particular amendment 00:31:46.970 --> 00:31:51.650 align:middle line:84% and this particular find draws on existing sources 00:31:51.650 --> 00:31:52.970 align:middle line:90% of revenue-- 00:31:52.970 --> 00:31:56.480 align:middle line:84% let me say that again-- existing sources of revenue. 00:31:56.480 --> 00:31:57.570 align:middle line:90% How much revenue? 00:31:57.570 --> 00:32:04.470 align:middle line:84% Well, Madam President, somewhere between $180 and $200 million 00:32:04.470 --> 00:32:07.730 align:middle line:84% that could be used for the Foundation Budget Review 00:32:07.730 --> 00:32:09.890 align:middle line:90% Commission recommendations. 00:32:09.890 --> 00:32:11.810 align:middle line:90% Where does that money come from? 00:32:11.810 --> 00:32:14.660 align:middle line:84% Well one, it comes from the excess amounts 00:32:14.660 --> 00:32:17.290 align:middle line:84% of money available from not building 00:32:17.290 --> 00:32:20.490 align:middle line:84% the expansion of the Boston Convention Center-- 00:32:20.490 --> 00:32:22.810 align:middle line:84% something that has been put on hold because 00:32:22.810 --> 00:32:25.560 align:middle line:84% of its inadvisability already, and something 00:32:25.560 --> 00:32:28.120 align:middle line:84% that is likely to change because of a study that's currently 00:32:28.120 --> 00:32:30.660 align:middle line:84% being done to look at other alternatives 00:32:30.660 --> 00:32:32.440 align:middle line:84% for the land on which that expansion 00:32:32.440 --> 00:32:34.470 align:middle line:90% was going to be built. 00:32:34.470 --> 00:32:36.090 align:middle line:84% Where else does it find the money? 00:32:36.090 --> 00:32:38.580 align:middle line:84% Well, Madam President, it finds the money 00:32:38.580 --> 00:32:41.080 align:middle line:84% in the gaming legislation that we passed a number of years 00:32:41.080 --> 00:32:44.630 align:middle line:84% ago that specifically earmarked some of the revenue 00:32:44.630 --> 00:32:47.680 align:middle line:84% from gaming in the commonwealth for education, 00:32:47.680 --> 00:32:50.730 align:middle line:84% but did not specifically appropriate that money 00:32:50.730 --> 00:32:52.830 align:middle line:90% for a particular purpose. 00:32:52.830 --> 00:32:56.260 align:middle line:84% Our amendment appropriates it to this fund 00:32:56.260 --> 00:32:59.260 align:middle line:84% so that we can begin to seriously address 00:32:59.260 --> 00:33:02.900 align:middle line:84% the issue of the Foundation Budget Review Commission. 00:33:02.900 --> 00:33:05.840 align:middle line:84% Lastly, Madam President, the amendment 00:33:05.840 --> 00:33:09.920 align:middle line:84% also looks that taking some of the revenue that 00:33:09.920 --> 00:33:12.270 align:middle line:84% may be leftover if there is an excess 00:33:12.270 --> 00:33:14.510 align:middle line:84% from the net consolidated surplus, 00:33:14.510 --> 00:33:17.530 align:middle line:84% and putting that into the fund, as well. 00:33:17.530 --> 00:33:21.050 align:middle line:84% Putting those things together, Madam President, 00:33:21.050 --> 00:33:23.950 align:middle line:84% uses existing revenue for identified 00:33:23.950 --> 00:33:29.510 align:middle line:84% needs that we could all agree address every one of the school 00:33:29.510 --> 00:33:32.580 align:middle line:84% districts in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 00:33:32.580 --> 00:33:36.380 align:middle line:84% So it's commendable, Madam President, that we actually 00:33:36.380 --> 00:33:39.030 align:middle line:84% have made some strides toward funding 00:33:39.030 --> 00:33:42.450 align:middle line:84% some of the recommendations in the FBRC-- 00:33:42.450 --> 00:33:44.644 align:middle line:90% in its report. 00:33:44.644 --> 00:33:46.310 align:middle line:84% But we have to ask ourselves a question, 00:33:46.310 --> 00:33:48.740 align:middle line:84% as we come to this chamber once again 00:33:48.740 --> 00:33:52.470 align:middle line:84% to lament the inadequacy of the resources being 00:33:52.470 --> 00:33:55.070 align:middle line:90% put into those recommendations. 00:33:55.070 --> 00:33:57.640 align:middle line:90% Is there more that we could do? 00:33:57.640 --> 00:33:59.450 align:middle line:90% And the answer is yes. 00:33:59.450 --> 00:34:01.580 align:middle line:90% The answer is this amendment. 00:34:01.580 --> 00:34:05.390 align:middle line:84% The answer is, we could bolster our commitment 00:34:05.390 --> 00:34:07.640 align:middle line:84% to the recommendations of the Foundation Budget Review 00:34:07.640 --> 00:34:12.100 align:middle line:84% Commission, and begin to do some things that actually address 00:34:12.100 --> 00:34:15.080 align:middle line:84% every school district in the commonwealth, 00:34:15.080 --> 00:34:19.230 align:middle line:84% and build a better foundation for them to continue to thrive. 00:34:19.230 --> 00:34:21.734 align:middle line:84% So Madam President, I hope the amendment is adopted. 00:34:21.734 --> 00:34:25.199 align:middle line:90% 00:34:25.199 --> 00:34:26.889 align:middle line:84% Those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:34:26.889 --> 00:34:29.534 align:middle line:84% The nos have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 00:34:29.534 --> 00:34:32.929 align:middle line:90% 00:34:32.929 --> 00:34:36.760 align:middle line:90% Amendment 133 is on hold. 00:34:36.760 --> 00:34:39.580 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 133 is hold. 00:34:39.580 --> 00:35:34.300 align:middle line:84% The Senate will be in a brief recess. 00:35:34.300 --> 00:35:34.800 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 00:35:34.800 --> 00:35:36.360 align:middle line:90% The Senate will come to order. 00:35:36.360 --> 00:35:39.590 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 134. 00:35:39.590 --> 00:35:43.810 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr, 00:35:43.810 --> 00:35:45.230 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 00:35:45.230 --> 00:35:46.570 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:35:46.570 --> 00:35:50.700 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 134 by Mr. Tarr, Innovation Schools. 00:35:50.700 --> 00:35:54.030 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:35:54.030 --> 00:35:59.710 align:middle line:84% And I see that the sponsor is standing up. 00:35:59.710 --> 00:36:01.370 align:middle line:84% Madam President, how wonderful it 00:36:01.370 --> 00:36:02.620 align:middle line:90% is to see you upon the roster. 00:36:02.620 --> 00:36:02.820 align:middle line:90% It is. 00:36:02.820 --> 00:36:03.510 align:middle line:90% Good afternoon. 00:36:03.510 --> 00:36:06.250 align:middle line:84% And it's so good to see you with your purple tie. 00:36:06.250 --> 00:36:07.810 align:middle line:90% Why, thank you, Madam President. 00:36:07.810 --> 00:36:09.730 align:middle line:84% Madam President, after that exchange, 00:36:09.730 --> 00:36:11.360 align:middle line:90% this will seem anticlimactic. 00:36:11.360 --> 00:36:14.190 align:middle line:84% But I wish to move the amendment be held. 00:36:14.190 --> 00:36:22.820 align:middle line:90% 00:36:22.820 --> 00:36:25.370 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex and Middlesex 00:36:25.370 --> 00:36:29.340 align:middle line:84% has asked that amendment number 134 be held. 00:36:29.340 --> 00:36:30.790 align:middle line:90% Is there any objection? 00:36:30.790 --> 00:36:31.830 align:middle line:90% Seeing none-- 00:36:31.830 --> 00:36:33.510 align:middle line:90% It is laid aside temporarily. 00:36:33.510 --> 00:36:35.970 align:middle line:84% --it will be laid aside temporarily, and taken up 00:36:35.970 --> 00:36:37.470 align:middle line:90% a little later. 00:36:37.470 --> 00:36:43.770 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 135 from the same senator 00:36:43.770 --> 00:36:45.990 align:middle line:90% from Essex and Middlesex. 00:36:45.990 --> 00:36:49.112 align:middle line:84% He has filed an amendment, the title 00:36:49.112 --> 00:36:50.320 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:36:50.320 --> 00:36:54.900 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 135 by Mr. Tarr, literacy program funding. 00:36:54.900 --> 00:36:57.510 align:middle line:84% Madam President, I move the Senate be in a brief recess. 00:36:57.510 --> 00:36:59.990 align:middle line:84% The Senate will be in a brief recess. 00:36:59.990 --> 00:37:04.451 align:middle line:90% 00:37:04.451 --> 00:37:04.950 align:middle line:90% OK. 00:37:04.950 --> 00:37:36.890 align:middle line:90% 00:37:36.890 --> 00:37:40.410 align:middle line:84% Amendment 135-- and I believe that the senator 00:37:40.410 --> 00:37:44.630 align:middle line:84% from Essex and Middlesex, its sponsor, has something to say. 00:37:44.630 --> 00:37:48.670 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] would supplement the funding 00:37:48.670 --> 00:37:51.110 align:middle line:84% that's already in the Senate Ways and Means budget 00:37:51.110 --> 00:37:54.600 align:middle line:84% proposal for a program called the Bay State Reading 00:37:54.600 --> 00:37:55.410 align:middle line:90% Institute. 00:37:55.410 --> 00:37:59.280 align:middle line:84% And Madam President, this is a transformational program 00:37:59.280 --> 00:38:02.760 align:middle line:84% that works with school systems to change the way that students 00:38:02.760 --> 00:38:04.990 align:middle line:84% are educated by using small group 00:38:04.990 --> 00:38:09.290 align:middle line:84% instruction, by empowering instructors and teachers to be 00:38:09.290 --> 00:38:11.780 align:middle line:84% able to maximize their efforts in the classroom, 00:38:11.780 --> 00:38:14.640 align:middle line:84% by the way that interactions occur in the classroom, 00:38:14.640 --> 00:38:17.480 align:middle line:84% and, Madam President, by focusing particularly 00:38:17.480 --> 00:38:19.720 align:middle line:84% on early literacy skills that are 00:38:19.720 --> 00:38:22.700 align:middle line:84% so important in the trajectory of a student 00:38:22.700 --> 00:38:23.830 align:middle line:90% throughout their career. 00:38:23.830 --> 00:38:27.630 align:middle line:84% So Madam President, I hope that the amendment is adopted. 00:38:27.630 --> 00:38:29.700 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:38:29.700 --> 00:38:33.780 align:middle line:90% All those in favor say aye. 00:38:33.780 --> 00:38:38.010 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:38:38.010 --> 00:38:39.040 align:middle line:90% 136 is on hold. 00:38:39.040 --> 00:38:41.410 align:middle line:90% 136 has been held. 00:38:41.410 --> 00:38:43.820 align:middle line:90% 136 has been held. 00:38:43.820 --> 00:38:48.410 align:middle line:84% We now turn to 137, offered by the senator 00:38:48.410 --> 00:38:51.060 align:middle line:84% from Middlesex and Worcester Mr. Eldridge, 00:38:51.060 --> 00:38:53.831 align:middle line:84% who's filed an amendment, the title of which the clerk will 00:38:53.831 --> 00:38:54.330 align:middle line:90% read. 00:38:54.330 --> 00:38:56.730 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 137 by Mr. Eldridge, 00:38:56.730 --> 00:39:00.250 align:middle line:90% adult basic education. 00:39:00.250 --> 00:39:01.230 align:middle line:90% Settle, settle. 00:39:01.230 --> 00:39:06.090 align:middle line:84% The senator from Middlesex and Worcester rises. 00:39:06.090 --> 00:39:07.510 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 00:39:07.510 --> 00:39:10.890 align:middle line:84% The amendment, redrafted, that I have filed 00:39:10.890 --> 00:39:16.200 align:middle line:84% would increase funding for adult basic education by $500,000. 00:39:16.200 --> 00:39:19.150 align:middle line:84% Madam President, adult basic education 00:39:19.150 --> 00:39:21.920 align:middle line:84% makes a dramatic difference in the lives of thousands 00:39:21.920 --> 00:39:24.120 align:middle line:90% of people across Massachusetts. 00:39:24.120 --> 00:39:26.470 align:middle line:84% Just two weeks ago, I had the opportunity 00:39:26.470 --> 00:39:29.450 align:middle line:84% to speak at the Massachusetts Adult Basic Ed 00:39:29.450 --> 00:39:31.860 align:middle line:84% Conference, which happened in my district, 00:39:31.860 --> 00:39:34.330 align:middle line:84% and I got a chance to speak to teachers from all 00:39:34.330 --> 00:39:37.530 align:middle line:84% over Massachusetts, who, in the Q&A, 00:39:37.530 --> 00:39:40.390 align:middle line:84% got a chance to talk about the difference 00:39:40.390 --> 00:39:42.920 align:middle line:84% that they were making in their students' lives. 00:39:42.920 --> 00:39:44.890 align:middle line:84% And what I took from that is not only 00:39:44.890 --> 00:39:48.120 align:middle line:84% the help that obviously was providing them with literacy, 00:39:48.120 --> 00:39:50.790 align:middle line:84% but also, the sense of community that 00:39:50.790 --> 00:39:53.260 align:middle line:90% was created in those classrooms. 00:39:53.260 --> 00:39:55.330 align:middle line:84% Many of the individuals who benefit 00:39:55.330 --> 00:39:58.090 align:middle line:84% from adult basic education are immigrants. 00:39:58.090 --> 00:40:00.890 align:middle line:84% And one of the hallmarks of the Senate Ways and Means 00:40:00.890 --> 00:40:04.290 align:middle line:84% budget, thanks to the chairwoman and the vice chairman, 00:40:04.290 --> 00:40:09.140 align:middle line:84% is increasing funding in key areas to support immigrants. 00:40:09.140 --> 00:40:11.940 align:middle line:84% The funding for adult basic education 00:40:11.940 --> 00:40:17.310 align:middle line:84% in the Senate Ways and Means budget is $30,250,000. 00:40:17.310 --> 00:40:22.110 align:middle line:84% With this redraft, it would be $30,750,000. 00:40:22.110 --> 00:40:24.820 align:middle line:84% And of course, what adult basic education does, 00:40:24.820 --> 00:40:28.550 align:middle line:84% Madam President, is teach basic skills of reading, writing, 00:40:28.550 --> 00:40:31.900 align:middle line:84% and math to adult learners, preparing them, in many cases, 00:40:31.900 --> 00:40:35.530 align:middle line:84% to take GED and transition to a job, college, 00:40:35.530 --> 00:40:37.740 align:middle line:84% or university, or training program, 00:40:37.740 --> 00:40:39.860 align:middle line:90% and makes them more employable. 00:40:39.860 --> 00:40:41.700 align:middle line:84% I think this is a key investment. 00:40:41.700 --> 00:40:44.520 align:middle line:84% I'm very proud that the Senate has 00:40:44.520 --> 00:40:46.640 align:middle line:84% led the way over the past few years 00:40:46.640 --> 00:40:49.700 align:middle line:84% to increasing funding for adult basic education. 00:40:49.700 --> 00:40:52.520 align:middle line:84% And therefore, I ask, when we vote on this amendment, 00:40:52.520 --> 00:40:54.760 align:middle line:84% we vote by a call of the yeas and nays. 00:40:54.760 --> 00:40:58.480 align:middle line:90% 00:40:58.480 --> 00:41:00.270 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex and Middlesex-- 00:41:00.270 --> 00:41:01.500 align:middle line:90% Middlesex and Worcester-- 00:41:01.500 --> 00:41:05.360 align:middle line:84% I'm sorry, Middlesex [INAUDIBLE] has filed-- 00:41:05.360 --> 00:41:05.860 align:middle line:90% Has asked. 00:41:05.860 --> 00:41:08.240 align:middle line:84% --has asked that when a vote is taken 00:41:08.240 --> 00:41:10.860 align:middle line:84% on this redrafted amendment, it be taken 00:41:10.860 --> 00:41:12.390 align:middle line:90% by a call of the yeas and nays. 00:41:12.390 --> 00:41:15.620 align:middle line:84% Those members joining with him, please rise and be counted. 00:41:15.620 --> 00:41:16.910 align:middle line:90% Sufficient number-- 00:41:16.910 --> 00:41:21.910 align:middle line:84% Seeing a sufficient number having risen-- 00:41:21.910 --> 00:41:23.790 align:middle line:90% One vote will be taken. 00:41:23.790 --> 00:41:27.430 align:middle line:84% The yeas and nays will be ordered. 00:41:27.430 --> 00:41:28.507 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] Nope. 00:41:28.507 --> 00:41:29.090 align:middle line:90% We're all set. 00:41:29.090 --> 00:41:29.590 align:middle line:90% Nope. 00:41:29.590 --> 00:41:30.440 align:middle line:90% Anybody else? 00:41:30.440 --> 00:41:31.400 align:middle line:90% OK. 00:41:31.400 --> 00:41:33.730 align:middle line:90% So the clerk will call the roll. 00:41:33.730 --> 00:41:43.760 align:middle line:90% 00:41:43.760 --> 00:41:44.730 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Barrett? 00:41:44.730 --> 00:41:50.870 align:middle line:90% 00:41:50.870 --> 00:41:52.520 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:41:52.520 --> 00:41:54.860 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Barrett votes yes. 00:41:54.860 --> 00:41:56.760 align:middle line:90% Joseph A. Boncore? 00:41:56.760 --> 00:41:57.940 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:41:57.940 --> 00:41:58.860 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:41:58.860 --> 00:42:00.340 align:middle line:90% Michael D. Brady? 00:42:00.340 --> 00:42:01.090 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:01.090 --> 00:42:02.120 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:02.120 --> 00:42:04.250 align:middle line:90% William M. Brownsberger? 00:42:04.250 --> 00:42:04.750 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:04.750 --> 00:42:06.220 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:06.220 --> 00:42:07.220 align:middle line:90% Harriette L. Chandler? 00:42:07.220 --> 00:42:07.840 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:07.840 --> 00:42:08.780 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:08.780 --> 00:42:10.560 align:middle line:90% Sonia Chang-Diaz? 00:42:10.560 --> 00:42:11.210 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:11.210 --> 00:42:12.260 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:12.260 --> 00:42:14.110 align:middle line:90% Cynthia Stone Creem? 00:42:14.110 --> 00:42:17.790 align:middle line:90% 00:42:17.790 --> 00:42:18.770 align:middle line:90% Julian Cyr. 00:42:18.770 --> 00:42:19.310 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:19.310 --> 00:42:20.190 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:20.190 --> 00:42:22.810 align:middle line:90% Viriato M. deMacedo? 00:42:22.810 --> 00:42:23.310 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:23.310 --> 00:42:23.850 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:23.850 --> 00:42:25.340 align:middle line:90% Sal N. DiDimenico? 00:42:25.340 --> 00:42:28.600 align:middle line:90% 00:42:28.600 --> 00:42:29.780 align:middle line:90% Sal? 00:42:29.780 --> 00:42:32.330 align:middle line:90% Senator DiDimenico? 00:42:32.330 --> 00:42:32.841 align:middle line:90% Sal. 00:42:32.841 --> 00:42:33.340 align:middle line:90% Sal. 00:42:33.340 --> 00:42:34.060 align:middle line:90% Sal. 00:42:34.060 --> 00:42:34.560 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:34.560 --> 00:42:35.730 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:35.730 --> 00:42:37.670 align:middle line:90% Eilieen M. Donoghue? 00:42:37.670 --> 00:42:38.240 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:38.240 --> 00:42:39.330 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:39.330 --> 00:42:41.050 align:middle line:90% James B. Eldridge? 00:42:41.050 --> 00:42:41.970 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:41.970 --> 00:42:44.861 align:middle line:90% Yes Ryan C. Fattman? 00:42:44.861 --> 00:42:45.360 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:45.360 --> 00:42:45.970 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:45.970 --> 00:42:47.881 align:middle line:90% Jennifer L. Flanagan? 00:42:47.881 --> 00:42:48.380 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:48.380 --> 00:42:49.310 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:49.310 --> 00:42:51.760 align:middle line:90% Linda Dorcena Forry? 00:42:51.760 --> 00:42:52.720 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:52.720 --> 00:42:53.220 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:53.220 --> 00:42:53.970 align:middle line:90% Anne M. Gobi? 00:42:53.970 --> 00:42:54.620 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:54.620 --> 00:42:55.610 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:55.610 --> 00:42:57.540 align:middle line:90% Adam G. Hinds? 00:42:57.540 --> 00:42:58.040 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:58.040 --> 00:42:59.140 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:42:59.140 --> 00:43:01.460 align:middle line:90% Donald of Humason Jr.? 00:43:01.460 --> 00:43:02.140 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:02.140 --> 00:43:03.030 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:03.030 --> 00:43:04.660 align:middle line:90% Patricia D. Jehlen? 00:43:04.660 --> 00:43:05.190 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:05.190 --> 00:43:06.430 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:06.430 --> 00:43:08.160 align:middle line:90% John F. Keenan? 00:43:08.160 --> 00:43:09.050 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:09.050 --> 00:43:10.020 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:10.020 --> 00:43:11.400 align:middle line:90% Eric P. Lesser? 00:43:11.400 --> 00:43:12.350 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:12.350 --> 00:43:13.310 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:13.310 --> 00:43:15.690 align:middle line:90% Jason M. Lewis? 00:43:15.690 --> 00:43:16.190 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:16.190 --> 00:43:16.760 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:16.760 --> 00:43:19.320 align:middle line:90% Barbara A. L'Italien? 00:43:19.320 --> 00:43:19.820 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:19.820 --> 00:43:20.470 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:20.470 --> 00:43:22.100 align:middle line:90% Joan B. Lovely? 00:43:22.100 --> 00:43:22.980 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:22.980 --> 00:43:23.900 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:23.900 --> 00:43:25.650 align:middle line:90% Thomas M. McGee? 00:43:25.650 --> 00:43:26.330 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:26.330 --> 00:43:27.320 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:27.320 --> 00:43:29.790 align:middle line:90% Mark C. Montigny? 00:43:29.790 --> 00:43:30.290 align:middle line:90% Yeah. 00:43:30.290 --> 00:43:33.140 align:middle line:90% Yes Michael O. Moore? 00:43:33.140 --> 00:43:34.200 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:34.200 --> 00:43:36.810 align:middle line:90% Yes Patrick M. O'Connor? 00:43:36.810 --> 00:43:37.310 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:37.310 --> 00:43:40.320 align:middle line:90% Yes Kathleen O'Connor Ives? 00:43:40.320 --> 00:43:40.830 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:40.830 --> 00:43:41.740 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:41.740 --> 00:43:43.660 align:middle line:90% Mark R. Pacheco? 00:43:43.660 --> 00:43:44.610 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:44.610 --> 00:43:47.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:47.500 --> 00:43:48.741 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Rodrigues? 00:43:48.741 --> 00:43:49.240 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:49.240 --> 00:43:50.100 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:50.100 --> 00:43:52.850 align:middle line:90% Richard J. Ross? 00:43:52.850 --> 00:43:53.381 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:53.381 --> 00:43:53.880 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:53.880 --> 00:43:55.531 align:middle line:90% Michael F. Rush? 00:43:55.531 --> 00:43:56.030 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:56.030 --> 00:43:56.700 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:56.700 --> 00:43:58.080 align:middle line:90% Karen E. Spilka? 00:43:58.080 --> 00:43:59.100 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:59.100 --> 00:43:59.930 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:43:59.930 --> 00:44:01.650 align:middle line:90% Bruce E. Tarr? 00:44:01.650 --> 00:44:02.260 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:44:02.260 --> 00:44:03.180 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:44:03.180 --> 00:44:05.281 align:middle line:90% Walter F. Timilty? 00:44:05.281 --> 00:44:05.780 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:44:05.780 --> 00:44:06.740 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:44:06.740 --> 00:44:08.270 align:middle line:90% James T. Welch? 00:44:08.270 --> 00:44:09.020 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:44:09.020 --> 00:44:10.240 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:44:10.240 --> 00:44:19.440 align:middle line:90% Have all members [INAUDIBLE] 00:44:19.440 --> 00:44:21.660 align:middle line:90% Cynthia Stone Creem votes yes. 00:44:21.660 --> 00:44:36.150 align:middle line:90% 00:44:36.150 --> 00:44:38.840 align:middle line:84% 37 in the affirmative, none in the negative. 00:44:38.840 --> 00:44:40.990 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 00:44:40.990 --> 00:44:49.840 align:middle line:84% We turn now to number 138, filed by the senator from Middlesex 00:44:49.840 --> 00:44:52.630 align:middle line:84% and Worcester, Mr. Eldridge, who has 00:44:52.630 --> 00:44:55.440 align:middle line:84% filed an amendment, the title of which the clerk will read. 00:44:55.440 --> 00:44:57.680 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 138 by Mr. Aldridge-- 00:44:57.680 --> 00:45:00.060 align:middle line:90% municipal libraries local aid. 00:45:00.060 --> 00:45:02.840 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:45:02.840 --> 00:45:07.020 align:middle line:84% Mr. Eldridge of Middlesex and Worcester. 00:45:07.020 --> 00:45:11.200 align:middle line:90% 00:45:11.200 --> 00:45:13.620 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 138 would increase 00:45:13.620 --> 00:45:19.200 align:middle line:84% funding for municipal libraries by $377,000. 00:45:19.200 --> 00:45:22.570 align:middle line:84% I know that we're all very proud of the libraries in our cities 00:45:22.570 --> 00:45:23.530 align:middle line:90% and towns. 00:45:23.530 --> 00:45:27.660 align:middle line:84% And libraries continue to be a source for people 00:45:27.660 --> 00:45:29.200 align:middle line:90% from young to old. 00:45:29.200 --> 00:45:32.930 align:middle line:84% And even those who are looking to access information online. 00:45:32.930 --> 00:45:37.350 align:middle line:84% are still going to libraries to access that information. 00:45:37.350 --> 00:45:40.470 align:middle line:84% Libraries are a source, not only for general enjoyment, 00:45:40.470 --> 00:45:43.930 align:middle line:84% but also for connecting people to job searches, 00:45:43.930 --> 00:45:46.450 align:middle line:84% to improving their educational skills, 00:45:46.450 --> 00:45:50.000 align:middle line:84% and also, I find, a meeting place for people 00:45:50.000 --> 00:45:52.840 align:middle line:84% to come together to discuss different issues going on 00:45:52.840 --> 00:45:54.100 align:middle line:90% at the local level. 00:45:54.100 --> 00:45:58.510 align:middle line:84% So I urge my colleagues to support this amendment, which 00:45:58.510 --> 00:46:02.820 align:middle line:84% would increase funding for local aid for municipal libraries 00:46:02.820 --> 00:46:05.220 align:middle line:90% by $377,000. 00:46:05.220 --> 00:46:07.500 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:46:07.500 --> 00:46:09.380 align:middle line:84% Comes in adoption of the amendment. 00:46:09.380 --> 00:46:12.110 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, oppose no. 00:46:12.110 --> 00:46:15.110 align:middle line:84% The nays have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 00:46:15.110 --> 00:46:17.640 align:middle line:90% 00:46:17.640 --> 00:46:24.720 align:middle line:84% We turn now to 139 from the senator from Essex 00:46:24.720 --> 00:46:28.400 align:middle line:84% and Middlesex Mr. Tarr, the title 00:46:28.400 --> 00:46:29.780 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:46:29.780 --> 00:46:31.870 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 139, by Mr. Tarr, 00:46:31.870 --> 00:46:33.675 align:middle line:90% Career Pathway Pilot Program. 00:46:33.675 --> 00:46:36.440 align:middle line:90% 00:46:36.440 --> 00:46:40.320 align:middle line:84% Senator from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr. 00:46:40.320 --> 00:46:41.550 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 00:46:41.550 --> 00:46:45.880 align:middle line:84% The amendment relates to an operation in Gloucester known 00:46:45.880 --> 00:46:49.240 align:middle line:84% as Wellspring House, which has been very, very effective, 00:46:49.240 --> 00:46:52.250 align:middle line:84% not only in meeting the housing needs of families that 00:46:52.250 --> 00:46:56.880 align:middle line:84% are homeless, but also in trying to develop educational programs 00:46:56.880 --> 00:47:00.480 align:middle line:84% that help folks be able to increase their employability, 00:47:00.480 --> 00:47:02.740 align:middle line:84% increase their levels of education, 00:47:02.740 --> 00:47:07.250 align:middle line:84% and overall, Madam President, be able to improve their lives. 00:47:07.250 --> 00:47:10.020 align:middle line:84% This particular amendment would fund a partnership 00:47:10.020 --> 00:47:13.230 align:middle line:84% between Wellspring House and North Shore Community College 00:47:13.230 --> 00:47:16.020 align:middle line:84% to look at ways that the recipients 00:47:16.020 --> 00:47:18.240 align:middle line:84% of the educational programs at Wellspring 00:47:18.240 --> 00:47:21.180 align:middle line:84% now could be able to move forward and actually 00:47:21.180 --> 00:47:24.630 align:middle line:84% be able to get credits and degrees for the work that's 00:47:24.630 --> 00:47:28.390 align:middle line:84% being done, and be able to assimilate into the college 00:47:28.390 --> 00:47:30.890 align:middle line:84% programs that North Shore Community College operate. 00:47:30.890 --> 00:47:33.520 align:middle line:84% So Madam President, this is a very worthy cause, 00:47:33.520 --> 00:47:36.490 align:middle line:84% and I hope the amendment is adopted. 00:47:36.490 --> 00:47:38.660 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:47:38.660 --> 00:47:41.180 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, oppose no. 00:47:41.180 --> 00:47:43.780 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:47:43.780 --> 00:47:49.400 align:middle line:84% We now go to amendment number 140 00:47:49.400 --> 00:47:53.890 align:middle line:84% by the same senator from Essex and Middlesex, 00:47:53.890 --> 00:47:56.850 align:middle line:84% Mr. Tarr, the title of which the clerk will read. 00:47:56.850 --> 00:48:00.090 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 140 by Mr. Tarr, Three Year College 00:48:00.090 --> 00:48:02.740 align:middle line:84% Degrees and Joint Degree Programs. 00:48:02.740 --> 00:48:05.490 align:middle line:84% Mr. Tarr from Essex and Middlesex. 00:48:05.490 --> 00:48:06.650 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 00:48:06.650 --> 00:48:09.970 align:middle line:84% Madam President, this amendment does need some redrafting, 00:48:09.970 --> 00:48:13.050 align:middle line:90% and so I move that it be held. 00:48:13.050 --> 00:48:15.570 align:middle line:90% So 140 will be held. 00:48:15.570 --> 00:48:16.720 align:middle line:90% 141 is on hold. 00:48:16.720 --> 00:48:19.010 align:middle line:90% 141 is also on hold. 00:48:19.010 --> 00:48:24.890 align:middle line:84% 142 by the senator from Norfolk and Plymouth, 00:48:24.890 --> 00:48:28.490 align:middle line:84% Mr. Keenan is the title of which the clerk will read. 00:48:28.490 --> 00:48:31.990 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 142 by Mr. Keenan, Curriculum Development 00:48:31.990 --> 00:48:35.380 align:middle line:84% in Abington Public School District. 00:48:35.380 --> 00:48:36.120 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:48:36.120 --> 00:48:36.800 align:middle line:90% Mr. Humason. 00:48:36.800 --> 00:48:41.425 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 00:48:41.425 --> 00:48:42.050 align:middle line:90% Good afternoon. 00:48:42.050 --> 00:48:43.966 align:middle line:84% I was hoping that the sponsor of this question 00:48:43.966 --> 00:48:46.520 align:middle line:84% could explain to the members a little bit about what it does. 00:48:46.520 --> 00:48:48.410 align:middle line:90% Thank you very much. 00:48:48.410 --> 00:48:50.740 align:middle line:90% The senator from-- 00:48:50.740 --> 00:48:51.860 align:middle line:90% Norfolk and Plymouth. 00:48:51.860 --> 00:48:53.815 align:middle line:84% Norfolk and Plymouth, Mr. Keenan. 00:48:53.815 --> 00:48:55.440 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Madam President, through you 00:48:55.440 --> 00:48:57.070 align:middle line:90% to the gentleman from Westfield. 00:48:57.070 --> 00:49:00.240 align:middle line:84% This is an appropriation to aid with the curriculum 00:49:00.240 --> 00:49:01.240 align:middle line:90% in the town of Abington. 00:49:01.240 --> 00:49:03.510 align:middle line:84% Abington is in the process of building 00:49:03.510 --> 00:49:06.530 align:middle line:84% a co-located middle school, high school. 00:49:06.530 --> 00:49:08.320 align:middle line:90% And it is on time-- 00:49:08.320 --> 00:49:10.180 align:middle line:84% ahead of schedule actually-- and on budget. 00:49:10.180 --> 00:49:11.920 align:middle line:90% It's a great facility. 00:49:11.920 --> 00:49:14.369 align:middle line:84% And what they're doing in the course of that construction 00:49:14.369 --> 00:49:16.410 align:middle line:84% is that they're realigning their grade structures 00:49:16.410 --> 00:49:19.090 align:middle line:84% so that they can accommodate the students in that new facility. 00:49:19.090 --> 00:49:23.106 align:middle line:84% As a result, they need to modify their curriculum. 00:49:23.106 --> 00:49:24.980 align:middle line:84% So we have a situation where their curriculum 00:49:24.980 --> 00:49:27.660 align:middle line:84% is somewhat outdated, needs modification for that reason. 00:49:27.660 --> 00:49:30.370 align:middle line:84% It also needs modification to meet the demands associated 00:49:30.370 --> 00:49:31.220 align:middle line:90% with the new school. 00:49:31.220 --> 00:49:32.720 align:middle line:84% That's the purpose of the amendment, 00:49:32.720 --> 00:49:34.610 align:middle line:84% and I would move favorable action-- request 00:49:34.610 --> 00:49:35.780 align:middle line:84% favorable action on the amendment. 00:49:35.780 --> 00:49:36.860 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 00:49:36.860 --> 00:49:38.860 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:49:38.860 --> 00:49:41.760 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, oppose no. 00:49:41.760 --> 00:49:44.750 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:49:44.750 --> 00:49:50.360 align:middle line:84% We turn now to an amendment number 143, 00:49:50.360 --> 00:49:52.920 align:middle line:84% offered by the senator from Essex and Middlesex, 00:49:52.920 --> 00:49:56.750 align:middle line:84% Mr. Tarr, the title of which the clerk will read. 00:49:56.750 --> 00:50:00.510 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 143 by Mr. Tarr, Foundation Budget Review 00:50:00.510 --> 00:50:02.750 align:middle line:90% Commission. 00:50:02.750 --> 00:50:04.039 align:middle line:90% Oh my god. 00:50:04.039 --> 00:50:04.580 align:middle line:90% Brief recess. 00:50:04.580 --> 00:50:04.670 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:50:04.670 --> 00:50:06.240 align:middle line:90% Take a brief recess, please. 00:50:06.240 --> 00:50:07.520 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:50:07.520 --> 00:50:08.020 align:middle line:90% Brief rec-- 00:50:08.020 --> 00:50:35.700 align:middle line:90% 00:50:35.700 --> 00:50:39.180 align:middle line:90% The Senate is now in order. 00:50:39.180 --> 00:50:42.252 align:middle line:84% Mr. Tarr from Essex and Middlesex. 00:50:42.252 --> 00:50:43.710 align:middle line:84% Madam President, we have discovered 00:50:43.710 --> 00:50:47.269 align:middle line:84% that we can even further improve the wonderful nature 00:50:47.269 --> 00:50:48.810 align:middle line:84% of this amendment, and so that I move 00:50:48.810 --> 00:50:50.710 align:middle line:90% that it be temporarily held. 00:50:50.710 --> 00:50:55.100 align:middle line:90% So amendment 143 will be held. 00:50:55.100 --> 00:51:00.410 align:middle line:84% We turn now to 144, offered by the Senator Keenan 00:51:00.410 --> 00:51:02.850 align:middle line:84% from Norfolk and Plymouth, the title of which 00:51:02.850 --> 00:51:03.810 align:middle line:90% the clerk will read. 00:51:03.810 --> 00:51:05.960 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 144 by Mr. Keenan, 00:51:05.960 --> 00:51:08.820 align:middle line:84% Professional Development in Rockland Public Schools 00:51:08.820 --> 00:51:09.790 align:middle line:90% District. 00:51:09.790 --> 00:51:12.140 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:51:12.140 --> 00:51:14.790 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:51:14.790 --> 00:51:18.740 align:middle line:84% The nays have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 00:51:18.740 --> 00:51:24.780 align:middle line:84% We go now to amendment 145 by Mr. Brownsberger, 00:51:24.780 --> 00:51:27.040 align:middle line:84% a senator from Suffolk and Middlesex, 00:51:27.040 --> 00:51:28.960 align:middle line:84% the title of which the clerk will read. 00:51:28.960 --> 00:51:31.440 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 145 by Mr. Brownsberger, 00:51:31.440 --> 00:51:34.480 align:middle line:84% Extraordinary Special Education Costs. 00:51:34.480 --> 00:51:38.520 align:middle line:84% Mr. Humason from Second Hampden and Hampshire. 00:51:38.520 --> 00:51:41.906 align:middle line:90% Come to speak on his amendment. 00:51:41.906 --> 00:51:43.530 align:middle line:84% It looks like he's prepared to do that. 00:51:43.530 --> 00:51:45.100 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:51:45.100 --> 00:51:48.435 align:middle line:84% Mr. Brownsberger from Suffolk and Middlesex. 00:51:48.435 --> 00:51:49.560 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 00:51:49.560 --> 00:51:52.100 align:middle line:84% This amendment would provide the reserve 00:51:52.100 --> 00:51:54.800 align:middle line:84% for additional special education funding for communities 00:51:54.800 --> 00:51:56.970 align:middle line:84% that are affected by institutions that 00:51:56.970 --> 00:51:59.630 align:middle line:84% draw a large number of special needs children 00:51:59.630 --> 00:52:01.550 align:middle line:90% into their school systems. 00:52:01.550 --> 00:52:04.400 align:middle line:90% I hope the amendment is-- 00:52:04.400 --> 00:52:07.140 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:52:07.140 --> 00:52:10.220 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:52:10.220 --> 00:52:13.200 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:52:13.200 --> 00:52:20.060 align:middle line:84% Next is amendment number 146, sponsored by the Senator Tarr 00:52:20.060 --> 00:52:23.820 align:middle line:84% from Essex and Middlesex, the title of which 00:52:23.820 --> 00:52:24.740 align:middle line:90% the clerk will read. 00:52:24.740 --> 00:52:28.155 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 146 by Mr. Tarr, State Reciprocity 00:52:28.155 --> 00:52:28.655 align:middle line:90% Agreements. 00:52:28.655 --> 00:52:31.330 align:middle line:90% 00:52:31.330 --> 00:52:33.890 align:middle line:90% The question comes on Mr. Tarr. 00:52:33.890 --> 00:52:35.590 align:middle line:90% Hi, Madam President. 00:52:35.590 --> 00:52:36.450 align:middle line:90% Hi there. 00:52:36.450 --> 00:52:38.380 align:middle line:84% Madam President, I request unanimous consent 00:52:38.380 --> 00:52:40.360 align:middle line:84% to withdraw the pending amendment. 00:52:40.360 --> 00:52:42.950 align:middle line:84% Mr. Tarr from Essex and Middlesex 00:52:42.950 --> 00:52:46.380 align:middle line:84% asks unanimous consent to withdraw this amendment. 00:52:46.380 --> 00:52:49.690 align:middle line:90% What do I have to do? 00:52:49.690 --> 00:52:50.551 align:middle line:90% Madam, what's wrong? 00:52:50.551 --> 00:52:51.050 align:middle line:90% What? 00:52:51.050 --> 00:52:51.841 align:middle line:90% You don't have to-- 00:52:51.841 --> 00:52:56.830 align:middle line:90% 00:52:56.830 --> 00:53:00.430 align:middle line:84% 147 offered by the senator from Suffolk-- 00:53:00.430 --> 00:53:04.082 align:middle line:84% senator from Forry has filed an amendment, the title 00:53:04.082 --> 00:53:05.290 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:53:05.290 --> 00:53:10.150 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 147 by Miss Forry, Boston Scholar Athletes. 00:53:10.150 --> 00:53:13.430 align:middle line:90% Madam President. 00:53:13.430 --> 00:53:17.585 align:middle line:84% Yes, Mr. Humason from Second Hampden and Hampshire. 00:53:17.585 --> 00:53:18.710 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 00:53:18.710 --> 00:53:21.410 align:middle line:84% It would be a pleasure to hear from the gentlelady from Boston 00:53:21.410 --> 00:53:23.035 align:middle line:84% about this amendment, so that she could 00:53:23.035 --> 00:53:24.910 align:middle line:90% tell the members what it does. 00:53:24.910 --> 00:53:26.450 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 00:53:26.450 --> 00:53:28.360 align:middle line:90% This is a redrafted amendment. 00:53:28.360 --> 00:53:29.810 align:middle line:90% Senator from Suffolk-- 00:53:29.810 --> 00:53:32.880 align:middle line:84% Thank you Madam President, and through you to the members. 00:53:32.880 --> 00:53:36.390 align:middle line:84% I am proud to sponsor this important amendment that 00:53:36.390 --> 00:53:39.730 align:middle line:84% provides funding for the Scholar Athletes Program. 00:53:39.730 --> 00:53:43.640 align:middle line:84% This program helps support the educational achievement 00:53:43.640 --> 00:53:45.640 align:middle line:84% of young people through athletics. 00:53:45.640 --> 00:53:47.430 align:middle line:84% The impact of the Scholar Athletes 00:53:47.430 --> 00:53:49.660 align:middle line:84% has grown beyond the borders of Boston. 00:53:49.660 --> 00:53:51.870 align:middle line:84% The dedicated staff of this program 00:53:51.870 --> 00:53:56.930 align:middle line:84% serves nearly 5,000 public high school students, 4,000 of them 00:53:56.930 --> 00:54:01.440 align:middle line:84% in 19 Boston schools and 1,000 located in two Springfield 00:54:01.440 --> 00:54:02.580 align:middle line:90% high schools. 00:54:02.580 --> 00:54:06.820 align:middle line:84% And the program is growing, soon to provide services 00:54:06.820 --> 00:54:08.550 align:middle line:90% in Everett next year. 00:54:08.550 --> 00:54:13.530 align:middle line:84% This program has a proven track record of success since 2009, 00:54:13.530 --> 00:54:14.780 align:middle line:90% very important-- 00:54:14.780 --> 00:54:20.500 align:middle line:84% since 2009, 96% of the students who participated in the program 00:54:20.500 --> 00:54:22.840 align:middle line:84% graduated from high school with plans 00:54:22.840 --> 00:54:25.070 align:middle line:84% to gain a post-secondary education. 00:54:25.070 --> 00:54:27.960 align:middle line:84% Students earn higher SAT scores and were 00:54:27.960 --> 00:54:31.290 align:middle line:84% awarded more than 120 college scholarships, 00:54:31.290 --> 00:54:34.490 align:middle line:90% totaling to $4.2 million. 00:54:34.490 --> 00:54:37.330 align:middle line:84% So I ask that you join me in supporting our students 00:54:37.330 --> 00:54:38.500 align:middle line:90% with this important program. 00:54:38.500 --> 00:54:39.910 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:54:39.910 --> 00:54:41.680 align:middle line:84% Comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:54:41.680 --> 00:54:45.280 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:54:45.280 --> 00:54:48.380 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:54:48.380 --> 00:54:52.640 align:middle line:84% The next amendment is 150, offered by the senator 00:54:52.640 --> 00:54:54.660 align:middle line:84% from Middlesex and Worcester, Mr. Eldridge. 00:54:54.660 --> 00:54:56.730 align:middle line:84% What about 148, 149, Madam President. 00:54:56.730 --> 00:54:59.190 align:middle line:90% I'm sorry, forgive me. 00:54:59.190 --> 00:55:00.900 align:middle line:84% We've skipped over a couple here. 00:55:00.900 --> 00:55:05.460 align:middle line:84% The next amendment is 148, offered by the senator 00:55:05.460 --> 00:55:08.210 align:middle line:84% from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr. 00:55:08.210 --> 00:55:10.550 align:middle line:90% Sorry, Mr. Tarr. 00:55:10.550 --> 00:55:12.280 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 148 by Mr. Tarr, 00:55:12.280 --> 00:55:15.345 align:middle line:84% OSD Group Purchasing of Textbooks and Educational 00:55:15.345 --> 00:55:15.845 align:middle line:90% Materials. 00:55:15.845 --> 00:55:18.620 align:middle line:90% 00:55:18.620 --> 00:55:21.800 align:middle line:84% I am so sorry after you resurrected my amendment 00:55:21.800 --> 00:55:24.230 align:middle line:84% that I'm going to move unanimous consent to withdraw it, 00:55:24.230 --> 00:55:26.150 align:middle line:90% but I do appreciate the effort. 00:55:26.150 --> 00:55:31.790 align:middle line:84% Senator from Essex and Middlesex ask for unanimous consent 00:55:31.790 --> 00:55:35.140 align:middle line:84% to withdraw amendment number 148. 00:55:35.140 --> 00:55:39.880 align:middle line:84% We then go to 149, authored by the senator from Suffolk, Miss 00:55:39.880 --> 00:55:40.610 align:middle line:90% Forry. 00:55:40.610 --> 00:55:42.150 align:middle line:90% Miss Forry. 00:55:42.150 --> 00:55:46.230 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 149 by Miss Forry, JFK Library Civics 00:55:46.230 --> 00:55:48.640 align:middle line:90% Education. 00:55:48.640 --> 00:55:49.610 align:middle line:90% This is on hold. 00:55:49.610 --> 00:55:50.970 align:middle line:90% This is on hold. 00:55:50.970 --> 00:55:54.910 align:middle line:84% Excuse me, 149 is on hold, so we will 00:55:54.910 --> 00:55:58.300 align:middle line:84% go to 150, offered by the senator from Middlesex 00:55:58.300 --> 00:56:01.961 align:middle line:84% and Worcester, Mr. Eldridge, the title of which the clerk will 00:56:01.961 --> 00:56:02.460 align:middle line:90% read. 00:56:02.460 --> 00:56:05.600 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 150 by Mr. Eldridge, Mount Wachusett 00:56:05.600 --> 00:56:08.380 align:middle line:84% Community College Manufacturing and Technology Training 00:56:08.380 --> 00:56:09.690 align:middle line:90% Program. 00:56:09.690 --> 00:56:14.530 align:middle line:84% The senator for Middlesex and Worcester. 00:56:14.530 --> 00:56:15.900 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 00:56:15.900 --> 00:56:20.110 align:middle line:84% This is for $150,000, amendment 150, 00:56:20.110 --> 00:56:22.990 align:middle line:84% for the Mount Wachusett Community College Manufacturing 00:56:22.990 --> 00:56:25.770 align:middle line:90% and Technology Training Program. 00:56:25.770 --> 00:56:28.710 align:middle line:84% Madam President, the district that I represent, 00:56:28.710 --> 00:56:33.690 align:middle line:84% there is still manufacturing and actually growing manufacturing 00:56:33.690 --> 00:56:37.550 align:middle line:84% in the planned community of Devens, run, of course, 00:56:37.550 --> 00:56:38.890 align:middle line:90% by Mass Development. 00:56:38.890 --> 00:56:43.220 align:middle line:84% And a terrific partnership that has happened over the past six 00:56:43.220 --> 00:56:46.850 align:middle line:84% years has been a partnership between Mount Wachusett 00:56:46.850 --> 00:56:51.530 align:middle line:84% Community College and industries both at Devens, 00:56:51.530 --> 00:56:54.880 align:middle line:84% but also throughout North Central Massachusetts 00:56:54.880 --> 00:56:59.180 align:middle line:84% to provide free and low cost advanced manufacturing 00:56:59.180 --> 00:57:03.950 align:middle line:84% training to people who would not otherwise afford this training. 00:57:03.950 --> 00:57:07.390 align:middle line:84% This is an important program for North Central Massachusetts 00:57:07.390 --> 00:57:09.840 align:middle line:84% that benefits many of my constituents, 00:57:09.840 --> 00:57:11.750 align:middle line:84% but also people throughout Metro West-- 00:57:11.750 --> 00:57:14.130 align:middle line:84% excuse me, throughout North Central Massachusetts, 00:57:14.130 --> 00:57:17.810 align:middle line:84% and has actually partnered with the North Central Mass 00:57:17.810 --> 00:57:19.260 align:middle line:90% Chamber of Commerce. 00:57:19.260 --> 00:57:21.280 align:middle line:84% According to that Chamber of Commerce, 00:57:21.280 --> 00:57:24.150 align:middle line:84% 25% of the jobs in the region are 00:57:24.150 --> 00:57:25.730 align:middle line:90% in the manufacturing sector. 00:57:25.730 --> 00:57:28.250 align:middle line:84% And therefore, we need a community college 00:57:28.250 --> 00:57:32.470 align:middle line:84% setting to train residents in the area to fill these jobs. 00:57:32.470 --> 00:57:35.560 align:middle line:84% Over the past four years, Mount Wachusett Community College 00:57:35.560 --> 00:57:39.400 align:middle line:84% has been able to train 350 people in accelerated two 00:57:39.400 --> 00:57:42.860 align:middle line:84% and six week sessions, with a 92% completion 00:57:42.860 --> 00:57:46.120 align:middle line:84% rate and a nearly 75% employment rate. 00:57:46.120 --> 00:57:48.600 align:middle line:84% Continued economic growth in the region 00:57:48.600 --> 00:57:51.030 align:middle line:84% requires a steady influx of trained workers. 00:57:51.030 --> 00:57:53.090 align:middle line:84% And that's why I'm hoping you will join me 00:57:53.090 --> 00:57:57.600 align:middle line:84% in supporting this amendment for $150,000 for Mount Wachusett 00:57:57.600 --> 00:58:00.510 align:middle line:84% Community College Manufacturing and Technology Training 00:58:00.510 --> 00:58:01.230 align:middle line:90% Programs. 00:58:01.230 --> 00:58:03.970 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:58:03.970 --> 00:58:08.730 align:middle line:84% On adoption of the amendment, all those in favor say aye, 00:58:08.730 --> 00:58:12.310 align:middle line:90% all those opposed no. 00:58:12.310 --> 00:58:15.600 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 00:58:15.600 --> 00:58:22.850 align:middle line:84% We go next to 151, offered by the senator from Middlesex, 00:58:22.850 --> 00:58:26.400 align:middle line:84% Mr. Barrett, the title of which the clerk will read. 00:58:26.400 --> 00:58:29.760 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 151 by Mr. Barrett, More Than Words. 00:58:29.760 --> 00:58:32.910 align:middle line:90% Is he even hear? 00:58:32.910 --> 00:58:33.720 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:58:33.720 --> 00:58:34.220 align:middle line:90% OK. 00:58:34.220 --> 00:58:35.710 align:middle line:90% Senator from-- 00:58:35.710 --> 00:58:39.800 align:middle line:84% Senator from Hampden and Hampshire-- 00:58:39.800 --> 00:58:43.220 align:middle line:84% Madam President, I confess that in trying to come up with a way 00:58:43.220 --> 00:58:45.830 align:middle line:84% to ask the next speaker, the gentleman 00:58:45.830 --> 00:58:48.380 align:middle line:84% to explain his amendment using more than words, 00:58:48.380 --> 00:58:51.510 align:middle line:84% but I can't, so if he could, that would be wonderful. 00:58:51.510 --> 00:58:54.230 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:58:54.230 --> 00:58:56.809 align:middle line:84% The senator from Middlesex, Mr. Barrett. 00:58:56.809 --> 00:58:58.350 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much, Madam President. 00:58:58.350 --> 00:59:04.180 align:middle line:84% I appreciate the opening to talk about More Than Words, 00:59:04.180 --> 00:59:08.100 align:middle line:84% which is a program originated in Waltham, Massachusetts. 00:59:08.100 --> 00:59:11.110 align:middle line:84% This particular amendment would give the program 00:59:11.110 --> 00:59:12.890 align:middle line:90% $50,000 in funds. 00:59:12.890 --> 00:59:15.700 align:middle line:84% More Than Words is focused on helping court 00:59:15.700 --> 00:59:19.370 align:middle line:84% involved or homeless young people with employment 00:59:19.370 --> 00:59:21.640 align:middle line:84% opportunities, but it takes a very and interestingly 00:59:21.640 --> 00:59:24.130 align:middle line:90% concrete approach. 00:59:24.130 --> 00:59:27.050 align:middle line:84% More Than Words operates a bookstore 00:59:27.050 --> 00:59:30.890 align:middle line:84% in Waltham, Mass-- a secondhand bookstore, in which all 00:59:30.890 --> 00:59:35.290 align:middle line:84% the business decisions are made by the young men and women whom 00:59:35.290 --> 00:59:38.640 align:middle line:84% it seeks to train for later employment opportunities. 00:59:38.640 --> 00:59:40.530 align:middle line:84% More Than Words has just expanded 00:59:40.530 --> 00:59:42.300 align:middle line:90% to the South End of Boston. 00:59:42.300 --> 00:59:45.510 align:middle line:84% It's procured a second site where it will have 00:59:45.510 --> 00:59:47.350 align:middle line:90% a similar kind of operation. 00:59:47.350 --> 00:59:52.800 align:middle line:84% It's a terrific program that teaches the basics of business 00:59:52.800 --> 00:59:57.470 align:middle line:84% decision making, financial decision making, and retail 00:59:57.470 --> 01:00:00.050 align:middle line:84% to kids who really feel empowered, 01:00:00.050 --> 01:00:03.980 align:middle line:84% sometimes they say, for the first times in their lives. 01:00:03.980 --> 01:00:06.770 align:middle line:84% I hope there's this particular amendment is adopted. 01:00:06.770 --> 01:00:09.660 align:middle line:84% This is a wonderful initiative on the part 01:00:09.660 --> 01:00:12.407 align:middle line:90% of the organization. 01:00:12.407 --> 01:00:14.240 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:00:14.240 --> 01:00:17.610 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 01:00:17.610 --> 01:00:20.350 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 01:00:20.350 --> 01:00:22.930 align:middle line:90% Brief recess. 01:00:22.930 --> 01:00:27.907 align:middle line:84% Madam President, I ask unanimous consent 01:00:27.907 --> 01:00:28.990 align:middle line:90% to make a brief statement. 01:00:28.990 --> 01:00:33.740 align:middle line:90% 01:00:33.740 --> 01:00:36.450 align:middle line:84% Senator asks unanimous consent to make a brief statement. 01:00:36.450 --> 01:00:37.050 align:middle line:90% Is there any-- 01:00:37.050 --> 01:00:38.290 align:middle line:90% Is there any objection? 01:00:38.290 --> 01:00:41.866 align:middle line:84% Hearing none, the senator has the floor. 01:00:41.866 --> 01:00:42.990 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 01:00:42.990 --> 01:00:47.099 align:middle line:84% I rise at this particular moment because I 01:00:47.099 --> 01:00:49.640 align:middle line:84% would have had an amendment that would have been called next. 01:00:49.640 --> 01:00:51.670 align:middle line:84% I have withdrawn that amendment, but I 01:00:51.670 --> 01:00:55.090 align:middle line:84% wanted to take the opportunity to just make 01:00:55.090 --> 01:00:58.900 align:middle line:84% a brief comment about a topic related to the amendment 01:00:58.900 --> 01:01:02.280 align:middle line:84% that I withdrew, and call attention to something that I 01:01:02.280 --> 01:01:05.590 align:middle line:84% know that Ways and Means Chair outlined in her opening remarks 01:01:05.590 --> 01:01:08.610 align:middle line:84% today, but that I want to underscore and call 01:01:08.610 --> 01:01:09.840 align:middle line:90% a special attention to. 01:01:09.840 --> 01:01:12.300 align:middle line:84% And that is an incredibly positive investment 01:01:12.300 --> 01:01:14.410 align:middle line:84% that the Senate Ways and Means budget 01:01:14.410 --> 01:01:18.140 align:middle line:84% makes in preschool expansion in this budget. 01:01:18.140 --> 01:01:20.930 align:middle line:84% For years now, many in this chamber 01:01:20.930 --> 01:01:23.160 align:middle line:84% have been engaging in the hard work 01:01:23.160 --> 01:01:25.430 align:middle line:84% of expanding high quality preschool options 01:01:25.430 --> 01:01:26.400 align:middle line:90% in the Commonwealth. 01:01:26.400 --> 01:01:29.640 align:middle line:84% And from our Senate president to the newest members 01:01:29.640 --> 01:01:31.640 align:middle line:84% of this body, I think we all agree 01:01:31.640 --> 01:01:34.270 align:middle line:84% that that kind of expansion work is not the kind of thing that 01:01:34.270 --> 01:01:35.400 align:middle line:90% happens overnight. 01:01:35.400 --> 01:01:37.910 align:middle line:84% It requires diligence, it requires focus, 01:01:37.910 --> 01:01:39.510 align:middle line:90% it requires planning. 01:01:39.510 --> 01:01:41.900 align:middle line:84% And there are few members of this chamber who 01:01:41.900 --> 01:01:44.450 align:middle line:84% know that better than our distinguished Vice 01:01:44.450 --> 01:01:46.620 align:middle line:84% Chair of Ways and Means and his staff, 01:01:46.620 --> 01:01:50.320 align:middle line:84% who have been working extremely hard over the past months 01:01:50.320 --> 01:01:53.130 align:middle line:84% to produce an incredible roadmap for success 01:01:53.130 --> 01:01:57.230 align:middle line:84% for our youngest residents through the Kids First report. 01:01:57.230 --> 01:02:01.840 align:middle line:84% But if you rewind the clock a couple of years, in FY16, 01:02:01.840 --> 01:02:04.610 align:middle line:84% the Senate showed a great deal of foresight, 01:02:04.610 --> 01:02:07.790 align:middle line:84% even before we had the complete roadmap of Kids First, 01:02:07.790 --> 01:02:10.820 align:middle line:84% in establishing a new grant program, the Commonwealth 01:02:10.820 --> 01:02:14.070 align:middle line:84% Preschool Partnership, to provide municipalities 01:02:14.070 --> 01:02:16.140 align:middle line:84% and providers the funds that they need 01:02:16.140 --> 01:02:19.380 align:middle line:84% to come together and begin to do the unglamorous, but very 01:02:19.380 --> 01:02:22.940 align:middle line:84% important work of planning that would be necessary to later 01:02:22.940 --> 01:02:25.190 align:middle line:84% expand their preschool offerings, 01:02:25.190 --> 01:02:28.230 align:middle line:84% and how that program has borne fruit. 01:02:28.230 --> 01:02:30.510 align:middle line:84% In the end, over the past couple of years, 01:02:30.510 --> 01:02:34.040 align:middle line:84% 13 towns received grants and have spent the better part 01:02:34.040 --> 01:02:37.760 align:middle line:84% of two years getting themselves shovel ready for this day 01:02:37.760 --> 01:02:39.870 align:middle line:84% when we would put forth the implementation 01:02:39.870 --> 01:02:44.010 align:middle line:84% dollars to start bringing those plans into fruition. 01:02:44.010 --> 01:02:45.922 align:middle line:84% I want to just call out the communities 01:02:45.922 --> 01:02:48.130 align:middle line:84% because this has been sleepy, behind the scenes work, 01:02:48.130 --> 01:02:50.979 align:middle line:84% but really important work that we all should be proud of. 01:02:50.979 --> 01:02:53.270 align:middle line:84% The communities that have undertaken this planning work 01:02:53.270 --> 01:02:54.561 align:middle line:90% over the past couple of years-- 01:02:54.561 --> 01:02:57.419 align:middle line:84% Athol, Brockton, Cape Cod, which is 01:02:57.419 --> 01:02:58.960 align:middle line:84% of course more than one municipality, 01:02:58.960 --> 01:02:59.990 align:middle line:90% but as the region-- 01:02:59.990 --> 01:03:03.920 align:middle line:84% Fall River, Holyoke, Lawrence, Lowell, New Bedford, 01:03:03.920 --> 01:03:06.880 align:middle line:84% North Adams, Pittsfield, Somerville, Springfield, 01:03:06.880 --> 01:03:09.680 align:middle line:84% Worcester all have been recipients of this planning 01:03:09.680 --> 01:03:14.860 align:middle line:84% money since the FY16 budget, in which we showed that foresight. 01:03:14.860 --> 01:03:17.030 align:middle line:84% And now our Ways and Means chair has 01:03:17.030 --> 01:03:20.430 align:middle line:84% placed a stake in the ground, investing $15 million 01:03:20.430 --> 01:03:25.270 align:middle line:84% in preschool expansion grants to start making plans into reality 01:03:25.270 --> 01:03:28.300 align:middle line:84% and to actually expand high school quality-- 01:03:28.300 --> 01:03:32.150 align:middle line:84% I'm sorry, not high school-- preschool offerings 01:03:32.150 --> 01:03:35.190 align:middle line:84% to 1,000 more children in the Commonwealth. 01:03:35.190 --> 01:03:37.620 align:middle line:84% This is a tremendous step forward, 01:03:37.620 --> 01:03:39.550 align:middle line:84% and we should be very, very proud 01:03:39.550 --> 01:03:42.080 align:middle line:84% of the work of this body, and in particular, 01:03:42.080 --> 01:03:44.440 align:middle line:84% our Ways and Means Chair and Vice Chair. 01:03:44.440 --> 01:03:46.620 align:middle line:84% So thank you, Madam President, for the opportunity. 01:03:46.620 --> 01:03:48.203 align:middle line:84% I just couldn't resist the opportunity 01:03:48.203 --> 01:03:49.224 align:middle line:90% to highlight this work. 01:03:49.224 --> 01:03:51.140 align:middle line:84% It's something that we should all be proud of. 01:03:51.140 --> 01:03:51.640 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:03:51.640 --> 01:03:55.190 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 01:03:55.190 --> 01:03:56.200 align:middle line:90% --is withdrawn. 01:03:56.200 --> 01:03:58.770 align:middle line:90% Number 153 is withdrawn. 01:03:58.770 --> 01:04:02.690 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 154, the senator from Worcester, Senator 01:04:02.690 --> 01:04:05.140 align:middle line:84% Chandler, has filed an amendment, the title 01:04:05.140 --> 01:04:06.410 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:04:06.410 --> 01:04:09.640 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 154 by Miss Chandler, Regional School 01:04:09.640 --> 01:04:11.680 align:middle line:84% District Foundation Budget Commission. 01:04:11.680 --> 01:04:14.880 align:middle line:90% 01:04:14.880 --> 01:04:19.295 align:middle line:84% The senator from first Essex and Middlesex. 01:04:19.295 --> 01:04:23.860 align:middle line:90% 01:04:23.860 --> 01:04:35.680 align:middle line:90% Did you-- [AUDIO OUT] 01:04:35.680 --> 01:04:40.760 align:middle line:90% Far be it from me. 01:04:40.760 --> 01:04:43.170 align:middle line:84% But Madam President, it's so interesting 01:04:43.170 --> 01:04:45.690 align:middle line:84% to see how you and the gentlelady from Worcester 01:04:45.690 --> 01:04:47.700 align:middle line:84% are interchanging roles so frequently. 01:04:47.700 --> 01:04:51.100 align:middle line:84% It's hard for us to keep up, but we know that you're keeping up. 01:04:51.100 --> 01:04:53.430 align:middle line:84% And we would be delighted to hear 01:04:53.430 --> 01:04:56.570 align:middle line:84% an explanation of the pending amendment from the gentlelady 01:04:56.570 --> 01:04:57.490 align:middle line:90% from Worcester. 01:04:57.490 --> 01:04:59.850 align:middle line:90% Senator from Worcester. 01:04:59.850 --> 01:05:03.970 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Madam President, and through you, [INAUDIBLE].. 01:05:03.970 --> 01:05:09.410 align:middle line:84% This amendment [INAUDIBLE] commission 01:05:09.410 --> 01:05:12.740 align:middle line:84% on regional school district foundation [AUDIO OUT] 01:05:12.740 --> 01:05:15.110 align:middle line:84% problem for all of us who happen to have regional school 01:05:15.110 --> 01:05:17.310 align:middle line:84% systems because regional school systems were founded 01:05:17.310 --> 01:05:20.100 align:middle line:84% at a time when the people who wrote this foundation 01:05:20.100 --> 01:05:24.220 align:middle line:84% budget really didn't know very much about regional schools. 01:05:24.220 --> 01:05:26.810 align:middle line:84% And for those of us who have regional schools, 01:05:26.810 --> 01:05:29.050 align:middle line:84% the problem of the foundation budget 01:05:29.050 --> 01:05:31.150 align:middle line:90% has been an ongoing problem. 01:05:31.150 --> 01:05:33.530 align:middle line:84% We passed this in the budget last year. 01:05:33.530 --> 01:05:36.220 align:middle line:84% Unfortunately, we lost it somewhere along the way 01:05:36.220 --> 01:05:40.020 align:middle line:90% in the conference committee. 01:05:40.020 --> 01:05:42.590 align:middle line:84% No, we didn't lose it in the conference committee. 01:05:42.590 --> 01:05:45.860 align:middle line:84% The governor vetoed it because he said 01:05:45.860 --> 01:05:48.250 align:middle line:90% it was something that was done. 01:05:48.250 --> 01:05:51.140 align:middle line:84% It wasn't done in the regular foundation budget. 01:05:51.140 --> 01:05:53.260 align:middle line:84% It is something that needs to be done. 01:05:53.260 --> 01:05:55.900 align:middle line:84% There is a sense that regional school districts, 01:05:55.900 --> 01:05:59.440 align:middle line:84% and in some cases the towns that make up these districts, 01:05:59.440 --> 01:06:01.660 align:middle line:84% aren't given a fair share of the funding. 01:06:01.660 --> 01:06:03.280 align:middle line:90% That is a real problem. 01:06:03.280 --> 01:06:05.270 align:middle line:84% I believe that all of us who happen 01:06:05.270 --> 01:06:08.560 align:middle line:84% to have a regional school district 01:06:08.560 --> 01:06:12.730 align:middle line:84% want to ensure that every town has access to the education 01:06:12.730 --> 01:06:15.940 align:middle line:84% funds they need, including regional school districts 01:06:15.940 --> 01:06:17.610 align:middle line:90% like the one that I represent. 01:06:17.610 --> 01:06:19.550 align:middle line:84% I have three regional school districts. 01:06:19.550 --> 01:06:22.000 align:middle line:84% So for these reasons, I encourage the Senate 01:06:22.000 --> 01:06:24.310 align:middle line:90% to adopt amendment 154. 01:06:24.310 --> 01:06:25.370 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:06:25.370 --> 01:06:27.650 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:06:27.650 --> 01:06:29.920 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say-- 01:06:29.920 --> 01:06:30.850 align:middle line:90% Madam President? 01:06:30.850 --> 01:06:31.350 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:06:31.350 --> 01:06:33.240 align:middle line:84% Senator Tarr, senator from [INAUDIBLE].. 01:06:33.240 --> 01:06:33.790 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:06:33.790 --> 01:06:35.770 align:middle line:84% Madam President, I appreciate the explanation. 01:06:35.770 --> 01:06:38.340 align:middle line:84% I think this is a critically important amendment. 01:06:38.340 --> 01:06:41.590 align:middle line:84% It addresses an area that has not been fully considered 01:06:41.590 --> 01:06:44.330 align:middle line:84% and one that continues to be problematic 01:06:44.330 --> 01:06:46.810 align:middle line:84% as realities play out in ways that 01:06:46.810 --> 01:06:48.300 align:middle line:90% might have been unanticipated. 01:06:48.300 --> 01:06:51.110 align:middle line:84% So Madam President, I move that when a vote is taken then 01:06:51.110 --> 01:06:54.770 align:middle line:84% this matter be taken by a call of the yeas and nays. 01:06:54.770 --> 01:06:59.960 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex has moved that when a vote is taken, 01:06:59.960 --> 01:07:01.880 align:middle line:84% it be taken by a call of the yeas and nays. 01:07:01.880 --> 01:07:04.990 align:middle line:84% Those members joining with him, please rise and be counted. 01:07:04.990 --> 01:07:08.540 align:middle line:84% A sufficient number of members have risen. 01:07:08.540 --> 01:07:10.270 align:middle line:84% The yeas and nays will be ordered 01:07:10.270 --> 01:07:11.880 align:middle line:84% and the clerk will call the roll. 01:07:11.880 --> 01:07:26.940 align:middle line:90% 01:07:26.940 --> 01:07:30.730 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 01:07:30.730 --> 01:07:31.590 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:07:31.590 --> 01:07:32.850 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:07:32.850 --> 01:07:34.820 align:middle line:90% Joseph A. Boncore. 01:07:34.820 --> 01:07:35.660 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:07:35.660 --> 01:07:36.860 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:07:36.860 --> 01:07:38.630 align:middle line:90% Michael D. Brady. 01:07:38.630 --> 01:07:39.380 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:07:39.380 --> 01:07:40.470 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:07:40.470 --> 01:07:43.001 align:middle line:90% William N. Brownsberger. 01:07:43.001 --> 01:07:43.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:07:43.500 --> 01:07:44.160 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:07:44.160 --> 01:07:46.280 align:middle line:90% Harriette L. Chandler. 01:07:46.280 --> 01:07:47.720 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:07:47.720 --> 01:07:48.220 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:07:48.220 --> 01:07:50.180 align:middle line:90% Sonia Chang-Diaz. 01:07:50.180 --> 01:07:50.680 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:07:50.680 --> 01:07:51.400 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:07:51.400 --> 01:07:53.250 align:middle line:90% Cynthia Stone Creem. 01:07:53.250 --> 01:07:53.810 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:07:53.810 --> 01:07:54.980 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:07:54.980 --> 01:07:55.961 align:middle line:90% Julian Cyr. 01:07:55.961 --> 01:07:56.460 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:07:56.460 --> 01:08:01.200 align:middle line:90% 01:08:01.200 --> 01:08:03.201 align:middle line:90% Viriato M. deMacedo. 01:08:03.201 --> 01:08:03.700 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:03.700 --> 01:08:04.310 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:04.310 --> 01:08:06.761 align:middle line:90% Sal N. DiDomenico. 01:08:06.761 --> 01:08:07.260 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:07.260 --> 01:08:07.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:07.800 --> 01:08:10.010 align:middle line:90% Eileen M. Donoghue. 01:08:10.010 --> 01:08:10.510 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:10.510 --> 01:08:13.460 align:middle line:90% Yes James B. Eldridge. 01:08:13.460 --> 01:08:13.960 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:13.960 --> 01:08:14.490 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:14.490 --> 01:08:16.460 align:middle line:90% Ryan C. Fattman. 01:08:16.460 --> 01:08:17.181 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:17.181 --> 01:08:17.680 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:17.680 --> 01:08:19.950 align:middle line:90% Jennifer L. Flanagan. 01:08:19.950 --> 01:08:20.450 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:20.450 --> 01:08:20.950 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:20.950 --> 01:08:23.490 align:middle line:90% Linda Dorcena Forry. 01:08:23.490 --> 01:08:24.640 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:24.640 --> 01:08:25.140 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:25.140 --> 01:08:26.210 align:middle line:90% Anne M. Gobi. 01:08:26.210 --> 01:08:26.720 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:26.720 --> 01:08:27.750 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:27.750 --> 01:08:29.770 align:middle line:90% Adam G. Hinds. 01:08:29.770 --> 01:08:30.430 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:30.430 --> 01:08:31.359 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:31.359 --> 01:08:33.359 align:middle line:90% Donald F. Humason, Jr. 01:08:33.359 --> 01:08:33.939 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:33.939 --> 01:08:34.819 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:34.819 --> 01:08:38.140 align:middle line:90% Patricia D. Jehlen. 01:08:38.140 --> 01:08:38.640 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:38.640 --> 01:08:39.750 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:39.750 --> 01:08:42.479 align:middle line:90% John F. Keenan. 01:08:42.479 --> 01:08:43.600 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:43.600 --> 01:08:44.100 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:44.100 --> 01:08:44.819 align:middle line:90% Eric P. Lesser. 01:08:44.819 --> 01:08:45.840 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:45.840 --> 01:08:46.660 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:46.660 --> 01:08:47.810 align:middle line:90% Jason M. Lewis. 01:08:47.810 --> 01:08:48.830 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:48.830 --> 01:08:49.729 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:49.729 --> 01:08:52.001 align:middle line:90% Barbara A. L'Italien. 01:08:52.001 --> 01:08:52.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:52.500 --> 01:08:53.029 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:53.029 --> 01:08:54.510 align:middle line:90% Joan B. Lovely. 01:08:54.510 --> 01:08:55.330 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:55.330 --> 01:08:56.600 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:56.600 --> 01:08:59.100 align:middle line:90% Thomas M. McGee. 01:08:59.100 --> 01:08:59.630 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:08:59.630 --> 01:09:00.590 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:00.590 --> 01:09:02.510 align:middle line:90% Mark C. Montigny. 01:09:02.510 --> 01:09:03.010 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:03.010 --> 01:09:03.510 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:03.510 --> 01:09:05.819 align:middle line:90% 01:09:05.819 --> 01:09:06.609 align:middle line:90% Michael O. Moore. 01:09:06.609 --> 01:09:07.750 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:07.750 --> 01:09:08.760 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:08.760 --> 01:09:10.521 align:middle line:90% Patrick M. O'Connor. 01:09:10.521 --> 01:09:11.020 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:11.020 --> 01:09:11.930 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:11.930 --> 01:09:13.950 align:middle line:90% Kathleen O'Connor Ives. 01:09:13.950 --> 01:09:14.450 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:14.450 --> 01:09:15.279 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:15.279 --> 01:09:17.100 align:middle line:90% Marc R. Pacheco. 01:09:17.100 --> 01:09:17.609 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:17.609 --> 01:09:18.560 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:18.560 --> 01:09:20.290 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Rodrigues. 01:09:20.290 --> 01:09:20.790 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:20.790 --> 01:09:21.569 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:21.569 --> 01:09:23.301 align:middle line:90% Stanley C. Rosenberg. 01:09:23.301 --> 01:09:23.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:23.800 --> 01:09:24.640 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:24.640 --> 01:09:26.260 align:middle line:90% Richard J. Ross. 01:09:26.260 --> 01:09:26.830 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:26.830 --> 01:09:27.660 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:27.660 --> 01:09:29.791 align:middle line:90% Michael F. Rush. 01:09:29.791 --> 01:09:30.290 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:30.290 --> 01:09:30.810 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:30.810 --> 01:09:32.149 align:middle line:90% Karen E. Spilka. 01:09:32.149 --> 01:09:33.020 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:33.020 --> 01:09:33.979 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:33.979 --> 01:09:35.569 align:middle line:90% Bruce E. Tarr. 01:09:35.569 --> 01:09:36.069 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:36.069 --> 01:09:37.319 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:37.319 --> 01:09:39.520 align:middle line:90% Walter F. Timilty. 01:09:39.520 --> 01:09:40.689 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:40.689 --> 01:09:41.189 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:41.189 --> 01:09:42.899 align:middle line:90% James T. Welch. 01:09:42.899 --> 01:09:44.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:44.500 --> 01:09:45.000 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:09:45.000 --> 01:09:46.920 align:middle line:90% Have all members been recorded? 01:09:46.920 --> 01:09:50.370 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 01:09:50.370 --> 01:09:51.624 align:middle line:90% Julian Cyr votes yes. 01:09:51.624 --> 01:10:02.330 align:middle line:90% 01:10:02.330 --> 01:10:04.840 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 01:10:04.840 --> 01:10:06.130 align:middle line:90% That's the best job of all. 01:10:06.130 --> 01:10:06.280 align:middle line:90% It is. 01:10:06.280 --> 01:10:07.340 align:middle line:90% 38 in the affirmative. 01:10:07.340 --> 01:10:10.810 align:middle line:90% None in the negative. 01:10:10.810 --> 01:10:12.150 align:middle line:90% 38 in the affirmative. 01:10:12.150 --> 01:10:13.360 align:middle line:90% None in the negative. 01:10:13.360 --> 01:10:15.270 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 01:10:15.270 --> 01:10:18.640 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 155. 01:10:18.640 --> 01:10:20.710 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester, Senator Chandler, 01:10:20.710 --> 01:10:22.780 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:10:22.780 --> 01:10:24.460 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:10:24.460 --> 01:10:27.990 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 155 by Miss Chandler, Recreation Worcester. 01:10:27.990 --> 01:10:31.120 align:middle line:90% Question comes on-- 01:10:31.120 --> 01:10:33.410 align:middle line:90% Ques-- Miss Chandler. 01:10:33.410 --> 01:10:38.661 align:middle line:90% 01:10:38.661 --> 01:10:39.160 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 01:10:39.160 --> 01:10:42.400 align:middle line:84% This is the top priority of the city of Worcester. 01:10:42.400 --> 01:10:47.710 align:middle line:84% It provides $200,000 in funding for Recreation Worcester. 01:10:47.710 --> 01:10:52.140 align:middle line:84% It's a free summer and after-school program for youth 01:10:52.140 --> 01:10:54.940 align:middle line:84% to promote healthy and productive lifestyles 01:10:54.940 --> 01:10:55.990 align:middle line:90% for students. 01:10:55.990 --> 01:11:00.550 align:middle line:84% It is open to all students in grades 3 to 12 01:11:00.550 --> 01:11:04.960 align:middle line:84% who attend any public, private, or parochial or charter school 01:11:04.960 --> 01:11:05.820 align:middle line:90% in Worcester. 01:11:05.820 --> 01:11:10.500 align:middle line:84% It provides snacks, homework, tutoring, art classes, 01:11:10.500 --> 01:11:14.570 align:middle line:84% drug abuse prevention programs, and sports activities. 01:11:14.570 --> 01:11:16.950 align:middle line:84% I happen to have seen it in action last summer. 01:11:16.950 --> 01:11:19.010 align:middle line:90% It's a very impressive program. 01:11:19.010 --> 01:11:22.830 align:middle line:84% Keeps kids off the streets, keeps them busy, 01:11:22.830 --> 01:11:25.500 align:middle line:84% provides the tutoring that so many of them need, 01:11:25.500 --> 01:11:30.680 align:middle line:84% provides a healthy and a hot lunch and a breakfast, as well. 01:11:30.680 --> 01:11:35.760 align:middle line:84% And it makes a huge difference in young children's ideas 01:11:35.760 --> 01:11:37.270 align:middle line:90% and their lives. 01:11:37.270 --> 01:11:41.090 align:middle line:84% And frankly, it goes a long way toward Kids First, 01:11:41.090 --> 01:11:44.360 align:middle line:84% which is another of the Senate's priorities. 01:11:44.360 --> 01:11:51.651 align:middle line:84% So I hope that you will adopt Amendment 155. 01:11:51.651 --> 01:11:52.150 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:11:52.150 --> 01:11:52.890 align:middle line:90% I can't hear. 01:11:52.890 --> 01:11:54.940 align:middle line:90% Or I'm hearing too much. 01:11:54.940 --> 01:11:57.510 align:middle line:90% So please take your-- 01:11:57.510 --> 01:12:00.310 align:middle line:84% please-- would the members please 01:12:00.310 --> 01:12:02.600 align:middle line:90% speak outside of the room? 01:12:02.600 --> 01:12:05.330 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:12:05.330 --> 01:12:07.330 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:12:07.330 --> 01:12:11.370 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it and the amendment is adopted. 01:12:11.370 --> 01:12:12.530 align:middle line:90% Brief recess. 01:12:12.530 --> 01:12:13.930 align:middle line:90% Brief recess. 01:12:13.930 --> 01:12:33.430 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 01:12:33.430 --> 01:12:37.780 align:middle line:84% --156, senator from Norfolk, Bristol, and Middlesex, 01:12:37.780 --> 01:12:40.940 align:middle line:84% Mr. Ross, has filed an amendment, the title 01:12:40.940 --> 01:12:42.270 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:12:42.270 --> 01:12:45.145 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 156 by Mr. Ross, [INAUDIBLE] School 01:12:45.145 --> 01:12:45.645 align:middle line:90% Mitigation. 01:12:45.645 --> 01:12:48.880 align:middle line:90% 01:12:48.880 --> 01:12:50.880 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:12:50.880 --> 01:12:52.780 align:middle line:90% All those in favor say aye. 01:12:52.780 --> 01:12:55.160 align:middle line:90% Those opposed say no. 01:12:55.160 --> 01:13:00.630 align:middle line:84% And the nos have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 01:13:00.630 --> 01:13:07.490 align:middle line:84% Number 157, offered by the senator from Suffolk, 01:13:07.490 --> 01:13:12.460 align:middle line:84% Ms. Chan-Diaz, the title of which the clerk will read. 01:13:12.460 --> 01:13:14.970 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 157 by Ms. Chang-Diaz, [? 01:13:14.970 --> 01:13:17.440 align:middle line:90% Summit ?] Learning Grants. 01:13:17.440 --> 01:13:19.590 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:13:19.590 --> 01:13:22.580 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, oppose, no. 01:13:22.580 --> 01:13:25.650 align:middle line:84% The nays have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 01:13:25.650 --> 01:13:28.150 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 158 is on hold. 01:13:28.150 --> 01:13:30.940 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 158 is on hold. 01:13:30.940 --> 01:13:34.700 align:middle line:84% 159, offered by the senator from Essex, 01:13:34.700 --> 01:13:39.390 align:middle line:84% Ms. Lovely, the title of which the clerk will read. 01:13:39.390 --> 01:13:42.410 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 159 by Ms. Lovely, Homeless Student 01:13:42.410 --> 01:13:43.560 align:middle line:90% Transportation Commission. 01:13:43.560 --> 01:13:46.180 align:middle line:90% 01:13:46.180 --> 01:13:49.146 align:middle line:90% The senator from Essex. 01:13:49.146 --> 01:13:50.270 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 01:13:50.270 --> 01:13:54.730 align:middle line:84% This amendment amends section 190 of chapter-- 01:13:54.730 --> 01:13:59.080 align:middle line:84% Chair asks all members and guests 01:13:59.080 --> 01:14:02.210 align:middle line:84% to please hold your conversations 01:14:02.210 --> 01:14:06.360 align:middle line:84% and allow the senator from Essex to explain 01:14:06.360 --> 01:14:08.380 align:middle line:90% what her amendment is. 01:14:08.380 --> 01:14:09.630 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 01:14:09.630 --> 01:14:12.030 align:middle line:84% This amendment amends section 190 01:14:12.030 --> 01:14:15.240 align:middle line:84% of chapter 133 of the Acts of 2016, 01:14:15.240 --> 01:14:17.610 align:middle line:84% which created a special commission to study and make 01:14:17.610 --> 01:14:20.220 align:middle line:84% recommendations to improve efficiencies 01:14:20.220 --> 01:14:22.910 align:middle line:84% relative to transportation for homeless students. 01:14:22.910 --> 01:14:25.190 align:middle line:84% The commission is responsible for reviewing 01:14:25.190 --> 01:14:27.430 align:middle line:84% the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance 01:14:27.430 --> 01:14:29.760 align:middle line:84% Act and methods that districts use 01:14:29.760 --> 01:14:32.690 align:middle line:84% to transport homeless students, including current costs 01:14:32.690 --> 01:14:35.550 align:middle line:84% and recommendations for improvements and efficiencies. 01:14:35.550 --> 01:14:37.960 align:middle line:84% This amendment clarifies that the commission will 01:14:37.960 --> 01:14:40.970 align:middle line:84% be chaired by the Secretary of Education or a designee 01:14:40.970 --> 01:14:43.760 align:middle line:84% and shall file this report and recommendations no later 01:14:43.760 --> 01:14:46.150 align:middle line:90% than December 31, 2018. 01:14:46.150 --> 01:14:48.260 align:middle line:84% I hope that the amendment is adopted. 01:14:48.260 --> 01:14:49.920 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:14:49.920 --> 01:14:51.300 align:middle line:90% Adoption of the amendment. 01:14:51.300 --> 01:14:54.580 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:14:54.580 --> 01:14:57.290 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 01:14:57.290 --> 01:15:03.620 align:middle line:84% The next amendment is 160, that is in a hold. 01:15:03.620 --> 01:15:08.160 align:middle line:84% After that is 161, offered by the senator from Middlesex 01:15:08.160 --> 01:15:10.380 align:middle line:84% and Norfolk, Ms. Creem, the title 01:15:10.380 --> 01:15:12.380 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:15:12.380 --> 01:15:15.865 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 161 by Ms. Creem, Steps to Success. 01:15:15.865 --> 01:15:18.890 align:middle line:90% 01:15:18.890 --> 01:15:22.220 align:middle line:84% Mr. Humason from-- I have to keep looking-- 01:15:22.220 --> 01:15:24.615 align:middle line:90% 2nd Hampden and Hampshire. 01:15:24.615 --> 01:15:25.740 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 01:15:25.740 --> 01:15:27.864 align:middle line:84% I was hoping that the sponsor of the next amendment 01:15:27.864 --> 01:15:30.400 align:middle line:84% would explain to us what her amendment does 01:15:30.400 --> 01:15:38.800 align:middle line:90% in as few steps as possible. 01:15:38.800 --> 01:15:40.910 align:middle line:90% Come on up. 01:15:40.910 --> 01:15:42.430 align:middle line:90% Senator-- excuse me. 01:15:42.430 --> 01:15:45.450 align:middle line:84% Senator from Middlesex and Norfolk. 01:15:45.450 --> 01:15:46.680 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 01:15:46.680 --> 01:15:50.150 align:middle line:84% steps to Success is a wide-ranging after-school 01:15:50.150 --> 01:15:52.380 align:middle line:84% and out-of-school program which provides 01:15:52.380 --> 01:15:56.300 align:middle line:84% individualized attention to students in grades 4 01:15:56.300 --> 01:16:00.010 align:middle line:84% through 12, both within housing authority buildings 01:16:00.010 --> 01:16:01.980 align:middle line:84% and at the high school in Brookline. 01:16:01.980 --> 01:16:05.560 align:middle line:84% Teachers and aides provide after-school and out-of-school 01:16:05.560 --> 01:16:09.500 align:middle line:84% tutoring and activities and assist with college selection 01:16:09.500 --> 01:16:10.670 align:middle line:90% and application. 01:16:10.670 --> 01:16:15.080 align:middle line:84% Dedicated staff support students by encouraging and facilitating 01:16:15.080 --> 01:16:18.540 align:middle line:84% participation in other extracurricular activities, 01:16:18.540 --> 01:16:20.220 align:middle line:90% including sports and theater. 01:16:20.220 --> 01:16:22.870 align:middle line:84% The Brookline school committee highlights the Steps 01:16:22.870 --> 01:16:26.840 align:middle line:84% to Success program as a successful tutoring program, 01:16:26.840 --> 01:16:31.160 align:middle line:84% which has moved at-risk students onto the college track. 01:16:31.160 --> 01:16:34.120 align:middle line:84% These funds will help the Steps to Success program 01:16:34.120 --> 01:16:38.940 align:middle line:84% provide more resources for students who may be at risk 01:16:38.940 --> 01:16:41.990 align:middle line:84% or need extra assistance to reach their goal. 01:16:41.990 --> 01:16:43.920 align:middle line:90% And I hope this item is passed. 01:16:43.920 --> 01:16:44.910 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam. 01:16:44.910 --> 01:16:47.030 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:16:47.030 --> 01:16:50.800 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:16:50.800 --> 01:16:56.640 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 01:16:56.640 --> 01:16:59.090 align:middle line:90% Amendment 162 is on hold. 01:16:59.090 --> 01:17:01.850 align:middle line:90% Amendment 163 is on hold. 01:17:01.850 --> 01:17:06.950 align:middle line:84% And we now turn to 164, which is a redrafted amendment offered 01:17:06.950 --> 01:17:10.120 align:middle line:84% by the senator from Norfolk, Bristol, and Middlesex, 01:17:10.120 --> 01:17:15.110 align:middle line:84% Mr. Ross, the title of which the clerk will read. 01:17:15.110 --> 01:17:18.470 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 164 by Mr. Ross, Updating Jackson 01:17:18.470 --> 01:17:21.259 align:middle line:90% Elementary School's Playground. 01:17:21.259 --> 01:17:22.550 align:middle line:90% Thanks for reading [INAUDIBLE]. 01:17:22.550 --> 01:17:25.190 align:middle line:90% They might not have gotten that. 01:17:25.190 --> 01:17:28.440 align:middle line:90% 164 actually-- will you stop? 01:17:28.440 --> 01:17:30.690 align:middle line:84% This supports the town of Plainville. 01:17:30.690 --> 01:17:33.000 align:middle line:84% The elementary school system has not 01:17:33.000 --> 01:17:35.647 align:middle line:84% had a playground update in a long, long time. 01:17:35.647 --> 01:17:37.730 align:middle line:84% This makes the outdoor experience for the students 01:17:37.730 --> 01:17:41.350 align:middle line:84% there a little bit more enjoyable and a lot safer, 01:17:41.350 --> 01:17:45.364 align:middle line:84% so consequently I'm hoping for this $25,000 01:17:45.364 --> 01:17:47.530 align:middle line:84% from the town of Plainville and I urge your support. 01:17:47.530 --> 01:17:48.030 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:17:48.030 --> 01:17:50.630 align:middle line:90% 01:17:50.630 --> 01:17:53.240 align:middle line:84% On adoption of the amendment, all those in favor 01:17:53.240 --> 01:17:55.490 align:middle line:90% say aye, opposed, no. 01:17:55.490 --> 01:17:58.340 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 01:17:58.340 --> 01:18:04.350 align:middle line:84% Number 165, offered by the senator from Worcester, 01:18:04.350 --> 01:18:07.240 align:middle line:84% Mr. Moore, the title of which the clerk will read. 01:18:07.240 --> 01:18:09.480 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 165 by Mr. Moore, 01:18:09.480 --> 01:18:12.300 align:middle line:84% Above Foundation Spending Percentage. 01:18:12.300 --> 01:18:15.780 align:middle line:84% Senator from Worcester, Mr. Moore. 01:18:15.780 --> 01:18:18.740 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] this item to be held. 01:18:18.740 --> 01:18:26.440 align:middle line:84% The senator asks that item number 165 be held. 01:18:26.440 --> 01:18:30.970 align:middle line:84% The next amendment is 166, offered by the same senator 01:18:30.970 --> 01:18:33.100 align:middle line:84% from Worcester, Mr. Moore, the title 01:18:33.100 --> 01:18:34.860 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:18:34.860 --> 01:18:38.520 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 166 by Mr. Moore, Bottom Line. 01:18:38.520 --> 01:18:41.250 align:middle line:90% 01:18:41.250 --> 01:18:43.260 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:18:43.260 --> 01:18:44.360 align:middle line:90% All those in favor-- 01:18:44.360 --> 01:18:46.560 align:middle line:90% Mr. Humason, you sent-- 01:18:46.560 --> 01:18:49.787 align:middle line:84% I'm just curious to know more about the bottom line. 01:18:49.787 --> 01:18:52.120 align:middle line:84% If the sponsor would please explain it, that'd be great. 01:18:52.120 --> 01:18:54.317 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:18:54.317 --> 01:18:55.900 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester, Mr. Moore. 01:18:55.900 --> 01:18:57.024 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 01:18:57.024 --> 01:19:01.240 align:middle line:84% This amendment provides $150,000 for the Bottom Line program, 01:19:01.240 --> 01:19:04.650 align:middle line:84% which is a program that helps low-income students 01:19:04.650 --> 01:19:08.510 align:middle line:84% from the application process through their tenure 01:19:08.510 --> 01:19:10.230 align:middle line:90% during college. 01:19:10.230 --> 01:19:13.970 align:middle line:84% The data and the results have shown a higher completion rate 01:19:13.970 --> 01:19:15.880 align:middle line:84% and success rate for the students 01:19:15.880 --> 01:19:18.320 align:middle line:84% who have been participating in this mentoring program. 01:19:18.320 --> 01:19:21.850 align:middle line:84% So this is a very wise investment into our students 01:19:21.850 --> 01:19:25.425 align:middle line:84% and their success in their higher education experiences, 01:19:25.425 --> 01:19:27.300 align:middle line:84% and I ask for your support in this amendment. 01:19:27.300 --> 01:19:29.657 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:19:29.657 --> 01:19:30.740 align:middle line:90% Adoption of the amendment. 01:19:30.740 --> 01:19:33.650 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:19:33.650 --> 01:19:34.760 align:middle line:90% The nays have it. 01:19:34.760 --> 01:19:36.610 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 01:19:36.610 --> 01:19:38.140 align:middle line:90% The next amendment is by-- 01:19:38.140 --> 01:19:40.300 align:middle line:90% Brief recess. 01:19:40.300 --> 01:19:40.935 align:middle line:90% Brief recess. 01:19:40.935 --> 01:19:54.340 align:middle line:90% 01:19:54.340 --> 01:19:56.630 align:middle line:84% Moore asks, unanimous consent, that no action 01:19:56.630 --> 01:20:00.030 align:middle line:90% be taken on number 166. 01:20:00.030 --> 01:20:00.530 align:middle line:90% Questions. 01:20:00.530 --> 01:20:01.752 align:middle line:90% Is there any objection? 01:20:01.752 --> 01:20:02.460 align:middle line:90% Chair hears none. 01:20:02.460 --> 01:20:03.420 align:middle line:90% Chair hears none. 01:20:03.420 --> 01:20:05.440 align:middle line:84% Question comes from the amendment. 01:20:05.440 --> 01:20:08.100 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the adoption of the amendment. 01:20:08.100 --> 01:20:11.780 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:20:11.780 --> 01:20:12.280 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:20:12.280 --> 01:20:16.670 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 01:20:16.670 --> 01:20:20.850 align:middle line:84% Same senator, Mr. Moore for Worcester, 01:20:20.850 --> 01:20:25.730 align:middle line:84% offers Amendment 167, the title of which the clerk will read. 01:20:25.730 --> 01:20:28.990 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 167 by Mr. Moore, Central Mass Skill 01:20:28.990 --> 01:20:32.270 align:middle line:90% Worker Partnership. 01:20:32.270 --> 01:20:33.437 align:middle line:90% Question comes on adoption-- 01:20:33.437 --> 01:20:33.936 align:middle line:90% No? 01:20:33.936 --> 01:20:34.600 align:middle line:90% I guess not. 01:20:34.600 --> 01:20:36.990 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:20:36.990 --> 01:20:40.340 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:20:40.340 --> 01:20:41.640 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 01:20:41.640 --> 01:20:42.690 align:middle line:90% Excuse me. 01:20:42.690 --> 01:20:46.350 align:middle line:84% The nos have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 01:20:46.350 --> 01:20:57.620 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the next amendment, 168, 01:20:57.620 --> 01:21:00.840 align:middle line:90% by Mr. Moore of Worcester. 01:21:00.840 --> 01:21:04.200 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 168 by Mr. Moore, Cummings School 01:21:04.200 --> 01:21:06.580 align:middle line:90% of Veterinary Medicine. 01:21:06.580 --> 01:21:29.910 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 01:21:29.910 --> 01:21:35.550 align:middle line:84% Adoption of the amendment number 168 01:21:35.550 --> 01:21:38.721 align:middle line:84% by Senator Moore of Worcester, the Cummings 01:21:38.721 --> 01:21:39.970 align:middle line:90% School of Veterinary Medicine. 01:21:39.970 --> 01:21:42.580 align:middle line:90% 01:21:42.580 --> 01:21:47.150 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:21:47.150 --> 01:21:52.140 align:middle line:84% The nos have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 01:21:52.140 --> 01:21:57.590 align:middle line:84% Number 169, offered by the same Senator Moore from Worcester, 01:21:57.590 --> 01:22:00.920 align:middle line:84% the title of which the clerk will read. 01:22:00.920 --> 01:22:04.045 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 169 by Mr. Moore, Duel Enrollment. 01:22:04.045 --> 01:22:06.610 align:middle line:90% 01:22:06.610 --> 01:22:09.170 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:22:09.170 --> 01:22:14.100 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:22:14.100 --> 01:22:17.140 align:middle line:84% The nos have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 01:22:17.140 --> 01:22:20.770 align:middle line:90% Brief recess, please. 01:22:20.770 --> 01:22:21.320 align:middle line:90% Brief recess. 01:22:21.320 --> 01:23:08.950 align:middle line:90% 01:23:08.950 --> 01:23:11.520 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 170 is on hold. 01:23:11.520 --> 01:23:14.190 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 171, the senator from Worcester, 01:23:14.190 --> 01:23:14.790 align:middle line:90% Mr. Moore. 01:23:14.790 --> 01:23:16.290 align:middle line:90% Has filed an amendment. 01:23:16.290 --> 01:23:18.990 align:middle line:90% Has filed an amendment. 01:23:18.990 --> 01:23:21.610 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:23:21.610 --> 01:23:22.410 align:middle line:90% Brief recess. 01:23:22.410 --> 01:23:42.020 align:middle line:90% 01:23:42.020 --> 01:23:43.660 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 171. 01:23:43.660 --> 01:23:45.840 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester, Mr. Moore, 01:23:45.840 --> 01:23:47.260 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:23:47.260 --> 01:23:48.950 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:23:48.950 --> 01:23:51.800 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 171 by Mr. Moore, Early Education 01:23:51.800 --> 01:23:55.027 align:middle line:90% and Care Workforce Study. 01:23:55.027 --> 01:23:56.860 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:23:56.860 --> 01:23:58.840 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:23:58.840 --> 01:24:03.000 align:middle line:84% Nos have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 01:24:03.000 --> 01:24:06.450 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 172. 01:24:06.450 --> 01:24:09.040 align:middle line:90% Brief recess. 01:24:09.040 --> 01:24:23.700 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 172 is on hold. 01:24:23.700 --> 01:24:26.190 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 173. 01:24:26.190 --> 01:24:28.770 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester, Mr. Moore, 01:24:28.770 --> 01:24:31.060 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:24:31.060 --> 01:24:32.670 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:24:32.670 --> 01:24:35.700 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 173 by Mr. Moore, Higher Education 01:24:35.700 --> 01:24:38.197 align:middle line:90% Collaboration and Efficiency. 01:24:38.197 --> 01:24:40.030 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:24:40.030 --> 01:24:42.780 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:24:42.780 --> 01:24:43.620 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 01:24:43.620 --> 01:24:45.620 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 01:24:45.620 --> 01:24:48.280 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 174. 01:24:48.280 --> 01:24:51.245 align:middle line:84% The senator from Plymouth and Bristol, Mr. Brady, 01:24:51.245 --> 01:24:52.620 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:24:52.620 --> 01:24:53.870 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:24:53.870 --> 01:24:59.580 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 174 by Mr. Brady, Education Reimbursement. 01:24:59.580 --> 01:25:02.650 align:middle line:84% Senator from Plymouth and Bristol, Mr. Brady. 01:25:02.650 --> 01:25:03.720 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:25:03.720 --> 01:25:05.580 align:middle line:84% And through you to the members, this 01:25:05.580 --> 01:25:08.610 align:middle line:84% was filed in regards to any city hosting 01:25:08.610 --> 01:25:13.270 align:middle line:84% a charter school that opened in the years 2016-2017 school 01:25:13.270 --> 01:25:13.770 align:middle line:90% year. 01:25:13.770 --> 01:25:16.850 align:middle line:84% In a temporary location outside of the said city, 01:25:16.850 --> 01:25:18.830 align:middle line:84% the increased tuition in said school year 01:25:18.830 --> 01:25:21.820 align:middle line:84% should be treated as a first-year increase 01:25:21.820 --> 01:25:23.720 align:middle line:84% for purposes of the reimbursement. 01:25:23.720 --> 01:25:25.480 align:middle line:90% This came about with-- 01:25:25.480 --> 01:25:29.500 align:middle line:84% And before I go on, I want to thank the leadership 01:25:29.500 --> 01:25:31.410 align:middle line:84% in the Senate and all the work that all of us 01:25:31.410 --> 01:25:34.310 align:middle line:84% has done to do our best to fund education. 01:25:34.310 --> 01:25:37.700 align:middle line:84% I know how important it is to this body and our colleagues 01:25:37.700 --> 01:25:42.530 align:middle line:84% in the House, especially to the chairwoman of Ways and Means 01:25:42.530 --> 01:25:44.620 align:middle line:90% and the Senate president. 01:25:44.620 --> 01:25:47.440 align:middle line:84% That being said, unfortunately, some cities 01:25:47.440 --> 01:25:50.540 align:middle line:84% have been penalized with the foundation formula budget 01:25:50.540 --> 01:25:53.980 align:middle line:84% changes from the administration and the Department 01:25:53.980 --> 01:25:58.950 align:middle line:84% of Elementary and Secondary Education. 01:25:58.950 --> 01:26:02.810 align:middle line:84% So some communities with lower-income students 01:26:02.810 --> 01:26:04.770 align:middle line:84% and families have suffered because of this. 01:26:04.770 --> 01:26:06.900 align:middle line:84% I know we did a lot to put a lot of money 01:26:06.900 --> 01:26:09.500 align:middle line:84% back into the budget to help alleviate this, 01:26:09.500 --> 01:26:14.210 align:middle line:84% but on top of that, the charter schools that were proposed 01:26:14.210 --> 01:26:15.910 align:middle line:90% in the Commonwealth-- 01:26:15.910 --> 01:26:18.310 align:middle line:84% and I want to thank all the residents that 01:26:18.310 --> 01:26:22.510 align:middle line:84% fought hard to alleviate lifting the charter school cap, 01:26:22.510 --> 01:26:24.730 align:middle line:84% and I think the residents did a great job, as well 01:26:24.730 --> 01:26:26.210 align:middle line:90% as a lot of members here. 01:26:26.210 --> 01:26:28.810 align:middle line:84% But that being said, there was a charter school 01:26:28.810 --> 01:26:32.190 align:middle line:84% proposed in the city of Brockton amongst much opposition. 01:26:32.190 --> 01:26:34.590 align:middle line:84% I didn't see one elected official or many parents who 01:26:34.590 --> 01:26:38.150 align:middle line:84% spoke against it, but our test scores in the city of Brockton 01:26:38.150 --> 01:26:39.919 align:middle line:84% were above the state average plateau 01:26:39.919 --> 01:26:41.960 align:middle line:84% that we didn't have to accept the charter school. 01:26:41.960 --> 01:26:43.750 align:middle line:90% They're doing the right thing. 01:26:43.750 --> 01:26:47.570 align:middle line:84% But because of this, they included two other communities 01:26:47.570 --> 01:26:49.250 align:middle line:84% that test scores are below, so they 01:26:49.250 --> 01:26:51.250 align:middle line:84% were able to sneak in the back door 01:26:51.250 --> 01:26:52.900 align:middle line:84% and get our charter school approved. 01:26:52.900 --> 01:26:55.240 align:middle line:84% And on top of that, they weren't even prepared 01:26:55.240 --> 01:26:57.070 align:middle line:90% to find a proper location. 01:26:57.070 --> 01:26:59.270 align:middle line:84% They went to one location in Brockton. 01:26:59.270 --> 01:27:00.750 align:middle line:90% That wasn't adequate. 01:27:00.750 --> 01:27:01.850 align:middle line:90% Went to another location. 01:27:01.850 --> 01:27:03.660 align:middle line:84% They didn't even pull a building permit. 01:27:03.660 --> 01:27:07.120 align:middle line:84% They ended up bussing students up to another community 01:27:07.120 --> 01:27:10.250 align:middle line:84% up in Norwood, which delayed everything in the school 01:27:10.250 --> 01:27:11.400 align:middle line:90% system of Brockton. 01:27:11.400 --> 01:27:13.150 align:middle line:84% Didn't know whether the charter school was 01:27:13.150 --> 01:27:15.060 align:middle line:84% going to open on time or not, so we 01:27:15.060 --> 01:27:17.740 align:middle line:84% had to hold back a lot of whether we are going 01:27:17.740 --> 01:27:20.030 align:middle line:84% to have proper teachers and staffing, et cetera, 01:27:20.030 --> 01:27:23.754 align:middle line:84% and it cost us a financial hardship in the community. 01:27:23.754 --> 01:27:25.670 align:middle line:84% And other communities have suffered like this. 01:27:25.670 --> 01:27:28.740 align:middle line:84% So this was basically filed to protect communities 01:27:28.740 --> 01:27:32.020 align:middle line:84% that these charter schools try to end around and get 01:27:32.020 --> 01:27:34.800 align:middle line:84% into communities when they're not even prepared to do so. 01:27:34.800 --> 01:27:38.780 align:middle line:84% And I think we need to take a hard look moving forward 01:27:38.780 --> 01:27:41.650 align:middle line:84% to protect our communities with the funding mechanisms. 01:27:41.650 --> 01:27:44.700 align:middle line:84% Again, if a community wants that charter school, God bless them. 01:27:44.700 --> 01:27:47.830 align:middle line:84% But when you take in $4 to $5 million dollars out 01:27:47.830 --> 01:27:49.370 align:middle line:84% of the community that's working-- 01:27:49.370 --> 01:27:51.890 align:middle line:84% and these aren't a community that want free handouts. 01:27:51.890 --> 01:27:54.960 align:middle line:84% These are working-class people that are just barely making 01:27:54.960 --> 01:27:57.866 align:middle line:84% above minimum wage that are working to do the best they can 01:27:57.866 --> 01:28:00.240 align:middle line:84% to provide for their families, and unfortunately, they're 01:28:00.240 --> 01:28:01.580 align:middle line:84% penalized because of it, and that's 01:28:01.580 --> 01:28:02.740 align:middle line:90% why this amendment was filed. 01:28:02.740 --> 01:28:03.239 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:28:03.239 --> 01:28:05.367 align:middle line:90% 01:28:05.367 --> 01:28:06.450 align:middle line:90% Question of the amendment. 01:28:06.450 --> 01:28:08.604 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 01:28:08.604 --> 01:28:09.270 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 01:28:09.270 --> 01:28:10.660 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 01:28:10.660 --> 01:28:13.610 align:middle line:84% The next amendment is amendment number 175. 01:28:13.610 --> 01:28:16.390 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex, Ms. O'Connor Ives 01:28:16.390 --> 01:28:18.020 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:28:18.020 --> 01:28:19.490 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:28:19.490 --> 01:28:22.500 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 175 by Ms. O'Connor Ives, New England 01:28:22.500 --> 01:28:25.360 align:middle line:90% Board of Higher Education. 01:28:25.360 --> 01:28:28.665 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex, Mr. O'Connor Ives. 01:28:28.665 --> 01:28:30.040 align:middle line:84% --and through you to the members, 01:28:30.040 --> 01:28:34.500 align:middle line:84% I ask for unanimous consent to withdraw this amendment. 01:28:34.500 --> 01:28:35.724 align:middle line:90% Senator asks unanimous-- 01:28:35.724 --> 01:28:37.140 align:middle line:84% The senator asks unanimous consent 01:28:37.140 --> 01:28:38.380 align:middle line:90% to withdraw the amendment. 01:28:38.380 --> 01:28:39.520 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection? 01:28:39.520 --> 01:28:42.020 align:middle line:84% Hearing none, the amendment is withdrawn, amendment number 01:28:42.020 --> 01:28:43.200 align:middle line:90% 175. 01:28:43.200 --> 01:28:46.290 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 176 has been withdrawn. 01:28:46.290 --> 01:28:48.320 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 177. 01:28:48.320 --> 01:28:50.180 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester, Mr. Moore, 01:28:50.180 --> 01:28:52.322 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:28:52.322 --> 01:28:53.530 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:28:53.530 --> 01:28:57.250 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 177 by Mr. Moore, Mass Grant Safe Pilot 01:28:57.250 --> 01:28:59.227 align:middle line:90% Program. 01:28:59.227 --> 01:29:01.060 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:29:01.060 --> 01:29:03.060 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 01:29:03.060 --> 01:29:04.030 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 01:29:04.030 --> 01:29:05.640 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 01:29:05.640 --> 01:29:07.820 align:middle line:84% The next amendment, amendment number 178. 01:29:07.820 --> 01:29:09.526 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester, Mr. Moore, 01:29:09.526 --> 01:29:10.900 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:29:10.900 --> 01:29:12.108 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:29:12.108 --> 01:29:14.410 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 178 by Mr. Moore, Nursing 01:29:14.410 --> 01:29:17.047 align:middle line:90% in Allied Health Initiative. 01:29:17.047 --> 01:29:18.880 align:middle line:84% Question comes an adoption of the amendment. 01:29:18.880 --> 01:29:20.990 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 01:29:20.990 --> 01:29:21.692 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 01:29:21.692 --> 01:29:22.900 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 01:29:22.900 --> 01:29:25.210 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 179 is on hold. 01:29:25.210 --> 01:29:27.870 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 180 has been withdrawn. 01:29:27.870 --> 01:29:29.227 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 181. 01:29:29.227 --> 01:29:30.810 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester, Mr. Moore, 01:29:30.810 --> 01:29:31.950 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:29:31.950 --> 01:29:33.158 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:29:33.158 --> 01:29:36.640 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 181 from Mr. Moore, State Scholarship 01:29:36.640 --> 01:29:37.927 align:middle line:90% Program. 01:29:37.927 --> 01:29:39.760 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:29:39.760 --> 01:29:41.850 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:29:41.850 --> 01:29:42.540 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 01:29:42.540 --> 01:29:43.880 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 01:29:43.880 --> 01:29:46.120 align:middle line:84% The next amendment, amendment number 182. 01:29:46.120 --> 01:29:47.895 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester, Mr. Moore, 01:29:47.895 --> 01:29:49.270 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:29:49.270 --> 01:29:50.478 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:29:50.478 --> 01:29:53.601 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 182 by Mr. Moore, UMass Manufacturing 01:29:53.601 --> 01:29:54.100 align:middle line:90% Program. 01:29:54.100 --> 01:29:56.710 align:middle line:90% Mr. Clerk, [INAUDIBLE]. 01:29:56.710 --> 01:30:04.117 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 01:30:04.117 --> 01:30:05.950 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:30:05.950 --> 01:30:08.380 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:30:08.380 --> 01:30:09.200 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 01:30:09.200 --> 01:30:10.620 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 01:30:10.620 --> 01:30:13.060 align:middle line:84% Next amendment is amendment number 183. 01:30:13.060 --> 01:30:14.655 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester, Mr. Moore, 01:30:14.655 --> 01:30:16.030 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:30:16.030 --> 01:30:17.238 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:30:17.238 --> 01:30:20.541 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 183 by Mr. Moore, Tuition Retention Task 01:30:20.541 --> 01:30:21.040 align:middle line:90% Force. 01:30:21.040 --> 01:30:23.677 align:middle line:90% 01:30:23.677 --> 01:30:25.510 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:30:25.510 --> 01:30:28.920 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 01:30:28.920 --> 01:30:31.120 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 01:30:31.120 --> 01:30:34.750 align:middle line:84% The next amendment is amendment number 184. 01:30:34.750 --> 01:30:36.735 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester, Mr. Moore, 01:30:36.735 --> 01:30:38.110 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:30:38.110 --> 01:30:39.318 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:30:39.318 --> 01:30:42.226 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 184 by Mr. Moore, State Reciprocity 01:30:42.226 --> 01:30:42.725 align:middle line:90% Agreements. 01:30:42.725 --> 01:30:45.320 align:middle line:90% 01:30:45.320 --> 01:30:47.130 align:middle line:90% Senator from-- 01:30:47.130 --> 01:30:48.310 align:middle line:90% Who's standing? 01:30:48.310 --> 01:30:49.240 align:middle line:90% Oh. 01:30:49.240 --> 01:30:51.050 align:middle line:90% Plymouth and Norfolk. 01:30:51.050 --> 01:30:54.039 align:middle line:84% Senator from Plymouth and Norfolk, Mr. O'Connor. 01:30:54.039 --> 01:30:55.080 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:30:55.080 --> 01:30:57.370 align:middle line:84% I was just wondering if the sponsor of this amendment 01:30:57.370 --> 01:31:00.880 align:middle line:84% would mind giving us a brief summary. 01:31:00.880 --> 01:31:03.230 align:middle line:90% Senator from Worcester-- 01:31:03.230 --> 01:31:05.230 align:middle line:90% Mr. Moore. 01:31:05.230 --> 01:31:07.480 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, this amendment provides the board 01:31:07.480 --> 01:31:09.270 align:middle line:84% of higher education with the authority 01:31:09.270 --> 01:31:11.820 align:middle line:84% to enter into interstate agreements, 01:31:11.820 --> 01:31:15.170 align:middle line:84% granting institutions of higher education located 01:31:15.170 --> 01:31:19.200 align:middle line:84% in Massachusetts to voluntarily participate in reciprocity 01:31:19.200 --> 01:31:22.900 align:middle line:84% agreements as well as to provide distance education programs 01:31:22.900 --> 01:31:25.360 align:middle line:90% to students in other states. 01:31:25.360 --> 01:31:28.520 align:middle line:84% The state authorization of reciprocity agreements, 01:31:28.520 --> 01:31:31.440 align:middle line:84% known as SARA, is a national initiative 01:31:31.440 --> 01:31:33.940 align:middle line:84% to establish uniform policies and standards 01:31:33.940 --> 01:31:37.700 align:middle line:84% for colleges and universities offering online programs. 01:31:37.700 --> 01:31:42.350 align:middle line:84% By joining SARA, qualifying Massachusetts institutions 01:31:42.350 --> 01:31:44.610 align:middle line:84% of higher education can voluntarily 01:31:44.610 --> 01:31:48.990 align:middle line:84% participate and provide online programs to students 01:31:48.990 --> 01:31:51.430 align:middle line:84% and other states in accordance with the terms 01:31:51.430 --> 01:31:52.710 align:middle line:90% of this agreement. 01:31:52.710 --> 01:31:55.410 align:middle line:84% SARA does not change the current structure 01:31:55.410 --> 01:31:58.070 align:middle line:84% of our state's approval or oversight 01:31:58.070 --> 01:31:59.870 align:middle line:90% of campuses located here. 01:31:59.870 --> 01:32:02.930 align:middle line:84% In fact, SARA policies were recently clarified, 01:32:02.930 --> 01:32:07.900 align:middle line:84% ensuring that joining SARA does not limit a state's ability 01:32:07.900 --> 01:32:12.230 align:middle line:84% to apply its consumer protection laws against higher education 01:32:12.230 --> 01:32:13.840 align:middle line:90% institutions in other states. 01:32:13.840 --> 01:32:17.740 align:middle line:84% This means that the attorney general's office would still 01:32:17.740 --> 01:32:19.490 align:middle line:84% be able to use our consumer protection 01:32:19.490 --> 01:32:23.730 align:middle line:84% laws against any schools that engage in unfair and deceptive 01:32:23.730 --> 01:32:24.980 align:middle line:90% business practices. 01:32:24.980 --> 01:32:27.150 align:middle line:84% Our higher education institutions have 01:32:27.150 --> 01:32:28.840 align:middle line:84% been advocating for this for many years 01:32:28.840 --> 01:32:34.750 align:middle line:84% to actually make themselves more competitive with other colleges 01:32:34.750 --> 01:32:36.480 align:middle line:84% and universities out of state and also 01:32:36.480 --> 01:32:40.260 align:middle line:84% to help with the student loan debt and the access to college 01:32:40.260 --> 01:32:43.200 align:middle line:84% programs and the skills that are necessary to, 01:32:43.200 --> 01:32:46.370 align:middle line:84% right now, make them disadvantaged in Massachusetts 01:32:46.370 --> 01:32:47.340 align:middle line:90% through other students. 01:32:47.340 --> 01:32:48.720 align:middle line:90% So I ask for your support. 01:32:48.720 --> 01:32:52.730 align:middle line:84% When a vote is taken, I ask for a roll call to be counted. 01:32:52.730 --> 01:32:56.600 align:middle line:90% 01:32:56.600 --> 01:32:57.762 align:middle line:90% Senator from Worcester. 01:32:57.762 --> 01:33:00.220 align:middle line:84% Senator from Worcester has asked that when a vote is taken, 01:33:00.220 --> 01:33:02.150 align:middle line:84% it be taken by the call of the yeas and nays. 01:33:02.150 --> 01:33:05.380 align:middle line:84% Those members joining with him, please rise and be counted. 01:33:05.380 --> 01:33:07.940 align:middle line:84% Sufficient number of members have risen. 01:33:07.940 --> 01:33:11.340 align:middle line:84% The yeas and nays will be ordered. 01:33:11.340 --> 01:33:12.640 align:middle line:90% Pacheco, Pacheco. 01:33:12.640 --> 01:33:17.390 align:middle line:84% Senator from the 1st Bristol and Plymouth district, Mr. Pacheco. 01:33:17.390 --> 01:33:19.490 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much, [INAUDIBLE].. 01:33:19.490 --> 01:33:24.230 align:middle line:84% I rise in support of this particular amendment. 01:33:24.230 --> 01:33:27.370 align:middle line:90% 01:33:27.370 --> 01:33:32.440 align:middle line:84% Having the opportunity to sit on [AUDIO OUT] representative 01:33:32.440 --> 01:33:34.960 align:middle line:84% on the New England Board of Higher Education, 01:33:34.960 --> 01:33:39.950 align:middle line:84% I just want to say that this particular SARA program is 01:33:39.950 --> 01:33:43.700 align:middle line:84% a tremendous advantage, as the chairman has 01:33:43.700 --> 01:33:46.850 align:middle line:84% said, to our students in Massachusetts. 01:33:46.850 --> 01:33:49.640 align:middle line:84% Students actually save a lot of money 01:33:49.640 --> 01:33:52.990 align:middle line:84% at a time when we are talking about the cost of college 01:33:52.990 --> 01:33:54.500 align:middle line:90% and higher education. 01:33:54.500 --> 01:34:00.320 align:middle line:84% Some 48 states now have reciprocity agreements. 01:34:00.320 --> 01:34:05.020 align:middle line:84% The New England Board of Higher Education 01:34:05.020 --> 01:34:10.280 align:middle line:84% has actually worked on developing those relationships 01:34:10.280 --> 01:34:14.680 align:middle line:84% and making sure the legal standing is there so, 01:34:14.680 --> 01:34:18.180 align:middle line:84% as the chairman just said, the attorney general's office 01:34:18.180 --> 01:34:21.970 align:middle line:84% can protect our students and families 01:34:21.970 --> 01:34:25.580 align:middle line:84% relative to consumer protection activities, as well. 01:34:25.580 --> 01:34:29.270 align:middle line:84% So I just wanted to rise and say I 01:34:29.270 --> 01:34:32.440 align:middle line:84% am in full support of this particular amendment. 01:34:32.440 --> 01:34:34.640 align:middle line:84% It's something that we've done before. 01:34:34.640 --> 01:34:40.070 align:middle line:84% I believe the House has this in their budget, 01:34:40.070 --> 01:34:43.740 align:middle line:84% so this is something we can walk away from this budget 01:34:43.740 --> 01:34:47.960 align:middle line:84% with at the end of the day knowing that we are, 01:34:47.960 --> 01:34:53.150 align:middle line:84% in fact, a part of the SARA agreement 01:34:53.150 --> 01:34:56.840 align:middle line:90% and join those 48 other states. 01:34:56.840 --> 01:34:59.890 align:middle line:84% Senator from Plymouth and Barnstable, Mr. deMacedo. 01:34:59.890 --> 01:35:01.140 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:35:01.140 --> 01:35:03.140 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] an honor to stand with the gentleman 01:35:03.140 --> 01:35:05.598 align:middle line:84% from Worcester County and the gentlemen from Bristol County 01:35:05.598 --> 01:35:07.930 align:middle line:90% to support this amendment. 01:35:07.930 --> 01:35:09.400 align:middle line:84% This is something that we've worked 01:35:09.400 --> 01:35:11.100 align:middle line:90% on over a period of time. 01:35:11.100 --> 01:35:13.830 align:middle line:84% We were able to get a commission together 01:35:13.830 --> 01:35:17.140 align:middle line:84% to really vet this out to understand to make sure that we 01:35:17.140 --> 01:35:18.360 align:middle line:90% were doing the right thing. 01:35:18.360 --> 01:35:23.740 align:middle line:84% As the gentleman from Taunton said, 48 other states do this, 01:35:23.740 --> 01:35:26.540 align:middle line:84% and yet we have been slow to make sure 01:35:26.540 --> 01:35:30.520 align:middle line:84% that we check all the checkboxes on this 01:35:30.520 --> 01:35:33.340 align:middle line:84% that we don't do anything that harms our colleges. 01:35:33.340 --> 01:35:36.030 align:middle line:84% And the colleges are in support of this. 01:35:36.030 --> 01:35:39.820 align:middle line:84% And the reality is, this enables many 01:35:39.820 --> 01:35:42.460 align:middle line:84% of the students in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts 01:35:42.460 --> 01:35:45.630 align:middle line:84% to be able to get an online education 01:35:45.630 --> 01:35:49.830 align:middle line:84% for different or specific classes 01:35:49.830 --> 01:35:52.120 align:middle line:90% at a much more affordable rate. 01:35:52.120 --> 01:35:55.990 align:middle line:84% We all know how expensive college has become for so many 01:35:55.990 --> 01:35:57.850 align:middle line:84% in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, 01:35:57.850 --> 01:35:59.520 align:middle line:84% and obviously throughout the country. 01:35:59.520 --> 01:36:03.240 align:middle line:84% This will enable them to access education 01:36:03.240 --> 01:36:06.530 align:middle line:84% in a more fiscally responsible way, which 01:36:06.530 --> 01:36:09.060 align:middle line:84% helps everyone, their families, and certainly puts them 01:36:09.060 --> 01:36:11.340 align:middle line:84% in a position where they may not be in debt. 01:36:11.340 --> 01:36:14.840 align:middle line:84% So it enables individuals who may not otherwise 01:36:14.840 --> 01:36:18.960 align:middle line:84% be able to afford an education to access that education. 01:36:18.960 --> 01:36:22.020 align:middle line:84% And so this is such a wonderful tool. 01:36:22.020 --> 01:36:24.150 align:middle line:84% Not only does it help the students. 01:36:24.150 --> 01:36:25.670 align:middle line:90% It helps the colleges. 01:36:25.670 --> 01:36:29.760 align:middle line:84% It brings us into the 21st century 01:36:29.760 --> 01:36:32.760 align:middle line:84% with all the other states in the country. 01:36:32.760 --> 01:36:35.606 align:middle line:84% And so I'm very proud to stand with the gentleman 01:36:35.606 --> 01:36:37.230 align:middle line:84% from Worcester County and the gentleman 01:36:37.230 --> 01:36:38.720 align:middle line:84% from Bristol County in supporting 01:36:38.720 --> 01:36:40.200 align:middle line:90% this wonderful amendment. 01:36:40.200 --> 01:36:43.209 align:middle line:90% Thank you Mr. President. 01:36:43.209 --> 01:36:44.250 align:middle line:90% Clerk will call the roll. 01:36:44.250 --> 01:36:58.260 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 01:36:58.260 --> 01:36:58.810 align:middle line:90% --Barrett. 01:36:58.810 --> 01:36:59.550 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:36:59.550 --> 01:37:00.840 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:00.840 --> 01:37:02.780 align:middle line:90% Joseph A. Boncore. 01:37:02.780 --> 01:37:03.720 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:03.720 --> 01:37:05.060 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:05.060 --> 01:37:06.930 align:middle line:90% Michael D. Brady. 01:37:06.930 --> 01:37:07.730 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:07.730 --> 01:37:09.060 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:09.060 --> 01:37:11.040 align:middle line:90% William N. Brownsberger. 01:37:11.040 --> 01:37:11.540 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:11.540 --> 01:37:12.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:12.800 --> 01:37:15.110 align:middle line:90% Harriette L. Chandler. 01:37:15.110 --> 01:37:15.610 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:15.610 --> 01:37:16.190 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:16.190 --> 01:37:18.380 align:middle line:90% Sonia Chang-Diaz. 01:37:18.380 --> 01:37:18.900 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:18.900 --> 01:37:19.510 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:19.510 --> 01:37:21.430 align:middle line:90% Cynthia Stone Creem. 01:37:21.430 --> 01:37:21.990 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:21.990 --> 01:37:23.160 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:23.160 --> 01:37:24.550 align:middle line:90% Julian Cyr. 01:37:24.550 --> 01:37:25.360 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:25.360 --> 01:37:26.430 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:26.430 --> 01:37:29.470 align:middle line:90% Viriato M. deMacedo. 01:37:29.470 --> 01:37:30.300 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:30.300 --> 01:37:30.840 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:30.840 --> 01:37:32.880 align:middle line:90% Sal N. DiDomenico. 01:37:32.880 --> 01:37:33.380 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:33.380 --> 01:37:34.380 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:34.380 --> 01:37:36.700 align:middle line:90% Eileen M. Donoghue. 01:37:36.700 --> 01:37:37.880 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:37.880 --> 01:37:38.400 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:38.400 --> 01:37:39.810 align:middle line:90% James B. Eldridge. 01:37:39.810 --> 01:37:40.660 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:40.660 --> 01:37:41.610 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:41.610 --> 01:37:43.731 align:middle line:90% Ryan C. Fattman. 01:37:43.731 --> 01:37:44.230 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:44.230 --> 01:37:44.910 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:44.910 --> 01:37:47.330 align:middle line:90% Jennifer L. Flanagan. 01:37:47.330 --> 01:37:47.830 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:47.830 --> 01:37:48.590 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:48.590 --> 01:37:50.570 align:middle line:90% Linda Dorcena Forry. 01:37:50.570 --> 01:37:53.810 align:middle line:90% 01:37:53.810 --> 01:37:55.960 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:55.960 --> 01:37:56.460 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:56.460 --> 01:37:57.870 align:middle line:90% Anne M. Gobi. 01:37:57.870 --> 01:37:58.370 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:58.370 --> 01:37:59.280 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:37:59.280 --> 01:38:01.300 align:middle line:90% Adam G. Hinds. 01:38:01.300 --> 01:38:01.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:01.800 --> 01:38:02.870 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:02.870 --> 01:38:05.140 align:middle line:90% Donald F. Humason, Jr. 01:38:05.140 --> 01:38:05.640 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:05.640 --> 01:38:06.580 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:06.580 --> 01:38:09.160 align:middle line:90% Patricia D. Jehlen. 01:38:09.160 --> 01:38:10.680 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:10.680 --> 01:38:11.180 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:11.180 --> 01:38:12.490 align:middle line:90% John F. Keenan. 01:38:12.490 --> 01:38:12.990 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:12.990 --> 01:38:14.230 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:14.230 --> 01:38:16.550 align:middle line:90% Eric P. Lesser. 01:38:16.550 --> 01:38:17.050 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:17.050 --> 01:38:17.760 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:17.760 --> 01:38:19.791 align:middle line:90% Jason M. Lewis. 01:38:19.791 --> 01:38:20.290 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:20.290 --> 01:38:21.300 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:21.300 --> 01:38:23.990 align:middle line:90% Barbara A. L'Italien. 01:38:23.990 --> 01:38:24.530 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:24.530 --> 01:38:25.260 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:25.260 --> 01:38:27.680 align:middle line:90% Joan B. Lovely. 01:38:27.680 --> 01:38:28.180 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:28.180 --> 01:38:28.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:28.800 --> 01:38:30.530 align:middle line:90% Thomas M. McGee. 01:38:30.530 --> 01:38:31.030 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:31.030 --> 01:38:32.340 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:32.340 --> 01:38:34.421 align:middle line:90% Mark C. Montigny. 01:38:34.421 --> 01:38:34.920 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:34.920 --> 01:38:35.880 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:35.880 --> 01:38:37.631 align:middle line:90% Michael O. Moore. 01:38:37.631 --> 01:38:38.130 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:38.130 --> 01:38:39.330 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:39.330 --> 01:38:41.230 align:middle line:90% Patrick M. O'Connor. 01:38:41.230 --> 01:38:41.730 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:41.730 --> 01:38:42.630 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:42.630 --> 01:38:45.750 align:middle line:90% Kathleen O'Connor Ives. 01:38:45.750 --> 01:38:46.770 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:46.770 --> 01:38:47.270 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:47.270 --> 01:38:48.961 align:middle line:90% Marc R. Pacheco. 01:38:48.961 --> 01:38:49.460 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:49.460 --> 01:38:50.400 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:50.400 --> 01:38:51.840 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Rodrigues. 01:38:51.840 --> 01:38:54.490 align:middle line:90% 01:38:54.490 --> 01:38:55.510 align:middle line:90% Rodrigues? 01:38:55.510 --> 01:38:56.050 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:56.050 --> 01:38:57.150 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:38:57.150 --> 01:38:59.520 align:middle line:90% Richard J. Ross. 01:38:59.520 --> 01:39:00.020 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:39:00.020 --> 01:39:00.710 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:39:00.710 --> 01:39:02.390 align:middle line:90% Michael F. Rush. 01:39:02.390 --> 01:39:02.910 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:39:02.910 --> 01:39:04.240 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:39:04.240 --> 01:39:06.631 align:middle line:90% Karen E. Spilka. 01:39:06.631 --> 01:39:07.130 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:39:07.130 --> 01:39:07.630 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:39:07.630 --> 01:39:09.500 align:middle line:90% Bruce E. Tarr. 01:39:09.500 --> 01:39:10.000 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:39:10.000 --> 01:39:10.660 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:39:10.660 --> 01:39:12.750 align:middle line:90% Walter F. Timilty. 01:39:12.750 --> 01:39:13.250 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:39:13.250 --> 01:39:13.910 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:39:13.910 --> 01:39:16.380 align:middle line:90% And James T. Welch. 01:39:16.380 --> 01:39:17.430 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:39:17.430 --> 01:39:17.999 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:39:17.999 --> 01:39:19.290 align:middle line:90% Have all members been recorded? 01:39:19.290 --> 01:39:19.790 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:39:19.790 --> 01:39:32.620 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 01:39:32.620 --> 01:39:33.910 align:middle line:90% 37 in the affirmative. 01:39:33.910 --> 01:39:34.970 align:middle line:90% None in the negative. 01:39:34.970 --> 01:39:36.100 align:middle line:90% The matter is adopted. 01:39:36.100 --> 01:39:36.747 align:middle line:90% There you go. 01:39:36.747 --> 01:39:37.330 align:middle line:90% Is that right? 01:39:37.330 --> 01:39:37.830 align:middle line:90% Yeah. 01:39:37.830 --> 01:39:40.600 align:middle line:90% That's [INAUDIBLE]. 01:39:40.600 --> 01:39:46.910 align:middle line:84% The next amendment is amendment number 185. 01:39:46.910 --> 01:39:50.696 align:middle line:84% The senator from Bristol and Plymouth, Mr. Rodrigues, 01:39:50.696 --> 01:39:52.070 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:39:52.070 --> 01:39:53.278 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:39:53.278 --> 01:39:56.286 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 185 by Mr. Rodrigues, School and Student 01:39:56.286 --> 01:39:56.785 align:middle line:90% Assessment. 01:39:56.785 --> 01:39:59.637 align:middle line:90% 01:39:59.637 --> 01:40:01.470 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:40:01.470 --> 01:40:03.684 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:40:03.684 --> 01:40:04.350 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 01:40:04.350 --> 01:40:05.558 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 01:40:05.558 --> 01:40:07.270 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 186. 01:40:07.270 --> 01:40:10.189 align:middle line:84% The senator from Norfolk, Bristol, and Middlesex, 01:40:10.189 --> 01:40:11.980 align:middle line:84% Mr. Ross, has filed an amendment, the title 01:40:11.980 --> 01:40:13.188 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:40:13.188 --> 01:40:16.670 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 186 by Mr. Ross, Opiate Addiction 01:40:16.670 --> 01:40:18.887 align:middle line:90% Education in Wrentham. 01:40:18.887 --> 01:40:20.720 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:40:20.720 --> 01:40:21.720 align:middle line:90% All those in favor say-- 01:40:21.720 --> 01:40:23.550 align:middle line:90% Senator Ross. 01:40:23.550 --> 01:40:26.500 align:middle line:84% Senator from-- you can just say, recognize the senator 01:40:26.500 --> 01:40:28.250 align:middle line:84% from Norfolk, Bristol, and Middlesex. 01:40:28.250 --> 01:40:29.090 align:middle line:90% Senator Ross. 01:40:29.090 --> 01:40:30.410 align:middle line:90% Thank you very much. 01:40:30.410 --> 01:40:34.940 align:middle line:84% As for this amendment for the Wrentham Public School system, 01:40:34.940 --> 01:40:38.430 align:middle line:84% which is an important step in spreading substance abuse 01:40:38.430 --> 01:40:41.530 align:middle line:84% and addiction awareness to young people across the Commonwealth. 01:40:41.530 --> 01:40:45.090 align:middle line:84% Provide $25,000 to the Wrentham Public Schools 01:40:45.090 --> 01:40:48.170 align:middle line:84% to advance education awareness of opiate addiction 01:40:48.170 --> 01:40:51.370 align:middle line:84% to its students, who've taken a number of crucial steps 01:40:51.370 --> 01:40:53.990 align:middle line:84% towards eliminating the epidemic here in the Commonwealth. 01:40:53.990 --> 01:40:56.700 align:middle line:84% They've expanded treatment options, enhanced prevention 01:40:56.700 --> 01:40:59.420 align:middle line:84% and education efforts in a number of ways. 01:40:59.420 --> 01:41:01.580 align:middle line:84% Young people are an important group 01:41:01.580 --> 01:41:03.800 align:middle line:90% of targets for these efforts. 01:41:03.800 --> 01:41:08.510 align:middle line:84% If we can educate mass youth to the dangers of substance abuse 01:41:08.510 --> 01:41:10.170 align:middle line:84% and addiction, give them the tools 01:41:10.170 --> 01:41:11.670 align:middle line:84% that they need to protect themselves 01:41:11.670 --> 01:41:13.220 align:middle line:90% and make wise decisions. 01:41:13.220 --> 01:41:16.520 align:middle line:84% Substance use and addiction touch families 01:41:16.520 --> 01:41:18.880 align:middle line:84% in every community throughout the Commonwealth. 01:41:18.880 --> 01:41:20.870 align:middle line:84% This fund would allow the town of Wrentham 01:41:20.870 --> 01:41:23.700 align:middle line:84% to spread this education and awareness to its students 01:41:23.700 --> 01:41:27.220 align:middle line:84% and increase prevention efforts in that community. 01:41:27.220 --> 01:41:28.770 align:middle line:90% I hope this amendment passes. 01:41:28.770 --> 01:41:29.450 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:41:29.450 --> 01:41:30.600 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:41:30.600 --> 01:41:32.272 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:41:32.272 --> 01:41:32.980 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 01:41:32.980 --> 01:41:34.160 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 01:41:34.160 --> 01:41:37.250 align:middle line:84% The next amendment, number 187, is on hold. 01:41:37.250 --> 01:41:39.760 align:middle line:84% The next amendment, number 188, is on hold. 01:41:39.760 --> 01:41:41.410 align:middle line:90% The next amendment, number 189-- 01:41:41.410 --> 01:41:51.990 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 189. 01:41:51.990 --> 01:41:55.450 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr, 01:41:55.450 --> 01:41:56.972 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:41:56.972 --> 01:41:58.180 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:41:58.180 --> 01:42:01.710 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 189 by Mr. Tarr, Educational Unfunded 01:42:01.710 --> 01:42:03.367 align:middle line:90% Mandate Task Force. 01:42:03.367 --> 01:42:05.200 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:42:05.200 --> 01:42:07.104 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:42:07.104 --> 01:42:07.770 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 01:42:07.770 --> 01:42:09.070 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 01:42:09.070 --> 01:42:11.170 align:middle line:90% The next amendment, number 190. 01:42:11.170 --> 01:42:14.136 align:middle line:84% The senator from Plymouth and Norfolk, Mr. O'Connor, 01:42:14.136 --> 01:42:15.510 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:42:15.510 --> 01:42:16.718 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:42:16.718 --> 01:42:19.620 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 190 by Mr. O'Connor, Cohasset and Hull 01:42:19.620 --> 01:42:21.437 align:middle line:90% School Resources Officer. 01:42:21.437 --> 01:42:23.270 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:42:23.270 --> 01:42:25.514 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:42:25.514 --> 01:42:26.180 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 01:42:26.180 --> 01:42:28.160 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 01:42:28.160 --> 01:42:32.070 align:middle line:84% The next amendment, number 191, is on hold. 01:42:32.070 --> 01:42:34.100 align:middle line:90% The next amendment, number 192. 01:42:34.100 --> 01:42:36.270 align:middle line:84% The senator from Plymouth and Norfolk, Mr. O'Connor, 01:42:36.270 --> 01:42:37.480 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:42:37.480 --> 01:42:38.688 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:42:38.688 --> 01:42:41.420 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 192 by Mr. O'Connor, Hingham High School 01:42:41.420 --> 01:42:43.127 align:middle line:90% Security. 01:42:43.127 --> 01:42:44.960 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:42:44.960 --> 01:42:46.750 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:42:46.750 --> 01:42:47.810 align:middle line:90% And nos have it. 01:42:47.810 --> 01:42:49.270 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 01:42:49.270 --> 01:42:51.470 align:middle line:90% Next amendment, number 193. 01:42:51.470 --> 01:42:53.245 align:middle line:84% The senator from Hampton, Mr. Welch, 01:42:53.245 --> 01:42:54.620 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:42:54.620 --> 01:42:55.828 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:42:55.828 --> 01:42:59.947 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 193 by Mr. Welch, At-Risk Students. 01:42:59.947 --> 01:43:01.780 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:43:01.780 --> 01:43:03.840 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:43:03.840 --> 01:43:06.730 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 01:43:06.730 --> 01:43:10.810 align:middle line:84% The next amendment, amendment number 194, has been withdrawn. 01:43:10.810 --> 01:43:12.447 align:middle line:90% The next amendment, number 195. 01:43:12.447 --> 01:43:14.030 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester, Mr. Moore, 01:43:14.030 --> 01:43:15.080 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:43:15.080 --> 01:43:16.288 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:43:16.288 --> 01:43:19.110 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 195 by Mr. Moore, Blackstone Valley 01:43:19.110 --> 01:43:22.590 align:middle line:90% Manufacturing Pilot. 01:43:22.590 --> 01:43:26.670 align:middle line:84% Senator from Plymouth and Norfolk, Mr. O'Connor. 01:43:26.670 --> 01:43:30.090 align:middle line:84% --gentlemen from Worcester County for a brief explanation 01:43:30.090 --> 01:43:30.900 align:middle line:90% on this amendment. 01:43:30.900 --> 01:43:33.551 align:middle line:90% 01:43:33.551 --> 01:43:34.050 align:middle line:90% Senator-- 01:43:34.050 --> 01:43:37.110 align:middle line:90% --provides 35,000-- 01:43:37.110 --> 01:43:39.000 align:middle line:84% Senator from Worcester, Mr. Moore. 01:43:39.000 --> 01:43:40.100 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:43:40.100 --> 01:43:44.020 align:middle line:84% This amendment provides $35,000 to develop 01:43:44.020 --> 01:43:46.840 align:middle line:84% a formal partnership between seven manufacturers 01:43:46.840 --> 01:43:49.270 align:middle line:84% and 11 high schools in the Blackstone Valley 01:43:49.270 --> 01:43:53.230 align:middle line:84% to educate students and staff about STEM career opportunities 01:43:53.230 --> 01:43:55.390 align:middle line:84% with a focus on advanced manufacturing. 01:43:55.390 --> 01:43:57.880 align:middle line:84% Activities will include workplace experience 01:43:57.880 --> 01:44:01.340 align:middle line:84% for students, on-site manufacturing conducted 01:44:01.340 --> 01:44:04.770 align:middle line:84% by professional development for STEM teachers and staff 01:44:04.770 --> 01:44:08.050 align:middle line:84% on-site at the businesses and STEM interactive classroom 01:44:08.050 --> 01:44:10.900 align:middle line:84% presentations conducted by employees from the partner 01:44:10.900 --> 01:44:11.750 align:middle line:90% manufacturers. 01:44:11.750 --> 01:44:15.650 align:middle line:84% This is something that myself and my colleague from further 01:44:15.650 --> 01:44:19.940 align:middle line:84% down the Blackstone Valley, Senator Fattman, 01:44:19.940 --> 01:44:22.640 align:middle line:84% have been working on with the Blackstone Valley Education 01:44:22.640 --> 01:44:26.625 align:middle line:84% Collaborative, and we think it's a great program that is really 01:44:26.625 --> 01:44:27.750 align:middle line:90% going to help the students. 01:44:27.750 --> 01:44:29.208 align:middle line:84% And we know that it's going to help 01:44:29.208 --> 01:44:30.910 align:middle line:84% fill a need in the Blackstone Valley 01:44:30.910 --> 01:44:32.670 align:middle line:90% with our advanced manufacturers. 01:44:32.670 --> 01:44:35.810 align:middle line:84% And I ask for your support in passage of this. 01:44:35.810 --> 01:44:39.620 align:middle line:90% 01:44:39.620 --> 01:44:44.051 align:middle line:84% Senator from Worcester and Norfolk, Mr. Fattman. 01:44:44.051 --> 01:44:46.550 align:middle line:84% --members, and thank you to my friend from the 2nd Worcester 01:44:46.550 --> 01:44:49.240 align:middle line:84% district, Mr. Moore, from the town of Millbury. 01:44:49.240 --> 01:44:52.870 align:middle line:84% I really am excited about this opportunity 01:44:52.870 --> 01:44:56.400 align:middle line:84% to help work with Senator Moore to support this program. 01:44:56.400 --> 01:44:59.930 align:middle line:84% Eight communities within my district will benefit. 01:44:59.930 --> 01:45:03.250 align:middle line:84% We have this great tradition of vocational school 01:45:03.250 --> 01:45:05.400 align:middle line:84% known as Blackstone Valley Technical School. 01:45:05.400 --> 01:45:08.500 align:middle line:84% In fact, when the governor was inaugurated back in 2015, 01:45:08.500 --> 01:45:11.900 align:middle line:84% it was the very first stop he came to to tour the facility 01:45:11.900 --> 01:45:14.870 align:middle line:84% and see of all the wonderful accomplishments this school has 01:45:14.870 --> 01:45:15.910 align:middle line:90% achieved. 01:45:15.910 --> 01:45:18.670 align:middle line:84% Lots of kids attempt, in our area, 01:45:18.670 --> 01:45:21.960 align:middle line:84% to get into this school and have an opportunity to, but a lot 01:45:21.960 --> 01:45:22.820 align:middle line:90% of them don't. 01:45:22.820 --> 01:45:27.690 align:middle line:84% And in order to earn and learn these technical skills, 01:45:27.690 --> 01:45:30.070 align:middle line:84% they don't get that opportunity at BVT, 01:45:30.070 --> 01:45:32.340 align:middle line:84% so this is an opportunity for them 01:45:32.340 --> 01:45:34.510 align:middle line:84% to get the skills that their original high school, 01:45:34.510 --> 01:45:36.970 align:middle line:84% their original school district and partner 01:45:36.970 --> 01:45:38.250 align:middle line:90% with other businesses. 01:45:38.250 --> 01:45:40.790 align:middle line:84% I appreciate the work that Senator Moore has done on it. 01:45:40.790 --> 01:45:42.900 align:middle line:84% Thank you for having me involved with it. 01:45:42.900 --> 01:45:45.737 align:middle line:90% And I hope it's adopted. 01:45:45.737 --> 01:45:47.570 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:45:47.570 --> 01:45:49.310 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:45:49.310 --> 01:45:50.340 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 01:45:50.340 --> 01:45:52.070 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 01:45:52.070 --> 01:45:55.680 align:middle line:84% The next amendment is amendment number 196, 01:45:55.680 --> 01:45:58.100 align:middle line:84% filed by the senator from Norfolk, Bristol, 01:45:58.100 --> 01:46:00.987 align:middle line:84% and Middlesex, Mr. Ross, the title of which 01:46:00.987 --> 01:46:01.820 align:middle line:90% the clerk will read. 01:46:01.820 --> 01:46:05.120 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 196 by Mr. Ross, Center School Lot 01:46:05.120 --> 01:46:07.697 align:middle line:90% in Wrentham. 01:46:07.697 --> 01:46:09.530 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:46:09.530 --> 01:46:11.387 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:46:11.387 --> 01:46:13.470 align:middle line:84% The nos have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 01:46:13.470 --> 01:46:15.990 align:middle line:84% The next amendment, number 197, has been withdrawn. 01:46:15.990 --> 01:46:18.430 align:middle line:84% The next amendment, number 198, filed 01:46:18.430 --> 01:46:20.340 align:middle line:84% by the senator from Essex and Middlesex, 01:46:20.340 --> 01:46:23.590 align:middle line:84% Ms. L'Italien, the title of which the clerk will read. 01:46:23.590 --> 01:46:25.560 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 198 by Ms. L'Italien, 01:46:25.560 --> 01:46:27.890 align:middle line:84% Higher Education Opportunities for Students 01:46:27.890 --> 01:46:29.850 align:middle line:90% with Disabilities 2. 01:46:29.850 --> 01:46:32.820 align:middle line:84% Senator from Essex and Middlesex, Ms. L'Italien. 01:46:32.820 --> 01:46:35.500 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, and through you to the members, 01:46:35.500 --> 01:46:37.310 align:middle line:84% I wanted to take this opportunity 01:46:37.310 --> 01:46:40.010 align:middle line:84% to speak on behalf of the Massachusetts Inclusive 01:46:40.010 --> 01:46:42.580 align:middle line:84% Concurrent Enrollment Program, something 01:46:42.580 --> 01:46:45.880 align:middle line:84% that we undertook to put into statute last session, 01:46:45.880 --> 01:46:48.160 align:middle line:84% and I'm hoping that will be a successful endeavor 01:46:48.160 --> 01:46:51.590 align:middle line:84% with our House partners this session. 01:46:51.590 --> 01:46:54.720 align:middle line:84% This program is a cost-effective program 01:46:54.720 --> 01:46:57.650 align:middle line:84% that takes students with intellectual disabilities 01:46:57.650 --> 01:46:59.800 align:middle line:84% and autism and gives them the opportunity 01:46:59.800 --> 01:47:01.910 align:middle line:84% to participate in college courses 01:47:01.910 --> 01:47:03.640 align:middle line:84% with supports and services they need 01:47:03.640 --> 01:47:05.840 align:middle line:84% to be successful instead of being forced 01:47:05.840 --> 01:47:08.090 align:middle line:84% into segregated programs in their high school 01:47:08.090 --> 01:47:10.660 align:middle line:84% after already completing four years of high school. 01:47:10.660 --> 01:47:14.030 align:middle line:84% Since its inception, demand for the program has skyrocketed. 01:47:14.030 --> 01:47:16.600 align:middle line:84% More than half of our state colleges, universities, 01:47:16.600 --> 01:47:18.840 align:middle line:84% and community colleges are participating 01:47:18.840 --> 01:47:22.150 align:middle line:84% by partnering with 73 school districts across the state, 01:47:22.150 --> 01:47:26.220 align:middle line:84% including UMass Amherst, Framingham State, UMass Boston, 01:47:26.220 --> 01:47:29.270 align:middle line:84% Bridgewater State, Westfield, Salem State, Holyoke Community 01:47:29.270 --> 01:47:31.550 align:middle line:84% College, Northern Essex, and Cape Cod. 01:47:31.550 --> 01:47:34.980 align:middle line:84% More than 200 students with intellectual and developmental 01:47:34.980 --> 01:47:37.910 align:middle line:84% disabilities and autism have participated, 01:47:37.910 --> 01:47:40.390 align:middle line:90% and that number grows each year. 01:47:40.390 --> 01:47:42.750 align:middle line:84% By eliminating barriers, these students 01:47:42.750 --> 01:47:44.200 align:middle line:84% can reap the benefits of higher ed 01:47:44.200 --> 01:47:46.890 align:middle line:84% and gain the academic, independent, living, social, 01:47:46.890 --> 01:47:49.510 align:middle line:84% and employment skills necessary to succeed. 01:47:49.510 --> 01:47:51.820 align:middle line:84% National data indicate that students 01:47:51.820 --> 01:47:54.760 align:middle line:84% with intellectual disabilities attending college 01:47:54.760 --> 01:47:57.760 align:middle line:84% obtain paid employment at much higher rates-- 01:47:57.760 --> 01:48:02.550 align:middle line:84% 40% compared to 16% for folks who do not attend college. 01:48:02.550 --> 01:48:05.810 align:middle line:84% So I want to speak on behalf of the Inclusive Concurrent 01:48:05.810 --> 01:48:10.430 align:middle line:84% Enrollment Program, which I had hoped to fund a little higher. 01:48:10.430 --> 01:48:12.510 align:middle line:84% I suspect we're not going to do that, 01:48:12.510 --> 01:48:14.380 align:middle line:84% but I still think it's worth a mention 01:48:14.380 --> 01:48:15.760 align:middle line:90% for this wonderful program. 01:48:15.760 --> 01:48:17.347 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:48:17.347 --> 01:48:18.430 align:middle line:90% Adoption of the amendment. 01:48:18.430 --> 01:48:22.590 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:48:22.590 --> 01:48:25.460 align:middle line:84% The nos have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 01:48:25.460 --> 01:48:28.230 align:middle line:90% 01:48:28.230 --> 01:48:31.160 align:middle line:84% The next amendment, number 199, is on hold. 01:48:31.160 --> 01:48:34.810 align:middle line:84% The next amendment, number 200, filed by the senator 01:48:34.810 --> 01:48:37.150 align:middle line:90% from Plymouth and Bristol. 01:48:37.150 --> 01:48:40.602 align:middle line:84% Mr. Pacheco has filed an amendment, the title 01:48:40.602 --> 01:48:41.810 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:48:41.810 --> 01:48:45.897 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 200 by Mr. Pacheco, Washington Center. 01:48:45.897 --> 01:48:47.730 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:48:47.730 --> 01:48:49.970 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:48:49.970 --> 01:48:50.709 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 01:48:50.709 --> 01:48:51.750 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 01:48:51.750 --> 01:48:54.180 align:middle line:84% The next amendment, amendment number 201, 01:48:54.180 --> 01:48:56.900 align:middle line:84% has been filed by the senator from Essex, Ms. O'Connor 01:48:56.900 --> 01:48:59.870 align:middle line:84% Ives, the title of which the clerk will read. 01:48:59.870 --> 01:49:02.260 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 201 by Ms. O'Connor Ives, 01:49:02.260 --> 01:49:04.450 align:middle line:90% Innovation Schools. 01:49:04.450 --> 01:49:05.780 align:middle line:90% Senator from Essex. 01:49:05.780 --> 01:49:06.850 align:middle line:90% Thank you [AUDIO OUT]. 01:49:06.850 --> 01:49:09.390 align:middle line:84% The Innovation Schools Initiative 01:49:09.390 --> 01:49:12.800 align:middle line:84% is an opportunity to create innovation schools, which 01:49:12.800 --> 01:49:16.220 align:middle line:84% are in district schools, that operate with greater autonomy 01:49:16.220 --> 01:49:20.650 align:middle line:84% and flexibility with regard to curriculum, staffing, budget, 01:49:20.650 --> 01:49:23.310 align:middle line:84% scheduling, professional development, and district 01:49:23.310 --> 01:49:24.130 align:middle line:90% policies. 01:49:24.130 --> 01:49:28.350 align:middle line:84% These public schools are able to implement innovative strategies 01:49:28.350 --> 01:49:31.740 align:middle line:84% to improve student achievement while keeping school 01:49:31.740 --> 01:49:33.067 align:middle line:90% funding within their districts. 01:49:33.067 --> 01:49:33.650 align:middle line:90% Mr. President? 01:49:33.650 --> 01:49:37.750 align:middle line:90% 01:49:37.750 --> 01:49:40.150 align:middle line:84% For what purpose does the gentlelady rise? 01:49:40.150 --> 01:49:43.730 align:middle line:84% I'm having difficulty hearing the senator speak. 01:49:43.730 --> 01:49:46.270 align:middle line:84% The gentlelady is having difficulty 01:49:46.270 --> 01:49:48.270 align:middle line:90% hearing the gentlelady speak. 01:49:48.270 --> 01:49:51.100 align:middle line:84% Please take your conversations outside 01:49:51.100 --> 01:49:52.330 align:middle line:90% if they can't be subdued. 01:49:52.330 --> 01:49:52.970 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:49:52.970 --> 01:49:55.620 align:middle line:90% 01:49:55.620 --> 01:49:58.420 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, and thank you 01:49:58.420 --> 01:50:00.080 align:middle line:90% to the senator from Boston. 01:50:00.080 --> 01:50:02.950 align:middle line:84% The goal is to establish the school conditions that 01:50:02.950 --> 01:50:04.890 align:middle line:90% lead to successful learning. 01:50:04.890 --> 01:50:07.830 align:middle line:84% This funding will assist the Pentucket Regional School 01:50:07.830 --> 01:50:11.050 align:middle line:84% District in sustaining and supporting 01:50:11.050 --> 01:50:14.420 align:middle line:84% their successful Innovation Schools Program. 01:50:14.420 --> 01:50:16.740 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:50:16.740 --> 01:50:19.447 align:middle line:90% It's all on you, buddy. 01:50:19.447 --> 01:50:21.280 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:50:21.280 --> 01:50:23.700 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:50:23.700 --> 01:50:26.660 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 01:50:26.660 --> 01:50:29.910 align:middle line:84% Next amendment, number 201, filed by the-- 01:50:29.910 --> 01:50:30.530 align:middle line:90% 202. 01:50:30.530 --> 01:50:35.590 align:middle line:84% The next amendment, number 202, is on hold. 01:50:35.590 --> 01:50:38.080 align:middle line:84% The next amendment, number 203, filed 01:50:38.080 --> 01:50:40.010 align:middle line:84% by the senator from Hampden and Hampshire, 01:50:40.010 --> 01:50:43.280 align:middle line:84% Mr. Lesser, the title of which the clerk will read. 01:50:43.280 --> 01:50:46.180 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 203 by Mr. Lesser, Gateway City 01:50:46.180 --> 01:50:47.190 align:middle line:90% Opportunity Zones. 01:50:47.190 --> 01:50:52.030 align:middle line:90% 01:50:52.030 --> 01:50:54.550 align:middle line:84% The senator from Hampden and Hampshire. 01:50:54.550 --> 01:50:58.520 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I ask that this amendment be withdrawn. 01:50:58.520 --> 01:51:01.110 align:middle line:84% Senator asks that the amendment be withdrawn. 01:51:01.110 --> 01:51:02.700 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection? 01:51:02.700 --> 01:51:06.310 align:middle line:84% Hearing none, amendment number 203 is withdrawn. 01:51:06.310 --> 01:51:13.160 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 204, filed by-- 01:51:13.160 --> 01:51:13.850 align:middle line:90% brief recess. 01:51:13.850 --> 01:51:31.220 align:middle line:90% 01:51:31.220 --> 01:51:33.450 align:middle line:84% --haven't been taken on item number 194 01:51:33.450 --> 01:51:34.950 align:middle line:90% and it will be placed on hold. 01:51:34.950 --> 01:51:38.130 align:middle line:90% 01:51:38.130 --> 01:51:41.880 align:middle line:84% The next amendment is number 202, and it is on hold. 01:51:41.880 --> 01:51:43.595 align:middle line:84% The next amendment is number 203-- 01:51:43.595 --> 01:51:46.830 align:middle line:90% 01:51:46.830 --> 01:51:47.390 align:middle line:90% brief recess. 01:51:47.390 --> 01:51:57.990 align:middle line:90% 01:51:57.990 --> 01:52:01.150 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] the senator from Hampden and Hampshire 01:52:01.150 --> 01:52:02.572 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 01:52:02.572 --> 01:52:03.780 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:52:03.780 --> 01:52:07.450 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 205 by Mr. Humason, Safety Patrol. 01:52:07.450 --> 01:52:08.349 align:middle line:90% Senator Humason. 01:52:08.349 --> 01:52:09.390 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:52:09.390 --> 01:52:12.660 align:middle line:84% [AUDIO OUT] to rise tonight to speak on an amendment that I 01:52:12.660 --> 01:52:15.470 align:middle line:84% filed, so I'd like to say thank you to the gentlelady-- 01:52:15.470 --> 01:52:17.690 align:middle line:84% the chairwoman of Ways and Means, for her 01:52:17.690 --> 01:52:19.820 align:middle line:84% and the staff of Ways and Means for their hard 01:52:19.820 --> 01:52:22.544 align:middle line:84% work with this process that they go through every year. 01:52:22.544 --> 01:52:24.460 align:middle line:84% And I want to thank each and every one of you, 01:52:24.460 --> 01:52:26.876 align:middle line:84% my colleagues for the next couple of days, that will spend 01:52:26.876 --> 01:52:28.490 align:middle line:90% working on this Senate budget. 01:52:28.490 --> 01:52:31.550 align:middle line:84% So the amendment that I filed is number 205. 01:52:31.550 --> 01:52:33.230 align:middle line:84% It's simply an earmark for the city-- 01:52:33.230 --> 01:52:34.930 align:middle line:84% or rather, the town of Southwick. 01:52:34.930 --> 01:52:38.220 align:middle line:84% It's a small town in Western Massachusetts that I represent. 01:52:38.220 --> 01:52:42.360 align:middle line:84% It's an appropriation or earmark for money for the town's 01:52:42.360 --> 01:52:44.750 align:middle line:84% schools, the public schools, which are actually 01:52:44.750 --> 01:52:47.710 align:middle line:84% a regional school district, the Southwick-Granville-Tolland 01:52:47.710 --> 01:52:49.690 align:middle line:84% Regional School District, and this money 01:52:49.690 --> 01:52:52.830 align:middle line:84% can be used in the area of public safety 01:52:52.830 --> 01:52:54.090 align:middle line:90% improvements for the schools. 01:52:54.090 --> 01:52:56.840 align:middle line:84% So whether it's new locking technology, 01:52:56.840 --> 01:53:01.320 align:middle line:84% new cameras, whatever the principal and superintendent 01:53:01.320 --> 01:53:04.240 align:middle line:84% decided upon would be helpful for them 01:53:04.240 --> 01:53:08.897 align:middle line:84% to be able to use in the area of keeping our children safe. 01:53:08.897 --> 01:53:11.480 align:middle line:84% I know that all of us agree that that's a very important area, 01:53:11.480 --> 01:53:13.188 align:middle line:84% and I know that my colleague in the House 01:53:13.188 --> 01:53:15.400 align:middle line:84% was able to get this through in the House budget, 01:53:15.400 --> 01:53:18.110 align:middle line:84% so I'm hopeful that it will pass here in the Senate budget, 01:53:18.110 --> 01:53:19.990 align:middle line:84% and then we can move on to conference. 01:53:19.990 --> 01:53:21.865 align:middle line:84% So thank you very much, ladies and gentlemen. 01:53:21.865 --> 01:53:23.330 align:middle line:90% I appreciate your support. 01:53:23.330 --> 01:53:25.440 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:53:25.440 --> 01:53:28.150 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 01:53:28.150 --> 01:53:30.780 align:middle line:84% The nos have it, and the amendment is not adopted. 01:53:30.780 --> 01:53:32.850 align:middle line:90% Amendment number 206 is on hold. 01:53:32.850 --> 01:53:36.250 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 207 has been filed 01:53:36.250 --> 01:53:38.080 align:middle line:84% by the senator from Essex and Middlesex, 01:53:38.080 --> 01:53:40.850 align:middle line:84% Mr. Tarr, the title of which the clerk will read. 01:53:40.850 --> 01:53:44.250 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 207 by Mr. Tarr, Foundation Budget Review 01:53:44.250 --> 01:53:47.480 align:middle line:84% Commission Funding by Consolidated Net Surplus. 01:53:47.480 --> 01:53:50.550 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr. 01:53:50.550 --> 01:53:52.870 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, and how delightful 01:53:52.870 --> 01:53:56.300 align:middle line:84% it is on the historic occasion of you being on the rostrum 01:53:56.300 --> 01:53:58.120 align:middle line:84% to witness that in place, and you're 01:53:58.120 --> 01:54:00.360 align:middle line:84% doing an outstanding job, Mr. President. 01:54:00.360 --> 01:54:03.150 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, this very straightforward amendment 01:54:03.150 --> 01:54:07.050 align:middle line:84% proposes that if there is a consolidated net surplus 01:54:07.050 --> 01:54:10.480 align:middle line:84% at the end of the fiscal year in 2018, 01:54:10.480 --> 01:54:12.340 align:middle line:90% let it be divided accordingly-- 01:54:12.340 --> 01:54:16.070 align:middle line:84% 1/3 for the Foundation Budget Review Commission 01:54:16.070 --> 01:54:22.470 align:middle line:84% recommendations, 1/3 for support of the Community Preservation 01:54:22.470 --> 01:54:26.640 align:middle line:84% Act Matching Fund, and 1/3 third to the Life Sciences Fund. 01:54:26.640 --> 01:54:28.620 align:middle line:84% A very straightforward proposition. 01:54:28.620 --> 01:54:31.180 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, again, we are trying 01:54:31.180 --> 01:54:35.410 align:middle line:84% to find ways to fund this clearly identified need that 01:54:35.410 --> 01:54:38.990 align:middle line:84% affects every local school district in the Commonwealth. 01:54:38.990 --> 01:54:41.940 align:middle line:90% Now, Mr. President, unlike-- 01:54:41.940 --> 01:54:45.310 align:middle line:84% excuse me-- the earlier amendment 01:54:45.310 --> 01:54:47.390 align:middle line:84% that we offered, where we actually 01:54:47.390 --> 01:54:50.050 align:middle line:84% identified sources of existing funding, 01:54:50.050 --> 01:54:51.940 align:middle line:90% this one is more speculative. 01:54:51.940 --> 01:54:53.430 align:middle line:90% That is clearly the case. 01:54:53.430 --> 01:54:56.170 align:middle line:84% But like this entire budget, Mr. President, 01:54:56.170 --> 01:54:59.140 align:middle line:84% this is an aspirational statement to say that, 01:54:59.140 --> 01:55:03.540 align:middle line:84% if we have amounts available in the consolidated net surplus, 01:55:03.540 --> 01:55:07.410 align:middle line:84% that 1/3 of them, or $10 million, 01:55:07.410 --> 01:55:10.310 align:middle line:84% will go to funding the recommendations 01:55:10.310 --> 01:55:12.590 align:middle line:84% of the Foundation Budget Review Commission. 01:55:12.590 --> 01:55:16.550 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, I hope the amendment is adopted. 01:55:16.550 --> 01:55:18.550 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:55:18.550 --> 01:55:20.620 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed, no. 01:55:20.620 --> 01:55:21.430 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 01:55:21.430 --> 01:55:24.160 align:middle line:84% The amendment is not adopted, and we'll surely be back to you 01:55:24.160 --> 01:55:25.590 align:middle line:90% if there's a surplus. 01:55:25.590 --> 01:55:29.050 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex and Middleboro-- 01:55:29.050 --> 01:55:31.030 align:middle line:90% Middlesex. 01:55:31.030 --> 01:55:35.230 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I tremendously appreciate that expansion 01:55:35.230 --> 01:55:36.380 align:middle line:90% of my district. 01:55:36.380 --> 01:55:39.890 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I hope it comes with commensurate staff. 01:55:39.890 --> 01:55:44.600 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I know-- first of all, Mr. President, 01:55:44.600 --> 01:55:46.360 align:middle line:84% I want to put the members on notice 01:55:46.360 --> 01:55:49.240 align:middle line:84% that I am going to seek a roll call on this matter. 01:55:49.240 --> 01:55:51.460 align:middle line:84% I know that the gentlelady from Somerville 01:55:51.460 --> 01:55:52.770 align:middle line:90% may wish to speak to it. 01:55:52.770 --> 01:55:54.890 align:middle line:84% So before I ask for the roll call, 01:55:54.890 --> 01:55:57.380 align:middle line:84% I want to allow other members the opportunity 01:55:57.380 --> 01:56:00.450 align:middle line:84% to speak and not preclude them by asking for a roll call. 01:56:00.450 --> 01:56:02.430 align:middle line:90% Is this 207? 01:56:02.430 --> 01:56:03.750 align:middle line:90% Correct. 01:56:03.750 --> 01:56:08.060 align:middle line:84% [AUDIO OUT] through you to the clerk, 01:56:08.060 --> 01:56:10.630 align:middle line:84% I am going to doubt the vote and ask that a vote be taken 01:56:10.630 --> 01:56:12.990 align:middle line:90% by a call of the yeas and nays. 01:56:12.990 --> 01:57:57.760 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 01:57:57.760 --> 01:58:00.790 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I request unanimous consent 01:58:00.790 --> 01:58:04.650 align:middle line:84% that the Senate consider having taken no action on amendment 01:58:04.650 --> 01:58:06.600 align:middle line:90% number 207. 01:58:06.600 --> 01:58:08.650 align:middle line:84% Senator requests that no action have been 01:58:08.650 --> 01:58:10.660 align:middle line:90% taken on amendment number 207. 01:58:10.660 --> 01:58:11.790 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection? 01:58:11.790 --> 01:58:14.320 align:middle line:84% Hearing none, no action has been taken. 01:58:14.320 --> 01:58:17.510 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:58:17.510 --> 01:58:19.160 align:middle line:90% Senator Jehlen. 01:58:19.160 --> 01:58:25.280 align:middle line:84% [AUDIO OUT] Foundation Budget Review Commission, 01:58:25.280 --> 01:58:29.550 align:middle line:84% funding by consolidating a net surplus. 01:58:29.550 --> 01:58:32.780 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I submit that this is a foundation built 01:58:32.780 --> 01:58:35.980 align:middle line:84% on sand, and I think we know how we 01:58:35.980 --> 01:58:40.280 align:middle line:84% are supposed to expect the results of building on sand. 01:58:40.280 --> 01:58:43.780 align:middle line:84% This amendment actually doesn't commit 01:58:43.780 --> 01:58:46.040 align:middle line:84% the entire consolidated net surplus 01:58:46.040 --> 01:58:47.110 align:middle line:90% to the foundation budget. 01:58:47.110 --> 01:58:50.250 align:middle line:84% As the gentleman from Gloucester pointed out, 01:58:50.250 --> 01:58:54.130 align:middle line:84% it actually directs it to three things. 01:58:54.130 --> 01:58:57.980 align:middle line:84% One is the Community Preservation Trust. 01:58:57.980 --> 01:59:03.400 align:middle line:84% One is the life sciences fund, and the last one 01:59:03.400 --> 01:59:07.250 align:middle line:90% is the foundation budget. 01:59:07.250 --> 01:59:11.740 align:middle line:84% The reason it's built on sand is first of all the likelihood 01:59:11.740 --> 01:59:15.090 align:middle line:84% of a consolidated surplus in this time of deficits 01:59:15.090 --> 01:59:17.690 align:middle line:90% is vanishingly small. 01:59:17.690 --> 01:59:24.930 align:middle line:84% But the second is that the money, if it comes, 01:59:24.930 --> 01:59:29.490 align:middle line:84% will come at the end of the year, which is of little value 01:59:29.490 --> 01:59:32.460 align:middle line:84% to a district that has been trying to run its schools. 01:59:32.460 --> 01:59:38.010 align:middle line:84% So it's not actually a benefit to the foundation budget, 01:59:38.010 --> 01:59:45.770 align:middle line:84% but then the maximum that could come to each of these funds 01:59:45.770 --> 01:59:48.190 align:middle line:90% is $10 million. 01:59:48.190 --> 01:59:50.890 align:middle line:84% So suppose you take $10 million and put it 01:59:50.890 --> 01:59:55.340 align:middle line:90% into the foundation budget. 01:59:55.340 --> 01:59:57.820 align:middle line:90% Many districts will get nothing. 01:59:57.820 --> 02:00:02.950 align:middle line:84% In some districts, the average across the state is about $10 02:00:02.950 --> 02:00:06.460 align:middle line:84% per pupil, and this amendment requires 02:00:06.460 --> 02:00:09.520 align:middle line:84% the Department of Education to report 02:00:09.520 --> 02:00:13.250 align:middle line:84% on benchmarks and results of spending 02:00:13.250 --> 02:00:17.920 align:middle line:84% an average of $10 per pupil at the end of the year. 02:00:17.920 --> 02:00:21.140 align:middle line:84% This is intrusive, it is unnecessary, 02:00:21.140 --> 02:00:26.240 align:middle line:84% and it is speculative, as the gentleman pointed out. 02:00:26.240 --> 02:00:30.080 align:middle line:84% We need a firm foundation for our schools. 02:00:30.080 --> 02:00:36.440 align:middle line:84% We need a firm, committed revenue source. 02:00:36.440 --> 02:00:41.500 align:middle line:84% We need to make real commitments to the foundation budget, not 02:00:41.500 --> 02:00:43.940 align:middle line:84% something that comes at the end of the year 02:00:43.940 --> 02:00:49.530 align:middle line:84% with other commitments and a maximum of $10 per student. 02:00:49.530 --> 02:00:51.750 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I hope this amendment-- 02:00:51.750 --> 02:00:53.680 align:middle line:90% first of all, I was wrong. 02:00:53.680 --> 02:00:58.150 align:middle line:84% I meant to begin by saying I appreciate 02:00:58.150 --> 02:01:02.660 align:middle line:84% the gentleman's creativity and his commitment to education 02:01:02.660 --> 02:01:03.360 align:middle line:90% funding. 02:01:03.360 --> 02:01:07.810 align:middle line:84% I just think that this amendment tries too hard 02:01:07.810 --> 02:01:10.580 align:middle line:84% and doesn't get where we need to go, 02:01:10.580 --> 02:01:13.850 align:middle line:84% and so I hope this amendment is not adopted. 02:01:13.850 --> 02:01:15.600 align:middle line:84% I hope that members will vote no. 02:01:15.600 --> 02:01:18.577 align:middle line:90% 02:01:18.577 --> 02:01:19.910 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] Middlesex, Mr. Tarr. 02:01:19.910 --> 02:01:20.951 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 02:01:20.951 --> 02:01:23.780 align:middle line:84% And let me respond in kind by saying the gentlelady that just 02:01:23.780 --> 02:01:26.890 align:middle line:84% took your seat has been a passionate and tireless 02:01:26.890 --> 02:01:29.600 align:middle line:84% advocate for public education in this chamber 02:01:29.600 --> 02:01:32.560 align:middle line:84% and in the Commonwealth, and I appreciate that passion. 02:01:32.560 --> 02:01:34.970 align:middle line:84% And, Mr. President, there are occasions 02:01:34.970 --> 02:01:38.160 align:middle line:84% where people who have similar goals can disagree on methods. 02:01:38.160 --> 02:01:40.480 align:middle line:84% And, Mr. President, the gentlelady 02:01:40.480 --> 02:01:42.680 align:middle line:84% who just took her seat indicated that we 02:01:42.680 --> 02:01:47.230 align:middle line:84% need a firm foundation and not something that's speculative. 02:01:47.230 --> 02:01:50.250 align:middle line:84% Well, I would refer to the sections of the budget that 02:01:50.250 --> 02:01:53.740 align:middle line:84% were released for our consideration that are entirely 02:01:53.740 --> 02:01:56.480 align:middle line:84% speculative, that direct a panel of people 02:01:56.480 --> 02:01:59.640 align:middle line:84% to come up with a way to fund the recommendations 02:01:59.640 --> 02:02:01.770 align:middle line:84% of the Foundation Budget Review Commission. 02:02:01.770 --> 02:02:04.660 align:middle line:84% I don't know anything more speculative than that. 02:02:04.660 --> 02:02:06.840 align:middle line:84% Earlier in this debate, Mr. President, 02:02:06.840 --> 02:02:10.860 align:middle line:84% we offered three identified funding sources to be able 02:02:10.860 --> 02:02:13.580 align:middle line:84% to fund the recommendation of the Foundation Budget Review 02:02:13.580 --> 02:02:17.510 align:middle line:84% Commission that were clearly available, that clearly exist, 02:02:17.510 --> 02:02:19.850 align:middle line:84% , that would establish that foundation, 02:02:19.850 --> 02:02:21.810 align:middle line:90% and those were rejected. 02:02:21.810 --> 02:02:25.480 align:middle line:84% So you have on the one hand firmly established funding 02:02:25.480 --> 02:02:26.580 align:middle line:90% rejected. 02:02:26.580 --> 02:02:30.720 align:middle line:84% You have on the other hand completely speculative ideas 02:02:30.720 --> 02:02:32.320 align:middle line:90% of how it might be funded. 02:02:32.320 --> 02:02:34.100 align:middle line:90% That is already in the budget. 02:02:34.100 --> 02:02:37.590 align:middle line:84% What we're actually trying to do is the middle ground here 02:02:37.590 --> 02:02:40.420 align:middle line:84% and say if there is money in this fund 02:02:40.420 --> 02:02:42.600 align:middle line:84% it will go to the recommendations 02:02:42.600 --> 02:02:44.800 align:middle line:84% of the Foundation Budget Review Commission. 02:02:44.800 --> 02:02:46.210 align:middle line:90% That's all. 02:02:46.210 --> 02:02:49.020 align:middle line:84% So I agree, Mr. President, that we 02:02:49.020 --> 02:02:51.180 align:middle line:84% need to be on firmer footing with this. 02:02:51.180 --> 02:02:53.290 align:middle line:84% You have heard me say it throughout this debate. 02:02:53.290 --> 02:02:55.040 align:middle line:84% I will likely continue to say it, 02:02:55.040 --> 02:02:56.750 align:middle line:84% so I'm putting everyone on notice-- 02:02:56.750 --> 02:03:01.250 align:middle line:84% that we need to continue to work to address this, not because 02:03:01.250 --> 02:03:05.540 align:middle line:84% of the fault of this body, but because this Review 02:03:05.540 --> 02:03:09.280 align:middle line:84% Commission did not meet year after year 02:03:09.280 --> 02:03:10.650 align:middle line:90% after year after year. 02:03:10.650 --> 02:03:14.110 align:middle line:84% And when it did, it produced some very valuable 02:03:14.110 --> 02:03:17.930 align:middle line:84% recommendations, and two of those recommendations 02:03:17.930 --> 02:03:22.060 align:middle line:84% involve special education and the cost of health insurance. 02:03:22.060 --> 02:03:26.740 align:middle line:84% Those two, in particular, cut across every school district 02:03:26.740 --> 02:03:28.120 align:middle line:90% in the Commonwealth. 02:03:28.120 --> 02:03:31.630 align:middle line:84% And in fact, in many ways, the Foundation Budget Review 02:03:31.630 --> 02:03:34.650 align:middle line:84% Commission confirmed what many of us 02:03:34.650 --> 02:03:37.170 align:middle line:84% already thought to be the case and what 02:03:37.170 --> 02:03:39.350 align:middle line:84% we were told by many of our school districts 02:03:39.350 --> 02:03:40.890 align:middle line:90% was already the case. 02:03:40.890 --> 02:03:44.950 align:middle line:84% And so, Mr. President, I do respectfully 02:03:44.950 --> 02:03:47.900 align:middle line:84% disagree with the gentlelady from Somerville 02:03:47.900 --> 02:03:54.030 align:middle line:84% not in her assertion that we ought to have a firmer funding 02:03:54.030 --> 02:03:59.100 align:middle line:84% source, but in her opposition to a way to try to get there. 02:03:59.100 --> 02:04:02.650 align:middle line:84% So, Mr. President, I do appreciate her passion, 02:04:02.650 --> 02:04:04.220 align:middle line:84% and I suspect that we will likely 02:04:04.220 --> 02:04:07.010 align:middle line:84% continue to work together on this matter. 02:04:07.010 --> 02:04:11.380 align:middle line:84% But, Mr. President, in order to bring greater attention 02:04:11.380 --> 02:04:13.044 align:middle line:84% to this matter, I do move that when 02:04:13.044 --> 02:04:14.460 align:middle line:84% a vote is taken on this matter, it 02:04:14.460 --> 02:04:16.190 align:middle line:84% be taken by a call of yeas and nays. 02:04:16.190 --> 02:04:17.990 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex and Middlesex 02:04:17.990 --> 02:04:20.810 align:middle line:84% has asked that when a vote is taken on Amendment number 207 02:04:20.810 --> 02:04:22.860 align:middle line:84% that it be taken by a call of the yeas and nays. 02:04:22.860 --> 02:04:26.420 align:middle line:84% Those members joining with them, please rise and be counted. 02:04:26.420 --> 02:04:30.294 align:middle line:84% A sufficient number of members have arisen. 02:04:30.294 --> 02:04:31.710 align:middle line:84% The yeas and nays will be ordered. 02:04:31.710 --> 02:04:37.660 align:middle line:90% 02:04:37.660 --> 02:04:40.950 align:middle line:90% Senator Spilka. 02:04:40.950 --> 02:04:44.150 align:middle line:84% I want to make it clear, as the gentlelady from Somerville 02:04:44.150 --> 02:04:48.280 align:middle line:84% has stated, this amendment makes three separate transfers. 02:04:48.280 --> 02:04:51.120 align:middle line:84% The heading is just one for the Foundation Budget Review 02:04:51.120 --> 02:04:51.620 align:middle line:90% Commission. 02:04:51.620 --> 02:04:53.760 align:middle line:84% It makes three separate transfers 02:04:53.760 --> 02:04:57.420 align:middle line:84% from the consolidated net surplus-- $10 million 02:04:57.420 --> 02:05:01.330 align:middle line:84% for CPA, $10 million for life sciences, which there are 02:05:01.330 --> 02:05:04.520 align:middle line:84% other amendments that do the same thing for CPA and life 02:05:04.520 --> 02:05:07.720 align:middle line:84% sciences, I just want to mention, that are still on hold 02:05:07.720 --> 02:05:11.310 align:middle line:84% and then $10 million to implement the Foundation Budget 02:05:11.310 --> 02:05:14.110 align:middle line:84% Review Commission's recommendations. 02:05:14.110 --> 02:05:16.040 align:middle line:84% The last time we were able to pull 02:05:16.040 --> 02:05:18.090 align:middle line:84% from the consolidated net surplus 02:05:18.090 --> 02:05:22.360 align:middle line:84% was 2015, just for people to be aware. 02:05:22.360 --> 02:05:26.880 align:middle line:84% So as the gentlelady from Somerville stated, 02:05:26.880 --> 02:05:28.820 align:middle line:84% we're not certain that there will 02:05:28.820 --> 02:05:32.530 align:middle line:84% be a consolidated net surplus, so we 02:05:32.530 --> 02:05:35.470 align:middle line:84% don't want to put money into something that we 02:05:35.470 --> 02:05:37.530 align:middle line:90% think is going to be there. 02:05:37.530 --> 02:05:38.310 align:middle line:90% It may. 02:05:38.310 --> 02:05:40.470 align:middle line:90% We hope the economy rebounds. 02:05:40.470 --> 02:05:42.500 align:middle line:90% It may not. 02:05:42.500 --> 02:05:45.100 align:middle line:84% And I have to say for CPA, we have always 02:05:45.100 --> 02:05:46.860 align:middle line:90% been on record supporting that. 02:05:46.860 --> 02:05:49.690 align:middle line:84% More than 50% of the state's population 02:05:49.690 --> 02:05:53.280 align:middle line:84% actually lives in CPA communities. 02:05:53.280 --> 02:05:57.750 align:middle line:84% Pittsfield to Waltham and my own hometown and more than half 02:05:57.750 --> 02:06:01.050 align:middle line:84% of my own communities, the Life Sciences Center 02:06:01.050 --> 02:06:05.990 align:middle line:84% is a vital, vital resource for a state's life science center, 02:06:05.990 --> 02:06:09.060 align:middle line:84% promoting innovation and creating jobs 02:06:09.060 --> 02:06:12.890 align:middle line:84% to sustain our Commonwealth's economic development. 02:06:12.890 --> 02:06:16.120 align:middle line:84% As Chair of the Biotech Caucus, it's also something 02:06:16.120 --> 02:06:21.740 align:middle line:84% that I firmly support, and we will take this up in due time. 02:06:21.740 --> 02:06:24.750 align:middle line:84% Concerning the Foundation Budget Review Commission's 02:06:24.750 --> 02:06:28.320 align:middle line:84% recommendations, we have already started 02:06:28.320 --> 02:06:32.930 align:middle line:84% implementing those recommendations via chapter 70 02:06:32.930 --> 02:06:34.360 align:middle line:90% in our budget. 02:06:34.360 --> 02:06:35.690 align:middle line:90% We did some last year. 02:06:35.690 --> 02:06:38.260 align:middle line:84% We've made much more headway this year, 02:06:38.260 --> 02:06:43.900 align:middle line:84% and we fully funded what we did with real money. 02:06:43.900 --> 02:06:47.890 align:middle line:84% This year, we included $128.8 million 02:06:47.890 --> 02:06:54.070 align:middle line:84% of an increase over 2017 for chapter 70, 02:06:54.070 --> 02:06:57.990 align:middle line:84% providing additional dollars to support some of the health care 02:06:57.990 --> 02:06:59.690 align:middle line:90% implementation costs-- 02:06:59.690 --> 02:07:03.430 align:middle line:84% 10% of that-- and special education 02:07:03.430 --> 02:07:06.730 align:middle line:84% costs for school districts throughout the Commonwealth. 02:07:06.730 --> 02:07:09.320 align:middle line:84% This includes full implementation 02:07:09.320 --> 02:07:15.100 align:middle line:84% of the in-district costs for the in-district special education 02:07:15.100 --> 02:07:19.050 align:middle line:84% and 15% of the commission's recommendations 02:07:19.050 --> 02:07:23.180 align:middle line:84% for out-of-district special education costs. 02:07:23.180 --> 02:07:29.310 align:middle line:84% So we have already put millions of dollars in the budget 02:07:29.310 --> 02:07:33.560 align:middle line:84% to implement pieces of the Foundation Budget Review 02:07:33.560 --> 02:07:39.060 align:middle line:84% Commission, because the senate takes this very seriously. 02:07:39.060 --> 02:07:42.700 align:middle line:84% While we have long valued the CPA and Life Sciences Center 02:07:42.700 --> 02:07:46.070 align:middle line:84% and clearly we have valued the implementation 02:07:46.070 --> 02:07:49.890 align:middle line:84% of the Foundation Budget Review Commission's recommendations, 02:07:49.890 --> 02:07:54.060 align:middle line:84% and we support the funding of all of these, 02:07:54.060 --> 02:07:58.230 align:middle line:84% we believe that it would be best to continue the implementation 02:07:58.230 --> 02:08:02.400 align:middle line:84% of the Foundation Budget Review Commission's recommendations 02:08:02.400 --> 02:08:06.990 align:middle line:84% through careful consideration and deliberation of the chapter 02:08:06.990 --> 02:08:08.630 align:middle line:90% 70 funding formula. 02:08:08.630 --> 02:08:12.270 align:middle line:84% And I'm just putting some possible amount 02:08:12.270 --> 02:08:16.350 align:middle line:84% into some fund which doesn't exist yet 02:08:16.350 --> 02:08:20.080 align:middle line:84% and then going back and distributing it 02:08:20.080 --> 02:08:24.420 align:middle line:84% to cities and towns at the end of the year. 02:08:24.420 --> 02:08:27.130 align:middle line:84% Having a robust discussion on the merits 02:08:27.130 --> 02:08:30.030 align:middle line:84% of different education funding policies, 02:08:30.030 --> 02:08:32.070 align:middle line:84% as we do during this budget, would 02:08:32.070 --> 02:08:35.810 align:middle line:84% allow us to have a more thorough and consistent approach. 02:08:35.810 --> 02:08:39.370 align:middle line:84% So I also ask that you vote no on this amendment. 02:08:39.370 --> 02:08:42.349 align:middle line:90% 02:08:42.349 --> 02:08:43.140 align:middle line:90% Senator, thank you. 02:08:43.140 --> 02:08:47.320 align:middle line:90% 02:08:47.320 --> 02:08:51.040 align:middle line:84% I'd like to offer just a couple of historical fine points 02:08:51.040 --> 02:08:55.160 align:middle line:84% to give some context to this debate. 02:08:55.160 --> 02:09:00.970 align:middle line:84% The gentleman from Cape Ann mentioned that currently we're 02:09:00.970 --> 02:09:06.270 align:middle line:84% operating with the extreme-most speculative plan in how we're 02:09:06.270 --> 02:09:08.560 align:middle line:84% going to fund the Foundation Budget Review Commission, 02:09:08.560 --> 02:09:11.060 align:middle line:84% because there's no dedicated revenue stream. 02:09:11.060 --> 02:09:15.340 align:middle line:84% I want to just remind my colleagues that 24 years ago, 02:09:15.340 --> 02:09:19.000 align:middle line:84% when we first embarked upon this mission of education reform, 02:09:19.000 --> 02:09:21.660 align:middle line:84% when the foundation budget was first established, 02:09:21.660 --> 02:09:23.470 align:middle line:84% when we first committed ourselves 02:09:23.470 --> 02:09:27.190 align:middle line:84% to the radical but sensible goal of funding education 02:09:27.190 --> 02:09:30.140 align:middle line:84% adequately for all students regardless of where they live, 02:09:30.140 --> 02:09:32.530 align:middle line:84% there was no dedicated revenue stream. 02:09:32.530 --> 02:09:34.830 align:middle line:84% To this day, we have no dedicated revenue stream 02:09:34.830 --> 02:09:35.840 align:middle line:90% for chapter 70. 02:09:35.840 --> 02:09:37.590 align:middle line:84% Our only dedicated revenue stream 02:09:37.590 --> 02:09:40.470 align:middle line:84% is our political will to do it and the taxpayers' 02:09:40.470 --> 02:09:44.030 align:middle line:84% political will and commitment to the importance of our schools, 02:09:44.030 --> 02:09:46.790 align:middle line:84% to our children, to our families, and to our economy. 02:09:46.790 --> 02:09:48.940 align:middle line:84% And where there is a will, there is a way. 02:09:48.940 --> 02:09:52.300 align:middle line:84% And that is why we see, as the chairwoman aptly said, 02:09:52.300 --> 02:09:53.800 align:middle line:90% real money-- 02:09:53.800 --> 02:09:57.410 align:middle line:84% not if we get to it, if we can afford it later, 02:09:57.410 --> 02:10:00.207 align:middle line:84% if there's a little leftover money between the couch 02:10:00.207 --> 02:10:01.540 align:middle line:90% cushions at the end of the year. 02:10:01.540 --> 02:10:04.000 align:middle line:84% But there's real money in this budget 02:10:04.000 --> 02:10:09.280 align:middle line:84% for beginning the work of implementation of FDRC. 02:10:09.280 --> 02:10:12.760 align:middle line:84% Similarly, in 1993, when we embarked upon this mission, 02:10:12.760 --> 02:10:14.890 align:middle line:84% it was not done as an afterthought. 02:10:14.890 --> 02:10:17.890 align:middle line:84% The legislature and the taxpayers for seven years 02:10:17.890 --> 02:10:20.510 align:middle line:84% straight did it up front, in the budget, 02:10:20.510 --> 02:10:22.510 align:middle line:84% not from a consolidated net surplus 02:10:22.510 --> 02:10:24.800 align:middle line:84% transfer at the end of the year, if they got to it. 02:10:24.800 --> 02:10:27.480 align:middle line:84% They did the discipline of making the decision upfront 02:10:27.480 --> 02:10:30.610 align:middle line:84% and following through on the funding levels for seven years 02:10:30.610 --> 02:10:34.390 align:middle line:84% straight until we hit the full funding mark in 2000. 02:10:34.390 --> 02:10:35.860 align:middle line:84% If we're going to do this for real, 02:10:35.860 --> 02:10:37.390 align:middle line:84% if we are going to follow through 02:10:37.390 --> 02:10:39.200 align:middle line:84% on the recommendations of the commission, 02:10:39.200 --> 02:10:41.430 align:middle line:84% as I know the gentleman believes we should, 02:10:41.430 --> 02:10:45.060 align:middle line:84% we have to commit ourselves to doing it upfront 02:10:45.060 --> 02:10:48.850 align:middle line:84% and having the discipline to doing it for real each year 02:10:48.850 --> 02:10:50.320 align:middle line:90% until we get there. 02:10:50.320 --> 02:10:52.650 align:middle line:84% It can't just be done as an afterthought. 02:10:52.650 --> 02:10:54.510 align:middle line:90% It's going to take discipline. 02:10:54.510 --> 02:10:58.080 align:middle line:84% And we also should not be stealing from future years. 02:10:58.080 --> 02:11:00.360 align:middle line:90% We need that stabilization fund. 02:11:00.360 --> 02:11:03.600 align:middle line:84% We need to be making disciplined deposits into the stabilization 02:11:03.600 --> 02:11:05.820 align:middle line:84% fund when we are in years of economic growth. 02:11:05.820 --> 02:11:08.440 align:middle line:84% Because almost all of my colleagues who've 02:11:08.440 --> 02:11:10.470 align:middle line:84% been here for a few years will remember 02:11:10.470 --> 02:11:12.750 align:middle line:84% that when we went through the great recession 02:11:12.750 --> 02:11:17.490 align:middle line:84% just a few years ago, were it not for the federal stimulus 02:11:17.490 --> 02:11:20.920 align:middle line:84% and our stabilization fund, our school budgets 02:11:20.920 --> 02:11:22.260 align:middle line:90% would have been decimated. 02:11:22.260 --> 02:11:24.540 align:middle line:84% And if we don't rebuild that stabilization fund, 02:11:24.540 --> 02:11:27.850 align:middle line:84% we know we're going to hit a recession again some day, 02:11:27.850 --> 02:11:31.230 align:middle line:84% and there will be no cushion to fall back upon to fund 02:11:31.230 --> 02:11:34.740 align:middle line:84% what we have today, let alone the recommendations 02:11:34.740 --> 02:11:36.810 align:middle line:84% of the Foundation Budget Review Commission. 02:11:36.810 --> 02:11:40.510 align:middle line:84% I hope the amendment is not adopted. 02:11:40.510 --> 02:11:42.520 align:middle line:84% Senator from Essex and Middlesex. 02:11:42.520 --> 02:11:44.560 align:middle line:90% Mr. President, where do I start? 02:11:44.560 --> 02:11:46.510 align:middle line:90% Number one, Mr. President. 02:11:46.510 --> 02:11:48.720 align:middle line:84% I'm not suggesting in any way, nor is 02:11:48.720 --> 02:11:51.640 align:middle line:84% anyone that's a sponsor or co-sponsor of this amendment, 02:11:51.640 --> 02:11:54.850 align:middle line:84% that it is to replace what is being done in the Ways 02:11:54.850 --> 02:11:58.270 align:middle line:84% and Means budget recommendation to begin funding 02:11:58.270 --> 02:12:01.439 align:middle line:84% the recommendations or continue to fund the recommendations 02:12:01.439 --> 02:12:02.480 align:middle line:90% of the Foundation budget. 02:12:02.480 --> 02:12:04.110 align:middle line:90% This is not an either/or or. 02:12:04.110 --> 02:12:06.050 align:middle line:90% This is an addition to. 02:12:06.050 --> 02:12:09.250 align:middle line:84% Number two, with regard to the stabilization fund, 02:12:09.250 --> 02:12:12.320 align:middle line:84% if we are concerned about that, then we in fact 02:12:12.320 --> 02:12:15.960 align:middle line:84% should revisit this entire budget, because, Mr. President, 02:12:15.960 --> 02:12:20.060 align:middle line:84% it runs contrary to what we know about state revenue right now. 02:12:20.060 --> 02:12:22.940 align:middle line:84% And if that's the case, if we're concerned 02:12:22.940 --> 02:12:27.420 align:middle line:84% about the stabilization fund, then right now we need to stop 02:12:27.420 --> 02:12:30.240 align:middle line:84% and we need to revisit some of the many things that 02:12:30.240 --> 02:12:33.120 align:middle line:84% have been overlooked and not included with regard 02:12:33.120 --> 02:12:35.450 align:middle line:84% to being able to capture tens of millions 02:12:35.450 --> 02:12:38.170 align:middle line:84% of dollars of savings in things like Medicaid. 02:12:38.170 --> 02:12:41.651 align:middle line:84% Because if we don't, one of two things is going to result. 02:12:41.651 --> 02:12:44.150 align:middle line:84% Number one, we're going to have to call in the stabilization 02:12:44.150 --> 02:12:47.280 align:middle line:84% fund, or number two, we're going to have to see-- 02:12:47.280 --> 02:12:49.440 align:middle line:84% and it won't be by our hand, but it 02:12:49.440 --> 02:12:51.740 align:middle line:90% will have to happen, 9C cuts. 02:12:51.740 --> 02:12:54.240 align:middle line:84% So if we want to get on the path about talking 02:12:54.240 --> 02:12:56.450 align:middle line:84% about how important the stabilization fund is, 02:12:56.450 --> 02:12:58.670 align:middle line:84% let's talk about it, and let's talk 02:12:58.670 --> 02:13:00.840 align:middle line:84% about what we need to do in this budget 02:13:00.840 --> 02:13:04.000 align:middle line:84% right now before it leaves this chamber so it's not 02:13:04.000 --> 02:13:04.860 align:middle line:90% jeopardized. 02:13:04.860 --> 02:13:08.300 align:middle line:84% Number three, when it comes to the idea of something 02:13:08.300 --> 02:13:10.430 align:middle line:84% being speculative, the gentlelady 02:13:10.430 --> 02:13:13.890 align:middle line:84% who's done such an outstanding job working on the Foundation 02:13:13.890 --> 02:13:16.770 align:middle line:84% Budget Review Commission made an important point, 02:13:16.770 --> 02:13:19.080 align:middle line:84% that when we started in 1993 there 02:13:19.080 --> 02:13:21.400 align:middle line:84% was no identifiable revenue source-- 02:13:21.400 --> 02:13:22.830 align:middle line:90% none. 02:13:22.830 --> 02:13:24.990 align:middle line:84% That's why we need to learn from that. 02:13:24.990 --> 02:13:27.690 align:middle line:84% That's exactly what this amendment is about. 02:13:27.690 --> 02:13:29.870 align:middle line:84% She indicated, Mr. President, that we 02:13:29.870 --> 02:13:32.530 align:middle line:84% ought to have political will, and that's 02:13:32.530 --> 02:13:34.620 align:middle line:84% what will guarantee that we will be 02:13:34.620 --> 02:13:37.380 align:middle line:84% able to make good on our collective aspiration 02:13:37.380 --> 02:13:39.360 align:middle line:84% toward funding the recommendations 02:13:39.360 --> 02:13:41.350 align:middle line:84% of the Foundation Budget Review Commission. 02:13:41.350 --> 02:13:43.970 align:middle line:84% And that, Mr. President, is exactly what 02:13:43.970 --> 02:13:45.220 align:middle line:90% this amendment does. 02:13:45.220 --> 02:13:48.610 align:middle line:84% It says we have the political will to put a marker down 02:13:48.610 --> 02:13:50.660 align:middle line:84% to say if we're fortunate enough to have 02:13:50.660 --> 02:13:53.100 align:middle line:84% a consolidated net surplus, part of it 02:13:53.100 --> 02:13:55.660 align:middle line:84% is going to go to advance the goal that we all share 02:13:55.660 --> 02:14:01.140 align:middle line:84% of the Foundation Budget Review Commission. 02:14:01.140 --> 02:14:02.990 align:middle line:84% Let's continue on, Mr. President. 02:14:02.990 --> 02:14:05.610 align:middle line:84% We talked about the fact that we need to have 02:14:05.610 --> 02:14:07.430 align:middle line:90% an identifiable revenue source. 02:14:07.430 --> 02:14:11.220 align:middle line:84% We all agree part of the budget does that right now. 02:14:11.220 --> 02:14:14.080 align:middle line:84% And no one in this chamber or outside of it 02:14:14.080 --> 02:14:17.090 align:middle line:84% should minimize the fact that the distinguished Chairlady 02:14:17.090 --> 02:14:18.570 align:middle line:84% of the Committee on Ways and Means 02:14:18.570 --> 02:14:20.310 align:middle line:84% and the Committee on Ways and Means 02:14:20.310 --> 02:14:24.240 align:middle line:84% did identify funding to partly address 02:14:24.240 --> 02:14:26.560 align:middle line:84% the recommendations of the Foundation Budget Review 02:14:26.560 --> 02:14:27.160 align:middle line:90% Commission. 02:14:27.160 --> 02:14:28.520 align:middle line:90% That is critical. 02:14:28.520 --> 02:14:31.690 align:middle line:84% It was done, and we should all be supportive of that 02:14:31.690 --> 02:14:32.650 align:middle line:90% and proud of it. 02:14:32.650 --> 02:14:35.010 align:middle line:84% What we are talking about, Mr. President, 02:14:35.010 --> 02:14:37.600 align:middle line:84% is the fact that we have gotten over the years 02:14:37.600 --> 02:14:41.410 align:middle line:84% at least $2 billion off track, and we got there 02:14:41.410 --> 02:14:45.710 align:middle line:84% because we let the situation tend to itself for too long. 02:14:45.710 --> 02:14:47.600 align:middle line:84% And we didn't say, this is serious 02:14:47.600 --> 02:14:48.940 align:middle line:90% and we've got to focus on it. 02:14:48.940 --> 02:14:50.060 align:middle line:90% Now we have. 02:14:50.060 --> 02:14:51.250 align:middle line:90% Now we have. 02:14:51.250 --> 02:14:54.510 align:middle line:84% Great work done by the Foundation Budget Review 02:14:54.510 --> 02:14:55.190 align:middle line:90% Commission-- 02:14:55.190 --> 02:14:56.990 align:middle line:90% no doubt about it. 02:14:56.990 --> 02:15:00.190 align:middle line:84% So if we want to express that political will, 02:15:00.190 --> 02:15:01.990 align:middle line:84% there are a number of ways to do it. 02:15:01.990 --> 02:15:05.660 align:middle line:84% One of them is in section 19 of the budget, 02:15:05.660 --> 02:15:08.830 align:middle line:84% as presented to us, which says precisely 02:15:08.830 --> 02:15:11.110 align:middle line:84% that we will try to find a way to fund 02:15:11.110 --> 02:15:13.590 align:middle line:84% the recommendation of the Foundation Budget Review 02:15:13.590 --> 02:15:14.120 align:middle line:90% Commission. 02:15:14.120 --> 02:15:17.350 align:middle line:84% It does not say that we will do it because we've 02:15:17.350 --> 02:15:18.820 align:middle line:90% identified a revenue source. 02:15:18.820 --> 02:15:21.400 align:middle line:84% What it does say is we'll get together 02:15:21.400 --> 02:15:23.020 align:middle line:90% and we'll try to figure out. 02:15:23.020 --> 02:15:25.220 align:middle line:84% What this amendment says is let's 02:15:25.220 --> 02:15:27.780 align:middle line:84% put some resources on the table, so that when 02:15:27.780 --> 02:15:30.490 align:middle line:84% that exercise happens there might be something 02:15:30.490 --> 02:15:33.260 align:middle line:84% to actually figure out other than we have not 02:15:33.260 --> 02:15:35.510 align:middle line:90% identified that revenue source. 02:15:35.510 --> 02:15:38.110 align:middle line:84% We are all talking about the same thing 02:15:38.110 --> 02:15:41.380 align:middle line:84% right now in this chamber, and we all agreed to it. 02:15:41.380 --> 02:15:43.380 align:middle line:84% And that point of agreement should not 02:15:43.380 --> 02:15:46.100 align:middle line:84% be lost in this debate or any other. 02:15:46.100 --> 02:15:48.560 align:middle line:84% What we're talking about is one way 02:15:48.560 --> 02:15:50.310 align:middle line:90% that's been used in the past. 02:15:50.310 --> 02:15:53.040 align:middle line:84% The reference has been made already to the fact 02:15:53.040 --> 02:15:56.230 align:middle line:84% that in some other years, certainly not the past year 02:15:56.230 --> 02:15:59.240 align:middle line:84% but in some other years, we have put a marker down 02:15:59.240 --> 02:16:01.360 align:middle line:84% and said, if we are fortunate enough 02:16:01.360 --> 02:16:03.570 align:middle line:84% to have a consolidated net surplus, 02:16:03.570 --> 02:16:05.880 align:middle line:84% here's the way that we should do it. 02:16:05.880 --> 02:16:09.280 align:middle line:84% If we want to have a debate about the stabilization fund 02:16:09.280 --> 02:16:11.800 align:middle line:84% and how to protect it and what to do to make sure 02:16:11.800 --> 02:16:14.580 align:middle line:84% that it's available on a going-forward basis, 02:16:14.580 --> 02:16:16.390 align:middle line:90% then we sure should do that. 02:16:16.390 --> 02:16:18.720 align:middle line:84% And I would recommend that, and, Mr. President, 02:16:18.720 --> 02:16:21.250 align:middle line:84% I would recommend that we either recommit the budget 02:16:21.250 --> 02:16:24.990 align:middle line:84% or take some time out to have that discussion right now. 02:16:24.990 --> 02:16:28.280 align:middle line:84% Because it's a very serious situation. 02:16:28.280 --> 02:16:30.900 align:middle line:84% But right now, Mr. President, the budget 02:16:30.900 --> 02:16:32.940 align:middle line:84% is not direct money in any way to 02:16:32.940 --> 02:16:34.670 align:middle line:90% the consolidated net surplus. 02:16:34.670 --> 02:16:37.020 align:middle line:84% That's a fair topic of discussion. 02:16:37.020 --> 02:16:38.549 align:middle line:90% We should have more of it. 02:16:38.549 --> 02:16:41.520 align:middle line:84% If we wish to do that, I would encourage us to do so. 02:16:41.520 --> 02:16:44.590 align:middle line:84% I appreciate the comments that have been made by people. 02:16:44.590 --> 02:16:47.700 align:middle line:84% Again, if nothing else comes from this debate, what 02:16:47.700 --> 02:16:51.400 align:middle line:84% should come out and clear from it for everyone who is watching 02:16:51.400 --> 02:16:55.570 align:middle line:84% and listening, who is witness to it is that we are serious 02:16:55.570 --> 02:16:59.340 align:middle line:84% and we do want to fund these recommendations. 02:16:59.340 --> 02:17:01.520 align:middle line:84% And we cannot let more time go by. 02:17:01.520 --> 02:17:05.330 align:middle line:84% Because I would offer a proposition, Mr. President, 02:17:05.330 --> 02:17:07.950 align:middle line:84% and it's only one that comes from opinion 02:17:07.950 --> 02:17:09.469 align:middle line:90% and not empirical evidence. 02:17:09.469 --> 02:17:11.290 align:middle line:90% So I qualify it as that. 02:17:11.290 --> 02:17:14.520 align:middle line:84% But because we let this situation linger too long 02:17:14.520 --> 02:17:17.950 align:middle line:84% in the first place, we had a divergence of $2 billion. 02:17:17.950 --> 02:17:22.760 align:middle line:84% And for every year that we don't address this more aggressively, 02:17:22.760 --> 02:17:25.690 align:middle line:84% that gap is probably going to continue to grow. 02:17:25.690 --> 02:17:29.129 align:middle line:84% And so what is a $2 billion problem 02:17:29.129 --> 02:17:33.620 align:middle line:84% is likely to be a much larger problem as time goes by 02:17:33.620 --> 02:17:35.820 align:middle line:84% and we have various things that change 02:17:35.820 --> 02:17:40.000 align:middle line:84% and various costs that grow and a foundation budget that 02:17:40.000 --> 02:17:43.730 align:middle line:84% does not accurately reflect the changes in those costs. 02:17:43.730 --> 02:17:45.930 align:middle line:84% So if you feel that somehow you need 02:17:45.930 --> 02:17:48.850 align:middle line:84% to vote against this amendment, that's fine, 02:17:48.850 --> 02:17:51.129 align:middle line:84% and reasonable people can disagree. 02:17:51.129 --> 02:17:53.150 align:middle line:90% But let's not disagree on this. 02:17:53.150 --> 02:17:56.830 align:middle line:84% This is a matter of urgency, and it may require 02:17:56.830 --> 02:17:59.240 align:middle line:90% some difficult decisions. 02:17:59.240 --> 02:18:01.500 align:middle line:84% And it may require some things to be 02:18:01.500 --> 02:18:04.230 align:middle line:84% dialed back so that other things can move forward. 02:18:04.230 --> 02:18:06.580 align:middle line:84% But that process needs to happen. 02:18:06.580 --> 02:18:09.680 align:middle line:84% This Senate is committed, and has been, 02:18:09.680 --> 02:18:13.059 align:middle line:84% to the foundation budget and defunding chapter 70. 02:18:13.059 --> 02:18:15.100 align:middle line:84% And no matter what happens with this amendment, 02:18:15.100 --> 02:18:17.320 align:middle line:84% we cannot retreat from that commitment, 02:18:17.320 --> 02:18:21.160 align:middle line:90% and I hope that we will not. 02:18:21.160 --> 02:18:24.790 align:middle line:84% Senator from Taunton, Mr. Pacheco. 02:18:24.790 --> 02:18:27.530 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much, Mr. President, 02:18:27.530 --> 02:18:30.850 align:middle line:90% through you to the members. 02:18:30.850 --> 02:18:39.530 align:middle line:84% I also rise in opposition to this amendment. 02:18:39.530 --> 02:18:44.400 align:middle line:84% I stand with the Chair of Ways and Means on this. 02:18:44.400 --> 02:18:49.030 align:middle line:84% I stand with the Chair of the Education Committee 02:18:49.030 --> 02:18:53.910 align:middle line:84% on this issue and the vice chair, 02:18:53.910 --> 02:18:56.450 align:middle line:84% people that have worked long and hard 02:18:56.450 --> 02:19:00.770 align:middle line:84% on ensuring that we have good quality 02:19:00.770 --> 02:19:05.379 align:middle line:90% education in the Commonwealth. 02:19:05.379 --> 02:19:08.850 align:middle line:84% And I stand here as one of the few members 02:19:08.850 --> 02:19:13.350 align:middle line:84% in the Senate chamber today who was actually 02:19:13.350 --> 02:19:20.280 align:middle line:84% here in 1993 to vote for the Educational Reform Bill. 02:19:20.280 --> 02:19:25.650 align:middle line:90% 02:19:25.650 --> 02:19:31.690 align:middle line:84% And when we did so, we made a public commitment 02:19:31.690 --> 02:19:35.219 align:middle line:84% to the citizens of the Commonwealth 02:19:35.219 --> 02:19:41.450 align:middle line:84% that we would fight fund the foundation budget every year 02:19:41.450 --> 02:19:45.030 align:middle line:84% going forward, and, just as the minority leader 02:19:45.030 --> 02:19:48.490 align:middle line:84% said just before he took his seat, we have done that. 02:19:48.490 --> 02:19:51.290 align:middle line:90% 02:19:51.290 --> 02:19:55.820 align:middle line:84% We have fully funded the foundation budget 02:19:55.820 --> 02:20:00.860 align:middle line:84% every single year as it was structured. 02:20:00.860 --> 02:20:04.270 align:middle line:90% 02:20:04.270 --> 02:20:09.840 align:middle line:84% Now, of course, over the years there 02:20:09.840 --> 02:20:11.850 align:middle line:84% have been a few things that have changed. 02:20:11.850 --> 02:20:17.640 align:middle line:90% The minority leader is correct. 02:20:17.640 --> 02:20:20.030 align:middle line:90% Health care costs have changed. 02:20:20.030 --> 02:20:23.840 align:middle line:84% Special education costs have changed. 02:20:23.840 --> 02:20:28.310 align:middle line:84% Cities and towns and school districts 02:20:28.310 --> 02:20:32.310 align:middle line:84% all across the Commonwealth are seeing 02:20:32.310 --> 02:20:35.480 align:middle line:84% those changes take place, and they're 02:20:35.480 --> 02:20:37.750 align:middle line:90% coming forth in real time. 02:20:37.750 --> 02:20:41.840 align:middle line:84% And they're coming to us, asking us to resolve 02:20:41.840 --> 02:20:45.930 align:middle line:90% this issue going forward. 02:20:45.930 --> 02:20:48.680 align:middle line:84% There was something else that changed during that period 02:20:48.680 --> 02:20:49.720 align:middle line:90% of time as well. 02:20:49.720 --> 02:20:52.790 align:middle line:90% 02:20:52.790 --> 02:21:01.540 align:middle line:84% We had the reduction of over $3.5 billion in tax cuts 02:21:01.540 --> 02:21:04.700 align:middle line:84% during that period of time as well-- 02:21:04.700 --> 02:21:07.490 align:middle line:84% something that didn't show up on that 02:21:07.490 --> 02:21:11.366 align:middle line:84% chart we saw a bit earlier in our deliberations. 02:21:11.366 --> 02:21:15.400 align:middle line:90% 02:21:15.400 --> 02:21:19.760 align:middle line:90% That changed as well. 02:21:19.760 --> 02:21:25.060 align:middle line:84% And at the time, I was here for that as well, 02:21:25.060 --> 02:21:30.520 align:middle line:84% and I was proud to stand up and vote for the largest tax 02:21:30.520 --> 02:21:32.930 align:middle line:90% cut in Massachusetts history. 02:21:32.930 --> 02:21:37.910 align:middle line:90% It was great. 02:21:37.910 --> 02:21:38.800 align:middle line:90% I loved doing it. 02:21:38.800 --> 02:21:45.710 align:middle line:84% And at the time, we could afford to do that-- 02:21:45.710 --> 02:21:46.480 align:middle line:90% at that time. 02:21:46.480 --> 02:21:49.037 align:middle line:90% 02:21:49.037 --> 02:21:50.370 align:middle line:90% We are in a different situation. 02:21:50.370 --> 02:21:53.080 align:middle line:90% 02:21:53.080 --> 02:21:57.420 align:middle line:84% And as the gentlelady, the Chair of Ways and Means, 02:21:57.420 --> 02:22:04.320 align:middle line:84% has asked us tonight, let us continue with the direction 02:22:04.320 --> 02:22:09.680 align:middle line:84% that we have been headed on, making that commitment 02:22:09.680 --> 02:22:12.640 align:middle line:84% to public education as we go forward, 02:22:12.640 --> 02:22:18.790 align:middle line:84% in doing this in a deliberative way, a thoughtful way going 02:22:18.790 --> 02:22:20.040 align:middle line:90% forward. 02:22:20.040 --> 02:22:25.110 align:middle line:84% I appreciate the minority leader's gesture, 02:22:25.110 --> 02:22:29.120 align:middle line:84% but I fear the unintended consequences. 02:22:29.120 --> 02:22:37.250 align:middle line:84% As the gentlelady from Somerville referenced, 02:22:37.250 --> 02:22:43.980 align:middle line:84% the proposal at its base, depending on surplus revenue, 02:22:43.980 --> 02:22:46.610 align:middle line:90% is built on sand. 02:22:46.610 --> 02:22:49.010 align:middle line:90% I daresay quicksand. 02:22:49.010 --> 02:22:52.340 align:middle line:90% 02:22:52.340 --> 02:22:55.530 align:middle line:84% Let us ensure that we will work together 02:22:55.530 --> 02:22:59.340 align:middle line:84% to make that commitment as we are doing in this budget-- 02:22:59.340 --> 02:23:02.570 align:middle line:90% 02:23:02.570 --> 02:23:05.690 align:middle line:84% new revenues for public education 02:23:05.690 --> 02:23:11.080 align:middle line:84% K through 12 in this budget, new revenues for higher education 02:23:11.080 --> 02:23:12.190 align:middle line:90% in this budget. 02:23:12.190 --> 02:23:15.000 align:middle line:90% 02:23:15.000 --> 02:23:20.010 align:middle line:84% And let us move forward so that when 02:23:20.010 --> 02:23:24.240 align:middle line:84% the citizens of the Commonwealth, who 02:23:24.240 --> 02:23:27.260 align:middle line:90% have a stake in this debate-- 02:23:27.260 --> 02:23:33.620 align:middle line:84% the citizens, the taxpayers, the voters, 02:23:33.620 --> 02:23:40.660 align:middle line:84% who may have an opportunity to weigh in themselves 02:23:40.660 --> 02:23:46.390 align:middle line:90% during the 2018 election-- 02:23:46.390 --> 02:23:49.310 align:middle line:84% can decide whether or not they want 02:23:49.310 --> 02:23:53.870 align:middle line:84% to commit the necessary resources not only to K 02:23:53.870 --> 02:24:01.970 align:middle line:84% through 12 and higher education, but also to funding 02:24:01.970 --> 02:24:08.680 align:middle line:84% public transportation in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts 02:24:08.680 --> 02:24:15.900 align:middle line:84% and having those in our society that can well afford 02:24:15.900 --> 02:24:22.840 align:middle line:84% to pay a little bit more pay their fair share, 02:24:22.840 --> 02:24:27.650 align:middle line:84% so that the middle class, the working class 02:24:27.650 --> 02:24:35.480 align:middle line:84% in the Commonwealth can be guaranteed decent roads 02:24:35.480 --> 02:24:40.990 align:middle line:84% and bridges and guarantee that when they send their child out 02:24:40.990 --> 02:24:47.620 align:middle line:84% to school they're going to have the best possible future 02:24:47.620 --> 02:24:49.070 align:middle line:90% that they could possibly have. 02:24:49.070 --> 02:24:54.460 align:middle line:90% Let me conclude with this. 02:24:54.460 --> 02:25:01.410 align:middle line:90% The process in 1993-- 02:25:01.410 --> 02:25:04.270 align:middle line:84% we did not have the outcomes we have today. 02:25:04.270 --> 02:25:07.830 align:middle line:84% We're number one in the United States of America 02:25:07.830 --> 02:25:12.110 align:middle line:84% in public education, number one in terms 02:25:12.110 --> 02:25:16.810 align:middle line:84% of educational outcomes because of the commitment 02:25:16.810 --> 02:25:22.770 align:middle line:84% that this body has made and the house has made 02:25:22.770 --> 02:25:28.030 align:middle line:84% and previous governors have made and this governor 02:25:28.030 --> 02:25:33.360 align:middle line:84% has made to funding K through 12 education. 02:25:33.360 --> 02:25:37.540 align:middle line:90% 02:25:37.540 --> 02:25:38.475 align:middle line:90% We've got the recipe. 02:25:38.475 --> 02:25:41.050 align:middle line:90% 02:25:41.050 --> 02:25:49.850 align:middle line:84% We've moved forward with it, and we have an outcome of success. 02:25:49.850 --> 02:25:52.850 align:middle line:90% We did so deliberately. 02:25:52.850 --> 02:25:57.140 align:middle line:84% We did so thinking about what we need 02:25:57.140 --> 02:26:01.570 align:middle line:90% to do every step of the way. 02:26:01.570 --> 02:26:04.080 align:middle line:84% Let us not just roll the dice here. 02:26:04.080 --> 02:26:09.130 align:middle line:84% Let us continue to move forward deliberately 02:26:09.130 --> 02:26:14.600 align:middle line:84% with the leadership of the chairs that spoke here. 02:26:14.600 --> 02:26:20.340 align:middle line:84% These are the leaders looking at the educational funding that 02:26:20.340 --> 02:26:28.060 align:middle line:84% have been sitting down dealing with this Reform Commission, 02:26:28.060 --> 02:26:33.140 align:middle line:84% spending countless hours talking with superintendents 02:26:33.140 --> 02:26:36.330 align:middle line:84% of schools, talking with school board members, 02:26:36.330 --> 02:26:40.170 align:middle line:84% talking with everyone that deals with public education, 02:26:40.170 --> 02:26:42.480 align:middle line:90% looking at the finance. 02:26:42.480 --> 02:26:48.820 align:middle line:84% Let's have some trust and faith in our Chair of Ways and Means, 02:26:48.820 --> 02:26:53.080 align:middle line:84% and let's have some faith in our educational leaders. 02:26:53.080 --> 02:26:57.100 align:middle line:84% We can have faith in ourselves because we've 02:26:57.100 --> 02:27:03.880 align:middle line:84% delivered every single year that we've sat here since 1993. 02:27:03.880 --> 02:27:08.190 align:middle line:84% I urge that we have a no vote on this amendment 02:27:08.190 --> 02:27:12.700 align:middle line:84% and move forward with the budget as it has been submitted. 02:27:12.700 --> 02:27:16.070 align:middle line:90% 02:27:16.070 --> 02:27:18.669 align:middle line:84% Senator from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr. 02:27:18.669 --> 02:27:19.710 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 02:27:19.710 --> 02:27:21.700 align:middle line:84% I just want to make a couple of quick points. 02:27:21.700 --> 02:27:23.820 align:middle line:84% Number one, the gentleman referred to the chart 02:27:23.820 --> 02:27:24.860 align:middle line:90% that we showed earlier. 02:27:24.860 --> 02:27:27.920 align:middle line:84% It did, in fact, reflect total revenue collections, which 02:27:27.920 --> 02:27:31.550 align:middle line:84% by extension reflects the reduced revenue collection 02:27:31.550 --> 02:27:34.120 align:middle line:90% as the result of a tax cut. 02:27:34.120 --> 02:27:37.720 align:middle line:84% Number two, the gentleman made reference to this amendment 02:27:37.720 --> 02:27:39.480 align:middle line:90% as being rolling the dice. 02:27:39.480 --> 02:27:41.400 align:middle line:84% Well, I suspect, then, that he would 02:27:41.400 --> 02:27:44.610 align:middle line:84% have voted against all of the other times in budgets 02:27:44.610 --> 02:27:46.120 align:middle line:84% that he's participated in when we've 02:27:46.120 --> 02:27:47.910 align:middle line:84% done exactly this for other things 02:27:47.910 --> 02:27:51.080 align:middle line:84% that he's cared about, like the Community Preservation Act 02:27:51.080 --> 02:27:52.990 align:middle line:84% and like the Life Sciences Center. 02:27:52.990 --> 02:27:57.030 align:middle line:84% Those were also addressed in amendments such as this one, 02:27:57.030 --> 02:27:59.760 align:middle line:84% and no one called them a roll of the dice at the time. 02:27:59.760 --> 02:28:02.990 align:middle line:84% Number three, I continue to hear arguments 02:28:02.990 --> 02:28:05.160 align:middle line:84% being made that somehow this amendment is 02:28:05.160 --> 02:28:08.580 align:middle line:84% trying to replace what's being done already in the budget. 02:28:08.580 --> 02:28:09.990 align:middle line:90% That is not the case. 02:28:09.990 --> 02:28:12.010 align:middle line:84% This is trying to supplement what 02:28:12.010 --> 02:28:15.590 align:middle line:84% is being done in the budget, and that very much is something 02:28:15.590 --> 02:28:17.030 align:middle line:90% that needs to be addressed. 02:28:17.030 --> 02:28:19.070 align:middle line:84% Number four, we talked about, or it 02:28:19.070 --> 02:28:21.650 align:middle line:84% has been discussed, that somehow we 02:28:21.650 --> 02:28:25.810 align:middle line:84% have fully funded every year of chapter 70, and that is true. 02:28:25.810 --> 02:28:27.660 align:middle line:84% And that is a remarkable commitment, again, 02:28:27.660 --> 02:28:29.920 align:middle line:84% something that should not be lost in this debate. 02:28:29.920 --> 02:28:33.160 align:middle line:84% But along the way, we know that the formula that we 02:28:33.160 --> 02:28:35.790 align:middle line:90% were funding was not accurate. 02:28:35.790 --> 02:28:38.480 align:middle line:84% Now we have to try to change that and try 02:28:38.480 --> 02:28:42.190 align:middle line:84% to play catch-up before the situation gets even worse. 02:28:42.190 --> 02:28:45.350 align:middle line:84% This is not an attempt to negate what's already 02:28:45.350 --> 02:28:48.550 align:middle line:84% been done in the budget or to switch somehow 02:28:48.550 --> 02:28:50.430 align:middle line:90% what is done in the budget. 02:28:50.430 --> 02:28:53.540 align:middle line:84% This is not an attempt to do something so speculative 02:28:53.540 --> 02:28:55.220 align:middle line:84% that it's never been done before, 02:28:55.220 --> 02:28:57.160 align:middle line:84% because I don't know that it's not 02:28:57.160 --> 02:29:01.190 align:middle line:84% been done with other subjects in a budget over the last five 02:29:01.190 --> 02:29:01.890 align:middle line:90% years. 02:29:01.890 --> 02:29:04.900 align:middle line:84% And number three, yes, it is aspirational, 02:29:04.900 --> 02:29:06.890 align:middle line:90% but, Mr. President-- 02:29:06.890 --> 02:29:09.850 align:middle line:84% or number five, I'm sorry, number five, this 02:29:09.850 --> 02:29:14.400 align:middle line:84% is not any more aspirational than this entire budget. 02:29:14.400 --> 02:29:18.532 align:middle line:84% And reference was made just a few moments ago to the fact 02:29:18.532 --> 02:29:19.990 align:middle line:84% that the voters will have a chance, 02:29:19.990 --> 02:29:24.190 align:middle line:84% perhaps, to be able to make a commitment to funding 02:29:24.190 --> 02:29:25.150 align:middle line:90% education. 02:29:25.150 --> 02:29:27.940 align:middle line:84% Well, Mr. President, that certainly will not 02:29:27.940 --> 02:29:30.240 align:middle line:84% be the case as the question is currently written, 02:29:30.240 --> 02:29:33.580 align:middle line:84% because it's subject to appropriation. 02:29:33.580 --> 02:29:36.280 align:middle line:84% And if you want to see the consequences of subject 02:29:36.280 --> 02:29:38.590 align:middle line:84% to appropriation, you can look at a lot 02:29:38.590 --> 02:29:41.990 align:middle line:84% of things that have not been funded the way that many of us 02:29:41.990 --> 02:29:44.170 align:middle line:84% think they should have been because of those three 02:29:44.170 --> 02:29:45.110 align:middle line:90% magic words. 02:29:45.110 --> 02:29:47.570 align:middle line:84% So if you're under the illusion that somehow we 02:29:47.570 --> 02:29:50.870 align:middle line:84% can make this go away with that particular ballot question, 02:29:50.870 --> 02:29:52.700 align:middle line:84% I hope that folks will not continue 02:29:52.700 --> 02:29:54.580 align:middle line:90% to suffer from that illusion. 02:29:54.580 --> 02:29:56.080 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 02:29:56.080 --> 02:29:58.580 align:middle line:84% Senator from the second Middlesex district, 02:29:58.580 --> 02:29:59.870 align:middle line:90% Mrs. Jehlen. 02:29:59.870 --> 02:30:00.970 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 02:30:00.970 --> 02:30:02.040 align:middle line:90% I want to make clear. 02:30:02.040 --> 02:30:04.620 align:middle line:84% People may be confused that you may 02:30:04.620 --> 02:30:08.440 align:middle line:84% think you are voting to spend money to move forward 02:30:08.440 --> 02:30:10.270 align:middle line:90% on the foundation budget. 02:30:10.270 --> 02:30:14.310 align:middle line:84% This amendment is actually about three things. 02:30:14.310 --> 02:30:16.540 align:middle line:90% We've only talked about one. 02:30:16.540 --> 02:30:19.400 align:middle line:84% If there is money left at the end of the year-- 02:30:19.400 --> 02:30:23.340 align:middle line:90% at the end of the year-- 02:30:23.340 --> 02:30:27.750 align:middle line:84% one-third would go to the CPA, one-third would go to life 02:30:27.750 --> 02:30:29.820 align:middle line:90% sciences, and one-third-- 02:30:29.820 --> 02:30:34.900 align:middle line:84% not more than $10 million, not more than $10 million-- 02:30:34.900 --> 02:30:39.340 align:middle line:84% would go towards the foundation budget at the end of the year 02:30:39.340 --> 02:30:41.895 align:middle line:84% when it is not of value to the communities. 02:30:41.895 --> 02:30:47.330 align:middle line:90% 02:30:47.330 --> 02:30:50.320 align:middle line:84% It is frustrating to me that we do-- 02:30:50.320 --> 02:30:54.510 align:middle line:84% the most solid foundation we have for our budget every year 02:30:54.510 --> 02:30:56.950 align:middle line:90% are broad-based taxes-- 02:30:56.950 --> 02:31:00.580 align:middle line:84% the income tax and the sales tax. 02:31:00.580 --> 02:31:02.940 align:middle line:84% Now, they are not totally reliable, 02:31:02.940 --> 02:31:07.650 align:middle line:84% but they are far more reliable than a speculative 02:31:07.650 --> 02:31:09.470 align:middle line:90% end-of-the-year infusion. 02:31:09.470 --> 02:31:12.730 align:middle line:90% 02:31:12.730 --> 02:31:16.540 align:middle line:84% But the gentleman from Gloucester, 02:31:16.540 --> 02:31:19.440 align:middle line:84% the minority leader, offered two amendments 02:31:19.440 --> 02:31:23.390 align:middle line:84% to undermine that firm foundation 02:31:23.390 --> 02:31:28.350 align:middle line:84% for continuing forward, which we had during the 1990s 02:31:28.350 --> 02:31:32.590 align:middle line:84% that I, like the gentleman from Taunton, was here in 1993. 02:31:32.590 --> 02:31:34.430 align:middle line:84% And I think the gentleman from Gloucester 02:31:34.430 --> 02:31:36.960 align:middle line:90% was here also at the same time. 02:31:36.960 --> 02:31:40.590 align:middle line:84% And we did keep that commitment for seven years. 02:31:40.590 --> 02:31:45.960 align:middle line:84% But after 2002, during times when the income tax was cut 02:31:45.960 --> 02:31:51.410 align:middle line:84% and other tax breaks were put into effect, 02:31:51.410 --> 02:31:56.010 align:middle line:84% we have not kept up with inflation on chapter 70. 02:31:56.010 --> 02:31:57.890 align:middle line:84% So I think it's important that we 02:31:57.890 --> 02:32:02.230 align:middle line:84% maintain a firm foundation of real broad-based taxes 02:32:02.230 --> 02:32:06.480 align:middle line:84% and not try to do tax cuts that undermine our ability 02:32:06.480 --> 02:32:09.610 align:middle line:84% to move forward on the commitments that we share. 02:32:09.610 --> 02:32:13.300 align:middle line:84% So, Mr. President, I hope that this amendment does not prevail 02:32:13.300 --> 02:32:16.430 align:middle line:84% and that people do understand you are not voting 02:32:16.430 --> 02:32:18.510 align:middle line:90% against the foundation budget. 02:32:18.510 --> 02:32:23.100 align:middle line:84% You are voting for something else. 02:32:23.100 --> 02:32:27.130 align:middle line:90% 02:32:27.130 --> 02:32:27.630 align:middle line:90% No. 02:32:27.630 --> 02:32:37.980 align:middle line:90% 02:32:37.980 --> 02:32:40.550 align:middle line:90% No. 02:32:40.550 --> 02:32:41.790 align:middle line:90% Joseph A. Boncore? 02:32:41.790 --> 02:32:42.840 align:middle line:90% No. 02:32:42.840 --> 02:32:43.340 align:middle line:90% No. 02:32:43.340 --> 02:32:48.760 align:middle line:90% 02:32:48.760 --> 02:32:50.650 align:middle line:90% Michael D. Brady? 02:32:50.650 --> 02:32:51.881 align:middle line:90% No. 02:32:51.881 --> 02:32:52.380 align:middle line:90% No. 02:32:52.380 --> 02:32:53.475 align:middle line:90% William N. Brownsberger? 02:32:53.475 --> 02:32:56.080 align:middle line:90% 02:32:56.080 --> 02:32:56.580 align:middle line:90% No. 02:32:56.580 --> 02:32:57.430 align:middle line:90% No. 02:32:57.430 --> 02:32:59.270 align:middle line:90% Harriet L. Chandler? 02:32:59.270 --> 02:33:02.740 align:middle line:90% 02:33:02.740 --> 02:33:04.591 align:middle line:90% Sonia Chang-Diaz? 02:33:04.591 --> 02:33:05.090 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:05.090 --> 02:33:05.850 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:05.850 --> 02:33:07.860 align:middle line:90% Cynthia Stone Creem? 02:33:07.860 --> 02:33:08.360 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:08.360 --> 02:33:09.430 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:09.430 --> 02:33:10.840 align:middle line:90% Julian Cyr? 02:33:10.840 --> 02:33:11.810 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:11.810 --> 02:33:12.770 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:12.770 --> 02:33:15.000 align:middle line:90% Viriato M. deMacedo? 02:33:15.000 --> 02:33:15.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:33:15.500 --> 02:33:16.250 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:33:16.250 --> 02:33:18.840 align:middle line:90% Sal N. DiDomenico? 02:33:18.840 --> 02:33:19.340 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:19.340 --> 02:33:20.100 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:20.100 --> 02:33:22.990 align:middle line:90% Eileen M. Donahue? 02:33:22.990 --> 02:33:24.761 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:24.761 --> 02:33:25.260 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:25.260 --> 02:33:27.591 align:middle line:90% James B. Eldridge? 02:33:27.591 --> 02:33:28.090 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:28.090 --> 02:33:28.920 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:28.920 --> 02:33:30.740 align:middle line:90% Ryan C. Fattman? 02:33:30.740 --> 02:33:31.240 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:33:31.240 --> 02:33:32.260 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:33:32.260 --> 02:33:34.770 align:middle line:90% Jennifer L. Flanagan? 02:33:34.770 --> 02:33:35.270 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:35.270 --> 02:33:36.190 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:36.190 --> 02:33:38.320 align:middle line:90% Linda Dorcena Forry? 02:33:38.320 --> 02:33:45.680 align:middle line:90% 02:33:45.680 --> 02:33:46.790 align:middle line:90% Anne M. Gobi? 02:33:46.790 --> 02:33:47.290 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:47.290 --> 02:33:47.790 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:47.790 --> 02:33:50.660 align:middle line:90% 02:33:50.660 --> 02:33:52.070 align:middle line:90% Adam G. Hinds? 02:33:52.070 --> 02:33:52.570 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:52.570 --> 02:33:53.630 align:middle line:90% No. 02:33:53.630 --> 02:33:55.920 align:middle line:90% Donald F. Humason, Jr.? 02:33:55.920 --> 02:33:56.420 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:33:56.420 --> 02:33:57.520 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:33:57.520 --> 02:34:00.121 align:middle line:90% Patricia D. Jehlen? 02:34:00.121 --> 02:34:00.620 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:00.620 --> 02:34:01.320 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:01.320 --> 02:34:03.910 align:middle line:90% John F. Keenan? 02:34:03.910 --> 02:34:05.170 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:05.170 --> 02:34:05.670 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:05.670 --> 02:34:07.300 align:middle line:90% Eric B. Lesser? 02:34:07.300 --> 02:34:07.800 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:07.800 --> 02:34:08.670 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:08.670 --> 02:34:10.920 align:middle line:90% Jason M. Lewis? 02:34:10.920 --> 02:34:11.420 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:11.420 --> 02:34:12.080 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:12.080 --> 02:34:13.870 align:middle line:90% Barbara A. L'Italien? 02:34:13.870 --> 02:34:14.720 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:14.720 --> 02:34:15.740 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:15.740 --> 02:34:17.300 align:middle line:90% Joan B. Lovely? 02:34:17.300 --> 02:34:18.170 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:18.170 --> 02:34:19.160 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:19.160 --> 02:34:22.060 align:middle line:90% Thomas M. McGee? 02:34:22.060 --> 02:34:22.560 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:22.560 --> 02:34:23.140 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:23.140 --> 02:34:25.170 align:middle line:90% Mark C. Montigny? 02:34:25.170 --> 02:34:25.710 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:25.710 --> 02:34:26.560 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:26.560 --> 02:34:27.810 align:middle line:90% Michael O. Moore? 02:34:27.810 --> 02:34:30.120 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:34:30.120 --> 02:34:32.560 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:34:32.560 --> 02:34:33.940 align:middle line:90% Patrick M. O'Connor? 02:34:33.940 --> 02:34:34.490 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:34:34.490 --> 02:34:35.720 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:34:35.720 --> 02:34:38.760 align:middle line:90% Kathleen O'Connor Ives? 02:34:38.760 --> 02:34:39.260 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:39.260 --> 02:34:39.840 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:39.840 --> 02:34:42.650 align:middle line:90% Mark R. Pacheco? 02:34:42.650 --> 02:34:43.290 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:43.290 --> 02:34:44.130 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:44.130 --> 02:34:46.630 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Rodrigues? 02:34:46.630 --> 02:34:48.400 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:48.400 --> 02:34:48.900 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:48.900 --> 02:34:50.520 align:middle line:90% Richard J. Ross? 02:34:50.520 --> 02:34:51.030 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:34:51.030 --> 02:34:51.820 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:34:51.820 --> 02:34:53.920 align:middle line:90% Michael F. Rush? 02:34:53.920 --> 02:34:54.420 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:54.420 --> 02:34:55.250 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:55.250 --> 02:34:58.210 align:middle line:90% Karen E. Spilka? 02:34:58.210 --> 02:34:58.710 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:58.710 --> 02:34:59.420 align:middle line:90% No. 02:34:59.420 --> 02:35:00.960 align:middle line:90% Bruce E. Tarr? 02:35:00.960 --> 02:35:01.460 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:35:01.460 --> 02:35:02.450 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:35:02.450 --> 02:35:04.930 align:middle line:90% Walter F. Timothy? 02:35:04.930 --> 02:35:05.430 align:middle line:90% No. 02:35:05.430 --> 02:35:05.990 align:middle line:90% No. 02:35:05.990 --> 02:35:08.660 align:middle line:90% James T. Welch? 02:35:08.660 --> 02:35:10.170 align:middle line:90% No. 02:35:10.170 --> 02:35:10.670 align:middle line:90% No. 02:35:10.670 --> 02:35:12.150 align:middle line:90% Send a channel. 02:35:12.150 --> 02:35:16.490 align:middle line:90% 02:35:16.490 --> 02:35:17.810 align:middle line:90% Harriet L. Chandler? 02:35:17.810 --> 02:35:18.310 align:middle line:90% No. 02:35:18.310 --> 02:35:22.560 align:middle line:90% 02:35:22.560 --> 02:35:23.260 align:middle line:90% No. 02:35:23.260 --> 02:35:25.760 align:middle line:90% Linda Dorcena Forry? 02:35:25.760 --> 02:35:26.440 align:middle line:90% No. 02:35:26.440 --> 02:35:26.940 align:middle line:90% No. 02:35:26.940 --> 02:35:40.860 align:middle line:90% 02:35:40.860 --> 02:35:43.000 align:middle line:84% On this amendment seven, the affirmative 30 02:35:43.000 --> 02:35:45.340 align:middle line:84% in the negative, the amendment is not adopted. 02:35:45.340 --> 02:35:47.530 align:middle line:84% Senator from Essex and Middlesex. 02:35:47.530 --> 02:35:49.431 align:middle line:84% Senator from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr. 02:35:49.431 --> 02:35:51.180 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I request unanimous consent 02:35:51.180 --> 02:35:53.290 align:middle line:90% to make a brief statement. 02:35:53.290 --> 02:35:55.090 align:middle line:84% The senator has requested unanimous consent 02:35:55.090 --> 02:35:56.319 align:middle line:90% to make a brief statement. 02:35:56.319 --> 02:35:57.360 align:middle line:90% Are there any objections? 02:35:57.360 --> 02:35:58.060 align:middle line:90% Hearing none. 02:35:58.060 --> 02:36:00.240 align:middle line:84% Senator from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr. 02:36:00.240 --> 02:36:01.220 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, through the members-- 02:36:01.220 --> 02:36:03.011 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I just want to take a minute 02:36:03.011 --> 02:36:05.150 align:middle line:84% to thank all of the participants in the debate that 02:36:05.150 --> 02:36:06.990 align:middle line:90% just ensued about this subject. 02:36:06.990 --> 02:36:09.260 align:middle line:84% And while we may not agree on the result 02:36:09.260 --> 02:36:11.740 align:middle line:84% and I certainly am disappointed in the result of the vote, 02:36:11.740 --> 02:36:13.980 align:middle line:84% I am heartened by the passion and the commitment 02:36:13.980 --> 02:36:17.030 align:middle line:84% that the people have evidence to continue to look at this issue. 02:36:17.030 --> 02:36:18.790 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, it is clearly something 02:36:18.790 --> 02:36:20.350 align:middle line:90% we need to stay focused on. 02:36:20.350 --> 02:36:23.790 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I have faith in the Chairwoman of the Ways 02:36:23.790 --> 02:36:26.330 align:middle line:84% and Means Committee and also the Chairwoman of the Education 02:36:26.330 --> 02:36:26.830 align:middle line:90% Committee. 02:36:26.830 --> 02:36:28.850 align:middle line:84% And if it were not for their efforts, 02:36:28.850 --> 02:36:32.180 align:middle line:84% we would not be able to even be in the position of having 02:36:32.180 --> 02:36:33.980 align:middle line:90% the debate that just ensued. 02:36:33.980 --> 02:36:36.310 align:middle line:84% I hope that we'll continue to have that focus, 02:36:36.310 --> 02:36:39.070 align:middle line:84% and, Mr. President, I know that I am committed to this. 02:36:39.070 --> 02:36:41.280 align:middle line:84% We in Minority Crescent are committed to it, 02:36:41.280 --> 02:36:43.300 align:middle line:84% and I think we've just proven to anyone 02:36:43.300 --> 02:36:45.760 align:middle line:84% who had a doubt that everyone in this chamber 02:36:45.760 --> 02:36:47.260 align:middle line:90% is committed to this issue. 02:36:47.260 --> 02:36:50.230 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 02:36:50.230 --> 02:36:55.120 align:middle line:84% Is amendment number 208 filed by the gentlelady from Essex, Ms. 02:36:55.120 --> 02:36:56.940 align:middle line:90% O'Connor Ives? 02:36:56.940 --> 02:36:59.070 align:middle line:84% Title of which the clerk will read. 02:36:59.070 --> 02:37:02.520 align:middle line:84% Amednment number 208 by Ms. O'Connor Ives, North Andover 02:37:02.520 --> 02:37:05.310 align:middle line:90% Kindergarten. 02:37:05.310 --> 02:37:06.259 align:middle line:90% Ms. O'Connor Ives. 02:37:06.259 --> 02:37:07.300 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 02:37:07.300 --> 02:37:09.430 align:middle line:84% And for you, the members, this amendment 02:37:09.430 --> 02:37:11.660 align:middle line:84% would support funding in the amount 02:37:11.660 --> 02:37:16.030 align:middle line:84% of $25,000 toward North Andover's kindergarten grant 02:37:16.030 --> 02:37:16.900 align:middle line:90% program. 02:37:16.900 --> 02:37:19.140 align:middle line:84% And the reason why this funding is so important 02:37:19.140 --> 02:37:21.930 align:middle line:84% is because this is an example of a community that 02:37:21.930 --> 02:37:24.720 align:middle line:84% relied upon and succeeded through the kindergarten 02:37:24.720 --> 02:37:26.990 align:middle line:90% expansion grant program. 02:37:26.990 --> 02:37:28.850 align:middle line:84% All districts in the Commonwealth 02:37:28.850 --> 02:37:33.060 align:middle line:84% require that kindergarten-age students provide 02:37:33.060 --> 02:37:36.220 align:middle line:84% part-time kindergarten schooling for a total of 425 02:37:36.220 --> 02:37:40.100 align:middle line:84% hours per school year, about 2.5 hours daily, 02:37:40.100 --> 02:37:43.650 align:middle line:84% but not all are required to offer full-day kindergarten. 02:37:43.650 --> 02:37:46.880 align:middle line:84% These expansion grants were required 02:37:46.880 --> 02:37:50.340 align:middle line:84% and doubles kindergarten learning time over the school 02:37:50.340 --> 02:37:52.990 align:middle line:84% year through a five-hour daily program. 02:37:52.990 --> 02:37:55.220 align:middle line:84% It's notable that these grants were 02:37:55.220 --> 02:37:59.440 align:middle line:84% part of a larger effort that tripled the percentage of kids 02:37:59.440 --> 02:38:03.680 align:middle line:84% statewide who had access to free full-day kindergarten 02:38:03.680 --> 02:38:07.850 align:middle line:90% between 1999 and 2014. 02:38:07.850 --> 02:38:11.740 align:middle line:84% The transition grants were offered on a competitive basis 02:38:11.740 --> 02:38:15.170 align:middle line:84% to districts moving part-time kindergarten classrooms 02:38:15.170 --> 02:38:17.420 align:middle line:90% to full day. 02:38:17.420 --> 02:38:22.440 align:middle line:84% As we have now currently a robust discussion on family 02:38:22.440 --> 02:38:25.210 align:middle line:84% medical leave and early education for all, 02:38:25.210 --> 02:38:27.450 align:middle line:84% we can't neglect the need and progress 02:38:27.450 --> 02:38:29.880 align:middle line:84% we've made in providing municipalities 02:38:29.880 --> 02:38:33.380 align:middle line:84% with an opportunity to apply for full-day kindergarten grants. 02:38:33.380 --> 02:38:35.620 align:middle line:84% This very often makes the difference 02:38:35.620 --> 02:38:38.590 align:middle line:84% between mothers and fathers considering 02:38:38.590 --> 02:38:41.070 align:middle line:84% to go back into the workforce or not 02:38:41.070 --> 02:38:45.250 align:middle line:84% in terms of their ability to access free or affordable 02:38:45.250 --> 02:38:46.620 align:middle line:90% full-day kindergarten. 02:38:46.620 --> 02:38:48.700 align:middle line:84% I'll continue to advocate strongly 02:38:48.700 --> 02:38:51.530 align:middle line:84% for kindergarten expansion grant opportunities, 02:38:51.530 --> 02:38:55.410 align:middle line:84% but in the instant moment, I fully support the investment 02:38:55.410 --> 02:38:58.240 align:middle line:84% in supporting North Andover's kindergarten program. 02:38:58.240 --> 02:38:59.740 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 02:38:59.740 --> 02:39:02.170 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:39:02.170 --> 02:39:04.600 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 02:39:04.600 --> 02:39:07.160 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 02:39:07.160 --> 02:39:11.440 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 209, filed by the senator from Norfolk, 02:39:11.440 --> 02:39:13.802 align:middle line:84% Bristol, and Middlesex, Mr. Ross, the title 02:39:13.802 --> 02:39:15.010 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:39:15.010 --> 02:39:18.820 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 209 by Mr. Ross, H. Olive Day School 02:39:18.820 --> 02:39:19.949 align:middle line:90% in Norfolk. 02:39:19.949 --> 02:39:20.490 align:middle line:90% Senator Ross. 02:39:20.490 --> 02:39:23.080 align:middle line:90% 02:39:23.080 --> 02:39:25.910 align:middle line:84% This is rather lackluster after what we've just been through, 02:39:25.910 --> 02:39:27.940 align:middle line:84% but we have to get back to routine, 02:39:27.940 --> 02:39:30.850 align:middle line:84% which is so much of what this budget is really about. 02:39:30.850 --> 02:39:33.770 align:middle line:84% Amendment 209 is actually $100,000 02:39:33.770 --> 02:39:34.770 align:middle line:90% for the town of Norfolk. 02:39:34.770 --> 02:39:37.560 align:middle line:84% They have an over 25-year-old school 02:39:37.560 --> 02:39:39.390 align:middle line:84% which has had very little infrastructure 02:39:39.390 --> 02:39:40.780 align:middle line:90% support over the years. 02:39:40.780 --> 02:39:42.720 align:middle line:84% It's time to replace a leaking roof, 02:39:42.720 --> 02:39:44.930 align:middle line:84% so that's really what this is all about. 02:39:44.930 --> 02:39:47.200 align:middle line:90% Time is taking its toll. 02:39:47.200 --> 02:39:49.210 align:middle line:84% The roof does need significant repairs, 02:39:49.210 --> 02:39:52.374 align:middle line:84% and the students, in order to attend school and be kept dry, 02:39:52.374 --> 02:39:53.040 align:middle line:90% need a new roof. 02:39:53.040 --> 02:39:55.010 align:middle line:84% So I would appreciate your support. 02:39:55.010 --> 02:39:57.430 align:middle line:90% Thank you all. 02:39:57.430 --> 02:39:59.420 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 02:39:59.420 --> 02:40:01.490 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it and the amendment is adopted. 02:40:01.490 --> 02:40:04.250 align:middle line:84% The next amendment, amendment number 210, 02:40:04.250 --> 02:40:05.820 align:middle line:84% the senator from Hampton, Mr. Welch, 02:40:05.820 --> 02:40:07.300 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 02:40:07.300 --> 02:40:08.508 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:40:08.508 --> 02:40:11.500 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 210 by Mr. Welch, Essential Child Care 02:40:11.500 --> 02:40:14.150 align:middle line:90% and Family Services provider. 02:40:14.150 --> 02:40:17.540 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:40:17.540 --> 02:40:19.430 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 02:40:19.430 --> 02:40:20.260 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:40:20.260 --> 02:40:21.440 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 02:40:21.440 --> 02:40:24.180 align:middle line:84% The next amendment is amendment number 211, 02:40:24.180 --> 02:40:26.830 align:middle line:90% and that amendment is on hold. 02:40:26.830 --> 02:40:30.460 align:middle line:84% The next amendment is number 212. 02:40:30.460 --> 02:40:32.920 align:middle line:84% Senator from Worcester and Norfolk, Mr. Fattman, 02:40:32.920 --> 02:40:35.503 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment the title of which the clerk will read. 02:40:35.503 --> 02:40:38.760 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 212 by Mr. Fattman, College Affordability 02:40:38.760 --> 02:40:40.750 align:middle line:90% Study. 02:40:40.750 --> 02:40:46.260 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:40:46.260 --> 02:40:50.060 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 02:40:50.060 --> 02:40:52.550 align:middle line:84% The nos have it and the amendment is not adopted. 02:40:52.550 --> 02:40:55.180 align:middle line:84% The next amendment is amendment number 213. 02:40:55.180 --> 02:40:58.230 align:middle line:84% The senator from Plymouth and Norfolk, Mr. O'Connor, 02:40:58.230 --> 02:40:59.670 align:middle line:84% has filed an amendment, the title 02:40:59.670 --> 02:41:00.878 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:41:00.878 --> 02:41:03.910 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 213 by Mr. O'Connor, Charter School 02:41:03.910 --> 02:41:05.940 align:middle line:90% Reimbursement. 02:41:05.940 --> 02:41:07.180 align:middle line:90% Mr. O'Connor. 02:41:07.180 --> 02:41:10.690 align:middle line:84% In support of amendment 213, which 02:41:10.690 --> 02:41:13.910 align:middle line:84% would fully fund all of our public school systems, charter 02:41:13.910 --> 02:41:15.200 align:middle line:90% school reimbursements. 02:41:15.200 --> 02:41:19.120 align:middle line:84% In my opinion, the level funding of $80.5 million 02:41:19.120 --> 02:41:22.160 align:middle line:84% for the current formula that we have severely 02:41:22.160 --> 02:41:24.230 align:middle line:84% underfunds our public school systems. 02:41:24.230 --> 02:41:27.560 align:middle line:84% The current level of funding only funds 59% 02:41:27.560 --> 02:41:30.030 align:middle line:84% of what is needed to fully fund the affected school 02:41:30.030 --> 02:41:32.940 align:middle line:84% districts as the funds that they were promised in a formula 02:41:32.940 --> 02:41:35.170 align:middle line:90% created by the legislature. 02:41:35.170 --> 02:41:37.360 align:middle line:84% The state has been underfunding reimbursement 02:41:37.360 --> 02:41:40.020 align:middle line:84% to local school districts for the past three years 02:41:40.020 --> 02:41:44.280 align:middle line:84% for a total combined $142 million deficit. 02:41:44.280 --> 02:41:48.860 align:middle line:84% The FY17 funding is currently $54.6 million dollars 02:41:48.860 --> 02:41:51.840 align:middle line:84% below what is necessary to fund the reimbursement formula. 02:41:51.840 --> 02:41:54.070 align:middle line:84% And if this budget passes, that shortfall 02:41:54.070 --> 02:41:58.390 align:middle line:84% will grow to $76.4 million, which will arguably 02:41:58.390 --> 02:42:01.170 align:middle line:84% lead to siphoning of chapter 70 monies away 02:42:01.170 --> 02:42:02.720 align:middle line:84% from our public school districts. 02:42:02.720 --> 02:42:07.240 align:middle line:84% This amendment hopes to restore that $56.4 million. 02:42:07.240 --> 02:42:10.430 align:middle line:84% The ultimate place where the great strain 02:42:10.430 --> 02:42:16.100 align:middle line:84% of this entire unfunded liability 02:42:16.100 --> 02:42:19.660 align:middle line:84% comes right now as the 96% of the children 02:42:19.660 --> 02:42:21.270 align:middle line:84% that we represent that are children 02:42:21.270 --> 02:42:23.237 align:middle line:90% in public school systems. 02:42:23.237 --> 02:42:25.070 align:middle line:84% Over this past school year, school districts 02:42:25.070 --> 02:42:29.550 align:middle line:84% lost $400 million to charter schools, which educate 02:42:29.550 --> 02:42:32.790 align:middle line:90% 4% of the students statewide. 02:42:32.790 --> 02:42:35.100 align:middle line:84% In my hometown of Weymouth, for an example, 02:42:35.100 --> 02:42:38.320 align:middle line:84% we just had a budget presentation last night. 02:42:38.320 --> 02:42:42.720 align:middle line:84% Local aid went up $452,000 in Weymouth. 02:42:42.720 --> 02:42:46.530 align:middle line:84% Charter school reimbursement assessments 02:42:46.530 --> 02:42:53.130 align:middle line:84% went up $749,000 for a total net loss of $296,000 02:42:53.130 --> 02:42:54.570 align:middle line:90% in my hometown. 02:42:54.570 --> 02:42:56.630 align:middle line:84% Being still the city council president 02:42:56.630 --> 02:42:59.810 align:middle line:84% and knowing the troubles that we went through since 2008 02:42:59.810 --> 02:43:02.300 align:middle line:84% to try and rebuild our school district in Weymouth, 02:43:02.300 --> 02:43:05.490 align:middle line:84% we have been on the threshold of net school spending 02:43:05.490 --> 02:43:06.820 align:middle line:90% the entire time. 02:43:06.820 --> 02:43:08.670 align:middle line:84% The little increases that we've been 02:43:08.670 --> 02:43:11.770 align:middle line:84% able to make by scraping together nickel and dimes, 02:43:11.770 --> 02:43:14.884 align:middle line:84% instituting meals taxes, making sure the capital projects 02:43:14.884 --> 02:43:17.050 align:middle line:84% were funded through community preservation committee 02:43:17.050 --> 02:43:17.840 align:middle line:90% projects-- 02:43:17.840 --> 02:43:21.260 align:middle line:84% all of that smart budgeting has led us to grow our education 02:43:21.260 --> 02:43:22.730 align:middle line:90% budget slightly. 02:43:22.730 --> 02:43:25.900 align:middle line:84% And just as we're on the precipice of making strides 02:43:25.900 --> 02:43:29.030 align:middle line:84% to rebuild our school budget from the devastation that 02:43:29.030 --> 02:43:30.660 align:middle line:84% happened during the recession, here 02:43:30.660 --> 02:43:35.830 align:middle line:84% we are faced with a $296,000 net loss in state aid 02:43:35.830 --> 02:43:39.730 align:middle line:84% because we're not fully funding charter school reimbursements. 02:43:39.730 --> 02:43:41.580 align:middle line:84% I respect the mission of charter schools, 02:43:41.580 --> 02:43:44.140 align:middle line:84% and I appreciate any child or any parent 02:43:44.140 --> 02:43:45.764 align:middle line:84% of the Commonwealth for the options 02:43:45.764 --> 02:43:47.430 align:middle line:84% that they have to go to charter schools. 02:43:47.430 --> 02:43:49.670 align:middle line:84% But this amendment is not about charter schools. 02:43:49.670 --> 02:43:53.180 align:middle line:84% This amendment is keeping the promise to our public schools. 02:43:53.180 --> 02:43:55.630 align:middle line:84% Charter school reimbursements for public schools 02:43:55.630 --> 02:43:58.520 align:middle line:84% was set up for specific payments over specific years. 02:43:58.520 --> 02:44:01.550 align:middle line:84% It was 100% reimbursement for the first year. 02:44:01.550 --> 02:44:05.010 align:middle line:84% Then over the next five years, it was 25% reimbursement 02:44:05.010 --> 02:44:07.230 align:middle line:90% for each of those years. 02:44:07.230 --> 02:44:10.350 align:middle line:84% Right now, it's just 69% reimbursement 02:44:10.350 --> 02:44:14.420 align:middle line:84% for the first year and nothing over the next five years. 02:44:14.420 --> 02:44:16.120 align:middle line:84% Last year, in the town of Weymouth, 02:44:16.120 --> 02:44:18.590 align:middle line:84% 160 kids jumped to charter schools. 02:44:18.590 --> 02:44:21.880 align:middle line:84% This year, 251 kids jumped to charter schools. 02:44:21.880 --> 02:44:27.310 align:middle line:84% This is decimating the Weymouth public school system. 02:44:27.310 --> 02:44:30.940 align:middle line:84% We cannot try to add that burden by refusing them the funding 02:44:30.940 --> 02:44:32.382 align:middle line:90% that's owed to them. 02:44:32.382 --> 02:44:33.840 align:middle line:84% Essentially, at the end of the day, 02:44:33.840 --> 02:44:35.830 align:middle line:84% this is money that we promised in order 02:44:35.830 --> 02:44:38.420 align:middle line:84% to create a different structure of education 02:44:38.420 --> 02:44:40.280 align:middle line:84% here in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 02:44:40.280 --> 02:44:43.580 align:middle line:84% It wasn't to the detriment of the public education systems 02:44:43.580 --> 02:44:45.350 align:middle line:84% that we're the number one in the world-- 02:44:45.350 --> 02:44:46.970 align:middle line:90% or number one in the nation. 02:44:46.970 --> 02:44:48.826 align:middle line:84% This is what Massachusetts is about. 02:44:48.826 --> 02:44:50.450 align:middle line:84% It's about keeping our promises, making 02:44:50.450 --> 02:44:53.150 align:middle line:84% sure we continue to be the model for the rest of the nation. 02:44:53.150 --> 02:44:55.420 align:middle line:84% And how can we be that model if we're not fully 02:44:55.420 --> 02:44:58.880 align:middle line:84% funding the essential services like public education 02:44:58.880 --> 02:45:01.000 align:middle line:84% to the amount of money that they need to do? 02:45:01.000 --> 02:45:03.850 align:middle line:84% And it's $74 million, but it means 02:45:03.850 --> 02:45:05.910 align:middle line:84% a heck of a lot to the 404 school 02:45:05.910 --> 02:45:08.070 align:middle line:84% districts in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts 02:45:08.070 --> 02:45:10.760 align:middle line:84% that are struggling to make ends meet. 02:45:10.760 --> 02:45:13.130 align:middle line:84% And the bigger ones are struggling more so 02:45:13.130 --> 02:45:15.970 align:middle line:84% than the small ones because there are more parents that 02:45:15.970 --> 02:45:20.560 align:middle line:84% see newspaper articles and parents and concerned citizens 02:45:20.560 --> 02:45:24.360 align:middle line:84% speak out against some quality public school education 02:45:24.360 --> 02:45:25.770 align:middle line:90% that we all represent. 02:45:25.770 --> 02:45:28.420 align:middle line:84% But unfortunately, they see that they 02:45:28.420 --> 02:45:31.640 align:middle line:84% ought to go to charter school and to the tune of $400 million 02:45:31.640 --> 02:45:34.800 align:middle line:84% this year and to the tune of $142 million 02:45:34.800 --> 02:45:36.290 align:middle line:90% over the past three years-- 02:45:36.290 --> 02:45:40.260 align:middle line:84% and if this budget passes as is, another $76.4 million 02:45:40.260 --> 02:45:40.760 align:middle line:90% under that. 02:45:40.760 --> 02:45:44.540 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I hope the amendment is adopted. 02:45:44.540 --> 02:45:47.660 align:middle line:84% Senator from Taunton, Mr. Pacheco. 02:45:47.660 --> 02:45:49.670 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much, Mr. President. 02:45:49.670 --> 02:45:56.670 align:middle line:84% And I absolutely respect the passion of my colleague 02:45:56.670 --> 02:46:02.770 align:middle line:84% who sits as a member of the city council in Weymouth 02:46:02.770 --> 02:46:07.600 align:middle line:84% and understand the concerns that he expresses 02:46:07.600 --> 02:46:10.700 align:middle line:84% to all of us, relative to what happens 02:46:10.700 --> 02:46:19.040 align:middle line:84% in some of the districts that are trying to make it out 02:46:19.040 --> 02:46:20.010 align:middle line:90% there. 02:46:20.010 --> 02:46:22.840 align:middle line:84% But I want to make sure we clarify. 02:46:22.840 --> 02:46:25.210 align:middle line:84% As I said before, I was here in 1993 02:46:25.210 --> 02:46:27.260 align:middle line:90% when we voted on this bill. 02:46:27.260 --> 02:46:34.350 align:middle line:84% And under the original bill, we only had 25 charter schools. 02:46:34.350 --> 02:46:39.410 align:middle line:84% That's what the vision was with education reform-- 02:46:39.410 --> 02:46:47.250 align:middle line:84% not to have $400 million in the future being diverted 02:46:47.250 --> 02:46:52.180 align:middle line:84% from existing public schools across the Commonwealth, 02:46:52.180 --> 02:46:57.100 align:middle line:84% but rather only have the expenses of the 25 schools. 02:46:57.100 --> 02:46:59.830 align:middle line:90% 02:46:59.830 --> 02:47:05.430 align:middle line:84% Over the years, we've increased those 25 schools to the extent 02:47:05.430 --> 02:47:08.570 align:middle line:84% that the voters had an opportunity to say this year-- 02:47:08.570 --> 02:47:12.200 align:middle line:84% this past year-- whether or not they wanted to see the cap 02:47:12.200 --> 02:47:13.670 align:middle line:90% lifted some more. 02:47:13.670 --> 02:47:19.110 align:middle line:84% And they said resoundingly no, because they 02:47:19.110 --> 02:47:22.920 align:middle line:84% saw what was happening in Massachusetts, 02:47:22.920 --> 02:47:30.110 align:middle line:84% where we are creating a two-tiered school system. 02:47:30.110 --> 02:47:33.400 align:middle line:90% And that has to stop. 02:47:33.400 --> 02:47:42.960 align:middle line:84% And yes, we are funding our schools under the foundation 02:47:42.960 --> 02:47:47.000 align:middle line:84% budget, and unfortunately under that foundation budget, 02:47:47.000 --> 02:47:50.670 align:middle line:84% one of the things that has hurt public schools 02:47:50.670 --> 02:47:52.510 align:middle line:84% all across the state is the number 02:47:52.510 --> 02:47:56.070 align:middle line:90% of charters that got added. 02:47:56.070 --> 02:47:58.010 align:middle line:90% That's part of the problem. 02:47:58.010 --> 02:48:03.470 align:middle line:84% And so hopefully, as we go forward in straightening out 02:48:03.470 --> 02:48:06.800 align:middle line:84% the foundation budget, as we move forward 02:48:06.800 --> 02:48:10.030 align:middle line:84% with the Foundation Commission's recommendation 02:48:10.030 --> 02:48:15.560 align:middle line:84% a little at a time, we will begin to do that. 02:48:15.560 --> 02:48:24.670 align:middle line:84% But to look to try to fully fund charters 02:48:24.670 --> 02:48:29.090 align:middle line:84% that are over and above what anybody ever talked 02:48:29.090 --> 02:48:32.240 align:middle line:90% about in terms of financing-- 02:48:32.240 --> 02:48:37.950 align:middle line:84% that will be financially impossible to do. 02:48:37.950 --> 02:48:43.560 align:middle line:84% We are just not going to be able to afford a two-tiered school 02:48:43.560 --> 02:48:46.700 align:middle line:90% system in the Commonwealth-- 02:48:46.700 --> 02:48:48.390 align:middle line:84% because that's what's happening-- 02:48:48.390 --> 02:48:54.640 align:middle line:84% particularly if we see more and more schools are created. 02:48:54.640 --> 02:48:56.720 align:middle line:84% Thankfully, the voters of the Commonwealth 02:48:56.720 --> 02:49:00.420 align:middle line:84% decided to take a position on this and say, 02:49:00.420 --> 02:49:02.500 align:middle line:90% we shall not lift the cap. 02:49:02.500 --> 02:49:05.100 align:middle line:90% 02:49:05.100 --> 02:49:07.220 align:middle line:90% So I have to vote against that. 02:49:07.220 --> 02:49:09.200 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:49:09.200 --> 02:49:11.770 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 02:49:11.770 --> 02:49:12.650 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:49:12.650 --> 02:49:14.810 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:49:14.810 --> 02:49:17.410 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] moves that senate rule 38A 02:49:17.410 --> 02:49:19.310 align:middle line:84% be suspended so that the Senate may 02:49:19.310 --> 02:49:21.850 align:middle line:84% meet beyond the hour of 8:00 PM and the motion 02:49:21.850 --> 02:49:24.010 align:middle line:84% be made without the requirement of a roll call. 02:49:24.010 --> 02:49:25.100 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection? 02:49:25.100 --> 02:49:26.260 align:middle line:90% Chair hears none. 02:49:26.260 --> 02:49:29.090 align:middle line:84% Question comes on suspension of Senate rule 38A. 02:49:29.090 --> 02:49:32.050 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 02:49:32.050 --> 02:49:36.590 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the Senate can proceed with its business 02:49:36.590 --> 02:49:39.630 align:middle line:90% beyond the hour of 8:00 PM. 02:49:39.630 --> 02:49:41.100 align:middle line:90% Brief recess. 02:49:41.100 --> 02:49:46.000 align:middle line:90% 02:49:46.000 --> 02:49:48.019 align:middle line:84% Senator from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr. 02:49:48.019 --> 02:49:49.060 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 02:49:49.060 --> 02:49:51.604 align:middle line:84% What a delightful job you have been doing this afternoon, 02:49:51.604 --> 02:49:52.770 align:middle line:90% maybe with a few exceptions. 02:49:52.770 --> 02:49:55.990 align:middle line:84% But what a wonderful job, Mr. President, you have been doing. 02:49:55.990 --> 02:49:58.060 align:middle line:90% Ha, ha, ha. 02:49:58.060 --> 02:50:02.210 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, pursuant to Rule 16B-- 02:50:02.210 --> 02:50:06.460 align:middle line:84% 13B-- I move that there be a Republican caucus 02:50:06.460 --> 02:50:09.920 align:middle line:90% until the hour of 7:00 PM. 02:50:09.920 --> 02:50:13.430 align:middle line:84% Given the rules, I'll remind the gentleman that under rule 13B 02:50:13.430 --> 02:50:15.610 align:middle line:84% there will be a caucus, a Republican caucus 02:50:15.610 --> 02:50:18.226 align:middle line:90% until the hour of 7:00 PM. 02:50:18.226 --> 02:50:31.880 align:middle line:90% 02:50:31.880 --> 02:50:37.720 align:middle line:84% We will take a number of amendments 02:50:37.720 --> 02:50:41.980 align:middle line:90% out of order, but in succession. 02:50:41.980 --> 02:50:45.330 align:middle line:84% The first is amendment number 25 offered by the senator 02:50:45.330 --> 02:50:48.720 align:middle line:84% from Essex, Mr. Tarr, title of which the clerk will read. 02:50:48.720 --> 02:50:53.150 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 25 by Mr. Tarr, Title V Income Tax Credit 02:50:53.150 --> 02:50:54.000 align:middle line:90% Reform. 02:50:54.000 --> 02:50:56.000 align:middle line:84% Question comes on the adoption of the amendment. 02:50:56.000 --> 02:50:58.050 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 02:50:58.050 --> 02:50:58.950 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:50:58.950 --> 02:51:00.190 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:51:00.190 --> 02:51:04.402 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 58 offered by the same senator, the title 02:51:04.402 --> 02:51:05.610 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:51:05.610 --> 02:51:09.257 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 58 by Mr. Tarr, Billerica Friends of Music. 02:51:09.257 --> 02:51:11.090 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:51:11.090 --> 02:51:13.680 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 02:51:13.680 --> 02:51:14.462 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:51:14.462 --> 02:51:15.670 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:51:15.670 --> 02:51:18.202 align:middle line:84% Number 59 offered by the same senator, the title 02:51:18.202 --> 02:51:19.410 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:51:19.410 --> 02:51:22.700 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 59 by Mr. Tarr, Billerica Friends of the COA. 02:51:22.700 --> 02:51:25.220 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:51:25.220 --> 02:51:27.770 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 02:51:27.770 --> 02:51:28.572 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:51:28.572 --> 02:51:29.780 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:51:29.780 --> 02:51:32.342 align:middle line:84% Number 60 offered by the same senator, the title 02:51:32.342 --> 02:51:33.550 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:51:33.550 --> 02:51:36.600 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 60 by Mr. Tarr, Billerica High School Athletic 02:51:36.600 --> 02:51:37.277 align:middle line:90% Association. 02:51:37.277 --> 02:51:39.110 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:51:39.110 --> 02:51:41.640 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 02:51:41.640 --> 02:51:42.570 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:51:42.570 --> 02:51:43.910 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:51:43.910 --> 02:51:45.962 align:middle line:84% Number 61 offered by the senator from the Cape 02:51:45.962 --> 02:51:47.420 align:middle line:84% and the Islands, Mr. Cyr, the title 02:51:47.420 --> 02:51:48.628 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:51:48.628 --> 02:51:51.310 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 61 by Mr. Cyr, Provincetown Nursing Home 02:51:51.310 --> 02:51:52.476 align:middle line:90% Reimbursement Rate. 02:51:52.476 --> 02:51:54.225 align:middle line:84% The senate will be in a very brief recess. 02:51:54.225 --> 02:52:03.200 align:middle line:90% 02:52:03.200 --> 02:52:06.100 align:middle line:84% That amendment will be temporarily set aside. 02:52:06.100 --> 02:52:08.869 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 86 offered by the senator 02:52:08.869 --> 02:52:11.410 align:middle line:84% from Essex, Mr. Tarr, the title of which the clerk will read. 02:52:11.410 --> 02:52:14.827 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 86 by Mr. Tarr, Regional School Transportation. 02:52:14.827 --> 02:52:16.660 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:52:16.660 --> 02:52:19.120 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 02:52:19.120 --> 02:52:20.230 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:52:20.230 --> 02:52:20.844 align:middle line:90% I'm sorry. 02:52:20.844 --> 02:52:21.510 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:52:21.510 --> 02:52:23.120 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:52:23.120 --> 02:52:25.550 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 131 offered by the senator 02:52:25.550 --> 02:52:27.602 align:middle line:84% from the Berkshires, Mr. Hinds, the title 02:52:27.602 --> 02:52:28.810 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:52:28.810 --> 02:52:32.120 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 131 by Mr. Hinds, Adams Cheshire Regional 02:52:32.120 --> 02:52:32.847 align:middle line:90% School District. 02:52:32.847 --> 02:52:34.680 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:52:34.680 --> 02:52:37.090 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 02:52:37.090 --> 02:52:38.060 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:52:38.060 --> 02:52:39.460 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:52:39.460 --> 02:52:41.469 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 133 offered by the senator 02:52:41.469 --> 02:52:44.010 align:middle line:84% from Essex, Mr. Tarr, the title of which the clerk will read. 02:52:44.010 --> 02:52:46.030 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 133 by Mr. Tarr, 02:52:46.030 --> 02:52:48.917 align:middle line:84% Reducing the Cost of College Textbooks. 02:52:48.917 --> 02:52:50.750 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:52:50.750 --> 02:52:53.300 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 02:52:53.300 --> 02:52:54.102 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:52:54.102 --> 02:52:55.310 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:52:55.310 --> 02:52:57.942 align:middle line:84% Number 134 offered by the same senator, the title 02:52:57.942 --> 02:52:59.150 align:middle line:90% OF which the clerk will read. 02:52:59.150 --> 02:53:02.011 align:middle line:84% Amendment 134, by Mr. Tarr, innovation schools. 02:53:02.011 --> 02:53:04.010 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:53:04.010 --> 02:53:06.490 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 02:53:06.490 --> 02:53:07.192 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:53:07.192 --> 02:53:08.400 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:53:08.400 --> 02:53:10.686 align:middle line:84% Number 140, authored by the same Senator, 02:53:10.686 --> 02:53:12.310 align:middle line:84% the title of which the clerk will read. 02:53:12.310 --> 02:53:15.440 align:middle line:84% Amendment 140, by Mr. Tarr, three year college degrees 02:53:15.440 --> 02:53:16.790 align:middle line:90% and joint degree programs. 02:53:16.790 --> 02:53:18.790 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:53:18.790 --> 02:53:21.330 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 02:53:21.330 --> 02:53:22.082 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:53:22.082 --> 02:53:23.290 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:53:23.290 --> 02:53:26.102 align:middle line:84% Amendment 141 authored by the same Senator, the title 02:53:26.102 --> 02:53:27.310 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:53:27.310 --> 02:53:30.254 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 141 by Mr. Tarr, marine trades education. 02:53:30.254 --> 02:53:32.420 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the adoption of the amendment. 02:53:32.420 --> 02:53:35.420 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 02:53:35.420 --> 02:53:36.390 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:53:36.390 --> 02:53:37.760 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:53:37.760 --> 02:53:40.437 align:middle line:84% Number 149, authored by the Senator from Suffolk, 02:53:40.437 --> 02:53:42.520 align:middle line:84% Ms. Forry, the title of which the clerk will read. 02:53:42.520 --> 02:53:45.620 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 149, by Ms. Forry, JFK Library, 02:53:45.620 --> 02:53:46.850 align:middle line:90% civics education. 02:53:46.850 --> 02:53:49.070 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:53:49.070 --> 02:53:51.750 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 02:53:51.750 --> 02:53:52.880 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:53:52.880 --> 02:53:54.970 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:53:54.970 --> 02:53:59.130 align:middle line:84% The next is number 158, authored by the Senator 02:53:59.130 --> 02:54:04.110 align:middle line:84% from Middlesex and Norfolk, Ms. Creem, the title of which 02:54:04.110 --> 02:54:05.030 align:middle line:90% the clerk will read. 02:54:05.030 --> 02:54:08.660 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 158 by Ms. Creem, Aspire Teacher Support 02:54:08.660 --> 02:54:09.370 align:middle line:90% program. 02:54:09.370 --> 02:54:11.370 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:54:11.370 --> 02:54:13.740 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 02:54:13.740 --> 02:54:14.569 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:54:14.569 --> 02:54:15.610 align:middle line:90% Amendment is not adopted. 02:54:15.610 --> 02:54:18.790 align:middle line:84% The next by the Senator from Worcester, Mr. Moore. 02:54:18.790 --> 02:54:21.570 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 170, the title of which the clerk will read. 02:54:21.570 --> 02:54:24.550 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 170, by Mr. Moore, early college. 02:54:24.550 --> 02:54:26.570 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the amendment. 02:54:26.570 --> 02:54:29.050 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 02:54:29.050 --> 02:54:29.970 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:54:29.970 --> 02:54:31.240 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:54:31.240 --> 02:54:33.486 align:middle line:84% Number 172, authored by the same Senator, 02:54:33.486 --> 02:54:35.110 align:middle line:84% the title of which the clerk will read. 02:54:35.110 --> 02:54:38.280 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 172 by Mr. Moore, early education salary 02:54:38.280 --> 02:54:39.300 align:middle line:90% rate reserve. 02:54:39.300 --> 02:54:41.466 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the adoption of the amendment. 02:54:41.466 --> 02:54:43.300 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 02:54:43.300 --> 02:54:43.982 align:middle line:90% Nos have it. 02:54:43.982 --> 02:54:45.190 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:54:45.190 --> 02:54:48.020 align:middle line:84% Number 179, authored by the Senator from Essex, 02:54:48.020 --> 02:54:50.110 align:middle line:84% Mr. Tarr, the title of which the clerk will read. 02:54:50.110 --> 02:54:53.310 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 179, Mr. Tarr, UMass marine research 02:54:53.310 --> 02:54:54.140 align:middle line:90% facilities. 02:54:54.140 --> 02:54:56.139 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:54:56.139 --> 02:54:58.040 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 02:54:58.040 --> 02:54:59.010 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:54:59.010 --> 02:54:59.970 align:middle line:90% It is not adopted. 02:54:59.970 --> 02:55:02.910 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 188, authored by the Senator 02:55:02.910 --> 02:55:05.532 align:middle line:84% from Plymouth and Barnstable, Mr. deMacedo, the title 02:55:05.532 --> 02:55:06.740 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:55:06.740 --> 02:55:09.860 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 188, by Mr. deMacedo, school and teacher 02:55:09.860 --> 02:55:10.870 align:middle line:90% leadership development. 02:55:10.870 --> 02:55:12.870 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:55:12.870 --> 02:55:15.390 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 02:55:15.390 --> 02:55:16.280 align:middle line:90% Nos have it. 02:55:16.280 --> 02:55:17.640 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:55:17.640 --> 02:55:20.860 align:middle line:84% The next number, 220, authored by the Senator 02:55:20.860 --> 02:55:23.770 align:middle line:84% from Norfolk and Middlesex, Mr. Ross, the title 02:55:23.770 --> 02:55:25.020 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:55:25.020 --> 02:55:27.614 align:middle line:84% Amendment 220 by Mr. Ross, Vogel school in Wrentham. 02:55:27.614 --> 02:55:29.780 align:middle line:84% The question comes in the adoption of the amendment. 02:55:29.780 --> 02:55:32.420 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 02:55:32.420 --> 02:55:33.352 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:55:33.352 --> 02:55:34.560 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:55:34.560 --> 02:55:36.810 align:middle line:84% Number 221, authored by the Senator 02:55:36.810 --> 02:55:39.320 align:middle line:84% from Hamden and Hampshire, Mr. Humason, the title 02:55:39.320 --> 02:55:40.590 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:55:40.590 --> 02:55:43.354 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 221 by Mr. Humason, homework house. 02:55:43.354 --> 02:55:45.520 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the adoption of the amendment. 02:55:45.520 --> 02:55:48.180 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 02:55:48.180 --> 02:55:49.100 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:55:49.100 --> 02:55:50.470 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:55:50.470 --> 02:55:52.220 align:middle line:84% The next is authored by the Senator 02:55:52.220 --> 02:55:54.300 align:middle line:90% from Middlesex, Ms. Flanagan. 02:55:54.300 --> 02:55:59.900 align:middle line:84% Number 222, the title of which the clerk will read. 02:55:59.900 --> 02:56:03.670 align:middle line:84% Number 222 by Ms. Flanagan, early childhood mental health 02:56:03.670 --> 02:56:04.302 align:middle line:90% consultation. 02:56:04.302 --> 02:56:06.510 align:middle line:84% The questions comes on the adoption of the amendment. 02:56:06.510 --> 02:56:09.330 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 02:56:09.330 --> 02:56:10.252 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:56:10.252 --> 02:56:11.460 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:56:11.460 --> 02:56:14.200 align:middle line:84% Number 224, authored by the Senator from Essex, 02:56:14.200 --> 02:56:16.370 align:middle line:84% Mr. Tarr, the title of which the clerk will read. 02:56:16.370 --> 02:56:19.500 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 224 by Mr. Tarr, Foundation Budget Review 02:56:19.500 --> 02:56:20.240 align:middle line:90% Commission. 02:56:20.240 --> 02:56:22.406 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the adoption of the amendment. 02:56:22.406 --> 02:56:24.310 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 02:56:24.310 --> 02:56:25.112 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:56:25.112 --> 02:56:26.320 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:56:26.320 --> 02:56:29.144 align:middle line:84% The next is number 227 authored by the Senator 02:56:29.144 --> 02:56:31.310 align:middle line:84% from Worcester in Middlesex, Ms. Flanagan, the title 02:56:31.310 --> 02:56:32.660 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:56:32.660 --> 02:56:35.870 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 227 by Ms. Flanagan, center for the book. 02:56:35.870 --> 02:56:37.870 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:56:37.870 --> 02:56:40.660 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 02:56:40.660 --> 02:56:41.472 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:56:41.472 --> 02:56:42.680 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:56:42.680 --> 02:56:45.700 align:middle line:84% The next is 228, the Senator from Essex, 02:56:45.700 --> 02:56:48.330 align:middle line:84% Mr. Tarr, the title of which the clerk will read. 02:56:48.330 --> 02:56:50.080 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 228 by Mr. Tarr, 02:56:50.080 --> 02:56:52.710 align:middle line:84% certified public purchasing, retained revenue. 02:56:52.710 --> 02:56:54.710 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:56:54.710 --> 02:56:57.420 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 02:56:57.420 --> 02:56:58.252 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:56:58.252 --> 02:56:59.460 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:56:59.460 --> 02:57:01.120 align:middle line:84% Number 230, authored by the Senator 02:57:01.120 --> 02:57:03.702 align:middle line:84% from Norfolk and Suffolk, Mr. Rush, the title 02:57:03.702 --> 02:57:04.910 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:57:04.910 --> 02:57:07.804 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 230, Mr. Rush, library for the Commonwealth. 02:57:07.804 --> 02:57:09.970 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the adoption of the amendment. 02:57:09.970 --> 02:57:12.650 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 02:57:12.650 --> 02:57:13.570 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:57:13.570 --> 02:57:14.920 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:57:14.920 --> 02:57:16.950 align:middle line:84% Number 236, is authored by the Senator 02:57:16.950 --> 02:57:20.210 align:middle line:84% from Essex, Mr. McGee, the title of which the clerk will read. 02:57:20.210 --> 02:57:23.590 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 236 by Mr. McGee, quarter point amendment. 02:57:23.590 --> 02:57:25.610 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:57:25.610 --> 02:57:28.280 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 02:57:28.280 --> 02:57:29.102 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:57:29.102 --> 02:57:30.310 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:57:30.310 --> 02:57:32.820 align:middle line:84% Number 237, is authored by the Senator 02:57:32.820 --> 02:57:34.622 align:middle line:84% from Middlesex, Ms. Flanagan, the title 02:57:34.622 --> 02:57:35.830 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:57:35.830 --> 02:57:38.670 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 237 by Ms. Flanagan, donations 02:57:38.670 --> 02:57:39.921 align:middle line:90% for municipal events. 02:57:39.921 --> 02:57:41.920 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:57:41.920 --> 02:57:44.580 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 02:57:44.580 --> 02:57:45.392 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:57:45.392 --> 02:57:46.600 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:57:46.600 --> 02:57:53.890 align:middle line:84% The next is authored by the same Senator, Amendment number 243. 02:57:53.890 --> 02:57:56.120 align:middle line:90% The Chair is in error. 02:57:56.120 --> 02:57:58.880 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Worcester and Middlesex, Ms. Flanagan, 02:57:58.880 --> 02:58:02.950 align:middle line:84% offers number 242, the title of which the clerk will read. 02:58:02.950 --> 02:58:06.550 align:middle line:84% 242 by Miss Flanagan, 401(k) core program. 02:58:06.550 --> 02:58:08.710 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:58:08.710 --> 02:58:11.260 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 02:58:11.260 --> 02:58:12.012 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:58:12.012 --> 02:58:13.220 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:58:13.220 --> 02:58:16.110 align:middle line:84% The same Senator offers number 243, the title 02:58:16.110 --> 02:58:17.350 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:58:17.350 --> 02:58:21.320 align:middle line:84% Amendment 243 by Ms. Flanagan, Chapter 30B procurement. 02:58:21.320 --> 02:58:23.590 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:58:23.590 --> 02:58:26.270 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 02:58:26.270 --> 02:58:26.912 align:middle line:90% Nos have it. 02:58:26.912 --> 02:58:28.120 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:58:28.120 --> 02:58:30.570 align:middle line:84% Number 245, is authored by the Senator 02:58:30.570 --> 02:58:33.560 align:middle line:84% from Essex, Mr. Tarr, the title which the clerk will read. 02:58:33.560 --> 02:58:36.844 align:middle line:84% Number 245 by Mr. Tarr, power purchase agreement. 02:58:36.844 --> 02:58:39.010 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the adoption of the amendment. 02:58:39.010 --> 02:58:41.720 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 02:58:41.720 --> 02:58:42.600 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:58:42.600 --> 02:58:44.050 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:58:44.050 --> 02:58:47.160 align:middle line:84% The same Senator offers Amendment number 246, the title 02:58:47.160 --> 02:58:48.550 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:58:48.550 --> 02:58:52.460 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 246 by Mr. Tarr, DCAMM CoFFEE. 02:58:52.460 --> 02:58:54.770 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:58:54.770 --> 02:58:57.610 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 02:58:57.610 --> 02:58:58.532 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 02:58:58.532 --> 02:58:59.740 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 02:58:59.740 --> 02:59:01.390 align:middle line:84% The next is authored by the Senator 02:59:01.390 --> 02:59:03.400 align:middle line:84% from Middlesex and Worcester, Mr. Eldridge. 02:59:03.400 --> 02:59:07.220 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 247, the title of which the clerk will read. 02:59:07.220 --> 02:59:09.720 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 247 by Mr. Eldridge, district 02:59:09.720 --> 02:59:11.490 align:middle line:90% local technical assistance. 02:59:11.490 --> 02:59:14.680 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the senator from Middlesex and Worcester, 02:59:14.680 --> 02:59:16.340 align:middle line:90% Mr. Eldridge. 02:59:16.340 --> 02:59:17.840 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 02:59:17.840 --> 02:59:21.570 align:middle line:84% This amendment, number 247, would 02:59:21.570 --> 02:59:24.510 align:middle line:84% create a set aside of $2.8 million 02:59:24.510 --> 02:59:27.310 align:middle line:84% for district local technical assistance. 02:59:27.310 --> 02:59:32.580 align:middle line:84% I think we're all very familiar with the assistance with DLTA 02:59:32.580 --> 02:59:35.300 align:middle line:84% through our regional planning agencies 02:59:35.300 --> 02:59:39.010 align:middle line:84% that help keep projects in each of our communities. 02:59:39.010 --> 02:59:41.350 align:middle line:84% This is extremely helpful, whether people 02:59:41.350 --> 02:59:45.240 align:middle line:84% are looking at health care costs, environmental planning, 02:59:45.240 --> 02:59:50.740 align:middle line:84% education, transportation, zoning, housing production, 02:59:50.740 --> 02:59:52.700 align:middle line:90% and planning. 02:59:52.700 --> 02:59:55.110 align:middle line:84% The district that I represent, I've 02:59:55.110 --> 02:59:59.970 align:middle line:84% seen direct local technical assistance used by MAPC, 02:59:59.970 --> 03:00:04.730 align:middle line:84% to help with energy projects, crossing town borders to work 03:00:04.730 --> 03:00:09.520 align:middle line:84% on increasing energy efficiency, to work with towns 03:00:09.520 --> 03:00:13.310 align:middle line:84% and cities looking at improving shuttle service in the metro 03:00:13.310 --> 03:00:17.680 align:middle line:84% west area, and as well as many of my communities 03:00:17.680 --> 03:00:21.500 align:middle line:84% looking at how to comply with federal storm water rules. 03:00:21.500 --> 03:00:23.650 align:middle line:84% So the direct local technical assistance 03:00:23.650 --> 03:00:27.190 align:middle line:84% has been a real critical source of funding 03:00:27.190 --> 03:00:31.320 align:middle line:84% to help regional planning agencies in cities and towns 03:00:31.320 --> 03:00:35.690 align:middle line:84% across Massachusetts comply with state and federal laws 03:00:35.690 --> 03:00:38.480 align:middle line:84% and help to level planning that actually 03:00:38.480 --> 03:00:41.150 align:middle line:90% saves money in the long term. 03:00:41.150 --> 03:00:43.990 align:middle line:84% So, Mr. President, I urge my colleagues 03:00:43.990 --> 03:00:47.640 align:middle line:84% to vote for this amendment that would increase the line 03:00:47.640 --> 03:00:52.420 align:middle line:84% item by $2.8 million, setting aside that money for district 03:00:52.420 --> 03:00:55.000 align:middle line:84% local technical assistance, to better support 03:00:55.000 --> 03:00:58.420 align:middle line:84% our regional planning agencies, which more and more are doing 03:00:58.420 --> 03:01:00.520 align:middle line:84% great work with our towns and cities. 03:01:00.520 --> 03:01:01.700 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 03:01:01.700 --> 03:01:04.670 align:middle line:90% 03:01:04.670 --> 03:01:19.150 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of Amendment number 247. 03:01:19.150 --> 03:01:23.130 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 03:01:23.130 --> 03:01:25.600 align:middle line:84% I was in support of this amendment. 03:01:25.600 --> 03:01:27.980 align:middle line:84% This is something that's critically important. 03:01:27.980 --> 03:01:30.100 align:middle line:84% To be able to provide the kind of assistance 03:01:30.100 --> 03:01:32.310 align:middle line:84% that our communities need, to navigate 03:01:32.310 --> 03:01:34.170 align:middle line:84% their many challenges, and importantly, 03:01:34.170 --> 03:01:37.110 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, many times this funding, 03:01:37.110 --> 03:01:38.980 align:middle line:84% and this form of technical assistance 03:01:38.980 --> 03:01:42.280 align:middle line:84% is used to facilitate regional collaboration, which 03:01:42.280 --> 03:01:45.110 align:middle line:84% in the long run, is able, Mr. President, 03:01:45.110 --> 03:01:48.680 align:middle line:84% to facilitate savings for many cities and towns 03:01:48.680 --> 03:01:50.470 align:middle line:90% and for the Commonwealth. 03:01:50.470 --> 03:01:53.260 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, it's a little bit disappointing 03:01:53.260 --> 03:01:56.380 align:middle line:84% that this wasn't included in the budget to begin with. 03:01:56.380 --> 03:01:58.820 align:middle line:84% But Mr. President, I would hope as well, 03:01:58.820 --> 03:02:00.210 align:middle line:90% that this amendment is adopted. 03:02:00.210 --> 03:02:03.970 align:middle line:90% 03:02:03.970 --> 03:02:07.410 align:middle line:84% For the amendment, all those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 03:02:07.410 --> 03:02:08.510 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 03:02:08.510 --> 03:02:09.720 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 03:02:09.720 --> 03:02:12.692 align:middle line:84% Number 248 is authored by the same Senator, the title 03:02:12.692 --> 03:02:13.900 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 03:02:13.900 --> 03:02:16.700 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 248 by Mr. Eldridge, George FIngold 03:02:16.700 --> 03:02:17.484 align:middle line:90% Library. 03:02:17.484 --> 03:02:19.650 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the adoption of the amendment. 03:02:19.650 --> 03:02:22.240 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 03:02:22.240 --> 03:02:23.100 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 03:02:23.100 --> 03:02:24.308 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 03:02:24.308 --> 03:02:27.020 align:middle line:84% The same Senator offers Amendment number 249, the title 03:02:27.020 --> 03:02:28.350 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 03:02:28.350 --> 03:02:31.600 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 249 by Mr. Eldridge, volunteer income tax 03:02:31.600 --> 03:02:32.630 align:middle line:90% assistance. 03:02:32.630 --> 03:02:35.950 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator from Middlesex and Worcester, 03:02:35.950 --> 03:02:37.559 align:middle line:90% Mr. Eldridge. 03:02:37.559 --> 03:02:38.600 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 03:02:38.600 --> 03:02:41.870 align:middle line:84% This amendment, number 249, volunteer income tax 03:02:41.870 --> 03:02:48.390 align:middle line:84% assistance, would increase by $800,000 money for the 80 03:02:48.390 --> 03:02:51.340 align:middle line:84% volunteer income tax assistance sites located 03:02:51.340 --> 03:02:52.760 align:middle line:90% throughout the Commonwealth. 03:02:52.760 --> 03:02:55.460 align:middle line:84% It's an issue I've worked with the gentleman from Winchester 03:02:55.460 --> 03:02:56.100 align:middle line:90% on. 03:02:56.100 --> 03:02:59.400 align:middle line:84% The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, VITA, program, 03:02:59.400 --> 03:03:02.880 align:middle line:84% is an IRS program designed to help low and moderate income 03:03:02.880 --> 03:03:07.240 align:middle line:84% taxpayers complete their annual tax returns at no cost. 03:03:07.240 --> 03:03:10.980 align:middle line:84% I would add that an earlier effort that I filed 03:03:10.980 --> 03:03:14.970 align:middle line:84% an amendment on, the EITC, would greatly benefit through better 03:03:14.970 --> 03:03:16.920 align:middle line:90% funding these VITA sites. 03:03:16.920 --> 03:03:20.380 align:middle line:84% Given the immense complexity of our tax codes, 03:03:20.380 --> 03:03:22.310 align:middle line:84% these programs are of crucial tools 03:03:22.310 --> 03:03:25.390 align:middle line:84% to help low income individuals and families understand 03:03:25.390 --> 03:03:28.720 align:middle line:84% and comply with current tax requirements. 03:03:28.720 --> 03:03:30.210 align:middle line:84% What this funding would do, is it 03:03:30.210 --> 03:03:34.670 align:middle line:84% will provide $10,000 each for the 80 VITA sites located 03:03:34.670 --> 03:03:36.220 align:middle line:90% through Massachusetts. 03:03:36.220 --> 03:03:39.800 align:middle line:84% While volunteer tax procreation is the core activity at a VITA 03:03:39.800 --> 03:03:43.520 align:middle line:84% site, other expenses are necessary to effectively 03:03:43.520 --> 03:03:45.080 align:middle line:90% administer the program. 03:03:45.080 --> 03:03:50.030 align:middle line:84% Each year, VITA serves more low income taxpayers. 03:03:50.030 --> 03:03:53.330 align:middle line:84% This year they served over 17,000 taxpayers, 03:03:53.330 --> 03:03:56.920 align:middle line:84% bringing in over $30 million from EITC and other tax 03:03:56.920 --> 03:03:58.130 align:middle line:90% credits. 03:03:58.130 --> 03:04:00.050 align:middle line:84% Given the cost of operating a VITA site, 03:04:00.050 --> 03:04:03.520 align:middle line:84% the return on investment is impressive, between $35 03:04:03.520 --> 03:04:05.560 align:middle line:90% to $50 to $1. 03:04:05.560 --> 03:04:09.380 align:middle line:84% I urge my colleagues to support this new line 03:04:09.380 --> 03:04:11.890 align:middle line:84% item for Volunteer Income Tax Assistance 03:04:11.890 --> 03:04:15.540 align:middle line:84% to better support tax preparers providing this free service 03:04:15.540 --> 03:04:16.451 align:middle line:90% across Massachusetts. 03:04:16.451 --> 03:04:16.950 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:04:16.950 --> 03:04:20.400 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 03:04:20.400 --> 03:04:23.010 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 03:04:23.010 --> 03:04:23.980 align:middle line:90% the nos have it. 03:04:23.980 --> 03:04:25.340 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 03:04:25.340 --> 03:04:27.900 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 232 has been withdrawn. 03:04:27.900 --> 03:04:30.540 align:middle line:84% Number 253, authored by the Senator 03:04:30.540 --> 03:04:34.002 align:middle line:84% from Norfolk and Plymouth, Mr. Keenan, the title 03:04:34.002 --> 03:04:35.210 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 03:04:35.210 --> 03:04:37.090 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 253 by Mr. Kennan, 03:04:37.090 --> 03:04:39.270 align:middle line:84% increasing the membership of the PRIM board. 03:04:39.270 --> 03:04:41.269 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 03:04:41.269 --> 03:04:43.450 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 03:04:43.450 --> 03:04:44.420 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 03:04:44.420 --> 03:04:45.720 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 03:04:45.720 --> 03:04:47.261 align:middle line:84% The Senate will be in a brief recess. 03:04:47.261 --> 03:04:58.580 align:middle line:90% 03:04:58.580 --> 03:05:01.730 align:middle line:84% One matter comes before the Senate for its final passage, 03:05:01.730 --> 03:05:03.520 align:middle line:84% and under the Constitution there's 03:05:03.520 --> 03:05:05.600 align:middle line:84% a requirement of the call of the yeas 03:05:05.600 --> 03:05:09.160 align:middle line:84% and nays, an act authorizing the trustees of the bathing beach 03:05:09.160 --> 03:05:12.380 align:middle line:84% in the town of Bingham to enter into a lease for the operation 03:05:12.380 --> 03:05:15.760 align:middle line:84% of the bath house facility and surrounding grounds. 03:05:15.760 --> 03:05:17.650 align:middle line:90% Senate Bill number 22. 03:05:17.650 --> 03:05:19.600 align:middle line:90% The clerk will call the roll. 03:05:19.600 --> 03:05:40.460 align:middle line:90% 03:05:40.460 --> 03:05:42.410 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:05:42.410 --> 03:05:43.610 align:middle line:90% Joseph A. Barncore? 03:05:43.610 --> 03:05:44.260 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:05:44.260 --> 03:05:45.730 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:05:45.730 --> 03:05:46.871 align:middle line:90% Michael D. Brady? 03:05:46.871 --> 03:05:47.370 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:05:47.370 --> 03:05:48.801 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:05:48.801 --> 03:05:49.800 align:middle line:90% William N. Brownsberger? 03:05:49.800 --> 03:05:53.900 align:middle line:90% 03:05:53.900 --> 03:05:56.000 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:05:56.000 --> 03:05:58.710 align:middle line:90% Harriette L. Chandler? 03:05:58.710 --> 03:06:00.640 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:00.640 --> 03:06:01.440 align:middle line:90% Sonia Chang-Diaz? 03:06:01.440 --> 03:06:05.490 align:middle line:90% 03:06:05.490 --> 03:06:07.140 align:middle line:90% Cynthia Stone-Creem? 03:06:07.140 --> 03:06:08.781 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:08.781 --> 03:06:09.280 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:09.280 --> 03:06:10.100 align:middle line:90% Julian Cyr? 03:06:10.100 --> 03:06:14.350 align:middle line:90% 03:06:14.350 --> 03:06:17.320 align:middle line:90% Viriato M. DeMacedo? 03:06:17.320 --> 03:06:19.040 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:19.040 --> 03:06:20.920 align:middle line:90% Sal N. DiDomenico? 03:06:20.920 --> 03:06:21.440 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:21.440 --> 03:06:22.960 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:22.960 --> 03:06:24.820 align:middle line:90% Eileen M. Donoghue? 03:06:24.820 --> 03:06:26.550 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:26.550 --> 03:06:29.130 align:middle line:90% James B. Eldridge? 03:06:29.130 --> 03:06:31.660 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:31.660 --> 03:06:33.310 align:middle line:90% Brian C. Fattman? 03:06:33.310 --> 03:06:34.460 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:34.460 --> 03:06:35.140 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:35.140 --> 03:06:36.410 align:middle line:90% Jennifer L. Flanagan? 03:06:36.410 --> 03:06:37.160 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:37.160 --> 03:06:38.920 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:38.920 --> 03:06:41.080 align:middle line:90% Linda Dorcena Forry? 03:06:41.080 --> 03:06:42.210 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:42.210 --> 03:06:42.710 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:42.710 --> 03:06:43.450 align:middle line:90% Ann M. Gobi? 03:06:43.450 --> 03:06:44.170 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:44.170 --> 03:06:45.550 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:45.550 --> 03:06:47.510 align:middle line:90% Adam G. Hinds? 03:06:47.510 --> 03:06:48.010 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:48.010 --> 03:06:49.610 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:49.610 --> 03:06:51.110 align:middle line:90% Donald F. Humason, Jr.? 03:06:51.110 --> 03:06:51.680 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:51.680 --> 03:06:53.070 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:53.070 --> 03:06:54.990 align:middle line:90% Patricia D. Jehlen? 03:06:54.990 --> 03:06:56.390 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:56.390 --> 03:06:58.080 align:middle line:90% John F. Keenan? 03:06:58.080 --> 03:06:59.310 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:59.310 --> 03:06:59.810 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:06:59.810 --> 03:07:00.760 align:middle line:90% Eric P. Lesser? 03:07:00.760 --> 03:07:01.260 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:01.260 --> 03:07:02.640 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:02.640 --> 03:07:03.400 align:middle line:90% Jason M. Lewis? 03:07:03.400 --> 03:07:04.370 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:04.370 --> 03:07:05.820 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:05.820 --> 03:07:07.641 align:middle line:90% Barbara L'Italien? 03:07:07.641 --> 03:07:08.140 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:08.140 --> 03:07:09.160 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:09.160 --> 03:07:10.140 align:middle line:90% Joan B. Lovely? 03:07:10.140 --> 03:07:11.030 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:11.030 --> 03:07:13.080 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:13.080 --> 03:07:14.110 align:middle line:90% Thomas N. McGee? 03:07:14.110 --> 03:07:14.760 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:14.760 --> 03:07:16.590 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:16.590 --> 03:07:17.880 align:middle line:90% Mark C. Montigny? 03:07:17.880 --> 03:07:18.380 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:18.380 --> 03:07:19.900 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:19.900 --> 03:07:20.710 align:middle line:90% Michael O. Moore? 03:07:20.710 --> 03:07:22.170 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:22.170 --> 03:07:23.620 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:23.620 --> 03:07:24.811 align:middle line:90% Patrick O'Connor? 03:07:24.811 --> 03:07:25.310 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:25.310 --> 03:07:26.600 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:26.600 --> 03:07:28.030 align:middle line:90% Kathleen O'Connor-Ives? 03:07:28.030 --> 03:07:28.930 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:28.930 --> 03:07:30.300 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:30.300 --> 03:07:31.155 align:middle line:90% Marc Pacheco? 03:07:31.155 --> 03:07:34.959 align:middle line:90% 03:07:34.959 --> 03:07:35.500 align:middle line:90% Marc Pacheco? 03:07:35.500 --> 03:07:39.290 align:middle line:90% 03:07:39.290 --> 03:07:41.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:41.800 --> 03:07:43.550 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Rodrigues? 03:07:43.550 --> 03:07:44.050 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:44.050 --> 03:07:45.490 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:45.490 --> 03:07:47.200 align:middle line:90% Richard J. Ross? 03:07:47.200 --> 03:07:47.700 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:47.700 --> 03:07:48.590 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:48.590 --> 03:07:50.190 align:middle line:90% Michael F. Rush? 03:07:50.190 --> 03:07:50.730 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:50.730 --> 03:07:52.020 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:52.020 --> 03:07:53.010 align:middle line:90% Karen E. Spilka? 03:07:53.010 --> 03:07:53.990 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:53.990 --> 03:07:55.290 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:55.290 --> 03:07:56.390 align:middle line:90% Bruce E. Tarr? 03:07:56.390 --> 03:07:56.910 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:56.910 --> 03:07:58.260 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:07:58.260 --> 03:07:59.870 align:middle line:90% Walter F. Timilty? 03:07:59.870 --> 03:08:01.110 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:08:01.110 --> 03:08:01.610 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:08:01.610 --> 03:08:03.410 align:middle line:90% James T. Welch? 03:08:03.410 --> 03:08:03.910 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:08:03.910 --> 03:08:04.410 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:08:04.410 --> 03:08:05.800 align:middle line:90% Have all members been recorded? 03:08:05.800 --> 03:08:33.430 align:middle line:90% 03:08:33.430 --> 03:08:35.600 align:middle line:90% Sonia Chang-Diaz votes yes. 03:08:35.600 --> 03:09:00.040 align:middle line:90% 03:09:00.040 --> 03:09:00.700 align:middle line:90% Julian Cyr? 03:09:00.700 --> 03:09:05.730 align:middle line:90% 03:09:05.730 --> 03:09:06.330 align:middle line:90% Votes Yes. 03:09:06.330 --> 03:09:18.150 align:middle line:90% 03:09:18.150 --> 03:09:20.810 align:middle line:84% On this matter, 37 having voted in the affirmative, none 03:09:20.810 --> 03:09:23.060 align:middle line:84% in the negative, will be signed by the President, laid 03:09:23.060 --> 03:09:26.250 align:middle line:84% before the Governor for his approbation. 03:09:26.250 --> 03:09:28.700 align:middle line:84% For the edification of the members, 03:09:28.700 --> 03:09:32.260 align:middle line:84% we are now about to vote on the yes bundle. 03:09:32.260 --> 03:09:35.700 align:middle line:84% We're about to vote on the yes bundle, if there 03:09:35.700 --> 03:09:37.850 align:middle line:90% is no objection of course. 03:09:37.850 --> 03:09:40.650 align:middle line:84% Several amendments will be considered as one. 03:09:40.650 --> 03:09:42.580 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection? 03:09:42.580 --> 03:09:44.640 align:middle line:90% The Chair hears none. 03:09:44.640 --> 03:09:47.330 align:middle line:84% And the question will come on adoption of the amendments. 03:09:47.330 --> 03:09:50.430 align:middle line:84% Under the rules, a call of the yeas and nays is required. 03:09:50.430 --> 03:09:52.000 align:middle line:90% The clerk will call the roll. 03:09:52.000 --> 03:10:17.330 align:middle line:90% 03:10:17.330 --> 03:10:19.120 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:19.120 --> 03:10:20.300 align:middle line:90% Joseph A. Boncore? 03:10:20.300 --> 03:10:21.260 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:21.260 --> 03:10:22.870 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:22.870 --> 03:10:23.840 align:middle line:90% Michael D. Brady? 03:10:23.840 --> 03:10:24.670 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:24.670 --> 03:10:26.140 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:26.140 --> 03:10:28.211 align:middle line:90% William N. Brownsberger? 03:10:28.211 --> 03:10:28.710 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:28.710 --> 03:10:30.230 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:30.230 --> 03:10:31.400 align:middle line:90% Harriette L. Chandler? 03:10:31.400 --> 03:10:31.900 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:31.900 --> 03:10:33.590 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:33.590 --> 03:10:35.511 align:middle line:90% Sonia Chang-Diaz? 03:10:35.511 --> 03:10:36.010 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:36.010 --> 03:10:37.190 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:37.190 --> 03:10:39.210 align:middle line:90% Cynthia Stone-Creem? 03:10:39.210 --> 03:10:39.710 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:39.710 --> 03:10:41.200 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:41.200 --> 03:10:42.800 align:middle line:90% Julian Cyr? 03:10:42.800 --> 03:10:44.511 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:44.511 --> 03:10:45.010 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:45.010 --> 03:10:46.731 align:middle line:90% Virato M. DeMacedo? 03:10:46.731 --> 03:10:47.230 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:47.230 --> 03:10:48.530 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:48.530 --> 03:10:50.110 align:middle line:90% Sal N. DiDomenico? 03:10:50.110 --> 03:10:50.610 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:50.610 --> 03:10:52.530 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:52.530 --> 03:10:54.420 align:middle line:90% Eileen M. Donoghue? 03:10:54.420 --> 03:10:54.920 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:54.920 --> 03:10:56.610 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:56.610 --> 03:10:57.740 align:middle line:90% James B. Eldridge? 03:10:57.740 --> 03:10:58.640 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:10:58.640 --> 03:11:00.400 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:00.400 --> 03:11:01.810 align:middle line:90% Ryan C. Fattman? 03:11:01.810 --> 03:11:02.310 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:02.310 --> 03:11:03.440 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:03.440 --> 03:11:05.310 align:middle line:90% Jennifer L. Flanagan? 03:11:05.310 --> 03:11:05.810 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:05.810 --> 03:11:06.930 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:06.930 --> 03:11:09.360 align:middle line:90% Linda Dorcena Forry? 03:11:09.360 --> 03:11:10.821 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:10.821 --> 03:11:11.320 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:11.320 --> 03:11:12.180 align:middle line:90% Ann M. Gobi? 03:11:12.180 --> 03:11:12.700 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:12.700 --> 03:11:13.990 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:13.990 --> 03:11:15.720 align:middle line:90% Adam G. Hinds? 03:11:15.720 --> 03:11:16.220 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:16.220 --> 03:11:17.300 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:17.300 --> 03:11:18.860 align:middle line:90% Donald F. Humason, Jr.? 03:11:18.860 --> 03:11:19.360 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:19.360 --> 03:11:20.690 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:20.690 --> 03:11:22.550 align:middle line:90% Patricia D. Jehlen? 03:11:22.550 --> 03:11:23.090 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:23.090 --> 03:11:24.110 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:24.110 --> 03:11:25.010 align:middle line:90% John F. Kennan? 03:11:25.010 --> 03:11:26.010 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:26.010 --> 03:11:27.330 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:27.330 --> 03:11:29.010 align:middle line:90% Eric P. Lesser? 03:11:29.010 --> 03:11:29.510 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:29.510 --> 03:11:30.590 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:30.590 --> 03:11:32.670 align:middle line:90% Jason M. Lewis? 03:11:32.670 --> 03:11:33.170 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:33.170 --> 03:11:34.080 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:34.080 --> 03:11:35.030 align:middle line:90% Barbara L'Italien? 03:11:35.030 --> 03:11:35.980 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:35.980 --> 03:11:37.300 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:37.300 --> 03:11:39.040 align:middle line:90% Joan B. Lovely? 03:11:39.040 --> 03:11:39.590 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:39.590 --> 03:11:40.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:40.500 --> 03:11:41.510 align:middle line:90% Thomas M. McGee? 03:11:41.510 --> 03:11:42.460 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:42.460 --> 03:11:43.850 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:43.850 --> 03:11:45.511 align:middle line:90% Mark C. Montigny? 03:11:45.511 --> 03:11:46.010 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:46.010 --> 03:11:47.280 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:47.280 --> 03:11:48.660 align:middle line:90% Michael O. Moore? 03:11:48.660 --> 03:11:49.160 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:49.160 --> 03:11:51.350 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:51.350 --> 03:11:52.480 align:middle line:90% Patrick M. O'Connor? 03:11:52.480 --> 03:11:52.980 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:52.980 --> 03:11:54.510 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:54.510 --> 03:11:55.920 align:middle line:90% Kathleen O'Connor-Ives? 03:11:55.920 --> 03:11:56.720 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:56.720 --> 03:11:58.040 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:11:58.040 --> 03:11:59.480 align:middle line:90% Marc R. Pacheco? 03:11:59.480 --> 03:12:00.110 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:12:00.110 --> 03:12:01.390 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:12:01.390 --> 03:12:02.770 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Rodrigues? 03:12:02.770 --> 03:12:03.400 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:12:03.400 --> 03:12:04.670 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:12:04.670 --> 03:12:06.310 align:middle line:90% Richard J. Ross? 03:12:06.310 --> 03:12:06.810 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:12:06.810 --> 03:12:07.830 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:12:07.830 --> 03:12:09.320 align:middle line:90% Michael F. Rush? 03:12:09.320 --> 03:12:09.850 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:12:09.850 --> 03:12:11.270 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:12:11.270 --> 03:12:13.380 align:middle line:90% Karen E. Spilka? 03:12:13.380 --> 03:12:14.510 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:12:14.510 --> 03:12:15.720 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:12:15.720 --> 03:12:17.290 align:middle line:90% Bruce C. Tarr? 03:12:17.290 --> 03:12:17.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:12:17.800 --> 03:12:18.920 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:12:18.920 --> 03:12:20.600 align:middle line:90% Walter F Timilty? 03:12:20.600 --> 03:12:21.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:12:21.500 --> 03:12:22.000 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:12:22.000 --> 03:12:23.690 align:middle line:90% James T. Welch? 03:12:23.690 --> 03:12:24.491 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:12:24.491 --> 03:12:24.990 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:12:24.990 --> 03:12:26.500 align:middle line:90% Have all members been recorded? 03:12:26.500 --> 03:12:39.090 align:middle line:90% 03:12:39.090 --> 03:12:41.820 align:middle line:84% This matter, 37, having voted in the affirmative, none 03:12:41.820 --> 03:12:45.320 align:middle line:84% in the negative, the amendments are adopted. 03:12:45.320 --> 03:12:47.510 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator from Hamden, 03:12:47.510 --> 03:12:49.300 align:middle line:90% New Hampshire, Mr. Lesser-- 03:12:49.300 --> 03:12:51.280 align:middle line:90% the gentleman rise? 03:12:51.280 --> 03:12:54.405 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, unanimous consent to make a brief statement. 03:12:54.405 --> 03:12:59.840 align:middle line:90% 03:12:59.840 --> 03:13:03.330 align:middle line:84% The Chair hears none to a very brief statement. 03:13:03.330 --> 03:13:05.900 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, and through you to the members. 03:13:05.900 --> 03:13:09.040 align:middle line:84% I rise in support of Amendment 33, 03:13:09.040 --> 03:13:12.330 align:middle line:84% which was just voted on in the affirmative. 03:13:12.330 --> 03:13:14.780 align:middle line:84% I wanted to explain this amendment, 03:13:14.780 --> 03:13:18.920 align:middle line:84% because it's a very important examination of our Chapter 70 03:13:18.920 --> 03:13:20.310 align:middle line:90% funding formulas. 03:13:20.310 --> 03:13:24.260 align:middle line:84% While we've had a very robust discussion of Chapter 70 03:13:24.260 --> 03:13:28.110 align:middle line:84% funding formulas, this is another item 03:13:28.110 --> 03:13:30.770 align:middle line:84% that requires important consideration, which 03:13:30.770 --> 03:13:33.580 align:middle line:84% is our local aid, our unrestricted local aid funding 03:13:33.580 --> 03:13:36.830 align:middle line:84% formulas, which have become woefully out of date, 03:13:36.830 --> 03:13:40.550 align:middle line:84% and I would argue, highly unfair to many of our gateway 03:13:40.550 --> 03:13:42.810 align:middle line:90% cities, in particular. 03:13:42.810 --> 03:13:44.620 align:middle line:84% What this amendment does is it sets up 03:13:44.620 --> 03:13:47.610 align:middle line:84% a commission that would consist of the Secretary 03:13:47.610 --> 03:13:51.080 align:middle line:84% of Administration and Finance, the Department of Revenue, 03:13:51.080 --> 03:13:54.370 align:middle line:84% the Treasurer, two members of the Senate, 03:13:54.370 --> 03:13:57.310 align:middle line:84% two members of the House, one member of the Massachusetts 03:13:57.310 --> 03:14:00.500 align:middle line:84% Municipal Association, a representative from the Federal 03:14:00.500 --> 03:14:03.750 align:middle line:84% Bank of Boston, who has done a lot of important research 03:14:03.750 --> 03:14:07.780 align:middle line:84% on the local aid formula, one representative from the Mass 03:14:07.780 --> 03:14:11.100 align:middle line:84% Budget and Policy Center, one representative from the Mass 03:14:11.100 --> 03:14:14.480 align:middle line:84% Taxpayers Foundation, and one representative from the Edward 03:14:14.480 --> 03:14:17.580 align:middle line:84% J. Collins Center for Public Management. 03:14:17.580 --> 03:14:19.780 align:middle line:84% This commission will be tasked with reviewing 03:14:19.780 --> 03:14:23.560 align:middle line:84% cities and towns revenue streams and determining whether or not 03:14:23.560 --> 03:14:27.080 align:middle line:84% a more equitable formula for dispersing state aid 03:14:27.080 --> 03:14:29.420 align:middle line:90% to these communities is needed. 03:14:29.420 --> 03:14:33.590 align:middle line:84% Indicators would include, for example, a change in a town's 03:14:33.590 --> 03:14:37.020 align:middle line:84% population, or changes to a town's tax 03:14:37.020 --> 03:14:41.760 align:middle line:84% base that creates a funding gap for that city or that town. 03:14:41.760 --> 03:14:45.870 align:middle line:84% Given the funding gaps in many of our cities and towns, 03:14:45.870 --> 03:14:48.990 align:middle line:84% especially our gateway cities, I would believe-- 03:14:48.990 --> 03:14:52.240 align:middle line:84% I believe it's possible to find a more equitable formula 03:14:52.240 --> 03:14:54.880 align:middle line:84% for dispersing state aid to these communities that 03:14:54.880 --> 03:14:58.940 align:middle line:84% is actually tied to the need in those communities. 03:14:58.940 --> 03:15:02.980 align:middle line:84% This formula needs to reflect a municipality's needs 03:15:02.980 --> 03:15:04.920 align:middle line:84% in proportion to the other needs, 03:15:04.920 --> 03:15:07.500 align:middle line:84% and the other expectations of our community. 03:15:07.500 --> 03:15:10.210 align:middle line:84% And it needs to address the growing disparities that 03:15:10.210 --> 03:15:13.350 align:middle line:84% exist between the local aid allocation 03:15:13.350 --> 03:15:16.220 align:middle line:84% to municipalities across the Commonwealth. 03:15:16.220 --> 03:15:19.800 align:middle line:84% And I'd argue we discuss a lot in this chamber about income 03:15:19.800 --> 03:15:20.410 align:middle line:90% inequality. 03:15:20.410 --> 03:15:24.010 align:middle line:84% We talk a lot about the need to lift all votes, 03:15:24.010 --> 03:15:26.330 align:middle line:84% help all families, help all communities. 03:15:26.330 --> 03:15:30.320 align:middle line:84% A very important element of that is growing regional inequality 03:15:30.320 --> 03:15:31.200 align:middle line:90% in our Commonwealth. 03:15:31.200 --> 03:15:34.460 align:middle line:84% Certain communities are growing-- 03:15:34.460 --> 03:15:41.480 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr-- 03:15:41.480 --> 03:15:43.770 align:middle line:84% But I actually am interested in what he has to say, 03:15:43.770 --> 03:15:45.870 align:middle line:84% and I'm having a great difficulty 03:15:45.870 --> 03:15:47.470 align:middle line:90% in trying to hear him. 03:15:47.470 --> 03:15:49.310 align:middle line:84% And so I hope, Mr. President, the Senate 03:15:49.310 --> 03:15:51.060 align:middle line:90% will be brought to order. 03:15:51.060 --> 03:15:52.870 align:middle line:84% The Chair would most respectfully ask 03:15:52.870 --> 03:15:56.600 align:middle line:84% the members to please subdue their conversations so 03:15:56.600 --> 03:15:59.800 align:middle line:84% that a very brief statement of the gentleman 03:15:59.800 --> 03:16:03.350 align:middle line:84% may soon conclude with everyone hearing 03:16:03.350 --> 03:16:05.706 align:middle line:90% the remainder of his words. 03:16:05.706 --> 03:16:06.830 align:middle line:90% Here The Chair recognizes-- 03:16:06.830 --> 03:16:09.920 align:middle line:90% 03:16:09.920 --> 03:16:15.300 align:middle line:84% In conclusion, I will say that the goal of this commission 03:16:15.300 --> 03:16:18.400 align:middle line:84% is to examine from top to bottom the local aid formula 03:16:18.400 --> 03:16:21.490 align:middle line:84% and to develop potential recommendations for how 03:16:21.490 --> 03:16:23.490 align:middle line:84% to make that formula more equitable 03:16:23.490 --> 03:16:25.420 align:middle line:84% with the goal of making sure that aid 03:16:25.420 --> 03:16:29.310 align:middle line:84% is tied to needs in communities, and in particular, unmet needs. 03:16:29.310 --> 03:16:31.200 align:middle line:84% It's vitally important and we need 03:16:31.200 --> 03:16:33.530 align:middle line:84% some thoughtful scholarship and research 03:16:33.530 --> 03:16:35.480 align:middle line:84% done on what that formula should be 03:16:35.480 --> 03:16:38.360 align:middle line:84% and how it should be reflected in policy. 03:16:38.360 --> 03:16:38.900 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:16:38.900 --> 03:17:38.210 align:middle line:90% 03:17:38.210 --> 03:17:43.850 align:middle line:84% We are now returning to the order of amendments, in order, 03:17:43.850 --> 03:17:50.410 align:middle line:84% beginning with Amendment number 256, authored by the Senator 03:17:50.410 --> 03:17:52.330 align:middle line:84% from Suffolk and Middlesex, Mr. Boncore. 03:17:52.330 --> 03:17:53.930 align:middle line:90% It's withdrawn. 03:17:53.930 --> 03:17:55.720 align:middle line:90% Which was withdrawn. 03:17:55.720 --> 03:17:59.340 align:middle line:84% And now we're going to 257, authored by the Senator 03:17:59.340 --> 03:18:04.660 align:middle line:84% from Middlesex and Worcester, Mr. Eldridge, which is on hold. 03:18:04.660 --> 03:18:08.920 align:middle line:84% And now a redrafted amendment by the Senator from Essex, 03:18:08.920 --> 03:18:11.200 align:middle line:84% Ms. Lovely, number 258, the title 03:18:11.200 --> 03:18:12.410 align:middle line:90% to which the clerk will read. 03:18:12.410 --> 03:18:14.380 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 258 by Ms. Lovely, 03:18:14.380 --> 03:18:16.781 align:middle line:90% procurement requirements. 03:18:16.781 --> 03:18:18.780 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 03:18:18.780 --> 03:18:21.120 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 03:18:21.120 --> 03:18:25.100 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, this is an important amendment. 03:18:25.100 --> 03:18:28.250 align:middle line:84% And I congratulate and thank the gentle lady from Salem 03:18:28.250 --> 03:18:29.470 align:middle line:90% for offering it. 03:18:29.470 --> 03:18:31.650 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, I'm very pleased to be 03:18:31.650 --> 03:18:35.120 align:middle line:84% a co-sponsor of it, but rather than explain it myself, 03:18:35.120 --> 03:18:37.400 align:middle line:84% I'm hoping that she will, Mr. President. 03:18:37.400 --> 03:18:41.010 align:middle line:84% But I do, also in addition to, seeking an explanation, 03:18:41.010 --> 03:18:43.280 align:middle line:84% also rise in support of this amendment. 03:18:43.280 --> 03:18:45.510 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 03:18:45.510 --> 03:18:48.060 align:middle line:84% Ms. Lovely, and as she begins to speak, 03:18:48.060 --> 03:18:50.890 align:middle line:84% the Chair would once again respectfully ask 03:18:50.890 --> 03:18:56.720 align:middle line:84% all members and staff to please subdue their conversations so 03:18:56.720 --> 03:18:59.300 align:middle line:90% that the debate may be heard. 03:18:59.300 --> 03:19:02.400 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 03:19:02.400 --> 03:19:06.510 align:middle line:84% Chapter 237, Section 22 of the Acts of 2014 03:19:06.510 --> 03:19:08.400 align:middle line:84% enabled a new state of the arts sports 03:19:08.400 --> 03:19:11.320 align:middle line:84% complex to be constructed on the North Shore Technical High 03:19:11.320 --> 03:19:12.990 align:middle line:90% School in Middleton. 03:19:12.990 --> 03:19:16.180 align:middle line:84% The sports complex, which has been since constructed 03:19:16.180 --> 03:19:19.150 align:middle line:84% includes two ice rinks, indoor turf field, 03:19:19.150 --> 03:19:22.470 align:middle line:84% an otherwise unused land owned by the Commonwealth. 03:19:22.470 --> 03:19:24.920 align:middle line:84% With many local ice rinks and turfed fields scheduled 03:19:24.920 --> 03:19:26.660 align:middle line:84% to capacity around the facility, it's 03:19:26.660 --> 03:19:30.300 align:middle line:84% been a much needed addition for youth sports in the region. 03:19:30.300 --> 03:19:32.070 align:middle line:84% This amendment clarifies and makes 03:19:32.070 --> 03:19:35.780 align:middle line:84% certain that any future leases or agreements at this facility 03:19:35.780 --> 03:19:39.000 align:middle line:84% will need to comply with public bidding and procurement laws. 03:19:39.000 --> 03:19:40.480 align:middle line:90% I hope the amendment is adopted. 03:19:40.480 --> 03:19:41.700 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 03:19:41.700 --> 03:19:43.700 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 03:19:43.700 --> 03:19:46.420 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 03:19:46.420 --> 03:19:47.300 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 03:19:47.300 --> 03:19:48.520 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 03:19:48.520 --> 03:19:52.770 align:middle line:84% We'll return to amendment number 257, a redrafted amendment, 03:19:52.770 --> 03:19:55.370 align:middle line:84% which was filed by the Senator from Middlesex and Worcester, 03:19:55.370 --> 03:19:57.740 align:middle line:84% Mr. Eldridge, the title of which the clerk will read. 03:19:57.740 --> 03:20:01.110 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 257 by Mr. Eldridge, service employee 03:20:01.110 --> 03:20:02.050 align:middle line:90% compensation. 03:20:02.050 --> 03:20:06.010 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Middlesex and Worcester, Mr. Eldridge. 03:20:06.010 --> 03:20:07.500 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 03:20:07.500 --> 03:20:12.310 align:middle line:84% This is a redrafted amendment, number 257, service employee 03:20:12.310 --> 03:20:16.650 align:middle line:84% compensation, that would require private human service 03:20:16.650 --> 03:20:21.100 align:middle line:84% organizations receiving state funding to apply at least 75% 03:20:21.100 --> 03:20:24.020 align:middle line:84% of those funds they receive towards paying workers 03:20:24.020 --> 03:20:28.210 align:middle line:84% in direct care roles a minimum of $15 per hour. 03:20:28.210 --> 03:20:32.390 align:middle line:84% I am very proud of the monies that the legislature 03:20:32.390 --> 03:20:36.740 align:middle line:84% provides each and every year to our nonprofit human service 03:20:36.740 --> 03:20:38.040 align:middle line:90% providers. 03:20:38.040 --> 03:20:41.870 align:middle line:84% But we also know that many of the direct care workers that 03:20:41.870 --> 03:20:45.110 align:middle line:84% do the most difficult work at these human services agencies 03:20:45.110 --> 03:20:48.690 align:middle line:84% all over the Commonwealth are not paid enough. 03:20:48.690 --> 03:20:52.170 align:middle line:84% We need to make sure that the taxpayer dollars they 03:20:52.170 --> 03:20:55.220 align:middle line:84% we're voting for, and the Massachusetts residents 03:20:55.220 --> 03:21:00.500 align:middle line:84% are paying for, their taxes, are backing up a living wage. 03:21:00.500 --> 03:21:05.420 align:middle line:84% And what this amendment would do would require that at least 75% 03:21:05.420 --> 03:21:07.460 align:middle line:84% of the funds that we are dispersing, 03:21:07.460 --> 03:21:10.420 align:middle line:84% in part through state budgets like this week, 03:21:10.420 --> 03:21:14.060 align:middle line:84% go to workers in direct care roles 03:21:14.060 --> 03:21:18.560 align:middle line:84% so they're receiving a minimum of $15 per hour. 03:21:18.560 --> 03:21:21.260 align:middle line:84% What we know, Mr. President, is right now, 03:21:21.260 --> 03:21:23.370 align:middle line:84% many of those direct care workers, 03:21:23.370 --> 03:21:26.050 align:middle line:90% there is a high turnover rate. 03:21:26.050 --> 03:21:29.920 align:middle line:84% There is a dearth of applicants because of the low pay. 03:21:29.920 --> 03:21:33.640 align:middle line:84% And yet, arguably, they're doing among the most important work 03:21:33.640 --> 03:21:35.600 align:middle line:84% in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, 03:21:35.600 --> 03:21:39.950 align:middle line:84% taking care of those who are disabled, sick, and elderly. 03:21:39.950 --> 03:21:44.660 align:middle line:84% So this is a step to make sure that when we are setting aside 03:21:44.660 --> 03:21:49.290 align:middle line:84% money, when we are dedicating money to human service 03:21:49.290 --> 03:21:54.290 align:middle line:84% nonprofits, lets make sure an overwhelming majority 03:21:54.290 --> 03:21:59.100 align:middle line:84% of that money is going to pay our direct care workers. 03:21:59.100 --> 03:22:02.230 align:middle line:84% I urge my colleagues to support this important amendment 03:22:02.230 --> 03:22:06.180 align:middle line:84% to take a stand for a living wage for workers that 03:22:06.180 --> 03:22:10.270 align:middle line:84% are earning their pay through funding we set aside 03:22:10.270 --> 03:22:11.530 align:middle line:90% in the legislature's budget. 03:22:11.530 --> 03:22:14.320 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:22:14.320 --> 03:22:17.060 align:middle line:84% The redrafted amendment, all those in favor say aye, 03:22:17.060 --> 03:22:18.110 align:middle line:90% opposed no. 03:22:18.110 --> 03:22:18.970 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 03:22:18.970 --> 03:22:20.190 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 03:22:20.190 --> 03:22:22.220 align:middle line:84% The next is authored, number 259, 03:22:22.220 --> 03:22:24.922 align:middle line:84% by the Senator from Norfolk, Mr. Ross, the title 03:22:24.922 --> 03:22:26.130 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 03:22:26.130 --> 03:22:29.300 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 259 by Mr. Ross, executive employee 03:22:29.300 --> 03:22:29.842 align:middle line:90% compensation. 03:22:29.842 --> 03:22:32.008 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the adoption of the amendment. 03:22:32.008 --> 03:22:33.940 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 03:22:33.940 --> 03:22:34.900 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 03:22:34.900 --> 03:22:36.310 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 03:22:36.310 --> 03:22:39.000 align:middle line:84% The next is authored by the Senator of Plymouth 03:22:39.000 --> 03:22:41.160 align:middle line:84% and Bristol, Mr. Brady, the title 03:22:41.160 --> 03:22:42.500 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 03:22:42.500 --> 03:22:44.810 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 269, by Mr. Brady, 03:22:44.810 --> 03:22:49.780 align:middle line:84% to restore department of DOR funding at H-1 level. 03:22:49.780 --> 03:22:52.000 align:middle line:90% Is that Amendment 260? 03:22:52.000 --> 03:22:55.600 align:middle line:90% 260, yes. 03:22:55.600 --> 03:22:58.490 align:middle line:84% 260, all those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 03:22:58.490 --> 03:22:59.252 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 03:22:59.252 --> 03:23:00.460 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 03:23:00.460 --> 03:23:02.490 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 261 authored by the Senator 03:23:02.490 --> 03:23:05.710 align:middle line:84% from Essex, Mr. Tarr, the title of which the clerk will read. 03:23:05.710 --> 03:23:09.295 align:middle line:84% Amendment 261 by Mr. Tarr, fiscal responsibility. 03:23:09.295 --> 03:23:11.170 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption the amendment. 03:23:11.170 --> 03:23:12.829 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 03:23:12.829 --> 03:23:13.870 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 03:23:13.870 --> 03:23:16.000 align:middle line:84% At the outset of this debate, Mr. President, 03:23:16.000 --> 03:23:18.120 align:middle line:84% I called attention to the fact that there 03:23:18.120 --> 03:23:21.110 align:middle line:84% are a number of things that do not appear to be fully funded 03:23:21.110 --> 03:23:22.160 align:middle line:90% in this budget. 03:23:22.160 --> 03:23:25.590 align:middle line:84% And so while the budget pursues a series of expansions, 03:23:25.590 --> 03:23:29.010 align:middle line:84% it neglects to fully fund a number of key things, 03:23:29.010 --> 03:23:35.010 align:middle line:84% like CPCS, indigent court costs, the GIC, settlements 03:23:35.010 --> 03:23:37.100 align:middle line:84% and judgments, court appoint, which 03:23:37.100 --> 03:23:39.100 align:middle line:84% was discussed just a few moments ago, 03:23:39.100 --> 03:23:43.020 align:middle line:84% Sheriff's accounts, emergency assistance, home base, 03:23:43.020 --> 03:23:46.940 align:middle line:84% DOC facilities, and snow and ice costs. 03:23:46.940 --> 03:23:49.310 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, one of the great concerns 03:23:49.310 --> 03:23:51.860 align:middle line:84% that we have, and I can share this list with anyone 03:23:51.860 --> 03:23:54.790 align:middle line:84% who wishes to see it, is that while we're 03:23:54.790 --> 03:23:57.750 align:middle line:84% pursuing a host of new things, we're 03:23:57.750 --> 03:24:00.570 align:middle line:84% setting the stage for either the requirement 03:24:00.570 --> 03:24:01.700 align:middle line:90% of supplemental budgets-- 03:24:01.700 --> 03:24:05.900 align:middle line:90% 03:24:05.900 --> 03:24:08.930 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Hamden, New Hampshire, Mr. Humason, 03:24:08.930 --> 03:24:10.810 align:middle line:84% for what purposes does the gentleman rise? 03:24:10.810 --> 03:24:12.390 align:middle line:84% President, I apologize, I'm sitting two seats 03:24:12.390 --> 03:24:14.848 align:middle line:84% to the left of the gentleman speaking and I can't hear him. 03:24:14.848 --> 03:24:16.660 align:middle line:84% You can call the senate to order. 03:24:16.660 --> 03:24:17.780 align:middle line:90% I'd appreciate that. 03:24:17.780 --> 03:24:22.270 align:middle line:84% Again, colleagues, with all due respect, 03:24:22.270 --> 03:24:25.220 align:middle line:84% we really need to take the conversations 03:24:25.220 --> 03:24:26.690 align:middle line:90% outside of the chamber. 03:24:26.690 --> 03:24:29.030 align:middle line:84% It's becoming increasingly difficult. 03:24:29.030 --> 03:24:31.560 align:middle line:84% And this is about the fifth time I've 03:24:31.560 --> 03:24:35.220 align:middle line:84% been asked in about 10 minutes to call the body to order. 03:24:35.220 --> 03:24:36.870 align:middle line:90% I can't do it alone. 03:24:36.870 --> 03:24:38.940 align:middle line:90% It requires your cooperation. 03:24:38.940 --> 03:24:41.600 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 03:24:41.600 --> 03:24:44.470 align:middle line:84% --President, an thank you to the gentleman from Westfield. 03:24:44.470 --> 03:24:46.160 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I know the members 03:24:46.160 --> 03:24:48.610 align:middle line:84% are very excited about this particular amendment. 03:24:48.610 --> 03:24:50.620 align:middle line:84% And hence, there's a lot of buzz in the chamber, 03:24:50.620 --> 03:24:52.110 align:middle line:84% but I hope that that will at least 03:24:52.110 --> 03:24:56.850 align:middle line:84% be contained until I can finish the explanation of what it is. 03:24:56.850 --> 03:25:01.260 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, this amendment would restore funding 03:25:01.260 --> 03:25:04.920 align:middle line:84% for all of the things that are currently not fully funded 03:25:04.920 --> 03:25:08.680 align:middle line:84% in the budget, so that it will have logical completeness 03:25:08.680 --> 03:25:09.990 align:middle line:90% and integrity. 03:25:09.990 --> 03:25:14.330 align:middle line:84% Failure to adopt this kind of an amendment, Mr. President, 03:25:14.330 --> 03:25:16.880 align:middle line:84% in the absence of any further change, 03:25:16.880 --> 03:25:19.380 align:middle line:84% will mean that we are setting the stage 03:25:19.380 --> 03:25:22.520 align:middle line:84% for either the requirement of supplemental budgets, 03:25:22.520 --> 03:25:24.520 align:middle line:84% for which there may or may not be funding 03:25:24.520 --> 03:25:27.920 align:middle line:84% in the future, or reductions in other things 03:25:27.920 --> 03:25:31.440 align:middle line:84% that are in the budget, either through supplemental cuts 03:25:31.440 --> 03:25:36.030 align:middle line:84% or through the use by the governor of his 9C authority. 03:25:36.030 --> 03:25:38.020 align:middle line:84% And to explain this, Mr. President, 03:25:38.020 --> 03:25:40.650 align:middle line:84% from the minority innovation chamber, 03:25:40.650 --> 03:25:43.290 align:middle line:84% we have a handy tool that we call 03:25:43.290 --> 03:25:45.310 align:middle line:90% the balance beam of imbalance. 03:25:45.310 --> 03:25:48.230 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, like most balances, 03:25:48.230 --> 03:25:53.510 align:middle line:84% as you can see, that when we depress on underfunded core 03:25:53.510 --> 03:25:57.970 align:middle line:84% programs, like CPCS, for almost $60 million, 03:25:57.970 --> 03:26:03.240 align:middle line:84% the sheriffs for $22 million, the GIC for 23 million, 03:26:03.240 --> 03:26:06.360 align:middle line:84% snow and ice control for $30 million, 03:26:06.360 --> 03:26:11.710 align:middle line:84% shelters for $16.2 million, home base for $6.2 million, 03:26:11.710 --> 03:26:17.600 align:middle line:84% DOC facilities for $9.4 million, and judgments and settlements 03:26:17.600 --> 03:26:21.120 align:middle line:84% for $8 million, and the court appoint collective bargaining 03:26:21.120 --> 03:26:26.300 align:middle line:84% obligation, then you depress the actual amount of the budget 03:26:26.300 --> 03:26:30.230 align:middle line:90% by approximately $181 million. 03:26:30.230 --> 03:26:33.500 align:middle line:84% Now, like most balance beams, when 03:26:33.500 --> 03:26:36.960 align:middle line:84% you push up on the other end, and have a net increase 03:26:36.960 --> 03:26:42.620 align:middle line:84% in spending of $287 million, because of an additional series 03:26:42.620 --> 03:26:48.720 align:middle line:84% of things like, GIC provider caps not being included, 03:26:48.720 --> 03:26:54.270 align:middle line:84% TA FTC counting Social Security income, or not counting it, 03:26:54.270 --> 03:26:58.780 align:middle line:84% CPCS reforms, other expansions in education and shelter 03:26:58.780 --> 03:27:04.080 align:middle line:84% and home base, and other things, then you create an imbalance. 03:27:04.080 --> 03:27:07.830 align:middle line:84% And that imbalance, while it may not seem important tonight, 03:27:07.830 --> 03:27:12.420 align:middle line:84% as we bask in the exuberance of adding money for new programs 03:27:12.420 --> 03:27:15.520 align:middle line:84% to the budget, causes us to lose focus 03:27:15.520 --> 03:27:19.410 align:middle line:84% on the X, which is where the budget is balanced. 03:27:19.410 --> 03:27:23.200 align:middle line:84% And so, Mr. President, we are deeply concerned 03:27:23.200 --> 03:27:26.400 align:middle line:84% about the balance beam of imbalance, and the fact 03:27:26.400 --> 03:27:30.170 align:middle line:84% that we are moving further away from the target, which 03:27:30.170 --> 03:27:33.770 align:middle line:84% would have both of these things balancing out, funding 03:27:33.770 --> 03:27:36.770 align:middle line:84% existing programs and requirements properly, 03:27:36.770 --> 03:27:40.860 align:middle line:84% and depressing increased spending on new programs, 03:27:40.860 --> 03:27:44.240 align:middle line:84% so that we truly produce something that is sustainable. 03:27:44.240 --> 03:27:47.010 align:middle line:84% And as I pointed out at the outset of this debate, Mr. 03:27:47.010 --> 03:27:50.150 align:middle line:84% President, all of this takes place 03:27:50.150 --> 03:27:53.220 align:middle line:84% before we consider what's happening 03:27:53.220 --> 03:27:55.530 align:middle line:84% with regard to the underperformance of revenue 03:27:55.530 --> 03:27:56.510 align:middle line:90% collection. 03:27:56.510 --> 03:27:58.860 align:middle line:84% And I know right now, you are busily punching away 03:27:58.860 --> 03:28:00.610 align:middle line:84% on the calculator, Mr. President, 03:28:00.610 --> 03:28:03.520 align:middle line:84% and zeros are being added frequently 03:28:03.520 --> 03:28:07.280 align:middle line:84% to just how much that might be, in terms of a problem 03:28:07.280 --> 03:28:08.170 align:middle line:90% for all of us. 03:28:08.170 --> 03:28:13.600 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, I am under no illusion that this amendment is 03:28:13.600 --> 03:28:16.080 align:middle line:84% going to pass, because if it did, 03:28:16.080 --> 03:28:18.760 align:middle line:84% it would add $181 million dollars. 03:28:18.760 --> 03:28:20.510 align:middle line:84% I can bring it up, Mr. President, if you'd 03:28:20.510 --> 03:28:21.970 align:middle line:90% like to call a brief recess. 03:28:21.970 --> 03:28:24.990 align:middle line:84% Copies will be available after tonight's debate. 03:28:24.990 --> 03:28:27.120 align:middle line:84% And certainly, online if you'd like 03:28:27.120 --> 03:28:30.600 align:middle line:84% to reach out to us, for those who are watching on television. 03:28:30.600 --> 03:28:33.880 align:middle line:84% But Mr. President, we are deeply concerned 03:28:33.880 --> 03:28:37.150 align:middle line:84% that this should be our focus, that X, 03:28:37.150 --> 03:28:41.490 align:middle line:84% which is where we have a balance between funding core programs 03:28:41.490 --> 03:28:43.320 align:middle line:90% and funding new initiatives. 03:28:43.320 --> 03:28:46.310 align:middle line:84% And because the balance beam of imbalance 03:28:46.310 --> 03:28:49.470 align:middle line:84% has been moved out of proportion, 03:28:49.470 --> 03:28:52.570 align:middle line:84% that X has become even more elusive. 03:28:52.570 --> 03:28:56.110 align:middle line:84% And we would be remiss if tonight we didn't point this 03:28:56.110 --> 03:28:58.810 align:middle line:84% out, because in the future, if we 03:28:58.810 --> 03:29:01.280 align:middle line:84% allow this condition to remain, and we 03:29:01.280 --> 03:29:04.070 align:middle line:84% don't try to adjust the balance beam of imbalance-- 03:29:04.070 --> 03:29:06.420 align:middle line:84% and here comes others who'd like to see this. 03:29:06.420 --> 03:29:07.220 align:middle line:90% Step right up. 03:29:07.220 --> 03:29:09.050 align:middle line:84% We're happy to have you look at it. 03:29:09.050 --> 03:29:10.640 align:middle line:90% I have glasses now. 03:29:10.640 --> 03:29:12.870 align:middle line:84% It's OK, please, if others would like to come up. 03:29:12.870 --> 03:29:14.220 align:middle line:90% I'll continue talking. 03:29:14.220 --> 03:29:16.350 align:middle line:84% Because you will see this chart again. 03:29:16.350 --> 03:29:18.010 align:middle line:84% But if you'd like to see it tonight 03:29:18.010 --> 03:29:20.100 align:middle line:84% before you have to live with its consequences, 03:29:20.100 --> 03:29:21.780 align:middle line:90% we'd be happy to show it to you. 03:29:21.780 --> 03:29:24.460 align:middle line:84% We may even make this available to the clerk. 03:29:24.460 --> 03:29:27.350 align:middle line:84% I don't know if it's able to be reproduced in the journal, 03:29:27.350 --> 03:29:29.670 align:middle line:84% but we certainly would allow that to happen 03:29:29.670 --> 03:29:31.030 align:middle line:90% if that were the case. 03:29:31.030 --> 03:29:32.850 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, the long and short of it 03:29:32.850 --> 03:29:38.620 align:middle line:84% is, we harbor a deep fear that without further change, 03:29:38.620 --> 03:29:40.880 align:middle line:84% the current document that we may well 03:29:40.880 --> 03:29:43.480 align:middle line:84% send from this chamber in the next few days 03:29:43.480 --> 03:29:48.810 align:middle line:84% will create the serious possibility of the requirement 03:29:48.810 --> 03:29:52.600 align:middle line:84% of supplemental budgets that may not materialize because funding 03:29:52.600 --> 03:29:55.920 align:middle line:84% may not be there for them, or drastic reductions 03:29:55.920 --> 03:29:57.650 align:middle line:84% in the priorities that this budget has 03:29:57.650 --> 03:30:00.200 align:middle line:90% worked so hard to identify. 03:30:00.200 --> 03:30:03.520 align:middle line:84% Because the things that are on the left side of the balance 03:30:03.520 --> 03:30:06.470 align:middle line:84% beam of imbalance must be funded. 03:30:06.470 --> 03:30:10.520 align:middle line:84% And if they cannot be, there would be serious consequences 03:30:10.520 --> 03:30:12.300 align:middle line:84% for the people that we represent. 03:30:12.300 --> 03:30:15.670 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, again, I'm under no illusion 03:30:15.670 --> 03:30:18.220 align:middle line:84% that this particular amendment will pass. 03:30:18.220 --> 03:30:21.470 align:middle line:84% But I am under every conception of reality 03:30:21.470 --> 03:30:25.030 align:middle line:84% that it has real consequences and real impacts 03:30:25.030 --> 03:30:26.960 align:middle line:84% and we hope that we'll stay focused on it. 03:30:26.960 --> 03:30:28.571 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 03:30:28.571 --> 03:30:30.320 align:middle line:84% It comes on the adoption of the amendment. 03:30:30.320 --> 03:30:32.204 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 03:30:32.204 --> 03:30:34.120 align:middle line:84% The nos have it, the amendment is not adopted. 03:30:34.120 --> 03:30:37.420 align:middle line:84% Number 262, authored by the Senator from Essex, Ms. 03:30:37.420 --> 03:30:39.810 align:middle line:84% O'Connor-Ives, the title of which, the clerk will read. 03:30:39.810 --> 03:30:43.280 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 262 by Ms. O'Connor-Ives, municipal impact 03:30:43.280 --> 03:30:44.160 align:middle line:90% statement. 03:30:44.160 --> 03:30:46.326 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the adoption of the amendment. 03:30:46.326 --> 03:30:51.540 align:middle line:84% All those-- the Senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 03:30:51.540 --> 03:30:52.070 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 03:30:52.070 --> 03:30:54.100 align:middle line:84% The Senate will be in a very brief recess. 03:30:54.100 --> 03:31:08.900 align:middle line:90% 03:31:08.900 --> 03:31:11.770 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Essex, Ms. O'Connor-Ives. 03:31:11.770 --> 03:31:14.440 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, and through you to the members, 03:31:14.440 --> 03:31:17.510 align:middle line:84% this proposal would grant the Division of Local Mandates 03:31:17.510 --> 03:31:19.280 align:middle line:84% the authority to provide information 03:31:19.280 --> 03:31:23.510 align:middle line:84% to the legislature on the fiscal impact of proposed legislation 03:31:23.510 --> 03:31:25.170 align:middle line:90% on cities and towns. 03:31:25.170 --> 03:31:27.510 align:middle line:84% Currently, the Division of Local Mandates 03:31:27.510 --> 03:31:29.700 align:middle line:84% does not have the statutory authority 03:31:29.700 --> 03:31:34.760 align:middle line:84% to review proposed legislation for significant fiscal impact. 03:31:34.760 --> 03:31:37.240 align:middle line:84% They only have the authority to review whether or not 03:31:37.240 --> 03:31:39.520 align:middle line:84% the proposed legislation generally 03:31:39.520 --> 03:31:43.050 align:middle line:84% imposes an unfunded mandate as defined by the local mandate 03:31:43.050 --> 03:31:44.060 align:middle line:90% law. 03:31:44.060 --> 03:31:47.460 align:middle line:84% Through this amendment, DLM hopes 03:31:47.460 --> 03:31:51.010 align:middle line:84% to assist the legislature in recommending alternatives 03:31:51.010 --> 03:31:54.730 align:middle line:84% to proposed legislation with negative fiscal impact 03:31:54.730 --> 03:31:56.130 align:middle line:90% on municipalities. 03:31:56.130 --> 03:31:58.562 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 03:31:58.562 --> 03:32:00.020 align:middle line:84% Comes on adoption of the amendment. 03:32:00.020 --> 03:32:02.340 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 03:32:02.340 --> 03:32:03.079 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 03:32:03.079 --> 03:32:04.120 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 03:32:04.120 --> 03:32:06.300 align:middle line:84% Numbered 263, authored by the Senator 03:32:06.300 --> 03:32:08.390 align:middle line:84% from Norfolk, Middlesex, Mr. Ross, 03:32:08.390 --> 03:32:10.030 align:middle line:84% the title of which the clerk will read. 03:32:10.030 --> 03:32:13.180 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 263 by Mr. Ross, government consultant 03:32:13.180 --> 03:32:14.110 align:middle line:90% transparency. 03:32:14.110 --> 03:32:16.109 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 03:32:16.109 --> 03:32:18.060 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 03:32:18.060 --> 03:32:18.802 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 03:32:18.802 --> 03:32:20.010 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 03:32:20.010 --> 03:32:21.730 align:middle line:90% Number 264 is on hold. 03:32:21.730 --> 03:32:24.700 align:middle line:84% 265 is authored by the Senator of Plymouth and Barnstable, 03:32:24.700 --> 03:32:25.770 align:middle line:90% Mr. deMacedo. 03:32:25.770 --> 03:32:27.420 align:middle line:84% The title of which the clerk will read. 03:32:27.420 --> 03:32:29.830 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 265, by Mr. deMacedo, 03:32:29.830 --> 03:32:31.790 align:middle line:90% DCAMM lease authorization. 03:32:31.790 --> 03:32:34.440 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator from Plymouth and Barnstable, 03:32:34.440 --> 03:32:37.260 align:middle line:90% Mr. deMacedo. 03:32:37.260 --> 03:32:44.450 align:middle line:84% This amendment is offered by me, but is brought it 03:32:44.450 --> 03:32:47.240 align:middle line:90% brought to my attention DCAMM. 03:32:47.240 --> 03:32:51.260 align:middle line:84% And what this simply asks for is an extension in leases. 03:32:51.260 --> 03:32:54.400 align:middle line:84% Right now we have leases around the Commonwealth, 03:32:54.400 --> 03:32:57.190 align:middle line:84% and they're limited to this 10-year lease. 03:32:57.190 --> 03:33:00.310 align:middle line:84% And so it's very difficult to get the long term 03:33:00.310 --> 03:33:04.170 align:middle line:84% investment involved in some of these properties. 03:33:04.170 --> 03:33:08.080 align:middle line:84% This would enable them, if they were allowed 03:33:08.080 --> 03:33:12.940 align:middle line:84% to do this to negotiate longer term leases that 03:33:12.940 --> 03:33:15.610 align:middle line:84% would enable to more investment in the property. 03:33:15.610 --> 03:33:18.830 align:middle line:84% So leases negotiated by DCAMM on behalf of state agencies 03:33:18.830 --> 03:33:21.180 align:middle line:84% are not aligned with industry standards, 03:33:21.180 --> 03:33:24.020 align:middle line:84% putting DCAMM at a competitive disadvantage. 03:33:24.020 --> 03:33:26.200 align:middle line:84% Shorter lease periods reduce the times 03:33:26.200 --> 03:33:29.810 align:middle line:84% available to amortize build outs and other costs associated 03:33:29.810 --> 03:33:33.530 align:middle line:84% with initialising leases, including staff time. 03:33:33.530 --> 03:33:36.500 align:middle line:84% By law, DCAMM may not seek leases 03:33:36.500 --> 03:33:39.280 align:middle line:84% more than 10 years with one option to renew, 03:33:39.280 --> 03:33:40.470 align:middle line:90% and it must be-- 03:33:40.470 --> 03:33:44.130 align:middle line:84% they must get concession for a second renewal. 03:33:44.130 --> 03:33:46.920 align:middle line:84% DCAMM supports an outside section granting the authority 03:33:46.920 --> 03:33:50.030 align:middle line:84% to enter into leases on behalf of state agencies 03:33:50.030 --> 03:33:52.760 align:middle line:84% or initial terms of no more than 10 years, 03:33:52.760 --> 03:33:56.730 align:middle line:84% with two five year renewals for a maximum of 20 years. 03:33:56.730 --> 03:33:59.610 align:middle line:84% Lease procurements remain subject 03:33:59.610 --> 03:34:03.430 align:middle line:90% to competitive prostheses. 03:34:03.430 --> 03:34:05.900 align:middle line:84% This was included in House One, but it 03:34:05.900 --> 03:34:09.920 align:middle line:84% was, I'm sure, accidentally not included in the Senate version. 03:34:09.920 --> 03:34:13.010 align:middle line:84% So it is my hope that this amendment is adopted. 03:34:13.010 --> 03:34:15.020 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 03:34:15.020 --> 03:34:17.120 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 03:34:17.120 --> 03:34:19.140 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed, no. 03:34:19.140 --> 03:34:19.810 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 03:34:19.810 --> 03:34:20.907 align:middle line:90% Amendment is not adopted. 03:34:20.907 --> 03:34:22.490 align:middle line:84% The senator from Plymouth and Bristol, 03:34:22.490 --> 03:34:26.080 align:middle line:84% Mr. Brady authors amendment number 266, 03:34:26.080 --> 03:34:27.910 align:middle line:84% the title of which the clerk will read. 03:34:27.910 --> 03:34:31.850 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 266 by Mr. Brady, GIC composition. 03:34:31.850 --> 03:34:33.850 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 03:34:33.850 --> 03:34:36.260 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 03:34:36.260 --> 03:34:36.960 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 03:34:36.960 --> 03:34:38.860 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 03:34:38.860 --> 03:34:40.440 align:middle line:90% Did he want to speak? 03:34:40.440 --> 03:34:44.090 align:middle line:90% Did you want to speak? 03:34:44.090 --> 03:34:47.770 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator from Plymouth and Bristol, 03:34:47.770 --> 03:34:48.310 align:middle line:90% Mr. Brady. 03:34:48.310 --> 03:34:49.910 align:middle line:84% For what purpose does the gentleman rise? 03:34:49.910 --> 03:34:50.951 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 03:34:50.951 --> 03:34:55.170 align:middle line:84% I just want to ask, with all consent for a quick recess. 03:34:55.170 --> 03:34:57.740 align:middle line:84% Gentlemen asks for a brief recess. 03:34:57.740 --> 03:35:00.388 align:middle line:90%