WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:19.580 align:middle line:90% 00:00:19.580 --> 00:00:23.350 align:middle line:84% With amendment number 769 offered by the senator 00:00:23.350 --> 00:00:26.260 align:middle line:84% from Suffolk, Ms. Forry, the title 00:00:26.260 --> 00:00:28.160 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:00:28.160 --> 00:00:30.510 align:middle line:90% Item 769 by Ms. Forry. 00:00:30.510 --> 00:00:32.910 align:middle line:84% Special permission relative to the modernization 00:00:32.910 --> 00:00:36.100 align:middle line:84% of the taxicab industry in Massachusetts. 00:00:36.100 --> 00:00:38.840 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 00:00:38.840 --> 00:00:40.160 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 00:00:40.160 --> 00:00:43.280 align:middle line:84% You can imagine our intrigue when we saw an amendment 00:00:43.280 --> 00:00:46.110 align:middle line:84% to modernize the taxi fleet in the Commonwealth 00:00:46.110 --> 00:00:47.380 align:middle line:90% of Massachusetts. 00:00:47.380 --> 00:00:50.980 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, so far, it's a $40 billion budget plus. 00:00:50.980 --> 00:00:53.080 align:middle line:84% I'm not sure what this would cost, 00:00:53.080 --> 00:00:54.810 align:middle line:84% but it's certainly a noble thing, 00:00:54.810 --> 00:00:57.830 align:middle line:84% and no one better to handle it than the offerer 00:00:57.830 --> 00:00:59.460 align:middle line:84% of this amendment, so I'm hoping she 00:00:59.460 --> 00:01:00.810 align:middle line:90% could give us an explanation. 00:01:00.810 --> 00:01:01.310 align:middle line:90% Forry. 00:01:01.310 --> 00:01:03.520 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:01:03.520 --> 00:01:06.120 align:middle line:90% Thank you to the members. 00:01:06.120 --> 00:01:13.750 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] I hope to explain it [INAUDIBLE] has no money. 00:01:13.750 --> 00:01:14.940 align:middle line:90% How about that, right? 00:01:14.940 --> 00:01:15.900 align:middle line:90% No money. 00:01:15.900 --> 00:01:19.280 align:middle line:84% It is a special commission relative to the modernization 00:01:19.280 --> 00:01:22.130 align:middle line:84% of the taxicab industry in Massachusetts. 00:01:22.130 --> 00:01:23.860 align:middle line:84% The Commonwealth, as all of you know, 00:01:23.860 --> 00:01:27.260 align:middle line:84% is engaged in an unprecedented time of growth 00:01:27.260 --> 00:01:29.020 align:middle line:90% in our business and economy. 00:01:29.020 --> 00:01:32.590 align:middle line:84% From the small businesses on main streets of our communities 00:01:32.590 --> 00:01:34.970 align:middle line:84% to the large corporations in our cities, 00:01:34.970 --> 00:01:37.320 align:middle line:84% Massachusetts is where businesses 00:01:37.320 --> 00:01:41.480 align:middle line:84% come to thrive and take part in an innovative community fueled 00:01:41.480 --> 00:01:44.760 align:middle line:84% by the best colleges and universities in the world. 00:01:44.760 --> 00:01:47.380 align:middle line:84% However, there are still some industries 00:01:47.380 --> 00:01:50.650 align:middle line:84% that are unable to grow or even struggling 00:01:50.650 --> 00:01:54.130 align:middle line:84% to survive due to antiquated regulations and business 00:01:54.130 --> 00:01:55.080 align:middle line:90% practices. 00:01:55.080 --> 00:01:58.340 align:middle line:84% The taxi industry is one of those examples. 00:01:58.340 --> 00:02:02.230 align:middle line:84% The amendment I filed, a commission-- 00:02:02.230 --> 00:02:04.760 align:middle line:84% a commission would be created for the purpose 00:02:04.760 --> 00:02:08.560 align:middle line:84% of studying the taxicab industry in Massachusetts cities 00:02:08.560 --> 00:02:09.530 align:middle line:90% and towns. 00:02:09.530 --> 00:02:12.080 align:middle line:84% The purpose of this task force is 00:02:12.080 --> 00:02:15.060 align:middle line:84% to study the current climate of the taxicab 00:02:15.060 --> 00:02:17.100 align:middle line:84% industry in our cities and towns, 00:02:17.100 --> 00:02:20.780 align:middle line:84% but not limited to the rules and regulations, industry 00:02:20.780 --> 00:02:24.590 align:middle line:84% viability, competitive issues facing the industry, 00:02:24.590 --> 00:02:26.060 align:middle line:90% financial burdens-- 00:02:26.060 --> 00:02:28.550 align:middle line:84% cost and financing of medallions, 00:02:28.550 --> 00:02:32.210 align:middle line:84% financing of medallions, and vehicle related issues. 00:02:32.210 --> 00:02:35.270 align:middle line:84% Now, I say this because you all know last session, 00:02:35.270 --> 00:02:38.920 align:middle line:84% we worked on the TNC bill, which is the transportation network 00:02:38.920 --> 00:02:41.000 align:middle line:84% companies, whether it's Uber or Lyft, 00:02:41.000 --> 00:02:44.460 align:middle line:84% are under innovative industries that are transportation 00:02:44.460 --> 00:02:48.040 align:middle line:84% focused, moving people from point A to point B. 00:02:48.040 --> 00:02:51.040 align:middle line:84% But also, we worked on trying to regulate and put 00:02:51.040 --> 00:02:54.120 align:middle line:84% some structure around that when it comes around public safety. 00:02:54.120 --> 00:02:57.870 align:middle line:84% But one of the industries that I think in terms of taxicabs 00:02:57.870 --> 00:03:01.550 align:middle line:84% is something that we are somewhat forgetting about. 00:03:01.550 --> 00:03:04.580 align:middle line:84% And so this commission is purposefully set up 00:03:04.580 --> 00:03:06.700 align:middle line:90% to look at this in particular. 00:03:06.700 --> 00:03:09.220 align:middle line:84% I will tell you that a lot of folks, 00:03:09.220 --> 00:03:12.390 align:middle line:84% when you hear taxis or medallions, people 00:03:12.390 --> 00:03:16.770 align:middle line:84% think that folks who own medallions own over 20 or 500 00:03:16.770 --> 00:03:17.700 align:middle line:90% or what have you. 00:03:17.700 --> 00:03:23.490 align:middle line:84% But 80%-- 80% of medallion owners in Massachusetts 00:03:23.490 --> 00:03:26.920 align:middle line:90% own four or less medallions. 00:03:26.920 --> 00:03:30.020 align:middle line:84% Now, I want to equate that to a small business owner. 00:03:30.020 --> 00:03:33.490 align:middle line:84% Just as we experienced the foreclosure bubble 00:03:33.490 --> 00:03:36.700 align:middle line:84% around housing, there is a serious concern 00:03:36.700 --> 00:03:38.580 align:middle line:90% around these small businesses. 00:03:38.580 --> 00:03:40.650 align:middle line:84% Medallions that have been financed-- 00:03:40.650 --> 00:03:45.330 align:middle line:90% 00:03:45.330 --> 00:03:48.440 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes the senator from Suffolk, Ms. Forry. 00:03:48.440 --> 00:03:49.250 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:03:49.250 --> 00:03:53.040 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:03:53.040 --> 00:03:57.410 align:middle line:84% Many of the owners, men and women, have-- 00:03:57.410 --> 00:04:01.190 align:middle line:84% live here and in search of the American dream. 00:04:01.190 --> 00:04:04.240 align:middle line:84% And people buy taxi medallions to put 00:04:04.240 --> 00:04:06.260 align:middle line:84% a mortgage on their home, to send 00:04:06.260 --> 00:04:07.640 align:middle line:90% their kids through college. 00:04:07.640 --> 00:04:11.330 align:middle line:84% But that is one of the pieces that is significantly 00:04:11.330 --> 00:04:13.280 align:middle line:90% an impact on this industry. 00:04:13.280 --> 00:04:16.510 align:middle line:84% And I say this because just as I was saying like a foreclosure 00:04:16.510 --> 00:04:20.140 align:middle line:84% bubble around housing, where there was a market 00:04:20.140 --> 00:04:23.570 align:middle line:84% and the value of a home was x amount of dollars-- 00:04:23.570 --> 00:04:27.070 align:middle line:84% $800,000 at some point when you get a mortgage-- 00:04:27.070 --> 00:04:31.170 align:middle line:84% the bubble burst, so there was predatory lendings type issues 00:04:31.170 --> 00:04:32.240 align:middle line:90% taking place. 00:04:32.240 --> 00:04:35.650 align:middle line:84% The value of that home is now $300,000, 00:04:35.650 --> 00:04:38.790 align:middle line:84% but yet, you still have an $800,000 mortgage. 00:04:38.790 --> 00:04:41.780 align:middle line:84% So I say this, because I want you to use that as an example 00:04:41.780 --> 00:04:44.900 align:middle line:84% in terms of what it is with medallions. 00:04:44.900 --> 00:04:49.090 align:middle line:84% One medallion can cost up to $500,000. 00:04:49.090 --> 00:04:52.250 align:middle line:84% You have one individual who bought one medallion, 00:04:52.250 --> 00:04:56.290 align:middle line:84% because that was how they're able to pay their mortgage 00:04:56.290 --> 00:04:57.980 align:middle line:84% and put their kids through school. 00:04:57.980 --> 00:05:01.960 align:middle line:84% But that medallion is no longer worth $500,000 00:05:01.960 --> 00:05:05.470 align:middle line:84% because of the new innovative technology-- 00:05:05.470 --> 00:05:08.620 align:middle line:84% the TNC industry that's entered Massachusetts. 00:05:08.620 --> 00:05:14.970 align:middle line:84% So the $500,000 value on this medallion is now $250,000. 00:05:14.970 --> 00:05:17.700 align:middle line:84% And so there's a big discrepancy. 00:05:17.700 --> 00:05:20.030 align:middle line:84% And so this commission is bringing together 00:05:20.030 --> 00:05:24.340 align:middle line:84% members of the administration, the Department 00:05:24.340 --> 00:05:27.090 align:middle line:84% of Public Utilities, which is regulating 00:05:27.090 --> 00:05:31.510 align:middle line:84% TNCs, but also regulates somewhat the taxi industry. 00:05:31.510 --> 00:05:34.960 align:middle line:84% We're bringing forth various people from the chair, 00:05:34.960 --> 00:05:37.290 align:middle line:84% the Secretary of Housing and Economic Development 00:05:37.290 --> 00:05:38.370 align:middle line:90% or a designee. 00:05:38.370 --> 00:05:41.950 align:middle line:84% We're bringing together the governor, the House 00:05:41.950 --> 00:05:44.690 align:middle line:84% and the Senate together to form this commission. 00:05:44.690 --> 00:05:47.140 align:middle line:84% But we're also bringing in mayors 00:05:47.140 --> 00:05:49.420 align:middle line:84% of these different cities or their designees, 00:05:49.420 --> 00:05:52.760 align:middle line:84% whether it's Boston, Springfield, Worcester, 00:05:52.760 --> 00:05:58.840 align:middle line:84% and Cambridge, because they in particular deal 00:05:58.840 --> 00:06:02.120 align:middle line:84% with a certain type of regulation around taxis. 00:06:02.120 --> 00:06:03.820 align:middle line:84% And so this is just a commission that 00:06:03.820 --> 00:06:06.370 align:middle line:84% costs no money to say that we are 00:06:06.370 --> 00:06:09.510 align:middle line:84% serious about transportation in our commonwealth, 00:06:09.510 --> 00:06:12.900 align:middle line:84% that we are not abandoning the small business owner-- 00:06:12.900 --> 00:06:16.080 align:middle line:84% taxi medallion owners-- that we want 00:06:16.080 --> 00:06:19.890 align:middle line:84% to make sure that they're able to thrive as well. 00:06:19.890 --> 00:06:23.070 align:middle line:84% And so I ask that this amendment is adopted. 00:06:23.070 --> 00:06:25.550 align:middle line:84% But this commission would look at regulations. 00:06:25.550 --> 00:06:31.390 align:middle line:84% And how do we update regulations to support this industry when 00:06:31.390 --> 00:06:36.420 align:middle line:84% sometimes currently you have one vendor-- 00:06:36.420 --> 00:06:40.810 align:middle line:84% a monopoly practice of one vendor-- 00:06:40.810 --> 00:06:44.160 align:middle line:84% rendering services to these small businesses? 00:06:44.160 --> 00:06:48.320 align:middle line:84% There has not been really an opening of competition 00:06:48.320 --> 00:06:53.490 align:middle line:84% to see how we can support this industry with TNCs 00:06:53.490 --> 00:06:55.350 align:middle line:90% currently in the state. 00:06:55.350 --> 00:06:57.540 align:middle line:84% So again, to everyone, my colleagues, 00:06:57.540 --> 00:07:00.230 align:middle line:84% you all have medallion owners in your district. 00:07:00.230 --> 00:07:04.300 align:middle line:84% And I will say that, no, they don't have 500 medallions. 00:07:04.300 --> 00:07:06.500 align:middle line:90% They don't have 100 medallions. 00:07:06.500 --> 00:07:08.540 align:middle line:90% They don't have 50 medallions. 00:07:08.540 --> 00:07:11.290 align:middle line:84% They have four or less medallions. 00:07:11.290 --> 00:07:13.470 align:middle line:84% You have constituents in your district 00:07:13.470 --> 00:07:15.380 align:middle line:90% that have one medallion-- 00:07:15.380 --> 00:07:22.710 align:middle line:84% one medallion, because this is the job that they thought 00:07:22.710 --> 00:07:25.810 align:middle line:84% would lift them into the upper class. 00:07:25.810 --> 00:07:28.470 align:middle line:84% This is the job for a long time that 00:07:28.470 --> 00:07:30.660 align:middle line:84% allowed them to put food on their table 00:07:30.660 --> 00:07:32.570 align:middle line:90% and to support their families. 00:07:32.570 --> 00:07:36.230 align:middle line:84% And so we have an industry that is struggling 00:07:36.230 --> 00:07:37.860 align:middle line:90% and that is drowning. 00:07:37.860 --> 00:07:40.670 align:middle line:84% And so that is why I am asking for this commission. 00:07:40.670 --> 00:07:43.660 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:07:43.660 --> 00:07:46.260 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:07:46.260 --> 00:07:47.159 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 00:07:47.159 --> 00:07:48.200 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 00:07:48.200 --> 00:07:51.720 align:middle line:84% Number 770 is offered by the senator from Worcester, 00:07:51.720 --> 00:07:54.792 align:middle line:84% Hampden, Hampshire, and Middlesex, Ms. Gobi, the title 00:07:54.792 --> 00:07:56.000 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:07:56.000 --> 00:07:58.110 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 770 by Ms. Gobi. 00:07:58.110 --> 00:07:59.480 align:middle line:90% Buy Local. 00:07:59.480 --> 00:08:01.870 align:middle line:84% Senator from Worcester, Ms. Gobi. 00:08:01.870 --> 00:08:05.620 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:08:05.620 --> 00:08:06.690 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 00:08:06.690 --> 00:08:12.410 align:middle line:84% In Massachusetts, we have about 7,800 farms in Massachusetts. 00:08:12.410 --> 00:08:17.800 align:middle line:84% With the Buy Local effort, provides about $450 million 00:08:17.800 --> 00:08:19.380 align:middle line:90% in direct sales. 00:08:19.380 --> 00:08:22.609 align:middle line:84% This is something that affects each and every one of us, 00:08:22.609 --> 00:08:24.150 align:middle line:84% and especially this time of year when 00:08:24.150 --> 00:08:27.010 align:middle line:84% we're looking for that good, fresh vegetables and fruits. 00:08:27.010 --> 00:08:29.070 align:middle line:84% This is an opportunity for our Buy Locals. 00:08:29.070 --> 00:08:31.984 align:middle line:84% And so I would ask that this is seen favorably, 00:08:31.984 --> 00:08:34.400 align:middle line:84% because I definitely don't want to strike out at the plate 00:08:34.400 --> 00:08:36.600 align:middle line:84% as Casey did earlier this morning. 00:08:36.600 --> 00:08:39.559 align:middle line:84% And I would ask for your support on this amendment. 00:08:39.559 --> 00:08:40.940 align:middle line:90% Do you like that? 00:08:40.940 --> 00:08:43.990 align:middle line:84% The amendment, all those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:08:43.990 --> 00:08:44.860 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 00:08:44.860 --> 00:08:45.901 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 00:08:45.901 --> 00:08:49.964 align:middle line:84% The next is offered, number 771, by the senator from Essex 00:08:49.964 --> 00:08:52.380 align:middle line:84% and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr, the title of which the clerk will 00:08:52.380 --> 00:08:52.879 align:middle line:90% read. 00:08:52.879 --> 00:08:54.670 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 771 by Mr. Tarr. 00:08:54.670 --> 00:08:56.162 align:middle line:90% Industry based survey. 00:08:56.162 --> 00:08:58.120 align:middle line:84% Question comes under adoption of the amendment. 00:08:58.120 --> 00:09:00.510 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:09:00.510 --> 00:09:01.342 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 00:09:01.342 --> 00:09:02.550 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 00:09:02.550 --> 00:09:05.820 align:middle line:84% Number 784 offered by the senator from Worcester, 00:09:05.820 --> 00:09:08.260 align:middle line:84% Hampden, Hampshire, and Middlesex, Ms. Gobi, the title 00:09:08.260 --> 00:09:09.880 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:09:09.880 --> 00:09:11.860 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 784 by Ms. Gobi. 00:09:11.860 --> 00:09:13.580 align:middle line:90% Sturbridge waterline study. 00:09:13.580 --> 00:09:15.660 align:middle line:84% Question comes on the redraft amendment. 00:09:15.660 --> 00:09:20.350 align:middle line:84% The senator from Plymouth and Barnstable, Mr. deMacedo. 00:09:20.350 --> 00:09:23.680 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:09:23.680 --> 00:09:27.030 align:middle line:84% I was hoping that the gentle lady might be able to-- 00:09:27.030 --> 00:09:29.690 align:middle line:84% from the previous amendment-- might be able to share with us 00:09:29.690 --> 00:09:32.760 align:middle line:84% what the specific amendment does. 00:09:32.760 --> 00:09:33.940 align:middle line:90% Ms. Gobi. 00:09:33.940 --> 00:09:34.680 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:09:34.680 --> 00:09:37.640 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] This amendment. 00:09:37.640 --> 00:09:39.420 align:middle line:84% There's a very unfortunate situation 00:09:39.420 --> 00:09:41.850 align:middle line:84% that is going on in some of my communities 00:09:41.850 --> 00:09:43.660 align:middle line:90% and in the town of Sturbridge. 00:09:43.660 --> 00:09:45.450 align:middle line:84% There is some contamination that is coming 00:09:45.450 --> 00:09:47.670 align:middle line:90% into their private wells. 00:09:47.670 --> 00:09:50.260 align:middle line:84% And there are carcinogens coming in to the area. 00:09:50.260 --> 00:09:52.610 align:middle line:84% In fact, there's a particular neighborhood 00:09:52.610 --> 00:09:55.220 align:middle line:84% that has been on bottled water since the beginning 00:09:55.220 --> 00:09:56.350 align:middle line:90% of this year. 00:09:56.350 --> 00:09:59.560 align:middle line:84% It is believed that these carcinogens are coming 00:09:59.560 --> 00:10:01.860 align:middle line:84% from a neighboring community where 00:10:01.860 --> 00:10:07.150 align:middle line:84% there is a landfill that is already contaminated wells 00:10:07.150 --> 00:10:08.550 align:middle line:90% in the town of Charleton. 00:10:08.550 --> 00:10:11.980 align:middle line:84% The DEP has found that particular landfill 00:10:11.980 --> 00:10:16.220 align:middle line:84% to be responsible party for the Charleton contamination. 00:10:16.220 --> 00:10:17.840 align:middle line:84% These folks that are in Sturbridge 00:10:17.840 --> 00:10:21.420 align:middle line:84% are just down a little bit further south of that. 00:10:21.420 --> 00:10:25.680 align:middle line:84% And while DEP has not said that that is the contamination 00:10:25.680 --> 00:10:28.020 align:middle line:84% source, it is widely believed that it is. 00:10:28.020 --> 00:10:31.120 align:middle line:84% But in the meantime, what needs to happen is that the town 00:10:31.120 --> 00:10:33.890 align:middle line:84% of Sturbridge, to be prepared for this, 00:10:33.890 --> 00:10:36.580 align:middle line:84% is that they need to get to a waterline study put 00:10:36.580 --> 00:10:38.380 align:middle line:84% in, because we cannot be a Flint, 00:10:38.380 --> 00:10:43.160 align:middle line:84% Michigan in 2017 and have people on bottled water for who knows 00:10:43.160 --> 00:10:43.950 align:middle line:90% how long. 00:10:43.950 --> 00:10:45.900 align:middle line:84% This will allow the town of Sturbridge 00:10:45.900 --> 00:10:48.980 align:middle line:84% to do the water study, to have things in place. 00:10:48.980 --> 00:10:52.140 align:middle line:84% And so that hopefully when DEP finds who the responsible party 00:10:52.140 --> 00:10:54.960 align:middle line:84% is, then that party will be responsible for paying 00:10:54.960 --> 00:10:57.540 align:middle line:84% for the entire mitigation on this project. 00:10:57.540 --> 00:11:01.667 align:middle line:84% And I would ask that it's voted on favorably. 00:11:01.667 --> 00:11:03.250 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] adoption of the amendment. 00:11:03.250 --> 00:11:05.770 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:11:05.770 --> 00:11:06.660 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 00:11:06.660 --> 00:11:07.701 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 00:11:07.701 --> 00:11:09.250 align:middle line:90% The next is 788. 00:11:09.250 --> 00:11:10.350 align:middle line:90% It's on hold. 00:11:10.350 --> 00:11:12.300 align:middle line:84% And 790 is offered by the senator 00:11:12.300 --> 00:11:14.530 align:middle line:84% from Middlesex and Worcester, Mr. Eldridge. 00:11:14.530 --> 00:11:16.410 align:middle line:84% A redrafted amendment, the title the clerk 00:11:16.410 --> 00:11:18.630 align:middle line:84% will-- the title of which the clerk will read. 00:11:18.630 --> 00:11:20.640 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 790 by Mr. Eldridge. 00:11:20.640 --> 00:11:23.420 align:middle line:84% Department of Environmental Protection administration. 00:11:23.420 --> 00:11:25.545 align:middle line:84% Senator from Middlesex and Worcester, Mr. Eldridge. 00:11:25.545 --> 00:11:28.490 align:middle line:90% 00:11:28.490 --> 00:11:32.000 align:middle line:84% Amendment 790 would increase the line item 00:11:32.000 --> 00:11:35.290 align:middle line:84% for the administrative duties of the Department of Environmental 00:11:35.290 --> 00:11:37.890 align:middle line:90% Protection by $1 million. 00:11:37.890 --> 00:11:40.960 align:middle line:84% The Senate Ways and Means had proposed a $25 million 00:11:40.960 --> 00:11:41.990 align:middle line:90% budget for DEP. 00:11:41.990 --> 00:11:45.540 align:middle line:84% This Would increase it to $26 million. 00:11:45.540 --> 00:11:48.160 align:middle line:84% I want to thank the chairwoman of Senate Ways 00:11:48.160 --> 00:11:51.260 align:middle line:84% and Means for her support on this amendment. 00:11:51.260 --> 00:11:52.950 align:middle line:84% I also want to thank the minority 00:11:52.950 --> 00:11:55.320 align:middle line:84% leader for his advocacy, as well as 00:11:55.320 --> 00:11:57.320 align:middle line:84% the vigorous advocacy by the gentleman 00:11:57.320 --> 00:11:59.070 align:middle line:90% from Belmont for this amendment. 00:11:59.070 --> 00:12:01.310 align:middle line:84% The Department of Environmental Protection, 00:12:01.310 --> 00:12:03.980 align:middle line:84% of course, Mr. President, provides a critical role 00:12:03.980 --> 00:12:06.330 align:middle line:84% to protect our air, water, land, and health 00:12:06.330 --> 00:12:08.110 align:middle line:90% from environmental threats. 00:12:08.110 --> 00:12:15.070 align:middle line:84% However, DEP staffing has been cut by about 30% since 2008, 00:12:15.070 --> 00:12:18.080 align:middle line:84% the lowest staffing level in recent history. 00:12:18.080 --> 00:12:21.130 align:middle line:84% If we are truly committed to keeping our air 00:12:21.130 --> 00:12:23.050 align:middle line:84% and water clean, if we are committed 00:12:23.050 --> 00:12:25.930 align:middle line:84% to addressing public health issues across the Commonwealth, 00:12:25.930 --> 00:12:29.010 align:middle line:84% as well as implementing some of our climate change laws, 00:12:29.010 --> 00:12:33.090 align:middle line:84% we need to make sure that DEP has the staff and the resources 00:12:33.090 --> 00:12:36.270 align:middle line:90% to enforce our statewide laws. 00:12:36.270 --> 00:12:38.740 align:middle line:84% In addition, Mr. President, there is, of course, concern 00:12:38.740 --> 00:12:41.570 align:middle line:84% that there could be cuts at the federal level to the EPA. 00:12:41.570 --> 00:12:44.800 align:middle line:84% And therefore, the DEP would have greater responsibilities. 00:12:44.800 --> 00:12:47.960 align:middle line:84% So therefore, Mr. President, given the support 00:12:47.960 --> 00:12:50.690 align:middle line:84% for this amendment and given the need for this $1 million 00:12:50.690 --> 00:12:53.140 align:middle line:84% increase, I ask when we vote on this amendment, 00:12:53.140 --> 00:12:56.980 align:middle line:84% we vote on it by a call of the yeas and nays. 00:12:56.980 --> 00:12:57.639 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 00:12:57.639 --> 00:12:59.430 align:middle line:84% Gentlemen, I also want a vote on the matter 00:12:59.430 --> 00:13:01.360 align:middle line:84% be taken by a roll call of the yeas and nays. 00:13:01.360 --> 00:13:03.250 align:middle line:84% Those joining with them rise and be counted. 00:13:03.250 --> 00:13:04.900 align:middle line:84% A sufficient number having arisen 00:13:04.900 --> 00:13:06.350 align:middle line:84% when the vote is taken to be taken 00:13:06.350 --> 00:13:10.070 align:middle line:90% by a call of the yeas and nays. 00:13:10.070 --> 00:13:13.690 align:middle line:84% The senator [INAUDIBLE] Mr. Tarr. 00:13:13.690 --> 00:13:15.340 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] who just took his seat. 00:13:15.340 --> 00:13:17.180 align:middle line:84% And I want to thank all of those who 00:13:17.180 --> 00:13:20.270 align:middle line:84% have joined us in co-sponsoring this particular amendment. 00:13:20.270 --> 00:13:23.030 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, if there was ever a case of east meets west, 00:13:23.030 --> 00:13:24.180 align:middle line:90% this is truly it. 00:13:24.180 --> 00:13:28.340 align:middle line:84% We oftentimes have different philosophical perspectives, 00:13:28.340 --> 00:13:31.060 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, but one thing we should all agree on 00:13:31.060 --> 00:13:33.230 align:middle line:84% is the importance of protecting our environment. 00:13:33.230 --> 00:13:36.650 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, I won't recite for the membership 00:13:36.650 --> 00:13:39.740 align:middle line:84% or for the record all of the things 00:13:39.740 --> 00:13:41.720 align:middle line:90% that the DEP is responsible for. 00:13:41.720 --> 00:13:44.270 align:middle line:84% Suffice it to say, it's responsible 00:13:44.270 --> 00:13:46.690 align:middle line:84% for those critical natural resources that 00:13:46.690 --> 00:13:48.480 align:middle line:84% are essential for our quality of life 00:13:48.480 --> 00:13:50.260 align:middle line:90% and in our lives themselves. 00:13:50.260 --> 00:13:53.850 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, this is a modest increase 00:13:53.850 --> 00:13:57.040 align:middle line:84% to be able to respond to some of the needs of the Department 00:13:57.040 --> 00:13:58.267 align:middle line:90% of Environmental Protection. 00:13:58.267 --> 00:13:59.850 align:middle line:84% I know there are many of us that would 00:13:59.850 --> 00:14:02.400 align:middle line:84% like to add a number larger than the one 00:14:02.400 --> 00:14:03.920 align:middle line:90% as reflected in this amendment. 00:14:03.920 --> 00:14:05.820 align:middle line:84% But we do have fiscal constraints, 00:14:05.820 --> 00:14:07.490 align:middle line:90% and we have fiscal challenges. 00:14:07.490 --> 00:14:09.360 align:middle line:84% But the significance of this amendment 00:14:09.360 --> 00:14:13.230 align:middle line:84% is that among those challenges, we are finding resources 00:14:13.230 --> 00:14:18.570 align:middle line:84% to substantiate, or support, the mission of the Department 00:14:18.570 --> 00:14:22.350 align:middle line:84% of Environmental Protection, one that is indisputable 00:14:22.350 --> 00:14:23.880 align:middle line:90% regarding its importance. 00:14:23.880 --> 00:14:25.977 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, again, I thank the gentleman 00:14:25.977 --> 00:14:27.060 align:middle line:90% who offered the amendment. 00:14:27.060 --> 00:14:29.240 align:middle line:84% Pleased to partner with him on this. 00:14:29.240 --> 00:14:31.380 align:middle line:84% And I know that a roll call has been ordered. 00:14:31.380 --> 00:14:35.120 align:middle line:84% I hope that it will reflect as many yes votes as possible. 00:14:35.120 --> 00:14:37.650 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:14:37.650 --> 00:14:41.469 align:middle line:84% The senator from Suffolk and Middlesex, Mr. Brownsberger. 00:14:41.469 --> 00:14:42.510 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:14:42.510 --> 00:14:46.670 align:middle line:84% I want to thank the chair of Ways and Means, especially, 00:14:46.670 --> 00:14:49.760 align:middle line:84% and the minority leader, and also especially 00:14:49.760 --> 00:14:52.120 align:middle line:84% Senator Eldridge for his advocacy on this issue. 00:14:52.120 --> 00:14:55.080 align:middle line:84% I want to take note that on another environmental issue, 00:14:55.080 --> 00:14:59.150 align:middle line:84% the DCR watershed management amendment, 00:14:59.150 --> 00:15:02.970 align:middle line:84% we were unable to raise additional funds. 00:15:02.970 --> 00:15:05.000 align:middle line:84% That was a similar sized amendment, 00:15:05.000 --> 00:15:08.060 align:middle line:84% similar type of priorities, but particularly focused 00:15:08.060 --> 00:15:09.630 align:middle line:90% on watershed quality. 00:15:09.630 --> 00:15:12.080 align:middle line:84% And I hope that in the conference process, 00:15:12.080 --> 00:15:15.040 align:middle line:84% we're able to do well on both of these areas. 00:15:15.040 --> 00:15:16.510 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much, Mr. President. 00:15:16.510 --> 00:15:20.450 align:middle line:90% 00:15:20.450 --> 00:15:22.560 align:middle line:84% The yeas and nays having previously been ordered, 00:15:22.560 --> 00:15:24.250 align:middle line:90% the clerk will call the roll. 00:15:24.250 --> 00:15:41.390 align:middle line:90% 00:15:41.390 --> 00:15:42.470 align:middle line:90% Joseph A. Boncore. 00:15:42.470 --> 00:15:43.590 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:15:43.590 --> 00:15:44.630 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:15:44.630 --> 00:15:46.140 align:middle line:90% Michael D. Brady. 00:15:46.140 --> 00:15:47.180 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:15:47.180 --> 00:15:49.830 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:15:49.830 --> 00:15:51.220 align:middle line:90% William N. Brownsberger. 00:15:51.220 --> 00:15:51.720 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:15:51.720 --> 00:15:53.620 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:15:53.620 --> 00:15:54.790 align:middle line:90% Harriette L. Chandler. 00:15:54.790 --> 00:15:55.290 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:15:55.290 --> 00:15:56.110 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:15:56.110 --> 00:15:57.590 align:middle line:90% Sonia Chang-Diaz. 00:15:57.590 --> 00:15:58.700 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:15:58.700 --> 00:16:01.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:01.500 --> 00:16:02.670 align:middle line:90% Cynthia Stone Creem. 00:16:02.670 --> 00:16:08.841 align:middle line:90% 00:16:08.841 --> 00:16:09.340 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:09.340 --> 00:16:10.350 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:10.350 --> 00:16:12.320 align:middle line:90% Julian Cyr. 00:16:12.320 --> 00:16:12.820 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:12.820 --> 00:16:13.350 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:13.350 --> 00:16:15.830 align:middle line:90% Viriato M. deMacedo. 00:16:15.830 --> 00:16:16.330 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:16.330 --> 00:16:17.020 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:17.020 --> 00:16:19.110 align:middle line:90% Sal N. DiDomenico. 00:16:19.110 --> 00:16:19.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:19.800 --> 00:16:20.610 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:20.610 --> 00:16:22.710 align:middle line:90% Eileen M. Donaghue. 00:16:22.710 --> 00:16:23.210 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:23.210 --> 00:16:23.930 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:23.930 --> 00:16:25.630 align:middle line:90% James B. Eldridge. 00:16:25.630 --> 00:16:26.370 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:26.370 --> 00:16:27.310 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:27.310 --> 00:16:29.370 align:middle line:90% Ryan C. Fattman. 00:16:29.370 --> 00:16:29.870 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:29.870 --> 00:16:30.460 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:30.460 --> 00:16:32.870 align:middle line:90% Jennifer L. Flanagan. 00:16:32.870 --> 00:16:33.370 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:33.370 --> 00:16:33.870 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:33.870 --> 00:16:36.150 align:middle line:90% Linda Dorcena Forry. 00:16:36.150 --> 00:16:37.180 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:37.180 --> 00:16:37.680 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:37.680 --> 00:16:38.360 align:middle line:90% Anne M. Gobi. 00:16:38.360 --> 00:16:39.030 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:39.030 --> 00:16:40.250 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:40.250 --> 00:16:41.980 align:middle line:90% Adam G. Hinds. 00:16:41.980 --> 00:16:44.570 align:middle line:90% 00:16:44.570 --> 00:16:45.730 align:middle line:90% Donald F. Hummer's Jr. 00:16:45.730 --> 00:16:46.530 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:46.530 --> 00:16:47.510 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:47.510 --> 00:16:49.100 align:middle line:90% Patricia D. Jehlen. 00:16:49.100 --> 00:16:50.060 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 00:16:50.060 --> 00:16:51.150 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:51.150 --> 00:16:53.780 align:middle line:90% John F. Keenan. 00:16:53.780 --> 00:16:54.840 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:54.840 --> 00:16:55.340 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:55.340 --> 00:16:56.790 align:middle line:90% Eric P. Lesser. 00:16:56.790 --> 00:16:57.290 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:57.290 --> 00:16:58.070 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:16:58.070 --> 00:16:59.440 align:middle line:90% Jason M. Lewis. 00:16:59.440 --> 00:17:00.600 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:00.600 --> 00:17:01.660 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:01.660 --> 00:17:04.270 align:middle line:90% Barbara A. L'Italian. 00:17:04.270 --> 00:17:04.770 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:04.770 --> 00:17:05.290 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:05.290 --> 00:17:07.661 align:middle line:90% Joan B. Lovely. 00:17:07.661 --> 00:17:08.160 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:08.160 --> 00:17:08.839 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:08.839 --> 00:17:10.680 align:middle line:90% Thomas M. McGee. 00:17:10.680 --> 00:17:11.319 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:11.319 --> 00:17:12.369 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:12.369 --> 00:17:13.830 align:middle line:90% Mark C. Montigny. 00:17:13.830 --> 00:17:17.650 align:middle line:90% 00:17:17.650 --> 00:17:18.420 align:middle line:90% Michael O. Moore. 00:17:18.420 --> 00:17:19.450 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:19.450 --> 00:17:20.369 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:20.369 --> 00:17:22.599 align:middle line:90% Patrick M. O'Connor. 00:17:22.599 --> 00:17:23.109 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:23.109 --> 00:17:23.930 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:23.930 --> 00:17:26.660 align:middle line:90% Kathleen O'Connor Ives. 00:17:26.660 --> 00:17:27.160 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:27.160 --> 00:17:28.030 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:28.030 --> 00:17:30.340 align:middle line:90% Marc R. Pacheco. 00:17:30.340 --> 00:17:30.920 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:30.920 --> 00:17:31.880 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:31.880 --> 00:17:33.740 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Rodrigues. 00:17:33.740 --> 00:17:34.600 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:34.600 --> 00:17:35.840 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:35.840 --> 00:17:38.770 align:middle line:90% Richard J. Ross. 00:17:38.770 --> 00:17:39.270 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:39.270 --> 00:17:39.960 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:39.960 --> 00:17:41.710 align:middle line:90% Michael F. Rush. 00:17:41.710 --> 00:17:42.240 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:42.240 --> 00:17:43.200 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:43.200 --> 00:17:44.920 align:middle line:90% Karen E. Spilka. 00:17:44.920 --> 00:17:45.450 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:45.450 --> 00:17:46.460 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:46.460 --> 00:17:49.080 align:middle line:90% Bruce E. Tarr. 00:17:49.080 --> 00:17:49.750 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:49.750 --> 00:17:50.900 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:50.900 --> 00:17:53.081 align:middle line:90% Walter F. Timulty. 00:17:53.081 --> 00:17:53.580 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:53.580 --> 00:17:54.410 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:54.410 --> 00:17:56.281 align:middle line:90% And James T. Welch. 00:17:56.281 --> 00:17:56.780 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:56.780 --> 00:17:58.560 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:17:58.560 --> 00:18:00.050 align:middle line:90% Have all members been recorded? 00:18:00.050 --> 00:18:02.490 align:middle line:84% The senator from Middlesex, Mr. Barrett. 00:18:02.490 --> 00:18:03.990 align:middle line:84% Have I been recorded, Mr. President? 00:18:03.990 --> 00:18:05.240 align:middle line:90% You have not, sir. 00:18:05.240 --> 00:18:06.610 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:18:06.610 --> 00:18:08.550 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Barrett votes yes. 00:18:08.550 --> 00:18:12.730 align:middle line:84% Senator from Bristol and Plymouth, Mr. Montigny. 00:18:12.730 --> 00:18:13.230 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 00:18:13.230 --> 00:18:15.380 align:middle line:90% Mark C. Montigny votes yes. 00:18:15.380 --> 00:18:18.220 align:middle line:84% Senator from Berkshire, Mr. Hinds. 00:18:18.220 --> 00:18:25.370 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I wish to be recorded [INAUDIBLE].. 00:18:25.370 --> 00:18:37.250 align:middle line:90% 00:18:37.250 --> 00:18:38.720 align:middle line:90% Adam G. Hinds vote yes. 00:18:38.720 --> 00:18:39.437 align:middle line:90% That's everybody. 00:18:39.437 --> 00:18:41.770 align:middle line:84% On this matter, 37 having voted in the affirmative, none 00:18:41.770 --> 00:18:43.520 align:middle line:84% in the negative, the amendment is adopted. 00:18:43.520 --> 00:18:45.830 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 802 offered by the senator 00:18:45.830 --> 00:18:48.880 align:middle line:84% from Essex, Mr. Tarr, the title of which the clerk will read. 00:18:48.880 --> 00:18:50.580 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 802 by Mr. Tarr. 00:18:50.580 --> 00:18:53.327 align:middle line:84% Massachusetts aquaculture centers. 00:18:53.327 --> 00:18:54.660 align:middle line:90% Question comes on the amendment. 00:18:54.660 --> 00:18:58.104 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 00:18:58.104 --> 00:19:00.020 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, many people may have forgotten, 00:19:00.020 --> 00:19:02.220 align:middle line:84% but a number of years ago in an attempt 00:19:02.220 --> 00:19:05.840 align:middle line:84% to advance our fishing industry that 00:19:05.840 --> 00:19:09.080 align:middle line:84% was suffering and continues to suffer and also 00:19:09.080 --> 00:19:13.090 align:middle line:84% to make better use of our marine resources and our capabilities, 00:19:13.090 --> 00:19:15.720 align:middle line:84% we created three aquaculture centers 00:19:15.720 --> 00:19:17.690 align:middle line:84% in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 00:19:17.690 --> 00:19:19.260 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, over the years, 00:19:19.260 --> 00:19:22.530 align:middle line:84% those aquaculture centers have created a new industry. 00:19:22.530 --> 00:19:26.540 align:middle line:84% They've helped us to be able to propagate shellfish by catching 00:19:26.540 --> 00:19:28.280 align:middle line:90% seed and growing it out. 00:19:28.280 --> 00:19:30.190 align:middle line:84% They've helped folks to do things 00:19:30.190 --> 00:19:33.430 align:middle line:84% like longline aquaculture and be able to culture things 00:19:33.430 --> 00:19:35.470 align:middle line:90% like mussels and oysters. 00:19:35.470 --> 00:19:38.080 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, all along being 00:19:38.080 --> 00:19:41.320 align:middle line:84% able to use our ocean environment in a way that 00:19:41.320 --> 00:19:43.660 align:middle line:84% is good for the environment and in a way that 00:19:43.660 --> 00:19:47.750 align:middle line:84% creates sustainable practices and income, particularly, Mr. 00:19:47.750 --> 00:19:50.880 align:middle line:84% President, it has the potential to be supplemental income 00:19:50.880 --> 00:19:53.700 align:middle line:84% for those that are displaced from things like commercial fin 00:19:53.700 --> 00:19:54.710 align:middle line:90% fishing. 00:19:54.710 --> 00:19:57.490 align:middle line:84% Well, along the years, Mr. President, 00:19:57.490 --> 00:20:00.390 align:middle line:84% the funding for these aquaculture centers 00:20:00.390 --> 00:20:04.710 align:middle line:84% has withered away to the extent that if we do not do something 00:20:04.710 --> 00:20:08.350 align:middle line:84% in this budget, their very existence will be threatened. 00:20:08.350 --> 00:20:11.430 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, this amendment seeks 00:20:11.430 --> 00:20:14.740 align:middle line:84% to fund them in the amount of $100,000 each 00:20:14.740 --> 00:20:17.590 align:middle line:90% for a total of $300,000. 00:20:17.590 --> 00:20:19.860 align:middle line:84% And I would argue, Mr. President, 00:20:19.860 --> 00:20:23.790 align:middle line:84% that the failure to invest that $300,000 will have 00:20:23.790 --> 00:20:25.860 align:middle line:84% dramatic consequences for the future 00:20:25.860 --> 00:20:28.490 align:middle line:84% of the aquaculture industry in the Commonwealth 00:20:28.490 --> 00:20:29.950 align:middle line:90% of Massachusetts. 00:20:29.950 --> 00:20:33.170 align:middle line:84% Now, in our case, Mr. President, in our part of the state, 00:20:33.170 --> 00:20:35.890 align:middle line:84% we have something called the Northeastern Massachusetts 00:20:35.890 --> 00:20:37.090 align:middle line:90% Aquaculture Center. 00:20:37.090 --> 00:20:40.400 align:middle line:84% It is a partnership with Salem State University. 00:20:40.400 --> 00:20:44.010 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, it has university faculty 00:20:44.010 --> 00:20:47.570 align:middle line:84% that are in charge of its management and its operation. 00:20:47.570 --> 00:20:50.180 align:middle line:84% And those faculty, Mr. President, 00:20:50.180 --> 00:20:52.180 align:middle line:84% work not only with those that are already 00:20:52.180 --> 00:20:56.240 align:middle line:84% established in areas that are relevant to aquaculture 00:20:56.240 --> 00:20:59.330 align:middle line:84% like softshell clamming and mussels, 00:20:59.330 --> 00:21:02.130 align:middle line:84% but, Mr. President, that institute-- 00:21:02.130 --> 00:21:04.880 align:middle line:84% that aquaculture center-- also works 00:21:04.880 --> 00:21:07.930 align:middle line:84% with folks who would like to be entrepreneurs. 00:21:07.930 --> 00:21:09.990 align:middle line:84% Now interestingly enough Mr. President, 00:21:09.990 --> 00:21:13.490 align:middle line:84% one of the entrepreneurial activities that some 00:21:13.490 --> 00:21:16.840 align:middle line:84% of the folks that are involved with that aquaculture center 00:21:16.840 --> 00:21:18.700 align:middle line:84% have taken up-- and particularly, 00:21:18.700 --> 00:21:20.700 align:middle line:84% some of the graduate level students-- 00:21:20.700 --> 00:21:24.580 align:middle line:84% is the growing and the harvesting of zebrafish. 00:21:24.580 --> 00:21:27.200 align:middle line:84% Now, for those of you that don't know what is zebrafish 00:21:27.200 --> 00:21:29.070 align:middle line:84% is, Mr. President, I will tell you 00:21:29.070 --> 00:21:33.010 align:middle line:84% that their are genetic composition is actually very 00:21:33.010 --> 00:21:34.830 align:middle line:90% close to that of a human being. 00:21:34.830 --> 00:21:38.240 align:middle line:84% And so the necessity of having zebrafish 00:21:38.240 --> 00:21:41.080 align:middle line:84% to be able to do some of the pioneering research that 00:21:41.080 --> 00:21:45.730 align:middle line:84% is done within thousands of feet of this very building 00:21:45.730 --> 00:21:47.950 align:middle line:90% is absolutely critical. 00:21:47.950 --> 00:21:50.010 align:middle line:84% And so when we talk about the importance 00:21:50.010 --> 00:21:54.240 align:middle line:84% of these aquaculture centers, it extends far beyond things 00:21:54.240 --> 00:21:57.360 align:middle line:84% that people would consider traditional industries 00:21:57.360 --> 00:22:00.680 align:middle line:84% into things like longline aquaculture 00:22:00.680 --> 00:22:03.840 align:middle line:84% where mussels are grown in sacks on lines 00:22:03.840 --> 00:22:06.980 align:middle line:84% so that they can be harvested without blocking off 00:22:06.980 --> 00:22:08.780 align:middle line:84% too much of the ocean or interfering 00:22:08.780 --> 00:22:10.900 align:middle line:84% with its use for other activities. 00:22:10.900 --> 00:22:15.710 align:middle line:84% And it extends, Mr. President, to cutting edge research based 00:22:15.710 --> 00:22:20.090 align:middle line:84% on the genetic code of the fish that are being aquacultured. 00:22:20.090 --> 00:22:22.560 align:middle line:84% Now, Mr. President, I don't want to be alarmist about any 00:22:22.560 --> 00:22:25.900 align:middle line:84% of this, but I would suggest to you that the very modest amount 00:22:25.900 --> 00:22:30.200 align:middle line:84% of money that we are spending for these aquaculture centers 00:22:30.200 --> 00:22:35.050 align:middle line:84% yields dividends that we cannot even fully comprehend as we sit 00:22:35.050 --> 00:22:37.060 align:middle line:90% here at this moment in time. 00:22:37.060 --> 00:22:39.650 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, I am disappointed 00:22:39.650 --> 00:22:42.570 align:middle line:84% that we've allowed this situation to get to the point 00:22:42.570 --> 00:22:43.630 align:middle line:90% where it is. 00:22:43.630 --> 00:22:46.370 align:middle line:84% But Mr. President, fortunately, we 00:22:46.370 --> 00:22:50.400 align:middle line:84% have the ability to do something to change that if we can find, 00:22:50.400 --> 00:22:54.570 align:middle line:84% in this budget of billions of dollars, 300,000 of them 00:22:54.570 --> 00:22:58.940 align:middle line:84% to be able to support three very important agriculture 00:22:58.940 --> 00:23:01.840 align:middle line:84% centers that serve the South Shore, Cape 00:23:01.840 --> 00:23:04.900 align:middle line:84% Cod and the islands, and Northeastern Massachusetts. 00:23:04.900 --> 00:23:06.830 align:middle line:90% And Mr. President, I actually-- 00:23:06.830 --> 00:23:07.840 align:middle line:90% I misspoke. 00:23:07.840 --> 00:23:10.720 align:middle line:84% I believe there is also one that is inland 00:23:10.720 --> 00:23:13.990 align:middle line:84% that is very important that deals with land 00:23:13.990 --> 00:23:16.690 align:middle line:84% based aquaculture that's in lakes and ponds. 00:23:16.690 --> 00:23:20.120 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, I'm hoping that we can find the ability 00:23:20.120 --> 00:23:22.210 align:middle line:84% to do this, and I hope that we will 00:23:22.210 --> 00:23:24.370 align:middle line:84% make this investment for something that 00:23:24.370 --> 00:23:26.720 align:middle line:84% is critical for now and in the future. 00:23:26.720 --> 00:23:29.190 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:23:29.190 --> 00:23:34.417 align:middle line:84% Senator from Plymouth and Norfolk, Mr. O'Connor. 00:23:34.417 --> 00:23:36.750 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] Mr. President, through you to the membership 00:23:36.750 --> 00:23:38.940 align:middle line:84% just to add on to what the minority leader said 00:23:38.940 --> 00:23:40.610 align:middle line:90% with the agriculture centers. 00:23:40.610 --> 00:23:44.200 align:middle line:84% In my district, we are blessed to have a multitude of oyster 00:23:44.200 --> 00:23:45.640 align:middle line:90% companies that have started up. 00:23:45.640 --> 00:23:47.990 align:middle line:84% And to see what the aquaculture looks 00:23:47.990 --> 00:23:50.860 align:middle line:84% like in my district from where it was 15 years ago, especially 00:23:50.860 --> 00:23:54.020 align:middle line:84% in Duxbury, which is one of the homes now to some 00:23:54.020 --> 00:23:58.100 align:middle line:84% of the fastest growing oyster companies in the entire world. 00:23:58.100 --> 00:23:59.840 align:middle line:84% And what they do there is bring them up 00:23:59.840 --> 00:24:02.460 align:middle line:84% straight from the entire harvesting aspect, 00:24:02.460 --> 00:24:04.170 align:middle line:90% put them into Duxbury Bay. 00:24:04.170 --> 00:24:05.890 align:middle line:84% We have Island Creek Oyster Company. 00:24:05.890 --> 00:24:08.400 align:middle line:84% We have a multitude of other companies that are there, 00:24:08.400 --> 00:24:10.160 align:middle line:84% and they are growing, and they're stronger 00:24:10.160 --> 00:24:11.200 align:middle line:90% than they've ever been before. 00:24:11.200 --> 00:24:12.616 align:middle line:84% And I think that this is something 00:24:12.616 --> 00:24:14.590 align:middle line:84% that will continue to highlight the growth 00:24:14.590 --> 00:24:17.300 align:middle line:84% of the aquaculture industry here in Massachusetts, something 00:24:17.300 --> 00:24:19.370 align:middle line:84% we should all be very proud of when we go 00:24:19.370 --> 00:24:21.990 align:middle line:84% on vacation to different areas, and we look at that chalk 00:24:21.990 --> 00:24:23.948 align:middle line:84% board, and we see where those oysters are from, 00:24:23.948 --> 00:24:26.520 align:middle line:84% and we see some of the towns such as Wellfleet and Duxbury 00:24:26.520 --> 00:24:28.050 align:middle line:84% and other areas of Massachusetts. 00:24:28.050 --> 00:24:29.760 align:middle line:84% That should be a source of pride for us, 00:24:29.760 --> 00:24:32.370 align:middle line:84% and these aquaculture centers will emphasize that pride. 00:24:32.370 --> 00:24:33.980 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:24:33.980 --> 00:24:34.990 align:middle line:90% Mr. President? 00:24:34.990 --> 00:24:36.849 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 00:24:36.849 --> 00:24:37.890 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:24:37.890 --> 00:24:39.741 align:middle line:84% Just to underscore a couple of the points 00:24:39.741 --> 00:24:41.240 align:middle line:84% that have already been made on this. 00:24:41.240 --> 00:24:44.954 align:middle line:84% And I thank the gentleman from Weymouth for his insight 00:24:44.954 --> 00:24:46.120 align:middle line:90% into this particular matter. 00:24:46.120 --> 00:24:49.590 align:middle line:84% But to put this in terms of real dollars, Mr. President-- 00:24:49.590 --> 00:24:51.180 align:middle line:84% and again, just to clarify, because I 00:24:51.180 --> 00:24:53.540 align:middle line:84% think I may have not been as clear as I could have been. 00:24:53.540 --> 00:24:56.920 align:middle line:84% The three centers are in Salem, Barnstable, 00:24:56.920 --> 00:24:59.910 align:middle line:84% and at UMass Amherst, Mr. President. 00:24:59.910 --> 00:25:02.300 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, did I mention that one of these centers 00:25:02.300 --> 00:25:05.230 align:middle line:84% is at UMass Amherst, Mr. President? 00:25:05.230 --> 00:25:06.930 align:middle line:90% You may want to write that down. 00:25:06.930 --> 00:25:10.790 align:middle line:84% It's the Western Mass Center for Sustainable Aquaculture. 00:25:10.790 --> 00:25:14.430 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, since they have been in existence, 00:25:14.430 --> 00:25:18.870 align:middle line:84% the value of aquaculture production in Massachusetts 00:25:18.870 --> 00:25:26.820 align:middle line:84% has increased from $5.9 million in 1998 to $23.1 million 00:25:26.820 --> 00:25:28.690 align:middle line:90% in 2012. 00:25:28.690 --> 00:25:32.780 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, in 2015 alone, 00:25:32.780 --> 00:25:36.780 align:middle line:84% the Massachusetts shellfish aquaculture industry 00:25:36.780 --> 00:25:39.790 align:middle line:84% was valued at over $23 million dollars. 00:25:39.790 --> 00:25:46.180 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, the industry supports more than 1,000 jobs. 00:25:46.180 --> 00:25:48.580 align:middle line:90% 1,000, Mr. President. 00:25:48.580 --> 00:25:51.190 align:middle line:84% Did I mention there's one of these at UMass Amherst? 00:25:51.190 --> 00:25:52.890 align:middle line:90% I'm not sure that I did. 00:25:52.890 --> 00:25:54.860 align:middle line:84% But I want to make sure that I do. 00:25:54.860 --> 00:25:58.110 align:middle line:84% And so Mr. President, when we talk about this, 00:25:58.110 --> 00:26:00.780 align:middle line:84% and we talk about the relative value of the investments 00:26:00.780 --> 00:26:03.790 align:middle line:84% that we make, I'm not sure if I mentioned that one of these 00:26:03.790 --> 00:26:05.550 align:middle line:90% is in Amherst, Massachusetts. 00:26:05.550 --> 00:26:08.470 align:middle line:84% But in case I didn't, I want to make sure to stress that. 00:26:08.470 --> 00:26:12.600 align:middle line:84% We're talking about an industry that has made-- 00:26:12.600 --> 00:26:15.670 align:middle line:84% the aquaculture industry has become 00:26:15.670 --> 00:26:20.390 align:middle line:84% the fifth highest producer of agriculture products 00:26:20.390 --> 00:26:21.710 align:middle line:90% in the state. 00:26:21.710 --> 00:26:26.210 align:middle line:84% And actually, Mr. President, these centers, one of which 00:26:26.210 --> 00:26:31.960 align:middle line:84% is located in Amherst, is the 18th largest aquaculture 00:26:31.960 --> 00:26:36.990 align:middle line:84% producing state in the country all for the very modest 00:26:36.990 --> 00:26:40.620 align:middle line:90% investment of $300,000. 00:26:40.620 --> 00:26:42.480 align:middle line:84% And that's for three, Mr. President. 00:26:42.480 --> 00:26:43.740 align:middle line:90% That's not for one. 00:26:43.740 --> 00:26:47.860 align:middle line:84% There is one in Salem at Salem State University. 00:26:47.860 --> 00:26:51.710 align:middle line:84% And of course, there is one at the Southeastern Mass 00:26:51.710 --> 00:26:54.970 align:middle line:84% Aquaculture Center Extension in Barnstable County. 00:26:54.970 --> 00:26:57.280 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, I'm not sure that I mentioned this, 00:26:57.280 --> 00:27:00.620 align:middle line:84% but there's one at Amherst at the Western Mass 00:27:00.620 --> 00:27:03.920 align:middle line:84% Center for Sustainable Aquaculture at University 00:27:03.920 --> 00:27:05.370 align:middle line:90% of Mass Amherst. 00:27:05.370 --> 00:27:07.750 align:middle line:84% I know, Mr. President, you may be 00:27:07.750 --> 00:27:09.540 align:middle line:90% familiar with that institution. 00:27:09.540 --> 00:27:11.230 align:middle line:84% Not sure how familiar you might be 00:27:11.230 --> 00:27:14.000 align:middle line:84% with the aquaculture center, which is located 00:27:14.000 --> 00:27:15.990 align:middle line:90% in Amherst, Massachusetts. 00:27:15.990 --> 00:27:18.130 align:middle line:84% But Mr. President, again, just want 00:27:18.130 --> 00:27:19.970 align:middle line:84% to point out that these centers have 00:27:19.970 --> 00:27:22.800 align:middle line:84% been the catalyst for tremendous growth 00:27:22.800 --> 00:27:25.220 align:middle line:90% in our agricultural sector. 00:27:25.220 --> 00:27:27.400 align:middle line:84% They have been transformational for a group 00:27:27.400 --> 00:27:30.180 align:middle line:84% of students who have begun to go down this career path. 00:27:30.180 --> 00:27:33.090 align:middle line:84% They have influenced the world leading science 00:27:33.090 --> 00:27:34.790 align:middle line:84% that is done in the life sciences 00:27:34.790 --> 00:27:36.850 align:middle line:84% here in Massachusetts, and particularly 00:27:36.850 --> 00:27:38.670 align:middle line:90% in the immediate Boston area. 00:27:38.670 --> 00:27:40.930 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, they represent, 00:27:40.930 --> 00:27:44.580 align:middle line:84% if this amendment were to pass, $300,000. 00:27:44.580 --> 00:27:46.030 align:middle line:90% A worthwhile investment. 00:27:46.030 --> 00:27:50.050 align:middle line:90% I hope that we'll make it. 00:27:50.050 --> 00:27:55.840 align:middle line:84% The senator from Plymouth and Barnstable, Mr. deMacedo. 00:27:55.840 --> 00:28:00.610 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:28:00.610 --> 00:28:03.874 align:middle line:84% I just want to ask the gentleman who offered the question, where 00:28:03.874 --> 00:28:05.540 align:middle line:84% are these [INAUDIBLE] I thought it might 00:28:05.540 --> 00:28:07.140 align:middle line:84% be good for the membership if they 00:28:07.140 --> 00:28:08.970 align:middle line:90% knew where they were located. 00:28:08.970 --> 00:28:10.910 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:28:10.910 --> 00:28:13.110 align:middle line:90% I really-- 00:28:13.110 --> 00:28:14.750 align:middle line:90% Did you really? 00:28:14.750 --> 00:28:17.500 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President from Amherst. 00:28:17.500 --> 00:28:20.000 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I would point out that there 00:28:20.000 --> 00:28:22.140 align:middle line:84% are three of these in response to the gentleman's 00:28:22.140 --> 00:28:24.990 align:middle line:84% question, which I most sincerely appreciate. 00:28:24.990 --> 00:28:28.270 align:middle line:84% One of them is in Salem, Massachusetts. 00:28:28.270 --> 00:28:30.530 align:middle line:84% That serves the Northeastern part of the state. 00:28:30.530 --> 00:28:33.640 align:middle line:84% One of them is in Barnstable, which actually 00:28:33.640 --> 00:28:36.320 align:middle line:84% serves the gentleman's part of the state that 00:28:36.320 --> 00:28:37.290 align:middle line:90% asked the question. 00:28:37.290 --> 00:28:40.310 align:middle line:84% And also, if we continue down just a little further, 00:28:40.310 --> 00:28:42.500 align:middle line:84% the gentleman from the Cape and the Islands district 00:28:42.500 --> 00:28:45.230 align:middle line:84% receives benefits from this, particularly many 00:28:45.230 --> 00:28:48.180 align:middle line:84% of his small businesses that he has been so passionate about 00:28:48.180 --> 00:28:49.380 align:middle line:90% and advocating for. 00:28:49.380 --> 00:28:51.830 align:middle line:84% And lo and behold, the third one, 00:28:51.830 --> 00:28:54.310 align:middle line:84% which you may not have known, is actually 00:28:54.310 --> 00:28:57.330 align:middle line:84% in Amherst, Massachusetts, and it's 00:28:57.330 --> 00:29:00.130 align:middle line:84% at the University of Massachusetts. 00:29:00.130 --> 00:29:02.910 align:middle line:84% And it represents an incredible partnership 00:29:02.910 --> 00:29:05.910 align:middle line:84% between an institution that some in this chamber 00:29:05.910 --> 00:29:08.480 align:middle line:84% have been very passionate advocates for 00:29:08.480 --> 00:29:11.700 align:middle line:84% and the Massachusetts agriculture industry. 00:29:11.700 --> 00:29:15.210 align:middle line:84% And that particular agriculture center, 00:29:15.210 --> 00:29:17.810 align:middle line:84% because it's located in Amherst, Massachusetts, 00:29:17.810 --> 00:29:20.550 align:middle line:84% actually focuses on agriculture that 00:29:20.550 --> 00:29:22.570 align:middle line:84% can be conducted not in the ocean, 00:29:22.570 --> 00:29:26.680 align:middle line:84% but actually in lakes and ponds and other bodies of surface 00:29:26.680 --> 00:29:29.800 align:middle line:84% water, as well as in contained areas like tanks. 00:29:29.800 --> 00:29:32.140 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, it's important that we not 00:29:32.140 --> 00:29:37.450 align:middle line:84% leave out Amherst, Massachusetts in the aquaculture equation. 00:29:37.450 --> 00:29:39.900 align:middle line:84% And this amendment, of course, does not do that. 00:29:39.900 --> 00:29:44.720 align:middle line:84% It treats Amherst, Massachusetts as an equal partner with Salem 00:29:44.720 --> 00:29:46.120 align:middle line:90% and with Barnstable. 00:29:46.120 --> 00:29:49.210 align:middle line:84% And because of that, and for many other reasons, 00:29:49.210 --> 00:29:52.720 align:middle line:90% I hope the amendment is adopted. 00:29:52.720 --> 00:29:57.750 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:29:57.750 --> 00:30:01.350 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:30:01.350 --> 00:30:02.680 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 00:30:02.680 --> 00:30:05.720 align:middle line:84% The amendment is unfortunately not adopted. 00:30:05.720 --> 00:30:08.190 align:middle line:84% Unfortunate for the people in Amherst. 00:30:08.190 --> 00:30:11.210 align:middle line:90% 00:30:11.210 --> 00:30:15.890 align:middle line:84% The next amendment offered by the same senator, 809, 00:30:15.890 --> 00:30:18.430 align:middle line:84% the title of which the clerk will read. 00:30:18.430 --> 00:30:20.620 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 809 by Mr. Tarr. 00:30:20.620 --> 00:30:23.667 align:middle line:90% EEA IT restoration. 00:30:23.667 --> 00:30:25.500 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:30:25.500 --> 00:30:29.590 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 00:30:29.590 --> 00:30:31.990 align:middle line:84% We are still at work at the minority printshop 00:30:31.990 --> 00:30:36.740 align:middle line:84% colorizing our chart relative to the balance beam of imbalance. 00:30:36.740 --> 00:30:38.740 align:middle line:84% But if we were to have it here, we 00:30:38.740 --> 00:30:41.010 align:middle line:84% would see that this is the type of item that 00:30:41.010 --> 00:30:42.940 align:middle line:90% causes internal imbalance. 00:30:42.940 --> 00:30:45.230 align:middle line:84% This is a cost that we need to pay for. 00:30:45.230 --> 00:30:49.340 align:middle line:84% It represents information and technology 00:30:49.340 --> 00:30:52.320 align:middle line:84% for the executive office of Energy and Environmental 00:30:52.320 --> 00:30:53.090 align:middle line:90% Affairs. 00:30:53.090 --> 00:30:54.940 align:middle line:90% It is critical, Mr. President. 00:30:54.940 --> 00:30:57.760 align:middle line:84% We have stood as the Senate just moments ago 00:30:57.760 --> 00:31:00.720 align:middle line:84% to recognize the importance of our environmental agencies, 00:31:00.720 --> 00:31:03.530 align:middle line:84% to wit the Department of Environmental Protection. 00:31:03.530 --> 00:31:05.950 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I hope we will continue that support 00:31:05.950 --> 00:31:09.010 align:middle line:84% and advocacy, and I hope the amendment is adopted. 00:31:09.010 --> 00:31:10.390 align:middle line:90% And by a roll call vote. 00:31:10.390 --> 00:31:11.010 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:31:11.010 --> 00:31:13.050 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:31:13.050 --> 00:31:15.550 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:31:15.550 --> 00:31:16.500 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 00:31:16.500 --> 00:31:17.990 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 00:31:17.990 --> 00:31:20.850 align:middle line:84% Number 824, offered by the senator from Bristol 00:31:20.850 --> 00:31:22.802 align:middle line:84% and Plymouth, Mr. Rodrigues, the title 00:31:22.802 --> 00:31:24.010 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:31:24.010 --> 00:31:26.350 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 824 by Mr. Rodrigues. 00:31:26.350 --> 00:31:30.747 align:middle line:90% Contaminated shellfish fees. 00:31:30.747 --> 00:31:32.580 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:31:32.580 --> 00:31:34.950 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:31:34.950 --> 00:31:35.780 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 00:31:35.780 --> 00:31:37.130 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 00:31:37.130 --> 00:31:41.020 align:middle line:84% Number 832, a redrafted amendment, 00:31:41.020 --> 00:31:44.150 align:middle line:84% offered by the senator from Plymouth and Bristol, 00:31:44.150 --> 00:31:47.300 align:middle line:84% Mr. Brady, the title of which the clerk will read. 00:31:47.300 --> 00:31:49.630 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 832 by Mr. Brady. 00:31:49.630 --> 00:31:51.707 align:middle line:90% Municipal energy projects. 00:31:51.707 --> 00:31:53.540 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:31:53.540 --> 00:31:55.319 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 00:31:55.319 --> 00:31:56.860 align:middle line:84% Mr. President through to the members. 00:31:56.860 --> 00:31:59.450 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, this amendment has 00:31:59.450 --> 00:32:01.180 align:middle line:84% been run through the redraft-a-tron, 00:32:01.180 --> 00:32:03.750 align:middle line:84% and probably in this case, the redraftatron 00:32:03.750 --> 00:32:05.730 align:middle line:90% being powered by solar energy. 00:32:05.730 --> 00:32:08.970 align:middle line:84% But I'm hoping that we can get an explanation of amendment 00:32:08.970 --> 00:32:12.550 align:middle line:90% number 832 from its sponsor. 00:32:12.550 --> 00:32:15.692 align:middle line:84% The senator from Plymouth and Bristol, Mr. Brady. 00:32:15.692 --> 00:32:17.400 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, and through you 00:32:17.400 --> 00:32:19.110 align:middle line:84% to our good friend from Gloucester 00:32:19.110 --> 00:32:20.750 align:middle line:84% and to the rest of the colleagues. 00:32:20.750 --> 00:32:24.930 align:middle line:84% This will add two years to the law expiring in 2017, 00:32:24.930 --> 00:32:27.530 align:middle line:84% and it has gone through some changes working out 00:32:27.530 --> 00:32:29.100 align:middle line:90% all the details on that. 00:32:29.100 --> 00:32:32.580 align:middle line:84% But this will help some existing solar projects that 00:32:32.580 --> 00:32:34.620 align:middle line:84% are in line to be built. And I think 00:32:34.620 --> 00:32:37.275 align:middle line:84% there is a little difference in the House version, 00:32:37.275 --> 00:32:38.650 align:middle line:84% so we're hoping to get everything 00:32:38.650 --> 00:32:39.733 align:middle line:90% worked out moving forward. 00:32:39.733 --> 00:32:42.960 align:middle line:84% But this will help move forward on some existing projects, 00:32:42.960 --> 00:32:44.240 align:middle line:90% so they won't be delayed. 00:32:44.240 --> 00:32:46.790 align:middle line:84% And this will be good, because it solar energy 00:32:46.790 --> 00:32:49.410 align:middle line:84% as we move forward to get away from the fossil fuels 00:32:49.410 --> 00:32:51.300 align:middle line:84% in the Commonwealth and move forward 00:32:51.300 --> 00:32:54.327 align:middle line:84% with good, clean, and renewable energy. 00:32:54.327 --> 00:32:55.410 align:middle line:90% Adoption of the amendment. 00:32:55.410 --> 00:32:57.630 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:32:57.630 --> 00:32:58.340 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 00:32:58.340 --> 00:32:59.500 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 00:32:59.500 --> 00:33:01.900 align:middle line:84% The next, number 839, offered by the senator 00:33:01.900 --> 00:33:03.750 align:middle line:84% from Hampden and Hampshire, Mr. Lesser. 00:33:03.750 --> 00:33:05.932 align:middle line:84% The-- a redrafted amendment, the title 00:33:05.932 --> 00:33:07.140 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:33:07.140 --> 00:33:09.330 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 839 by Mr. Lesser. 00:33:09.330 --> 00:33:13.390 align:middle line:84% Massachusetts emergency food assistance program. 00:33:13.390 --> 00:33:16.040 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:33:16.040 --> 00:33:18.540 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 00:33:18.540 --> 00:33:20.120 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:33:20.120 --> 00:33:23.502 align:middle line:84% I hope that we can hear a brief explanation from the offer 00:33:23.502 --> 00:33:24.710 align:middle line:90% of this particular amendment. 00:33:24.710 --> 00:33:27.610 align:middle line:84% I know that he's paging through copious amounts of notes 00:33:27.610 --> 00:33:28.240 align:middle line:90% right now. 00:33:28.240 --> 00:33:30.780 align:middle line:84% I don't-- I hope he's going to select at least a few of them 00:33:30.780 --> 00:33:34.100 align:middle line:84% that are tabbed so that we can hear about this emergency food 00:33:34.100 --> 00:33:34.700 align:middle line:90% program. 00:33:34.700 --> 00:33:36.080 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:33:36.080 --> 00:33:38.250 align:middle line:84% The senator from Hampden and Hampshire 00:33:38.250 --> 00:33:40.259 align:middle line:84% has a few comments on the matter. 00:33:40.259 --> 00:33:41.300 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:33:41.300 --> 00:33:42.630 align:middle line:90% Through you to the members. 00:33:42.630 --> 00:33:45.510 align:middle line:84% Massachusetts emergency food assistance program 00:33:45.510 --> 00:33:47.640 align:middle line:84% is a very popular program with this chamber. 00:33:47.640 --> 00:33:50.550 align:middle line:84% We've stepped up and supported it many years in a row. 00:33:50.550 --> 00:33:54.110 align:middle line:84% It's a great program that connects our local commonwealth 00:33:54.110 --> 00:33:56.510 align:middle line:84% growers and agriculture producers 00:33:56.510 --> 00:34:00.740 align:middle line:84% and farmers with our food banks and those families in need. 00:34:00.740 --> 00:34:03.530 align:middle line:84% It's worth pointing out that as the national government rolls 00:34:03.530 --> 00:34:06.460 align:middle line:84% back a lot of these protections for our neediest citizens, 00:34:06.460 --> 00:34:08.690 align:middle line:84% it's important that Massachusetts step up 00:34:08.690 --> 00:34:09.440 align:middle line:90% to protect them. 00:34:09.440 --> 00:34:11.020 align:middle line:84% I hope the amendment is supported. 00:34:11.020 --> 00:34:11.929 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:34:11.929 --> 00:34:14.897 align:middle line:84% The senator [INAUDIBLE] [INAUDIBLE] one to vote 00:34:14.897 --> 00:34:17.230 align:middle line:84% on the matter be taken to be taken by a call of the yeas 00:34:17.230 --> 00:34:17.909 align:middle line:90% and nays. 00:34:17.909 --> 00:34:22.236 align:middle line:84% Those joining with him rise and be counted. 00:34:22.236 --> 00:34:24.610 align:middle line:84% A sufficient number having arisen when the vote is taken, 00:34:24.610 --> 00:34:26.526 align:middle line:84% it will be taken by call of the yeas and nays. 00:34:26.526 --> 00:34:28.820 align:middle line:90% 00:34:28.820 --> 00:34:31.630 align:middle line:84% The chair-- the clerk will call the roll. 00:34:31.630 --> 00:34:48.380 align:middle line:90% 00:34:48.380 --> 00:34:49.510 align:middle line:90% Joseph A. Boncore. 00:34:49.510 --> 00:34:50.239 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:34:50.239 --> 00:34:51.980 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:34:51.980 --> 00:34:53.070 align:middle line:90% Michael D. Brady. 00:34:53.070 --> 00:34:53.570 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:34:53.570 --> 00:34:54.560 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:34:54.560 --> 00:34:56.740 align:middle line:90% William N. Brownsberger. 00:34:56.740 --> 00:34:57.240 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:34:57.240 --> 00:34:57.970 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:34:57.970 --> 00:34:59.810 align:middle line:90% Harriette L Chandler. 00:34:59.810 --> 00:35:00.310 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:00.310 --> 00:35:01.230 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:01.230 --> 00:35:03.030 align:middle line:90% Sonia Chang-Diaz. 00:35:03.030 --> 00:35:03.720 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:03.720 --> 00:35:04.960 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:04.960 --> 00:35:07.080 align:middle line:90% Cynthia Stone Creem. 00:35:07.080 --> 00:35:07.580 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:07.580 --> 00:35:08.620 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:08.620 --> 00:35:10.120 align:middle line:90% Julian Cyr. 00:35:10.120 --> 00:35:10.650 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:10.650 --> 00:35:11.660 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:11.660 --> 00:35:13.420 align:middle line:90% Viriato M. deMaceto. 00:35:13.420 --> 00:35:17.130 align:middle line:90% 00:35:17.130 --> 00:35:19.290 align:middle line:90% Sal N. Didomenico. 00:35:19.290 --> 00:35:19.790 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:19.790 --> 00:35:22.980 align:middle line:90% Yes Eileen M. Donahue. 00:35:22.980 --> 00:35:23.480 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:23.480 --> 00:35:24.070 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:24.070 --> 00:35:25.640 align:middle line:90% James B. Eldridge. 00:35:25.640 --> 00:35:26.400 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:26.400 --> 00:35:27.400 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:27.400 --> 00:35:29.030 align:middle line:90% Ryan C. Fattman. 00:35:29.030 --> 00:35:33.650 align:middle line:90% 00:35:33.650 --> 00:35:35.530 align:middle line:90% Jennifer L. Flanagan. 00:35:35.530 --> 00:35:36.030 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:36.030 --> 00:35:36.550 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:36.550 --> 00:35:40.240 align:middle line:90% Linda Dorcena Forry. 00:35:40.240 --> 00:35:42.140 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:42.140 --> 00:35:42.640 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:42.640 --> 00:35:43.260 align:middle line:90% Anne M. Gobi. 00:35:43.260 --> 00:35:43.790 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:43.790 --> 00:35:44.890 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:44.890 --> 00:35:48.170 align:middle line:90% Adam G. Hinds. 00:35:48.170 --> 00:35:48.670 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:48.670 --> 00:35:51.000 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:51.000 --> 00:35:52.200 align:middle line:90% Donald F. Humason Jr. 00:35:52.200 --> 00:35:53.110 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:53.110 --> 00:35:54.200 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:54.200 --> 00:35:56.360 align:middle line:90% Patricia D. Jehlen. 00:35:56.360 --> 00:35:56.990 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:56.990 --> 00:35:58.100 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:35:58.100 --> 00:36:00.020 align:middle line:90% John F. Keenan. 00:36:00.020 --> 00:36:00.540 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:00.540 --> 00:36:01.660 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:01.660 --> 00:36:03.840 align:middle line:90% Eric P. Lesser. 00:36:03.840 --> 00:36:04.340 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:04.340 --> 00:36:05.100 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:05.100 --> 00:36:06.330 align:middle line:90% Jason M. Lewis 00:36:06.330 --> 00:36:07.410 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:07.410 --> 00:36:08.360 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:08.360 --> 00:36:10.730 align:middle line:90% Barbara A. L'Italian. 00:36:10.730 --> 00:36:11.230 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:11.230 --> 00:36:11.880 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:11.880 --> 00:36:14.150 align:middle line:90% Joan B. Lovely. 00:36:14.150 --> 00:36:14.690 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:14.690 --> 00:36:15.200 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:15.200 --> 00:36:16.630 align:middle line:90% Thomas M. McGee. 00:36:16.630 --> 00:36:20.400 align:middle line:90% 00:36:20.400 --> 00:36:22.071 align:middle line:90% Mark C. Montigny. 00:36:22.071 --> 00:36:22.570 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:22.570 --> 00:36:23.160 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:23.160 --> 00:36:25.580 align:middle line:90% Michael O. Moore. 00:36:25.580 --> 00:36:26.080 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:26.080 --> 00:36:26.610 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:26.610 --> 00:36:28.710 align:middle line:90% Patrick M. O'Connor. 00:36:28.710 --> 00:36:29.870 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:29.870 --> 00:36:30.370 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:30.370 --> 00:36:32.090 align:middle line:90% Kathleen O'Connor Ives. 00:36:32.090 --> 00:36:32.590 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:32.590 --> 00:36:33.390 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:33.390 --> 00:36:35.880 align:middle line:90% Marc R. Pacheco. 00:36:35.880 --> 00:36:36.380 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:36.380 --> 00:36:37.100 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:37.100 --> 00:36:38.860 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Rodrigues. 00:36:38.860 --> 00:36:39.610 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:39.610 --> 00:36:40.580 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:40.580 --> 00:36:42.940 align:middle line:90% Richard J. Ross. 00:36:42.940 --> 00:36:43.440 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:43.440 --> 00:36:44.200 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:44.200 --> 00:36:46.220 align:middle line:90% Michael F. Rush. 00:36:46.220 --> 00:36:46.790 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:46.790 --> 00:36:47.860 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:47.860 --> 00:36:50.000 align:middle line:90% Karen E. Spilka. 00:36:50.000 --> 00:36:50.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:50.500 --> 00:36:51.020 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:51.020 --> 00:36:52.780 align:middle line:90% Bruce E. Tarr. 00:36:52.780 --> 00:36:53.350 align:middle line:90% Yep. 00:36:53.350 --> 00:36:54.840 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:54.840 --> 00:36:56.300 align:middle line:90% Walter F. Timulty. 00:36:56.300 --> 00:36:56.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:56.800 --> 00:36:57.530 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:36:57.530 --> 00:37:00.000 align:middle line:90% James T. Welch. 00:37:00.000 --> 00:37:01.750 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:37:01.750 --> 00:37:02.829 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:37:02.829 --> 00:37:04.120 align:middle line:90% Have all members been recorded? 00:37:04.120 --> 00:37:09.300 align:middle line:90% 00:37:09.300 --> 00:37:11.720 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Baird votes yes. 00:37:11.720 --> 00:37:17.520 align:middle line:84% Senator from Worcester and Norfolk, Mr. Fattman. 00:37:17.520 --> 00:37:20.190 align:middle line:90% Ryan C. Fattman votes yes. 00:37:20.190 --> 00:37:23.500 align:middle line:84% The senator from Plymouth and Barnstable, Mr. diMacedo. 00:37:23.500 --> 00:37:25.450 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:37:25.450 --> 00:37:28.790 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 00:37:28.790 --> 00:37:31.210 align:middle line:90% Viriato M. diMacedo votes yes. 00:37:31.210 --> 00:37:34.174 align:middle line:90% Mr. President? 00:37:34.174 --> 00:37:35.590 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex, Mr. McGee. 00:37:35.590 --> 00:37:39.820 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I wish to be recorded in the affirmative. 00:37:39.820 --> 00:37:41.470 align:middle line:90% Thomas M. McGee votes yes. 00:37:41.470 --> 00:37:51.800 align:middle line:90% 00:37:51.800 --> 00:37:52.890 align:middle line:90% 37 in the affirmative. 00:37:52.890 --> 00:37:53.770 align:middle line:90% None Then negative. 00:37:53.770 --> 00:37:56.820 align:middle line:84% On this matter, 37 having voted in the affirmative, none 00:37:56.820 --> 00:37:59.460 align:middle line:84% in the negative, the amendment is adopted. 00:37:59.460 --> 00:38:01.759 align:middle line:84% Number 843 offered by the senator 00:38:01.759 --> 00:38:04.300 align:middle line:84% from Essex, Mr. Tarr, the title of which the clerk will read. 00:38:04.300 --> 00:38:06.280 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 843 by Mr. Tarr. 00:38:06.280 --> 00:38:07.937 align:middle line:90% Norton fence restoration. 00:38:07.937 --> 00:38:09.770 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:38:09.770 --> 00:38:12.030 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:38:12.030 --> 00:38:12.900 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 00:38:12.900 --> 00:38:14.150 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 00:38:14.150 --> 00:38:15.950 align:middle line:84% The same senator offers amendment number 00:38:15.950 --> 00:38:18.380 align:middle line:84% 845, the title of which the clerk will read. 00:38:18.380 --> 00:38:20.330 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 845 by Mr. Tarr. 00:38:20.330 --> 00:38:22.187 align:middle line:90% BC park improvements. 00:38:22.187 --> 00:38:24.020 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:38:24.020 --> 00:38:28.140 align:middle line:84% All those in favor indicate by saying aye. 00:38:28.140 --> 00:38:29.500 align:middle line:90% Those opposed, no. 00:38:29.500 --> 00:38:30.380 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 00:38:30.380 --> 00:38:32.110 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 00:38:32.110 --> 00:38:35.570 align:middle line:84% Number 847 is offered by the senator from Norfolk, Bristol, 00:38:35.570 --> 00:38:36.990 align:middle line:84% and Middlesex, Mr. Ross, the title 00:38:36.990 --> 00:38:38.198 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:38:38.198 --> 00:38:40.150 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 847 by Mr. Ross. 00:38:40.150 --> 00:38:42.352 align:middle line:90% Revitalizing Plainville parks. 00:38:42.352 --> 00:38:44.310 align:middle line:84% Question comes under adoption of the amendment. 00:38:44.310 --> 00:38:46.600 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:38:46.600 --> 00:38:47.410 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 00:38:47.410 --> 00:38:48.618 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 00:38:48.618 --> 00:38:51.830 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr, 00:38:51.830 --> 00:38:53.862 align:middle line:84% offers amendment number 849, the title 00:38:53.862 --> 00:38:55.070 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 00:38:55.070 --> 00:38:57.070 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 849 by Mr. Tarr. 00:38:57.070 --> 00:38:59.030 align:middle line:90% DCR retained revenue. 00:38:59.030 --> 00:39:00.870 align:middle line:84% Question comes on adoption of the amendment. 00:39:00.870 --> 00:39:03.280 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:39:03.280 --> 00:39:04.280 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 00:39:04.280 --> 00:39:05.860 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 00:39:05.860 --> 00:39:08.920 align:middle line:84% Number 857 offered by the senator from Norfolk 00:39:08.920 --> 00:39:12.270 align:middle line:84% and Suffolk, Mr. Rush, the title of which the clerk will read. 00:39:12.270 --> 00:39:14.220 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 857 by Mr. Rush. 00:39:14.220 --> 00:39:16.197 align:middle line:90% Accessibility to open space. 00:39:16.197 --> 00:39:17.530 align:middle line:90% Question comes on the amendment. 00:39:17.530 --> 00:39:19.720 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 00:39:19.720 --> 00:39:22.490 align:middle line:84% Why thank you, Mr. President [INAUDIBLE] 00:39:22.490 --> 00:39:25.070 align:middle line:84% I'm hoping that we can get an explanation 00:39:25.070 --> 00:39:28.100 align:middle line:84% of this particular amendment from the gentleman who 00:39:28.100 --> 00:39:28.610 align:middle line:90% offered it. 00:39:28.610 --> 00:39:31.160 align:middle line:84% We have not heard from him in a little while. 00:39:31.160 --> 00:39:33.780 align:middle line:84% I know he's entering the chamber as we speak. 00:39:33.780 --> 00:39:37.470 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I'm going to ask the Senate be in a brief recess 00:39:37.470 --> 00:39:39.280 align:middle line:84% so that he can actually enter the chamber 00:39:39.280 --> 00:39:40.154 align:middle line:90% and get his bearings. 00:39:40.154 --> 00:39:47.560 align:middle line:90% 00:39:47.560 --> 00:39:50.060 align:middle line:84% The Senate will be in order and debate 00:39:50.060 --> 00:39:51.460 align:middle line:84% will continue on amendment number 00:39:51.460 --> 00:39:56.780 align:middle line:84% 857 offered by the senator from Norfolk and Suffolk, Mr. Rush. 00:39:56.780 --> 00:39:59.210 align:middle line:90% Accessibility to open space. 00:39:59.210 --> 00:40:01.701 align:middle line:84% Chair recognizes the senator from Norfolk and Suffolk, 00:40:01.701 --> 00:40:02.200 align:middle line:90% Mr. Rush. 00:40:02.200 --> 00:40:03.710 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, and through to the members. 00:40:03.710 --> 00:40:06.540 align:middle line:84% And I appreciate the question from minority [INAUDIBLE].. 00:40:06.540 --> 00:40:08.750 align:middle line:90% 00:40:08.750 --> 00:40:11.000 align:middle line:84% I just want to talk a little bit about this amendment. 00:40:11.000 --> 00:40:14.290 align:middle line:84% If this was filed, it would provide $150,000 00:40:14.290 --> 00:40:16.320 align:middle line:84% to an access roadway at the state formerly known 00:40:16.320 --> 00:40:18.300 align:middle line:90% as Medfield State Hospital. 00:40:18.300 --> 00:40:22.390 align:middle line:84% And this was filed at the request of the gentleman 00:40:22.390 --> 00:40:23.976 align:middle line:84% from Walpole who is no longer with us. 00:40:23.976 --> 00:40:25.850 align:middle line:84% This was one of his priorities in the budget, 00:40:25.850 --> 00:40:30.129 align:middle line:84% although he has gone on to big, bigger, and better. 00:40:30.129 --> 00:40:32.420 align:middle line:84% Through our work here in the Senate, the parcel of land 00:40:32.420 --> 00:40:35.300 align:middle line:84% has been transformed from an eyesore along the Charles River 00:40:35.300 --> 00:40:38.560 align:middle line:84% to a serene open space that could be seen by all. 00:40:38.560 --> 00:40:40.740 align:middle line:84% And unfortunately, in its current state, 00:40:40.740 --> 00:40:43.560 align:middle line:84% it cannot be fully enjoyed by anyone with mobility issues 00:40:43.560 --> 00:40:44.660 align:middle line:90% or disabilities. 00:40:44.660 --> 00:40:46.520 align:middle line:84% I'm hopeful that the funding for the roadway 00:40:46.520 --> 00:40:49.360 align:middle line:84% will provide accessibility for all citizens 00:40:49.360 --> 00:40:51.740 align:middle line:84% of the Commonwealth, not just this particular area, 00:40:51.740 --> 00:40:53.070 align:middle line:90% but all citizens to enjoy. 00:40:53.070 --> 00:40:54.990 align:middle line:84% And I hope the amendment is adopted. 00:40:54.990 --> 00:40:56.581 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:40:56.581 --> 00:40:57.830 align:middle line:90% The adoption of the amendment. 00:40:57.830 --> 00:41:00.220 align:middle line:84% All those in favor say aye, opposed no. 00:41:00.220 --> 00:41:01.090 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 00:41:01.090 --> 00:41:02.260 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 00:41:02.260 --> 00:41:04.742 align:middle line:84% Number 858 is a redrafted amendment 00:41:04.742 --> 00:41:07.200 align:middle line:84% offered by the senator from Norfolk, Bristol, and Plymouth, 00:41:07.200 --> 00:41:09.550 align:middle line:84% Mr. Timulty, the title of which the clerk will read. 00:41:09.550 --> 00:41:11.650 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 858 by Mr. Timulty. 00:41:11.650 --> 00:41:14.077 align:middle line:90% Blue Hills Trailside Museum. 00:41:14.077 --> 00:41:15.410 align:middle line:90% Question comes on the amendment. 00:41:15.410 --> 00:41:17.701 align:middle line:84% The chair recognizes the senator from Norfolk, Bristol, 00:41:17.701 --> 00:41:19.690 align:middle line:90% and Plymouth, Mr. Timulty. 00:41:19.690 --> 00:41:22.280 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, and through you to the members. 00:41:22.280 --> 00:41:25.810 align:middle line:84% The Blue Hills Trailside Museum serves as the public window 00:41:25.810 --> 00:41:29.810 align:middle line:84% into the Blue Hills Reservation, a pristine green oasis 00:41:29.810 --> 00:41:32.260 align:middle line:84% just minutes away from downtown Boston. 00:41:32.260 --> 00:41:34.690 align:middle line:90% It spans over 7,000 acres. 00:41:34.690 --> 00:41:36.600 align:middle line:84% As a kid, I looked forward to visits 00:41:36.600 --> 00:41:38.660 align:middle line:84% to the outdoor wildlife exhibits, 00:41:38.660 --> 00:41:41.700 align:middle line:84% spotting the resident otters and snowy owls. 00:41:41.700 --> 00:41:44.030 align:middle line:84% Today, my nieces, nephew, and I join over 00:41:44.030 --> 00:41:47.110 align:middle line:84% 100,000 visitors per year that come 00:41:47.110 --> 00:41:49.700 align:middle line:84% to the Trailside eager to learn more 00:41:49.700 --> 00:41:51.690 align:middle line:84% about the diverse array of wildlife that call 00:41:51.690 --> 00:41:53.700 align:middle line:90% our great commonwealth home. 00:41:53.700 --> 00:41:56.120 align:middle line:84% In addition to the visitors to the exhibits 00:41:56.120 --> 00:41:59.670 align:middle line:84% and the universally accessible nature trails-- 00:41:59.670 --> 00:42:03.230 align:middle line:84% excuse me-- the museum provides over 200 schools per year 00:42:03.230 --> 00:42:05.360 align:middle line:84% with environmental education programming, 00:42:05.360 --> 00:42:08.700 align:middle line:84% both on premise and through school visits. 00:42:08.700 --> 00:42:11.490 align:middle line:84% From exploring the importance of freshwater wetlands 00:42:11.490 --> 00:42:14.900 align:middle line:84% in the outdoor classroom to the up close and personal visits 00:42:14.900 --> 00:42:16.515 align:middle line:84% with one of the seven species of owls 00:42:16.515 --> 00:42:18.140 align:middle line:84% that they now live in the Commonwealth, 00:42:18.140 --> 00:42:22.490 align:middle line:84% these programs bring science textbooks to life, 00:42:22.490 --> 00:42:26.820 align:middle line:84% supplementing classroom learning with hands on experience 00:42:26.820 --> 00:42:30.330 align:middle line:84% sure to be remembered long after a student's elementary school 00:42:30.330 --> 00:42:31.740 align:middle line:90% days. 00:42:31.740 --> 00:42:33.490 align:middle line:84% In short, the Blue Hills Trailside Museum 00:42:33.490 --> 00:42:37.020 align:middle line:84% is a true gem of the Commonwealth, a community asset 00:42:37.020 --> 00:42:40.040 align:middle line:84% that extends its reach far beyond Milton and the Blue 00:42:40.040 --> 00:42:42.990 align:middle line:84% Hills, maybe even someday to Amherst. 00:42:42.990 --> 00:42:46.210 align:middle line:84% That is why losing more than 60% of its funding 00:42:46.210 --> 00:42:48.600 align:middle line:84% as a result of Governor Baker's [INAUDIBLE] cuts 00:42:48.600 --> 00:42:50.940 align:middle line:84% were so disappointing to all of us who 00:42:50.940 --> 00:42:56.410 align:middle line:84% possess such vivid memories of our visits to the Trailside. 00:42:56.410 --> 00:42:58.560 align:middle line:84% Thankfully, this redrafted amendment 00:42:58.560 --> 00:43:03.390 align:middle line:84% will allocate $250,000 for the operations of the museum. 00:43:03.390 --> 00:43:05.990 align:middle line:84% And I am truly thankful to the distinguished gentlelady 00:43:05.990 --> 00:43:09.300 align:middle line:84% from Ashland for her outreach, her efforts, 00:43:09.300 --> 00:43:11.610 align:middle line:84% and her valuable assistance and to several 00:43:11.610 --> 00:43:14.640 align:middle line:84% of my colleagues for sponsoring this original amendment. 00:43:14.640 --> 00:43:17.710 align:middle line:84% While I know that each and every dollar allocated to the museum 00:43:17.710 --> 00:43:19.810 align:middle line:84% will go towards creating new memories, 00:43:19.810 --> 00:43:22.180 align:middle line:84% and providing a window into the world of nature 00:43:22.180 --> 00:43:24.249 align:middle line:84% for all visitors, I will continue, 00:43:24.249 --> 00:43:26.040 align:middle line:84% along with my colleagues here in this room, 00:43:26.040 --> 00:43:30.120 align:middle line:84% to advocate for the museum to receive additional funding. 00:43:30.120 --> 00:43:32.510 align:middle line:84% For these reasons, I hope the amendment is adopted 00:43:32.510 --> 00:43:34.620 align:middle line:90% and I thank you, Mr. President. 00:43:34.620 --> 00:43:38.020 align:middle line:90% In favor say aye, opposed no. 00:43:38.020 --> 00:43:38.810 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 00:43:38.810 --> 00:43:40.080 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 00:43:40.080 --> 00:43:42.150 align:middle line:90% 859 is on hold. 00:43:42.150 --> 00:43:44.740 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 860, an amendment 00:43:44.740 --> 00:43:46.320 align:middle line:84% offered by the Senator from Essex, 00:43:46.320 --> 00:43:49.520 align:middle line:84% Mr. McGee, the title of which the clerk will read. 00:43:49.520 --> 00:43:52.551 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 860 by Mr. McGee, Metropolitan Beaches 00:43:52.551 --> 00:43:53.050 align:middle line:90% Commission. 00:43:53.050 --> 00:43:55.860 align:middle line:90% 00:43:55.860 --> 00:43:58.640 align:middle line:84% Could we find Senator McGee please? 00:43:58.640 --> 00:44:02.220 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 00:44:02.220 --> 00:44:03.320 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:44:03.320 --> 00:44:05.680 align:middle line:84% I'm hoping that the offerer of this amendment 00:44:05.680 --> 00:44:09.650 align:middle line:84% will be able to give us a brief explanation of the Metropolitan 00:44:09.650 --> 00:44:10.940 align:middle line:90% Beaches Commission. 00:44:10.940 --> 00:44:13.170 align:middle line:84% How much money this amendment may 00:44:13.170 --> 00:44:15.050 align:middle line:84% cost the taxpayers of the Commonwealth, 00:44:15.050 --> 00:44:18.651 align:middle line:84% and what its intended effect is on the Metropolitan Beaches 00:44:18.651 --> 00:44:19.150 align:middle line:90% Commission. 00:44:19.150 --> 00:44:22.224 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, I move the Senate be in a brief recess. 00:44:22.224 --> 00:44:22.765 align:middle line:90% Brief recess. 00:44:22.765 --> 00:44:33.200 align:middle line:90% 00:44:33.200 --> 00:44:37.160 align:middle line:84% In order, as we continue debate on Amendment number 860, 00:44:37.160 --> 00:44:41.550 align:middle line:84% the Metropolitan Beaches Commission as 00:44:41.550 --> 00:44:45.410 align:middle line:84% offered by the Senator from Essex, Mr. McGee. 00:44:45.410 --> 00:44:50.200 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator from Essex, Mr. McGee. 00:44:50.200 --> 00:44:56.830 align:middle line:90% 00:44:56.830 --> 00:45:00.740 align:middle line:84% 0500, funds the operation and upkeep of the metropolitan 00:45:00.740 --> 00:45:03.540 align:middle line:84% beaches from [INAUDIBLE] to Nantucket. 00:45:03.540 --> 00:45:06.200 align:middle line:84% Significant improvements have been made on these beaches 00:45:06.200 --> 00:45:08.880 align:middle line:84% as a direct result of the work of the Metropolitan Beaches 00:45:08.880 --> 00:45:10.940 align:middle line:90% Commission, which I co-chair. 00:45:10.940 --> 00:45:13.370 align:middle line:84% And I've worked with members of this body, 00:45:13.370 --> 00:45:16.210 align:middle line:84% both past and present, and other colleagues in the House 00:45:16.210 --> 00:45:17.620 align:middle line:90% of Representatives. 00:45:17.620 --> 00:45:19.280 align:middle line:84% The bipartisan broad based commission 00:45:19.280 --> 00:45:22.830 align:middle line:84% has worked since 2006 with the support of Save the Harbor, 00:45:22.830 --> 00:45:25.550 align:middle line:84% Save the Bay to improve the quality of our beaches, 00:45:25.550 --> 00:45:27.930 align:middle line:84% to promote tourism, economic growth, 00:45:27.930 --> 00:45:31.610 align:middle line:84% and recreational opportunities, and improve quality of life 00:45:31.610 --> 00:45:33.440 align:middle line:90% for residents along the coast. 00:45:33.440 --> 00:45:35.380 align:middle line:84% As a result of a sustained commitment 00:45:35.380 --> 00:45:37.740 align:middle line:84% to protect, preserve, and promote 00:45:37.740 --> 00:45:40.140 align:middle line:84% the natural resources of our coastline, 00:45:40.140 --> 00:45:43.470 align:middle line:84% the metropolitan beaches have become destination attractions 00:45:43.470 --> 00:45:46.620 align:middle line:84% to the community through concerts, festivals, 00:45:46.620 --> 00:45:49.810 align:middle line:84% and other opportunities for being 00:45:49.810 --> 00:45:52.310 align:middle line:84% able to enjoy those beautiful resources. 00:45:52.310 --> 00:45:57.039 align:middle line:84% Close to 1.5 million people live within 25 minutes or a half 00:45:57.039 --> 00:45:58.080 align:middle line:90% an hour of these beaches. 00:45:58.080 --> 00:46:00.630 align:middle line:90% 00:46:00.630 --> 00:46:02.980 align:middle line:84% Funding for programs enhances and diversifies 00:46:02.980 --> 00:46:05.800 align:middle line:90% the beaches users experience. 00:46:05.800 --> 00:46:07.630 align:middle line:84% Funding for improved ground maintenance 00:46:07.630 --> 00:46:10.490 align:middle line:84% has made the beaches a prime recreational outlet 00:46:10.490 --> 00:46:11.440 align:middle line:90% for residents. 00:46:11.440 --> 00:46:14.100 align:middle line:84% Specific funding is included in this line 00:46:14.100 --> 00:46:18.140 align:middle line:84% item for removal of the rare paella algae and [INAUDIBLE].. 00:46:18.140 --> 00:46:20.540 align:middle line:84% Funding for the removal of the algae 00:46:20.540 --> 00:46:23.380 align:middle line:84% in the past several budgets has had a tremendous impact 00:46:23.380 --> 00:46:25.850 align:middle line:84% on making that stretch of coastline, which 00:46:25.850 --> 00:46:28.810 align:middle line:84% is in my district, accessible and attractive 00:46:28.810 --> 00:46:32.640 align:middle line:84% for residents, tourists, and programs for inner city youth. 00:46:32.640 --> 00:46:34.820 align:middle line:84% Without removing the algae, the beaches 00:46:34.820 --> 00:46:37.090 align:middle line:84% become unusable in the prime of the summer, 00:46:37.090 --> 00:46:40.420 align:middle line:84% when temperatures reach into the 80s and 90s, 00:46:40.420 --> 00:46:46.170 align:middle line:84% and the algae bakes on the beach and creates a really unbearable 00:46:46.170 --> 00:46:48.820 align:middle line:84% smell, and diminishes the recreational value 00:46:48.820 --> 00:46:51.480 align:middle line:84% of the beaches for all who live and work on the North Shore. 00:46:51.480 --> 00:46:52.900 align:middle line:90% I appreciate your listening. 00:46:52.900 --> 00:46:54.340 align:middle line:90% This is an important amendment. 00:46:54.340 --> 00:46:55.890 align:middle line:90% And I hope that it is accepted. 00:46:55.890 --> 00:46:58.000 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:46:58.000 --> 00:47:00.980 align:middle line:84% The amendment, all those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 00:47:00.980 --> 00:47:01.930 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 00:47:01.930 --> 00:47:03.104 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 00:47:03.104 --> 00:47:05.020 align:middle line:84% The Chair would announce that Amendment number 00:47:05.020 --> 00:47:08.120 align:middle line:90% 698 has been withdrawn. 00:47:08.120 --> 00:47:10.020 align:middle line:84% And if there's no objection, we'll 00:47:10.020 --> 00:47:11.960 align:middle line:90% take one amendment out of order. 00:47:11.960 --> 00:47:16.160 align:middle line:84% It's amendment number 1020 offered by the Senator 00:47:16.160 --> 00:47:18.260 align:middle line:84% from Hampden and Hampshire, Mr. Lesser. 00:47:18.260 --> 00:47:19.950 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection? 00:47:19.950 --> 00:47:22.020 align:middle line:90% The Chair hears none. 00:47:22.020 --> 00:47:24.540 align:middle line:90% The clerk will read the title. 00:47:24.540 --> 00:47:27.590 align:middle line:84% Amendment 1020 by Mr. Lesser, Springfield to Boston 00:47:27.590 --> 00:47:30.291 align:middle line:84% high Speed Rail Feasibility Study. 00:47:30.291 --> 00:47:31.790 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the amendment. 00:47:31.790 --> 00:47:34.289 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator from Hampden and Hampshire, 00:47:34.289 --> 00:47:34.890 align:middle line:90% Mr. Lesser. 00:47:34.890 --> 00:47:39.050 align:middle line:90% 00:47:39.050 --> 00:47:42.730 align:middle line:84% In support of Amendment 1020, this amendment 00:47:42.730 --> 00:47:46.110 align:middle line:84% would instruct the Massachusetts Department of Transportation 00:47:46.110 --> 00:47:50.430 align:middle line:84% to conduct a feasibility study of high speed rail access 00:47:50.430 --> 00:47:53.400 align:middle line:90% between Springfield and Boston. 00:47:53.400 --> 00:47:55.590 align:middle line:84% This project has the potential to be 00:47:55.590 --> 00:47:59.570 align:middle line:84% among the most transformational our commonwealth has ever 00:47:59.570 --> 00:48:00.930 align:middle line:90% undertaken. 00:48:00.930 --> 00:48:05.820 align:middle line:84% We all speak with great pride about the recent "US News 00:48:05.820 --> 00:48:08.130 align:middle line:84% and World Report" ranking of Massachusetts 00:48:08.130 --> 00:48:10.510 align:middle line:84% as the number one state in the union. 00:48:10.510 --> 00:48:12.270 align:middle line:84% We should be proud of that accomplishment. 00:48:12.270 --> 00:48:14.250 align:middle line:84% It's the result of much work that's 00:48:14.250 --> 00:48:17.600 align:middle line:84% been done in this chamber, our colleagues in the House, 00:48:17.600 --> 00:48:19.950 align:middle line:84% and our Governor, to make Massachusetts 00:48:19.950 --> 00:48:23.110 align:middle line:90% the envy of the world. 00:48:23.110 --> 00:48:26.670 align:middle line:84% But there's another story behind that ranking. 00:48:26.670 --> 00:48:29.270 align:middle line:84% And there's another story behind much 00:48:29.270 --> 00:48:32.940 align:middle line:84% of the progress Massachusetts has seen. 00:48:32.940 --> 00:48:38.280 align:middle line:84% And that's if you leave the 617 area code of Massachusetts, 00:48:38.280 --> 00:48:41.030 align:middle line:84% there are many areas of our commonwealth 00:48:41.030 --> 00:48:42.900 align:middle line:90% that have been falling behind. 00:48:42.900 --> 00:48:47.020 align:middle line:84% Mine, for one, used to be a great manufacturing center. 00:48:47.020 --> 00:48:51.440 align:middle line:84% It has now seen those factories close, seeing those businesses 00:48:51.440 --> 00:48:53.930 align:middle line:84% move elsewhere and many of our families 00:48:53.930 --> 00:48:55.600 align:middle line:84% worry about their children's ability 00:48:55.600 --> 00:48:59.660 align:middle line:84% to stay and raise their families and prosper in the communities 00:48:59.660 --> 00:49:04.170 align:middle line:84% where they themselves grew up, and lived, and worked. 00:49:04.170 --> 00:49:06.610 align:middle line:84% Frankly, everyone talks about this. 00:49:06.610 --> 00:49:07.950 align:middle line:90% Everyone says this. 00:49:07.950 --> 00:49:10.030 align:middle line:84% Politicians on the left and the right, 00:49:10.030 --> 00:49:14.130 align:middle line:84% Democrats and Republicans alike, talk about this changing 00:49:14.130 --> 00:49:17.820 align:middle line:84% economy, an economy where a 19-year-old who 00:49:17.820 --> 00:49:21.910 align:middle line:84% develops an iPhone app can become a billionaire overnight, 00:49:21.910 --> 00:49:26.520 align:middle line:84% but millions of other families feel left behind and left out. 00:49:26.520 --> 00:49:30.120 align:middle line:84% Unless we act, unless we take bold action, 00:49:30.120 --> 00:49:33.300 align:middle line:84% unless we have ambition in our proposals, 00:49:33.300 --> 00:49:37.300 align:middle line:84% those words and those peons to the middle class 00:49:37.300 --> 00:49:41.870 align:middle line:84% fall on deaf ears, and frankly are ineffectual. 00:49:41.870 --> 00:49:44.060 align:middle line:90% Boston right now is booming. 00:49:44.060 --> 00:49:46.930 align:middle line:84% If you walk outside that door, you 00:49:46.930 --> 00:49:50.100 align:middle line:84% can't throw a baseball without hitting a construction crane. 00:49:50.100 --> 00:49:52.080 align:middle line:90% And that's a good thing. 00:49:52.080 --> 00:49:55.630 align:middle line:84% Western Mass and the people of Central and Western Mass, 00:49:55.630 --> 00:49:57.500 align:middle line:84% and the north coast and the south coast 00:49:57.500 --> 00:50:01.250 align:middle line:84% have supported and stood by this chamber, and this body, 00:50:01.250 --> 00:50:03.580 align:middle line:84% and this building's initiatives to build 00:50:03.580 --> 00:50:05.630 align:middle line:90% that prosperity in Boston. 00:50:05.630 --> 00:50:08.450 align:middle line:84% Our taxes paid for the big dig also. 00:50:08.450 --> 00:50:12.090 align:middle line:84% Our taxes pay for the green line extension also. 00:50:12.090 --> 00:50:16.870 align:middle line:84% Our taxes and our investment help lift all boats in Boston, 00:50:16.870 --> 00:50:18.140 align:middle line:90% and we proudly do it. 00:50:18.140 --> 00:50:21.260 align:middle line:84% We're ready to step up and pay our fair share, because we 00:50:21.260 --> 00:50:23.780 align:middle line:84% understand how important the Boston Metro 00:50:23.780 --> 00:50:28.560 align:middle line:84% area is to supporting the commonwealth as a whole. 00:50:28.560 --> 00:50:30.530 align:middle line:84% But quite frankly, at the same time, 00:50:30.530 --> 00:50:33.610 align:middle line:84% we weren't doing our part to invest 00:50:33.610 --> 00:50:35.820 align:middle line:84% in eastern Massachusetts, families 00:50:35.820 --> 00:50:38.970 align:middle line:84% in our part of the state we're struggling. 00:50:38.970 --> 00:50:43.760 align:middle line:84% We are ready to do our part to help the prosperity in Boston, 00:50:43.760 --> 00:50:48.040 align:middle line:84% but we do want and expect fairness in return. 00:50:48.040 --> 00:50:52.240 align:middle line:84% And the nice thing about this is it will help everyone 00:50:52.240 --> 00:50:56.110 align:middle line:84% in Massachusetts, if we take a holistic view of growth 00:50:56.110 --> 00:50:57.640 align:middle line:90% in our commonwealth. 00:50:57.640 --> 00:51:01.130 align:middle line:84% Because this project has the potential to help both 00:51:01.130 --> 00:51:04.330 align:middle line:84% ends of Massachusetts through a truly transformational 00:51:04.330 --> 00:51:05.390 align:middle line:90% exchange. 00:51:05.390 --> 00:51:09.150 align:middle line:84% The single biggest challenge facing the Boston metro area 00:51:09.150 --> 00:51:11.390 align:middle line:84% is the out-of-control cost of living, 00:51:11.390 --> 00:51:13.690 align:middle line:84% the out-of-control cost of housing, 00:51:13.690 --> 00:51:19.820 align:middle line:84% and the asphyxiating and strangling congestion 00:51:19.820 --> 00:51:22.910 align:middle line:84% and density issues that we have in this area. 00:51:22.910 --> 00:51:25.410 align:middle line:84% Many of our colleagues have spoken very eloquently 00:51:25.410 --> 00:51:27.770 align:middle line:84% over these three days about those crushing 00:51:27.770 --> 00:51:31.650 align:middle line:84% burdens of rising housing costs, rising costs of living. 00:51:31.650 --> 00:51:35.360 align:middle line:84% We have an inverse challenge in Western Massachusetts 00:51:35.360 --> 00:51:36.940 align:middle line:90% and in Central Massachusetts. 00:51:36.940 --> 00:51:38.170 align:middle line:90% We have great housing. 00:51:38.170 --> 00:51:39.770 align:middle line:90% We have affordable living. 00:51:39.770 --> 00:51:43.140 align:middle line:84% We have a good cost of living and a good quality of life. 00:51:43.140 --> 00:51:47.380 align:middle line:84% But we don't have access to the same high quality, high paying 00:51:47.380 --> 00:51:48.260 align:middle line:90% jobs. 00:51:48.260 --> 00:51:50.960 align:middle line:90% So an exchange will happen. 00:51:50.960 --> 00:51:54.440 align:middle line:84% Through good reliable, high speed commuter trains, 00:51:54.440 --> 00:51:58.070 align:middle line:84% we will be able to give Western Massachusetts and Central 00:51:58.070 --> 00:52:01.040 align:middle line:84% Massachusetts access to those high paying jobs. 00:52:01.040 --> 00:52:03.760 align:middle line:84% And we will be able to give Boston residents and greater 00:52:03.760 --> 00:52:07.140 align:middle line:84% Boston residents access to a more affordable way 00:52:07.140 --> 00:52:09.370 align:middle line:90% to live and get to work. 00:52:09.370 --> 00:52:11.460 align:middle line:84% That's why the Boston Chamber of Commerce 00:52:11.460 --> 00:52:12.730 align:middle line:90% supports this initiative. 00:52:12.730 --> 00:52:14.880 align:middle line:84% That's why businesses and organizations 00:52:14.880 --> 00:52:18.740 align:middle line:84% at every stop across our commonwealth 00:52:18.740 --> 00:52:21.450 align:middle line:90% support this initiative. 00:52:21.450 --> 00:52:24.610 align:middle line:84% I would just close, Mr. President by saying this. 00:52:24.610 --> 00:52:27.190 align:middle line:90% Yes, it's an ambitious project. 00:52:27.190 --> 00:52:30.930 align:middle line:84% Yes, it would likely be an expensive project. 00:52:30.930 --> 00:52:34.030 align:middle line:84% And when you take on big, ambitious, and potentially 00:52:34.030 --> 00:52:36.080 align:middle line:84% expensive things, there are a lot 00:52:36.080 --> 00:52:38.372 align:middle line:90% of people that like to nay-say. 00:52:38.372 --> 00:52:39.830 align:middle line:84% There are a lot of people that like 00:52:39.830 --> 00:52:41.930 align:middle line:84% to doubt these projects before they even 00:52:41.930 --> 00:52:45.560 align:middle line:84% get the oxygen to have serious consideration. 00:52:45.560 --> 00:52:48.180 align:middle line:84% So something I would say is to think about this from a little 00:52:48.180 --> 00:52:52.290 align:middle line:84% bit of a different perspective, which is that we cannot afford 00:52:52.290 --> 00:52:54.450 align:middle line:90% not to do this. 00:52:54.450 --> 00:52:58.310 align:middle line:84% We cannot afford not to take on this initiative. 00:52:58.310 --> 00:53:01.350 align:middle line:84% Because what is the cost to our commonwealth? 00:53:01.350 --> 00:53:05.440 align:middle line:84% If we continue to vacuum out our communities outside 00:53:05.440 --> 00:53:10.280 align:middle line:84% of the 617 area code, and forget about communities and families 00:53:10.280 --> 00:53:13.410 align:middle line:84% that are struggling in this modern economy. 00:53:13.410 --> 00:53:15.910 align:middle line:90% We have to take this on. 00:53:15.910 --> 00:53:18.950 align:middle line:84% Our commonwealth will not continue to be number one, 00:53:18.950 --> 00:53:21.520 align:middle line:84% will not continue to succeed until we 00:53:21.520 --> 00:53:25.640 align:middle line:84% do the bold, ambitious things we all need to do collectively 00:53:25.640 --> 00:53:27.800 align:middle line:84% to make sure that no matter where 00:53:27.800 --> 00:53:32.160 align:middle line:84% you live in Massachusetts, no matter what part of this state 00:53:32.160 --> 00:53:35.270 align:middle line:84% you were born in, you have the same shot at living out 00:53:35.270 --> 00:53:38.270 align:middle line:84% your God given potential as everyone else. 00:53:38.270 --> 00:53:41.670 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I appreciate and I thank our chamber 00:53:41.670 --> 00:53:44.840 align:middle line:84% for supporting this initiative, now two years in a row. 00:53:44.840 --> 00:53:46.990 align:middle line:84% Hopefully, this will be the third year in a row. 00:53:46.990 --> 00:53:49.460 align:middle line:84% We will keep at it, because it is so important. 00:53:49.460 --> 00:53:50.945 align:middle line:84% And I ask when a vote is recorded, 00:53:50.945 --> 00:53:53.070 align:middle line:84% we do so with a talllying of the yeas and the nays. 00:53:53.070 --> 00:53:54.010 align:middle line:84% The matter to be taken will be taken 00:53:54.010 --> 00:53:55.040 align:middle line:84% by a call of the yeahs and the nays. 00:53:55.040 --> 00:53:56.873 align:middle line:84% Those joining with him, rise and be counted. 00:53:56.873 --> 00:53:59.599 align:middle line:84% A sufficient number having arisen, when the vote is taken, 00:53:59.599 --> 00:54:01.890 align:middle line:84% it will indeed be taken by a call of the yeas and nays. 00:54:01.890 --> 00:54:05.730 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator from Hampden and Hampshire, 00:54:05.730 --> 00:54:06.619 align:middle line:90% Mr. Humanson. 00:54:06.619 --> 00:54:07.660 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:54:07.660 --> 00:54:08.860 align:middle line:84% Good afternoon, ladies and gentleman 00:54:08.860 --> 00:54:09.776 align:middle line:90% and other [INAUDIBLE]. 00:54:09.776 --> 00:54:12.280 align:middle line:84% Thank you to the previous gentleman who spoke before me. 00:54:12.280 --> 00:54:15.322 align:middle line:84% This has been almost a singular cause of his since the time 00:54:15.322 --> 00:54:16.530 align:middle line:90% he came into the legislature. 00:54:16.530 --> 00:54:18.610 align:middle line:84% And he speaks well on behalf of us 00:54:18.610 --> 00:54:21.670 align:middle line:84% in Western Massachusetts in the 413 area code. 00:54:21.670 --> 00:54:24.980 align:middle line:84% I hear from individuals in my district, the second Hampden 00:54:24.980 --> 00:54:29.220 align:middle line:84% and Hampshire, almost every day, when is rail coming to us, 00:54:29.220 --> 00:54:31.120 align:middle line:84% so that we, who live in Western Mass, 00:54:31.120 --> 00:54:33.990 align:middle line:84% can take advantage of the economic largess 00:54:33.990 --> 00:54:36.710 align:middle line:84% here in the eastern part of the state. 00:54:36.710 --> 00:54:41.380 align:middle line:84% We have, as the gentleman said, so many good things in Western 00:54:41.380 --> 00:54:45.080 align:middle line:84% Massachusetts, a great quality of life, many, many-- 00:54:45.080 --> 00:54:47.820 align:middle line:84% much housing stock, low housing costs, 00:54:47.820 --> 00:54:53.510 align:middle line:84% things that are very beneficial, to the east and the west. 00:54:53.510 --> 00:54:55.780 align:middle line:84% But it is important that we undertake 00:54:55.780 --> 00:54:59.670 align:middle line:84% this study, which I expect to be extremely comprehensive, as it 00:54:59.670 --> 00:55:00.530 align:middle line:90% should be. 00:55:00.530 --> 00:55:03.550 align:middle line:84% Because of if rail from Western Mass-- 00:55:03.550 --> 00:55:05.810 align:middle line:84% Eastern Mass to Western Mass is to take place, 00:55:05.810 --> 00:55:07.830 align:middle line:84% we have to look at many, many factors, 00:55:07.830 --> 00:55:12.940 align:middle line:84% including the cost, the subsidy, and all the other things 00:55:12.940 --> 00:55:17.390 align:middle line:84% that you and I, as stewards of the public tax 00:55:17.390 --> 00:55:19.960 align:middle line:84% dollars have to be concerned about. 00:55:19.960 --> 00:55:21.570 align:middle line:84% But as I said, this is an issue that 00:55:21.570 --> 00:55:24.230 align:middle line:84% is important to people that live in my district. 00:55:24.230 --> 00:55:26.380 align:middle line:84% And one that I have been happy to support. 00:55:26.380 --> 00:55:28.240 align:middle line:84% As the gentleman said, this is an issue 00:55:28.240 --> 00:55:31.560 align:middle line:84% that this Senate has supported several times. 00:55:31.560 --> 00:55:34.010 align:middle line:84% I know we will do so again today. 00:55:34.010 --> 00:55:36.050 align:middle line:84% I look forward to getting this passed so 00:55:36.050 --> 00:55:37.450 align:middle line:90% that the study can take place. 00:55:37.450 --> 00:55:41.260 align:middle line:84% So that we can know all those things that are not known now, 00:55:41.260 --> 00:55:45.370 align:middle line:84% and begin to plan, if this is to become a reality, for what it 00:55:45.370 --> 00:55:48.450 align:middle line:84% will take for the commonwealth to have east-west rail. 00:55:48.450 --> 00:55:50.700 align:middle line:84% Again, thank you to the gentleman who spoke before me. 00:55:50.700 --> 00:55:51.990 align:middle line:90% Thank you for his advocacy. 00:55:51.990 --> 00:55:53.270 align:middle line:84% And ladies and gentlemen of the Senate, 00:55:53.270 --> 00:55:55.500 align:middle line:84% thank you for your support of this amendment as well. 00:55:55.500 --> 00:55:56.510 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 00:55:56.510 --> 00:55:58.718 align:middle line:84% From Worcester, Hampden and Hampshire, and Middlesex, 00:55:58.718 --> 00:55:59.760 align:middle line:90% Ms. Gobi. 00:55:59.760 --> 00:56:02.670 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, and to the two senators 00:56:02.670 --> 00:56:04.200 align:middle line:90% that spoke before. 00:56:04.200 --> 00:56:05.970 align:middle line:84% One thing that people might not know, 00:56:05.970 --> 00:56:09.130 align:middle line:84% in 1960, there were five trains a day 00:56:09.130 --> 00:56:11.610 align:middle line:84% that went from Springfield to Boston. 00:56:11.610 --> 00:56:16.460 align:middle line:84% If you go to my town of Palmer, and if you're at the Steaming 00:56:16.460 --> 00:56:21.780 align:middle line:84% Tender Restaurant, and you will see there a restored train 00:56:21.780 --> 00:56:22.310 align:middle line:90% station. 00:56:22.310 --> 00:56:25.680 align:middle line:84% And you will see the four way stops. 00:56:25.680 --> 00:56:26.820 align:middle line:90% You know what you also see? 00:56:26.820 --> 00:56:28.790 align:middle line:90% You'll see trains go by all day. 00:56:28.790 --> 00:56:31.690 align:middle line:84% The freight trains go by all day long. 00:56:31.690 --> 00:56:35.810 align:middle line:84% There are Amtrak trains that go by, including a train that 00:56:35.810 --> 00:56:37.434 align:middle line:90% goes from Boston to Chicago. 00:56:37.434 --> 00:56:38.600 align:middle line:90% You know what you won't see? 00:56:38.600 --> 00:56:40.190 align:middle line:90% You won't see them stop. 00:56:40.190 --> 00:56:43.180 align:middle line:84% You won't see them pick up passengers. 00:56:43.180 --> 00:56:47.760 align:middle line:84% And from what you have heard, we need regional equity. 00:56:47.760 --> 00:56:49.690 align:middle line:90% There's no reason for this. 00:56:49.690 --> 00:56:51.610 align:middle line:90% We're not starting from scratch. 00:56:51.610 --> 00:56:54.190 align:middle line:90% The tracks are there. 00:56:54.190 --> 00:56:55.530 align:middle line:90% They're there. 00:56:55.530 --> 00:56:57.000 align:middle line:90% They need to be updated. 00:56:57.000 --> 00:56:58.390 align:middle line:90% They need to be high speed. 00:56:58.390 --> 00:56:59.930 align:middle line:90% And there's no reason. 00:56:59.930 --> 00:57:02.550 align:middle line:84% This Senate, as we went around the state 00:57:02.550 --> 00:57:04.940 align:middle line:84% and listened to the commonwealth conversations, 00:57:04.940 --> 00:57:07.380 align:middle line:84% we know that we're number one in education. 00:57:07.380 --> 00:57:09.430 align:middle line:84% Remember where we were in transportation? 00:57:09.430 --> 00:57:10.910 align:middle line:90% I think 47th. 00:57:10.910 --> 00:57:12.590 align:middle line:90% What do people say? 00:57:12.590 --> 00:57:13.930 align:middle line:90% Rail. 00:57:13.930 --> 00:57:15.700 align:middle line:90% We've listened. 00:57:15.700 --> 00:57:16.970 align:middle line:90% The Senate has listened. 00:57:16.970 --> 00:57:18.880 align:middle line:90% The Governor needs to listen. 00:57:18.880 --> 00:57:21.260 align:middle line:84% The other people in the state need to listen. 00:57:21.260 --> 00:57:23.490 align:middle line:84% And we have to bite the bullet on this. 00:57:23.490 --> 00:57:28.050 align:middle line:84% The silver bullet, and get that train, high speed train 00:57:28.050 --> 00:57:29.260 align:middle line:90% from Springfield to Boston. 00:57:29.260 --> 00:57:33.920 align:middle line:90% 00:57:33.920 --> 00:57:35.630 align:middle line:90% Ms. Chandler. 00:57:35.630 --> 00:57:37.460 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, and through you to the body, 00:57:37.460 --> 00:57:39.880 align:middle line:84% my colleagues have spoken so eloquently, 00:57:39.880 --> 00:57:42.630 align:middle line:84% but I would like to add my words to this as well. 00:57:42.630 --> 00:57:46.210 align:middle line:84% This is such an important issue in Central Massachusetts, as 00:57:46.210 --> 00:57:48.110 align:middle line:90% well as Western Massachusetts. 00:57:48.110 --> 00:57:52.140 align:middle line:84% Here we are, such an important state, such a critical state, 00:57:52.140 --> 00:57:54.880 align:middle line:84% and we have no way of really getting 00:57:54.880 --> 00:57:59.500 align:middle line:84% from Boston to the western part of our state, or vice versa. 00:57:59.500 --> 00:58:02.400 align:middle line:84% This is crazy, in this day and age, 00:58:02.400 --> 00:58:03.700 align:middle line:90% that we're in this position. 00:58:03.700 --> 00:58:05.680 align:middle line:90% And we've been here so long. 00:58:05.680 --> 00:58:08.010 align:middle line:84% I would suggest that it is not just 00:58:08.010 --> 00:58:12.590 align:middle line:84% to help Western Mass come into the Boston 617 area. 00:58:12.590 --> 00:58:15.840 align:middle line:84% It will make such a difference to Central Massachusetts 00:58:15.840 --> 00:58:16.590 align:middle line:90% as well. 00:58:16.590 --> 00:58:19.980 align:middle line:84% First of all, it will bring all three of our major cities 00:58:19.980 --> 00:58:20.700 align:middle line:90% together. 00:58:20.700 --> 00:58:23.920 align:middle line:84% And give economic growth opportunities 00:58:23.920 --> 00:58:25.620 align:middle line:90% that they don't have right now. 00:58:25.620 --> 00:58:28.610 align:middle line:84% And it's not just helping the western part of the state. 00:58:28.610 --> 00:58:31.370 align:middle line:84% It's not just helping the central part of the state. 00:58:31.370 --> 00:58:36.340 align:middle line:84% Whatever we do for those two areas really helps everyone. 00:58:36.340 --> 00:58:40.820 align:middle line:84% As our colleague from Longmeadow has said, 00:58:40.820 --> 00:58:43.320 align:middle line:90% a rising tide helps all boats. 00:58:43.320 --> 00:58:46.650 align:middle line:90% 00:58:46.650 --> 00:58:50.070 align:middle line:84% It is high time that the tide rises here. 00:58:50.070 --> 00:58:53.780 align:middle line:84% Anybody who has been on our Mass Turnpike 00:58:53.780 --> 00:58:56.300 align:middle line:84% recently knows that is not the way that we're 00:58:56.300 --> 00:58:58.080 align:middle line:90% going to make this connection. 00:58:58.080 --> 00:59:00.280 align:middle line:84% That is not the way we're going to really encourage 00:59:00.280 --> 00:59:01.470 align:middle line:90% economic development. 00:59:01.470 --> 00:59:04.100 align:middle line:84% It's overcrowded, it's not-- we don't 00:59:04.100 --> 00:59:05.880 align:middle line:84% have the opportunities to develop that 00:59:05.880 --> 00:59:07.800 align:middle line:90% as fully as we need to. 00:59:07.800 --> 00:59:11.340 align:middle line:84% So I would say let's do this, let's be bold, 00:59:11.340 --> 00:59:14.350 align:middle line:84% let's be smart about this, and let's get it done. 00:59:14.350 --> 00:59:16.550 align:middle line:84% And let's do whatever we have to do to make 00:59:16.550 --> 00:59:17.960 align:middle line:90% sure we keep it in conference. 00:59:17.960 --> 00:59:19.050 align:middle line:90% It's very important. 00:59:19.050 --> 00:59:24.690 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Middlesex, Ms. Spilka. 00:59:24.690 --> 00:59:27.560 align:middle line:84% I too just want to take a moment to lend 00:59:27.560 --> 00:59:30.210 align:middle line:90% my support to this amendment. 00:59:30.210 --> 00:59:33.900 align:middle line:84% We are woefully behind our infrastructure funding. 00:59:33.900 --> 00:59:38.170 align:middle line:84% And my sons go traveling, more than I do. 00:59:38.170 --> 00:59:40.010 align:middle line:84% I wish I could travel the way they do. 00:59:40.010 --> 00:59:42.780 align:middle line:84% They come back from all corners of the world, 00:59:42.780 --> 00:59:47.070 align:middle line:84% talking about the infrastructure other countries are investing 00:59:47.070 --> 00:59:50.770 align:middle line:84% in, and particularly have noted that high speed rail, 00:59:50.770 --> 00:59:54.490 align:middle line:84% whether it be to get across Korea or other countries. 00:59:54.490 --> 00:59:59.840 align:middle line:84% And just amazed at how much we lack in infrastructure. 00:59:59.840 --> 01:00:02.280 align:middle line:90% So it is beyond time. 01:00:02.280 --> 01:00:05.720 align:middle line:84% We should have high speed rail on the Northeast coast, 01:00:05.720 --> 01:00:08.050 align:middle line:84% Massachusetts should be a part of it. 01:00:08.050 --> 01:00:11.620 align:middle line:84% But I am happy to say that this amendment will also 01:00:11.620 --> 01:00:13.850 align:middle line:90% take into account some-- 01:00:13.850 --> 01:00:16.100 align:middle line:84% there are two at grade crossings, 01:00:16.100 --> 01:00:18.700 align:middle line:90% notably both within my district. 01:00:18.700 --> 01:00:21.160 align:middle line:84% One at Framingham, one at Ashland, 01:00:21.160 --> 01:00:24.400 align:middle line:84% which we cannot have high speed rail if we have at grade 01:00:24.400 --> 01:00:27.200 align:middle line:84% crossings that the trains must stop, dead stop, 01:00:27.200 --> 01:00:29.240 align:middle line:90% in order to keep going. 01:00:29.240 --> 01:00:31.010 align:middle line:84% So we have one in Framingham and then 01:00:31.010 --> 01:00:33.800 align:middle line:84% just a couple miles later, in Ashland. 01:00:33.800 --> 01:00:36.530 align:middle line:84% We need to take care and do something 01:00:36.530 --> 01:00:38.430 align:middle line:90% about these at grade crossings. 01:00:38.430 --> 01:00:42.320 align:middle line:84% So I urge everybody to please support this amendment. 01:00:42.320 --> 01:00:42.830 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 01:00:42.830 --> 01:00:47.330 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, and through you to the members. 01:00:47.330 --> 01:00:49.652 align:middle line:84% I would like to start by commending the senator 01:00:49.652 --> 01:00:52.110 align:middle line:84% from Hampden and Hampshire for his consistent and effective 01:00:52.110 --> 01:00:54.010 align:middle line:90% work on this critical issue. 01:00:54.010 --> 01:00:57.090 align:middle line:84% I used my first opportunity to speak to this chamber 01:00:57.090 --> 01:00:59.200 align:middle line:84% to talk about the importance of investing 01:00:59.200 --> 01:01:01.550 align:middle line:84% in our infrastructure and our transportation 01:01:01.550 --> 01:01:03.600 align:middle line:84% as a means for bringing opportunity 01:01:03.600 --> 01:01:07.330 align:middle line:84% to every corner of the state, and for connecting workers 01:01:07.330 --> 01:01:10.200 align:middle line:84% and our residents to economic centers nearby. 01:01:10.200 --> 01:01:12.580 align:middle line:84% And this is at the center of that effort. 01:01:12.580 --> 01:01:15.079 align:middle line:84% Its one reason why I'm in favor of it today. 01:01:15.079 --> 01:01:17.120 align:middle line:84% It's the reason why I co-sponsored the amendment. 01:01:17.120 --> 01:01:19.040 align:middle line:84% And it's another reason why I hope that this is just 01:01:19.040 --> 01:01:19.760 align:middle line:90% the beginning. 01:01:19.760 --> 01:01:22.810 align:middle line:84% Because quite honestly, it's most effective 01:01:22.810 --> 01:01:24.510 align:middle line:84% if we see it using the existing trail, 01:01:24.510 --> 01:01:27.980 align:middle line:84% we go from Boston to Springfield and onto the Berkshires 01:01:27.980 --> 01:01:31.310 align:middle line:84% in Pittsfield, and even to Albany and innovation centers 01:01:31.310 --> 01:01:32.847 align:middle line:90% in upstate New York. 01:01:32.847 --> 01:01:33.930 align:middle line:90% But this is a great start. 01:01:33.930 --> 01:01:35.096 align:middle line:90% It's where we need to start. 01:01:35.096 --> 01:01:38.910 align:middle line:84% And I look forward to continuing work on this, Mr. President. 01:01:38.910 --> 01:01:40.400 align:middle line:84% Yeas and nays having been ordered, 01:01:40.400 --> 01:01:42.900 align:middle line:84% the clerk will call the, roll beginning with the Chair. 01:01:42.900 --> 01:01:53.960 align:middle line:90% 01:01:53.960 --> 01:01:54.580 align:middle line:90% Rosenberg? 01:01:54.580 --> 01:01:55.080 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:01:55.080 --> 01:01:55.580 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:01:55.580 --> 01:01:58.050 align:middle line:90% 01:01:58.050 --> 01:01:59.130 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Barrett? 01:01:59.130 --> 01:02:07.520 align:middle line:90% 01:02:07.520 --> 01:02:08.640 align:middle line:90% Joseph A. Boncore? 01:02:08.640 --> 01:02:09.730 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:09.730 --> 01:02:12.100 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:12.100 --> 01:02:13.060 align:middle line:90% Michael D. Brady? 01:02:13.060 --> 01:02:16.630 align:middle line:90% 01:02:16.630 --> 01:02:18.450 align:middle line:90% William N. Brownsberger? 01:02:18.450 --> 01:02:19.320 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:19.320 --> 01:02:19.820 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:19.820 --> 01:02:21.200 align:middle line:90% Harriette L. Chandler? 01:02:21.200 --> 01:02:22.750 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:22.750 --> 01:02:24.650 align:middle line:90% Sonia Chang-Diaz? 01:02:24.650 --> 01:02:26.560 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:26.560 --> 01:02:27.820 align:middle line:90% Cynthia Stone Creem? 01:02:27.820 --> 01:02:28.330 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:28.330 --> 01:02:30.010 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:30.010 --> 01:02:30.680 align:middle line:90% Julian Cyr? 01:02:30.680 --> 01:02:31.440 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:31.440 --> 01:02:32.850 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:32.850 --> 01:02:34.850 align:middle line:90% Viriato M. deMacedo? 01:02:34.850 --> 01:02:35.350 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:35.350 --> 01:02:36.510 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:36.510 --> 01:02:38.670 align:middle line:90% Sal N. DiDomenico? 01:02:38.670 --> 01:02:39.170 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:39.170 --> 01:02:40.790 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:40.790 --> 01:02:42.650 align:middle line:90% Eileen M. Donoghue? 01:02:42.650 --> 01:02:43.150 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:43.150 --> 01:02:44.140 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:44.140 --> 01:02:45.970 align:middle line:90% James B. Eldrigde? 01:02:45.970 --> 01:02:48.090 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:48.090 --> 01:02:48.990 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:48.990 --> 01:02:50.230 align:middle line:90% Ryan C. Fattman? 01:02:50.230 --> 01:02:50.730 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:50.730 --> 01:02:52.350 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:52.350 --> 01:02:54.031 align:middle line:90% Jennifer L. Flanagan? 01:02:54.031 --> 01:02:54.530 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:54.530 --> 01:02:56.200 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:02:56.200 --> 01:02:58.390 align:middle line:90% Linda Dorceno Forry? 01:02:58.390 --> 01:03:00.470 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:00.470 --> 01:03:00.970 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:00.970 --> 01:03:02.060 align:middle line:90% Anne M. Gobi? 01:03:02.060 --> 01:03:04.110 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:04.110 --> 01:03:05.130 align:middle line:90% Adam G. Hinds? 01:03:05.130 --> 01:03:05.960 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:05.960 --> 01:03:07.620 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:07.620 --> 01:03:09.140 align:middle line:90% Donald F. HUmason, Jr.? 01:03:09.140 --> 01:03:09.640 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:09.640 --> 01:03:11.340 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:11.340 --> 01:03:13.520 align:middle line:90% Patricia D. Jehlen? 01:03:13.520 --> 01:03:14.020 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:14.020 --> 01:03:15.850 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:15.850 --> 01:03:17.491 align:middle line:90% John F. Keenan? 01:03:17.491 --> 01:03:17.990 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:17.990 --> 01:03:19.130 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:19.130 --> 01:03:20.510 align:middle line:90% Eric P. Lesser? 01:03:20.510 --> 01:03:21.010 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:21.010 --> 01:03:22.250 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:22.250 --> 01:03:23.040 align:middle line:90% Jason M. Lewis? 01:03:23.040 --> 01:03:24.110 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:24.110 --> 01:03:25.550 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:25.550 --> 01:03:26.590 align:middle line:90% Barbara A. L'Italien? 01:03:26.590 --> 01:03:27.620 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:27.620 --> 01:03:29.130 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:29.130 --> 01:03:31.010 align:middle line:90% Joan B. Lovely? 01:03:31.010 --> 01:03:31.550 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:31.550 --> 01:03:32.530 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:32.530 --> 01:03:33.390 align:middle line:90% Thomas N. McGee? 01:03:33.390 --> 01:03:34.170 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:34.170 --> 01:03:35.850 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:35.850 --> 01:03:37.220 align:middle line:90% Mark C. Montigny? 01:03:37.220 --> 01:03:37.780 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:37.780 --> 01:03:39.522 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:39.522 --> 01:03:40.230 align:middle line:90% Michael O. Moore? 01:03:40.230 --> 01:03:41.600 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:41.600 --> 01:03:43.000 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:43.000 --> 01:03:44.300 align:middle line:90% Patrick M. O'Connor? 01:03:44.300 --> 01:03:44.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:44.800 --> 01:03:46.650 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:46.650 --> 01:03:48.551 align:middle line:90% Kathleen O'Connor Ives? 01:03:48.551 --> 01:03:49.050 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:49.050 --> 01:03:50.630 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:50.630 --> 01:03:52.370 align:middle line:90% Marc L. Pacheco? 01:03:52.370 --> 01:03:52.870 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:52.870 --> 01:03:54.830 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:54.830 --> 01:03:56.140 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Rodrigues? 01:03:56.140 --> 01:03:56.650 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:56.650 --> 01:03:58.430 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:03:58.430 --> 01:04:00.030 align:middle line:90% Richard J. Ross? 01:04:00.030 --> 01:04:00.530 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:04:00.530 --> 01:04:02.020 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:04:02.020 --> 01:04:03.190 align:middle line:90% Michael F. Rush? 01:04:03.190 --> 01:04:03.840 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:04:03.840 --> 01:04:05.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:04:05.500 --> 01:04:07.300 align:middle line:90% Karen E. Spilka? 01:04:07.300 --> 01:04:07.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:04:07.800 --> 01:04:08.740 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:04:08.740 --> 01:04:09.740 align:middle line:90% Bruce E. Tarr? 01:04:09.740 --> 01:04:10.370 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:04:10.370 --> 01:04:12.110 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:04:12.110 --> 01:04:13.621 align:middle line:90% Walter F. Timilty? 01:04:13.621 --> 01:04:14.120 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:04:14.120 --> 01:04:15.650 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:04:15.650 --> 01:04:16.640 align:middle line:90% James T. Welch? 01:04:16.640 --> 01:04:17.590 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:04:17.590 --> 01:04:20.140 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:04:20.140 --> 01:04:21.960 align:middle line:90% Have all members been recorded? 01:04:21.960 --> 01:04:29.090 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 01:04:29.090 --> 01:04:30.810 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Barrett votes yes. 01:04:30.810 --> 01:04:35.480 align:middle line:90% 01:04:35.480 --> 01:04:38.550 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 01:04:38.550 --> 01:04:40.540 align:middle line:90% Michael D. Brady votes yes. 01:04:40.540 --> 01:04:51.450 align:middle line:90% 01:04:51.450 --> 01:04:53.340 align:middle line:84% 38 having voted in the affirmative, none 01:04:53.340 --> 01:04:55.930 align:middle line:84% in the negative, the amendment is approved. 01:04:55.930 --> 01:04:58.630 align:middle line:84% The chair recognizes the Senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 01:04:58.630 --> 01:05:00.610 align:middle line:84% For what purpose does the gentleman rise? 01:05:00.610 --> 01:05:03.250 align:middle line:84% Why thank you, Mr. President, and through you to the members. 01:05:03.250 --> 01:05:06.880 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I move that pursuant to Rule 13(b), 01:05:06.880 --> 01:05:10.460 align:middle line:84% there be a Republican caucus until the hour of 4:00 p.m. 01:05:10.460 --> 01:05:12.780 align:middle line:84% Gentlemen, under Rule 13(b) requests a 01:05:12.780 --> 01:05:16.430 align:middle line:84% caucus until the hour of 4:00 p.m. 01:05:16.430 --> 01:05:19.030 align:middle line:84% And under the rules, it is so ordered. 01:05:19.030 --> 01:05:21.910 align:middle line:84% And the Chair would announce that the Democrats will 01:05:21.910 --> 01:05:25.390 align:middle line:84% meet in the Senate President's office immediately, 01:05:25.390 --> 01:05:28.500 align:middle line:84% and the Republicans in the Minority Leader's office. 01:05:28.500 --> 01:05:31.020 align:middle line:84% And we will reconvene at 4:00 p.m. 01:05:31.020 --> 01:05:49.220 align:middle line:90% 01:05:49.220 --> 01:05:51.560 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] for what purpose does the gentleman rise? 01:05:51.560 --> 01:05:52.220 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:05:52.220 --> 01:05:53.640 align:middle line:84% I doubt the presence of a quorum. 01:05:53.640 --> 01:05:56.230 align:middle line:84% The gentleman doubts the presence of a quorum. 01:05:56.230 --> 01:06:00.300 align:middle line:84% The clerk has ascertained there is in fact a quorum present, 01:06:00.300 --> 01:06:03.170 align:middle line:84% so we may begin the business of the Senate. 01:06:03.170 --> 01:06:06.240 align:middle line:84% And we will do so with Amendment number 01:06:06.240 --> 01:06:13.110 align:middle line:84% 861, offered by the Senator from Essex, Mr. McGee. 01:06:13.110 --> 01:06:18.601 align:middle line:84% The amendment by Mr. McGee, Metropolitan Beaches Trust 01:06:18.601 --> 01:06:19.100 align:middle line:90% Fund. 01:06:19.100 --> 01:06:25.450 align:middle line:90% 01:06:25.450 --> 01:06:27.160 align:middle line:90% On hold. 01:06:27.160 --> 01:06:32.030 align:middle line:90% We're now, 871 is on hold. 01:06:32.030 --> 01:06:34.681 align:middle line:84% The next amendment is number 872, 01:06:34.681 --> 01:06:36.180 align:middle line:84% offered by the senator from The Cape 01:06:36.180 --> 01:06:39.121 align:middle line:84% and The Islands, Mr. Cyr, the title of which the clerk will 01:06:39.121 --> 01:06:39.620 align:middle line:90% read. 01:06:39.620 --> 01:06:42.830 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 872 by Mr. Cyr, Cape Cod Water Protection 01:06:42.830 --> 01:06:44.630 align:middle line:90% Trust. 01:06:44.630 --> 01:06:47.470 align:middle line:84% Amendment, all those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 01:06:47.470 --> 01:06:48.400 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 01:06:48.400 --> 01:06:49.940 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 01:06:49.940 --> 01:06:53.180 align:middle line:84% The next is offered, number 873 by the Senator from Worcester 01:06:53.180 --> 01:06:56.000 align:middle line:84% and Norfolk, Mr. Fattman, the title of which the clerk will 01:06:56.000 --> 01:06:56.500 align:middle line:90% read. 01:06:56.500 --> 01:07:00.530 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 873 by Mr. Fattman, Douglas State Forrest 01:07:00.530 --> 01:07:01.904 align:middle line:90% Trust Fund. 01:07:01.904 --> 01:07:03.820 align:middle line:84% Adoption of the amendment, all those in favor, 01:07:03.820 --> 01:07:05.620 align:middle line:90% say aye, opposed no. 01:07:05.620 --> 01:07:06.640 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 01:07:06.640 --> 01:07:08.050 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 01:07:08.050 --> 01:07:10.410 align:middle line:84% Number 878 is offered by the Senator 01:07:10.410 --> 01:07:13.770 align:middle line:84% from Suffolk in Middlesex, Mr. Brownsberger, 01:07:13.770 --> 01:07:15.475 align:middle line:90% a redrafted amendment. 01:07:15.475 --> 01:07:18.300 align:middle line:90% 01:07:18.300 --> 01:07:21.940 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 878 by Mr. Brownsberger, Park Improvement 01:07:21.940 --> 01:07:23.200 align:middle line:90% District. 01:07:23.200 --> 01:07:25.840 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the redrafted amendment. 01:07:25.840 --> 01:07:28.650 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 01:07:28.650 --> 01:07:29.650 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 01:07:29.650 --> 01:07:31.300 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 01:07:31.300 --> 01:07:39.560 align:middle line:84% The next is on hold, number 886, as is number 887. 01:07:39.560 --> 01:07:42.170 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 01:07:42.170 --> 01:07:44.270 align:middle line:84% For what purposes does the gentlemen rise? 01:07:44.270 --> 01:07:45.760 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:07:45.760 --> 01:07:48.510 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I move the Senate be in a brief recess. 01:07:48.510 --> 01:07:50.730 align:middle line:84% The gentlemen asks the Senate be in a brief recess, 01:07:50.730 --> 01:07:52.240 align:middle line:90% and of course, we will agree. 01:07:52.240 --> 01:07:59.450 align:middle line:90% 01:07:59.450 --> 01:08:00.450 align:middle line:90% This senate be in order. 01:08:00.450 --> 01:08:03.680 align:middle line:84% The next item is Amendment number 888, 01:08:03.680 --> 01:08:07.150 align:middle line:84% offered by the Senator from Norfolk and Suffolk, Mr. Rush, 01:08:07.150 --> 01:08:11.150 align:middle line:84% a redrafted amendment, the title of which the clerk will read. 01:08:11.150 --> 01:08:14.030 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 888, by Mr. Rush, Eastern Massachusetts 01:08:14.030 --> 01:08:16.490 align:middle line:84% Goal Settting and Relapse Prevention Program. 01:08:16.490 --> 01:08:18.490 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:08:18.490 --> 01:08:21.479 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 01:08:21.479 --> 01:08:24.950 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it and the redrafted amendment is adopted. 01:08:24.950 --> 01:08:27.180 align:middle line:84% Number 892 is offered by the Senator 01:08:27.180 --> 01:08:31.490 align:middle line:84% from Hampden and Hampshire, Mr. Lesser, a redrafted amendment, 01:08:31.490 --> 01:08:33.350 align:middle line:84% the title of which the clerk will read. 01:08:33.350 --> 01:08:35.090 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 892 by Mr. Lesser, 01:08:35.090 --> 01:08:37.149 align:middle line:84% Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance, 01:08:37.149 --> 01:08:38.810 align:middle line:90% Western Massachusetts Office. 01:08:38.810 --> 01:08:41.330 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the redrafted amendment. 01:08:41.330 --> 01:08:43.910 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 01:08:43.910 --> 01:08:44.870 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 01:08:44.870 --> 01:08:46.120 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 01:08:46.120 --> 01:08:48.960 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 893 authored by the Senator 01:08:48.960 --> 01:08:51.390 align:middle line:84% from Bristol and Plymouth, Mr. Rodrigues, the title 01:08:51.390 --> 01:08:54.279 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:08:54.279 --> 01:08:56.649 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 893 by Mr. Rodrigues, 01:08:56.649 --> 01:08:58.792 align:middle line:84% Bristol County DA, State Police Overtime. 01:08:58.792 --> 01:09:01.250 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator from Bristol and Plymouth, 01:09:01.250 --> 01:09:01.833 align:middle line:90% Mr. Rodrigues. 01:09:01.833 --> 01:09:05.000 align:middle line:90% 01:09:05.000 --> 01:09:07.830 align:middle line:84% Asked that the amendment be put on hold. 01:09:07.830 --> 01:09:10.280 align:middle line:84% The Senate will be in a brief recess. 01:09:10.280 --> 01:09:19.149 align:middle line:90% 01:09:19.149 --> 01:09:22.750 align:middle line:84% The next amendment is Amendment number 894 01:09:22.750 --> 01:09:25.521 align:middle line:84% offered by the Senator from Hampden, Mr. Welch, the title 01:09:25.521 --> 01:09:26.729 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:09:26.729 --> 01:09:29.560 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 894 by Mr. Welch, Hampden District 01:09:29.560 --> 01:09:30.399 align:middle line:90% Attorney. 01:09:30.399 --> 01:09:33.809 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator from Hampden, Mr. Welch. 01:09:33.809 --> 01:09:36.100 align:middle line:84% Thank you Mr. President and through you to the members. 01:09:36.100 --> 01:09:38.990 align:middle line:84% The amendment before us now would provide an increase 01:09:38.990 --> 01:09:42.979 align:middle line:84% in funding to the Hampden County District Attorney's Office. 01:09:42.979 --> 01:09:46.520 align:middle line:84% This is a historically underfunded and understaffed 01:09:46.520 --> 01:09:49.740 align:middle line:84% office, especially in comparison with the other DAs 01:09:49.740 --> 01:09:51.270 align:middle line:90% across the commonwealth. 01:09:51.270 --> 01:09:53.210 align:middle line:84% Here are some statistics they may 01:09:53.210 --> 01:09:55.790 align:middle line:90% be edifying for the members. 01:09:55.790 --> 01:09:57.710 align:middle line:84% According to the trial court statistics, 01:09:57.710 --> 01:10:00.530 align:middle line:84% the Hampden County District Attorney's Office 01:10:00.530 --> 01:10:06.110 align:middle line:84% disposed of 885 criminal cases in FY2016, the most 01:10:06.110 --> 01:10:07.830 align:middle line:90% if any district in the state. 01:10:07.830 --> 01:10:10.750 align:middle line:84% And about 70 more than even Suffolk County. 01:10:10.750 --> 01:10:13.870 align:middle line:84% The Springfield District Court is the busiest district court 01:10:13.870 --> 01:10:17.090 align:middle line:84% in the state, entering 1,000 more cases than Worcester, 01:10:17.090 --> 01:10:19.180 align:middle line:90% which is the second busiest. 01:10:19.180 --> 01:10:23.970 align:middle line:84% The Hampden DA employs only 63 DAs, fewer than half the number 01:10:23.970 --> 01:10:29.140 align:middle line:84% employed by two other offices and sevenths most out of the 11 01:10:29.140 --> 01:10:30.990 align:middle line:90% offices across the state. 01:10:30.990 --> 01:10:35.530 align:middle line:84% Hampden DA is, however, only the sixth highest funded 01:10:35.530 --> 01:10:39.400 align:middle line:84% out of the 11 DAs across Massachusetts. 01:10:39.400 --> 01:10:42.680 align:middle line:84% Last year, you may recall, other District Attorneys 01:10:42.680 --> 01:10:46.820 align:middle line:84% across the state took the extraordinary step 01:10:46.820 --> 01:10:49.580 align:middle line:84% of coming together and advocating for their colleague 01:10:49.580 --> 01:10:51.134 align:middle line:90% in Hampden County. 01:10:51.134 --> 01:10:53.550 align:middle line:84% This was a testament to the tremendous work of the Hampden 01:10:53.550 --> 01:10:56.640 align:middle line:84% County office does with limited resources. 01:10:56.640 --> 01:10:59.530 align:middle line:84% These resources are being further stretched 01:10:59.530 --> 01:11:03.100 align:middle line:84% by the opioid crisis, which has drastically 01:11:03.100 --> 01:11:06.240 align:middle line:84% increased the workload for the DAs and employees. 01:11:06.240 --> 01:11:07.630 align:middle line:90% I offer this amendment. 01:11:07.630 --> 01:11:10.600 align:middle line:84% And I congratulate the Chair of the Senate Ways 01:11:10.600 --> 01:11:16.230 align:middle line:84% and Means, with her work regarding county sheriffs 01:11:16.230 --> 01:11:19.450 align:middle line:84% in this year's budget, and the plan that 01:11:19.450 --> 01:11:21.320 align:middle line:90% has been put forward together. 01:11:21.320 --> 01:11:23.430 align:middle line:84% And I do hope that in the future, 01:11:23.430 --> 01:11:26.330 align:middle line:84% we can apply a similar plan to District 01:11:26.330 --> 01:11:28.690 align:middle line:90% Attorneys across Massachusetts. 01:11:28.690 --> 01:11:31.450 align:middle line:84% And I ask that this amendment be considered. 01:11:31.450 --> 01:11:33.990 align:middle line:90% And I hope it's adopted. 01:11:33.990 --> 01:11:36.200 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:11:36.200 --> 01:11:38.850 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 01:11:38.850 --> 01:11:39.820 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 01:11:39.820 --> 01:11:41.390 align:middle line:90% The Amendment is not adopted. 01:11:41.390 --> 01:11:44.070 align:middle line:84% Number 896 is offered by the Senator 01:11:44.070 --> 01:11:47.230 align:middle line:84% from Middlesex and Norfolk, Ms. Creem, the title 01:11:47.230 --> 01:11:49.650 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:11:49.650 --> 01:11:53.020 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 896 by Ms. Creem, MLAC. 01:11:53.020 --> 01:11:59.850 align:middle line:84% The senator from Hampden and Hampshire, Mr. Humason. 01:11:59.850 --> 01:12:01.999 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:12:01.999 --> 01:12:04.040 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] will rise and speak on the amendment. 01:12:04.040 --> 01:12:06.623 align:middle line:84% I'm very happy to hear about the explanation for what it does. 01:12:06.623 --> 01:12:08.060 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:12:08.060 --> 01:12:11.080 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator from Middlesex and Norfolk, 01:12:11.080 --> 01:12:12.020 align:middle line:90% Ms. Creem. 01:12:12.020 --> 01:12:15.830 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, and through you, I 01:12:15.830 --> 01:12:18.390 align:middle line:84% am truly so appreciative to those 01:12:18.390 --> 01:12:23.640 align:middle line:84% who worked so diligently to make civil legal aid a priority 01:12:23.640 --> 01:12:26.820 align:middle line:84% in this budget, including the many senators who 01:12:26.820 --> 01:12:28.580 align:middle line:90% co-sponsored this amendment. 01:12:28.580 --> 01:12:31.990 align:middle line:84% But I particularly want to thank the Senate President 01:12:31.990 --> 01:12:34.800 align:middle line:84% and the Chair of Ways and Means, the lady 01:12:34.800 --> 01:12:38.160 align:middle line:84% from Ashland, who has been so sensitive to the needs 01:12:38.160 --> 01:12:40.630 align:middle line:84% of individuals with limited means 01:12:40.630 --> 01:12:43.430 align:middle line:84% to have equal access to representation 01:12:43.430 --> 01:12:45.620 align:middle line:90% in civil legal matters. 01:12:45.620 --> 01:12:48.140 align:middle line:84% Her support for this item is a testament 01:12:48.140 --> 01:12:50.810 align:middle line:84% to her care, core principles, which 01:12:50.810 --> 01:12:53.200 align:middle line:90% have guided us on this budget. 01:12:53.200 --> 01:13:01.260 align:middle line:84% The MLAC funding-- the MLAC funding 01:13:01.260 --> 01:13:05.960 align:middle line:84% goes toward legal assistance to people with disabilities, 01:13:05.960 --> 01:13:11.530 align:middle line:84% elders, immigrants, children, domestic violence survivors, 01:13:11.530 --> 01:13:15.740 align:middle line:84% and individuals with limited English proficiency. 01:13:15.740 --> 01:13:20.570 align:middle line:84% The funding assists those who do not have financial resources, 01:13:20.570 --> 01:13:25.910 align:middle line:84% and must rely on civil legal aid to help them seek redress 01:13:25.910 --> 01:13:28.620 align:middle line:90% to serious events. 01:13:28.620 --> 01:13:33.000 align:middle line:84% Clients' issues can include unlawful evictions, lack 01:13:33.000 --> 01:13:38.160 align:middle line:84% of shelter access, wrongful deportation, inadequate health 01:13:38.160 --> 01:13:41.450 align:middle line:84% care, lack of education supports, 01:13:41.450 --> 01:13:46.200 align:middle line:84% wage theft, discrimination, and a host of other matters 01:13:46.200 --> 01:13:50.050 align:middle line:84% that threaten the safety and stability of families 01:13:50.050 --> 01:13:52.120 align:middle line:90% and individuals in our state. 01:13:52.120 --> 01:13:56.570 align:middle line:84% We can all attest to the fact that we are living in a time 01:13:56.570 --> 01:14:02.920 align:middle line:84% where we see the effects of this more than we want to. 01:14:02.920 --> 01:14:06.760 align:middle line:84% Insufficient funding forces civil legal aid programs 01:14:06.760 --> 01:14:10.020 align:middle line:84% in Massachusetts to currently turn away 01:14:10.020 --> 01:14:15.740 align:middle line:84% 65% of the eligible residents that seek legal help, 01:14:15.740 --> 01:14:21.820 align:middle line:84% and more than 7,000 people per year, 65% of those 01:14:21.820 --> 01:14:23.990 align:middle line:90% that need it are turned away. 01:14:23.990 --> 01:14:28.230 align:middle line:84% And when low income litigants turn to representing themselves 01:14:28.230 --> 01:14:30.910 align:middle line:84% in the courtroom, it creates an array 01:14:30.910 --> 01:14:34.820 align:middle line:84% of issues that impede efficiency, hinder the court's 01:14:34.820 --> 01:14:38.560 align:middle line:84% ability to treat all legal litigants fairly, 01:14:38.560 --> 01:14:41.510 align:middle line:84% and make it harder for judges and court staff 01:14:41.510 --> 01:14:44.550 align:middle line:90% to successfully do their job. 01:14:44.550 --> 01:14:47.980 align:middle line:84% Every dollar invested in civil legal aid 01:14:47.980 --> 01:14:54.070 align:middle line:84% yields a return of $2 to $5 to the state in savings 01:14:54.070 --> 01:14:56.550 align:middle line:90% on costly social services. 01:14:56.550 --> 01:15:01.680 align:middle line:84% In the FY16, the state's $17 million 01:15:01.680 --> 01:15:05.270 align:middle line:84% in dollars of investment in civil legal aid 01:15:05.270 --> 01:15:09.760 align:middle line:84% generated a return of $49 million. 01:15:09.760 --> 01:15:13.430 align:middle line:84% Funding civil legal aid shows the commitment 01:15:13.430 --> 01:15:18.500 align:middle line:84% our commonwealth makes to equal protection of the civil values 01:15:18.500 --> 01:15:21.850 align:middle line:84% and rights of all people, regardless 01:15:21.850 --> 01:15:24.030 align:middle line:90% of their economic status. 01:15:24.030 --> 01:15:26.320 align:middle line:84% I want to thank you again for your support. 01:15:26.320 --> 01:15:30.140 align:middle line:84% I hope that when this matter is called, that it's called by-- 01:15:30.140 --> 01:15:32.562 align:middle line:84% A vote on the [INAUDIBLE] the yeas and nays. 01:15:32.562 --> 01:15:34.395 align:middle line:84% Those joining with her, rise and be counted. 01:15:34.395 --> 01:15:37.990 align:middle line:90% 01:15:37.990 --> 01:15:40.146 align:middle line:84% A sufficient number having risen, 01:15:40.146 --> 01:15:41.770 align:middle line:84% when the vote is taken it will be taken 01:15:41.770 --> 01:15:43.061 align:middle line:90% by a call of the yeas and nays. 01:15:43.061 --> 01:15:45.590 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator from Suffolk and Middlesex, 01:15:45.590 --> 01:15:47.930 align:middle line:90% Mr. Brownsberger. 01:15:47.930 --> 01:15:50.150 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I want to thank the Senator 01:15:50.150 --> 01:15:53.860 align:middle line:84% from Brookline and Newton for her longtime leadership 01:15:53.860 --> 01:15:55.030 align:middle line:90% on this issue. 01:15:55.030 --> 01:15:56.700 align:middle line:84% The senator from Brookline and Newton 01:15:56.700 --> 01:15:59.360 align:middle line:84% has been such a strong advocate for the civil legal aid 01:15:59.360 --> 01:16:00.370 align:middle line:90% through the years. 01:16:00.370 --> 01:16:02.900 align:middle line:84% And the funding that we're achieving today 01:16:02.900 --> 01:16:05.420 align:middle line:84% is substantially the result of her advocacy. 01:16:05.420 --> 01:16:07.880 align:middle line:84% And I strongly support her efforts in this area. 01:16:07.880 --> 01:16:12.380 align:middle line:84% We need civil law aid more now than ever 01:16:12.380 --> 01:16:15.100 align:middle line:84% in the time of what's happening in Washington. 01:16:15.100 --> 01:16:16.190 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:16:16.190 --> 01:16:19.800 align:middle line:90% 01:16:19.800 --> 01:16:23.480 align:middle line:84% The clerk will call the roll, beginning with the Chair. 01:16:23.480 --> 01:16:33.410 align:middle line:90% 01:16:33.410 --> 01:16:34.350 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Barrett? 01:16:34.350 --> 01:16:38.200 align:middle line:90% 01:16:38.200 --> 01:16:39.320 align:middle line:90% Joseph A. Boncore? 01:16:39.320 --> 01:16:40.670 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:16:40.670 --> 01:16:42.160 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:16:42.160 --> 01:16:43.080 align:middle line:90% Michael D. Brady? 01:16:43.080 --> 01:16:43.810 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:16:43.810 --> 01:16:45.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:16:45.500 --> 01:16:47.460 align:middle line:90% William N. Brownsberger? 01:16:47.460 --> 01:16:48.710 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:16:48.710 --> 01:16:49.210 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:16:49.210 --> 01:16:50.110 align:middle line:90% Harriette L. Chandler? 01:16:50.110 --> 01:16:50.610 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:16:50.610 --> 01:16:52.330 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:16:52.330 --> 01:16:53.530 align:middle line:90% Sonia Chang-Diaz? 01:16:53.530 --> 01:16:54.270 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:16:54.270 --> 01:16:55.760 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:16:55.760 --> 01:16:57.430 align:middle line:90% Cynthia Stone Creem? 01:16:57.430 --> 01:16:57.930 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:16:57.930 --> 01:16:59.280 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:16:59.280 --> 01:17:00.280 align:middle line:90% Julian Cyr? 01:17:00.280 --> 01:17:00.880 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:00.880 --> 01:17:02.260 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:02.260 --> 01:17:04.580 align:middle line:90% Viriato M. deMacedo? 01:17:04.580 --> 01:17:05.080 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:05.080 --> 01:17:05.920 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:05.920 --> 01:17:08.121 align:middle line:90% Sal N. DiDomenico? 01:17:08.121 --> 01:17:08.620 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:08.620 --> 01:17:09.570 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:09.570 --> 01:17:11.641 align:middle line:90% Eileen M. Donoghue? 01:17:11.641 --> 01:17:12.140 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:12.140 --> 01:17:13.230 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:13.230 --> 01:17:15.090 align:middle line:90% James B. Eldridge? 01:17:15.090 --> 01:17:15.590 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:15.590 --> 01:17:17.360 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:17.360 --> 01:17:18.740 align:middle line:90% Ryan C. Fattman? 01:17:18.740 --> 01:17:19.240 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:19.240 --> 01:17:21.200 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:21.200 --> 01:17:22.910 align:middle line:90% Jennifer L. Flanagan? 01:17:22.910 --> 01:17:23.410 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:23.410 --> 01:17:25.030 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:25.030 --> 01:17:27.250 align:middle line:90% Linda Dorcena Forry? 01:17:27.250 --> 01:17:28.560 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:28.560 --> 01:17:29.060 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:29.060 --> 01:17:29.860 align:middle line:90% Anne M. Gobi? 01:17:29.860 --> 01:17:30.480 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:30.480 --> 01:17:32.150 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:32.150 --> 01:17:34.060 align:middle line:90% Adam G. Hinds? 01:17:34.060 --> 01:17:34.560 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:34.560 --> 01:17:35.860 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:35.860 --> 01:17:37.080 align:middle line:90% Donald F. Humason, Jr.? 01:17:37.080 --> 01:17:37.820 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:37.820 --> 01:17:39.290 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:39.290 --> 01:17:41.570 align:middle line:90% Patricia D. Jehlen? 01:17:41.570 --> 01:17:42.070 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:42.070 --> 01:17:43.890 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:43.890 --> 01:17:46.170 align:middle line:90% John F. Keenan? 01:17:46.170 --> 01:17:47.120 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:47.120 --> 01:17:47.620 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:47.620 --> 01:17:49.710 align:middle line:90% Eric P. Lesser? 01:17:49.710 --> 01:17:50.210 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:50.210 --> 01:17:51.610 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:51.610 --> 01:17:53.531 align:middle line:90% Jason M. Lewis? 01:17:53.531 --> 01:17:54.030 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:54.030 --> 01:17:56.130 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:56.130 --> 01:17:57.900 align:middle line:90% Barbara A. L'Italien? 01:17:57.900 --> 01:17:58.400 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:58.400 --> 01:17:59.830 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:17:59.830 --> 01:18:01.381 align:middle line:90% Joan B. Lovely? 01:18:01.381 --> 01:18:01.880 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:01.880 --> 01:18:03.470 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:03.470 --> 01:18:04.921 align:middle line:90% Thomas M McGee? 01:18:04.921 --> 01:18:05.420 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:05.420 --> 01:18:07.320 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:07.320 --> 01:18:08.660 align:middle line:90% Mark C. Montigny? 01:18:08.660 --> 01:18:09.210 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:09.210 --> 01:18:11.120 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:11.120 --> 01:18:11.960 align:middle line:90% Michael O. Moore? 01:18:11.960 --> 01:18:13.200 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:13.200 --> 01:18:14.660 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:14.660 --> 01:18:16.060 align:middle line:90% Patrick M. O'Connor? 01:18:16.060 --> 01:18:16.630 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:16.630 --> 01:18:18.190 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:18.190 --> 01:18:20.050 align:middle line:90% Kathleen O'Connor Ives? 01:18:20.050 --> 01:18:20.550 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:20.550 --> 01:18:22.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:22.800 --> 01:18:24.070 align:middle line:90% Marc R. Pacheco? 01:18:24.070 --> 01:18:24.830 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:24.830 --> 01:18:26.460 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:26.460 --> 01:18:28.360 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Rodrigues? 01:18:28.360 --> 01:18:28.860 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:28.860 --> 01:18:29.850 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:29.850 --> 01:18:31.540 align:middle line:90% Richard J. Ross? 01:18:31.540 --> 01:18:32.040 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:32.040 --> 01:18:33.660 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:33.660 --> 01:18:34.380 align:middle line:90% Michael F. Rush? 01:18:34.380 --> 01:18:35.290 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:35.290 --> 01:18:36.930 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:36.930 --> 01:18:38.580 align:middle line:90% Karen E. Spilka? 01:18:38.580 --> 01:18:39.080 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:39.080 --> 01:18:40.140 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:40.140 --> 01:18:41.301 align:middle line:90% Bruce C. Tarr? 01:18:41.301 --> 01:18:41.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:41.800 --> 01:18:43.420 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:43.420 --> 01:18:44.910 align:middle line:90% Walter F. Timilty? 01:18:44.910 --> 01:18:45.410 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:45.410 --> 01:18:46.420 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:46.420 --> 01:18:47.410 align:middle line:90% James T Welch? 01:18:47.410 --> 01:18:48.390 align:middle line:90% Yes 01:18:48.390 --> 01:18:49.440 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:18:49.440 --> 01:18:50.940 align:middle line:90% Have all members been recorded? 01:18:50.940 --> 01:18:53.880 align:middle line:90% The Senator from Middle-- 01:18:53.880 --> 01:18:57.160 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 01:18:57.160 --> 01:18:59.170 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Barrett votes yes. 01:18:59.170 --> 01:19:11.500 align:middle line:90% 01:19:11.500 --> 01:19:14.090 align:middle line:84% On this matter, 38 having voted in the affirmative, none 01:19:14.090 --> 01:19:17.320 align:middle line:84% in the negative, the amendment is adopted. 01:19:17.320 --> 01:19:20.459 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator from The Cape 01:19:20.459 --> 01:19:21.500 align:middle line:90% and The Islands, Mr. Cyr. 01:19:21.500 --> 01:19:23.390 align:middle line:84% For what purpose does the gentlemen rise? 01:19:23.390 --> 01:19:25.680 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent 01:19:25.680 --> 01:19:28.490 align:middle line:84% that no action be taken on amendment 872. 01:19:28.490 --> 01:19:31.370 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] no action as having been taken on Amendment number 01:19:31.370 --> 01:19:33.360 align:middle line:90% 872, is there an objection? 01:19:33.360 --> 01:19:34.920 align:middle line:90% The Chair hears none. 01:19:34.920 --> 01:19:37.240 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the same senator. 01:19:37.240 --> 01:19:41.590 align:middle line:90% 01:19:41.590 --> 01:19:42.222 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 01:19:42.222 --> 01:19:43.680 align:middle line:84% The gentleman ask unanimous consent 01:19:43.680 --> 01:19:44.560 align:middle line:90% to withdraw the amendment. 01:19:44.560 --> 01:19:45.476 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection? 01:19:45.476 --> 01:19:46.680 align:middle line:90% The Chair hears none. 01:19:46.680 --> 01:19:48.140 align:middle line:90% It is so ordered. 01:19:48.140 --> 01:19:50.649 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 897 is offered by the Senator 01:19:50.649 --> 01:19:53.190 align:middle line:84% from Essex, Mr. Tarr, the title to which the clerk will read. 01:19:53.190 --> 01:19:56.780 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 897, by Mr. Tarr, Housing Court. 01:19:56.780 --> 01:19:58.850 align:middle line:84% The question comes for adoption of the amendment. 01:19:58.850 --> 01:20:00.803 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed-- 01:20:00.803 --> 01:20:03.740 align:middle line:90% 01:20:03.740 --> 01:20:05.150 align:middle line:90% the Chair was in error. 01:20:05.150 --> 01:20:07.140 align:middle line:84% He did not see the gentleman stand. 01:20:07.140 --> 01:20:11.490 align:middle line:84% However, he would like to hear what the gentleman from Essex 01:20:11.490 --> 01:20:13.940 align:middle line:90% wishes to communicate. 01:20:13.940 --> 01:20:16.330 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, and through you to the members. 01:20:16.330 --> 01:20:18.810 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I want to make it clear 01:20:18.810 --> 01:20:21.460 align:middle line:84% that I actually appreciate the work that the housing 01:20:21.460 --> 01:20:22.390 align:middle line:90% court does. 01:20:22.390 --> 01:20:25.750 align:middle line:84% I think it provides some very cost effective resolution 01:20:25.750 --> 01:20:27.970 align:middle line:84% to disputes that involve housing, 01:20:27.970 --> 01:20:30.160 align:middle line:90% and its work is admirable. 01:20:30.160 --> 01:20:32.270 align:middle line:84% But Mr. President, the reason that I 01:20:32.270 --> 01:20:34.690 align:middle line:84% offer the amendment, relative to striking it 01:20:34.690 --> 01:20:36.280 align:middle line:90% is because it's an expansion. 01:20:36.280 --> 01:20:39.980 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, if we get out the balance beam of imbalance, 01:20:39.980 --> 01:20:43.120 align:middle line:84% we'll see that this is one of those things that's 01:20:43.120 --> 01:20:46.660 align:middle line:84% an expansion that causes us to be further 01:20:46.660 --> 01:20:47.820 align:middle line:90% out of internal balance. 01:20:47.820 --> 01:20:50.120 align:middle line:84% So I'm hoping, hoping, Mr. President-- 01:20:50.120 --> 01:20:57.130 align:middle line:90% 01:20:57.130 --> 01:20:59.210 align:middle line:90% The Chair thanks to the members. 01:20:59.210 --> 01:21:02.409 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator From Essex, Mr. Tarr. 01:21:02.409 --> 01:21:03.450 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:21:03.450 --> 01:21:05.500 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I am hoping that someone 01:21:05.500 --> 01:21:08.310 align:middle line:84% is going to be able to explain to us, 01:21:08.310 --> 01:21:11.600 align:middle line:84% again if we look at housing court expansion, 01:21:11.600 --> 01:21:12.860 align:middle line:90% it's right there. 01:21:12.860 --> 01:21:14.380 align:middle line:84% And I'm hoping that someone's going 01:21:14.380 --> 01:21:17.610 align:middle line:84% to be able to explain to us how we can accommodate 01:21:17.610 --> 01:21:21.790 align:middle line:84% this type of expansion, as laudable and as noble 01:21:21.790 --> 01:21:26.040 align:middle line:84% as its purpose is, given the fact that this sweet spot, 01:21:26.040 --> 01:21:28.360 align:middle line:84% right in the middle of internal balance, 01:21:28.360 --> 01:21:29.790 align:middle line:90% continues to be elusive. 01:21:29.790 --> 01:21:32.790 align:middle line:84% I hope that someone can explain how we can accommodate this. 01:21:32.790 --> 01:21:34.590 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:21:34.590 --> 01:21:37.860 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Middlesex and Norfolk, Ms. Spilka. 01:21:37.860 --> 01:21:41.190 align:middle line:90% 01:21:41.190 --> 01:21:42.870 align:middle line:84% Again the Chair would respectfully 01:21:42.870 --> 01:21:47.487 align:middle line:84% ask members, staff, to please, please 01:21:47.487 --> 01:21:48.570 align:middle line:90% subdue their conversation. 01:21:48.570 --> 01:21:53.480 align:middle line:90% 01:21:53.480 --> 01:21:56.890 align:middle line:84% I urge my colleagues to vote no on this amendment, which 01:21:56.890 --> 01:22:01.520 align:middle line:84% eliminates the sections in the Senate budget expanding housing 01:22:01.520 --> 01:22:02.220 align:middle line:90% court. 01:22:02.220 --> 01:22:04.260 align:middle line:84% I believe, and maybe I'm wrong, but I 01:22:04.260 --> 01:22:08.050 align:middle line:84% believe the minority leader's district is lucky, 01:22:08.050 --> 01:22:12.740 align:middle line:84% has the benefit of housing court in his district, I believe, 01:22:12.740 --> 01:22:14.260 align:middle line:90% which is great. 01:22:14.260 --> 01:22:19.340 align:middle line:84% Housing courts are in about 70% of the state. 01:22:19.340 --> 01:22:23.690 align:middle line:84% So 30% of the residents, including my district, 01:22:23.690 --> 01:22:27.120 align:middle line:84% do not have access to housing courts. 01:22:27.120 --> 01:22:30.400 align:middle line:84% They are a specialized legal forum 01:22:30.400 --> 01:22:33.470 align:middle line:84% for landlords, tenants, and others 01:22:33.470 --> 01:22:36.580 align:middle line:90% with assorted housing issues. 01:22:36.580 --> 01:22:39.530 align:middle line:84% Housing courts enforce the state and local health 01:22:39.530 --> 01:22:43.880 align:middle line:84% and fire codes, protect people from becoming homeless, 01:22:43.880 --> 01:22:47.620 align:middle line:84% bring abandoned property back into use, 01:22:47.620 --> 01:22:52.180 align:middle line:84% stabilize neighborhoods, address mortgage fraud, 01:22:52.180 --> 01:22:57.050 align:middle line:84% and handle numerous, complex housing matters. 01:22:57.050 --> 01:22:59.240 align:middle line:84% Since their inception, and I would 01:22:59.240 --> 01:23:04.240 align:middle line:84% note that in 1972, the first housing court came to Boston, 01:23:04.240 --> 01:23:07.320 align:middle line:84% housing courts have spread across the state, 01:23:07.320 --> 01:23:11.590 align:middle line:84% and they have proven to be effective and efficient avenue 01:23:11.590 --> 01:23:14.820 align:middle line:90% for resolving housing disputes. 01:23:14.820 --> 01:23:18.570 align:middle line:84% Indeed, the housing court department of the trial court 01:23:18.570 --> 01:23:24.110 align:middle line:84% has the lowest cost per case in the entire trial court. 01:23:24.110 --> 01:23:29.360 align:middle line:84% It is very cost effective for complex cases. 01:23:29.360 --> 01:23:33.930 align:middle line:84% So they are cost effective ways, not only saving money, 01:23:33.930 --> 01:23:38.600 align:middle line:84% but to stabilize tenancies, and prevent tenants 01:23:38.600 --> 01:23:42.460 align:middle line:84% from facing eviction and becoming homeless, which 01:23:42.460 --> 01:23:44.980 align:middle line:84% we are all working in this budget 01:23:44.980 --> 01:23:47.630 align:middle line:90% to help prevent homelessness. 01:23:47.630 --> 01:23:51.500 align:middle line:84% This is consistent with the Senate's priorities. 01:23:51.500 --> 01:23:55.450 align:middle line:84% The housing court's tenancy preservation program, 01:23:55.450 --> 01:23:58.750 align:middle line:84% or TPP, as it's referred to, helps 01:23:58.750 --> 01:24:02.920 align:middle line:84% persons with mental disabilities retain their housing, 01:24:02.920 --> 01:24:10.450 align:middle line:84% and in 2015, TPP successfully prevented homelessness 01:24:10.450 --> 01:24:17.470 align:middle line:84% in 498 out of the 537 cases that it addressed. 01:24:17.470 --> 01:24:23.870 align:middle line:84% So it prevented homelessness in 498 families or persons. 01:24:23.870 --> 01:24:28.660 align:middle line:84% By helping to keep individuals and families in their homes, 01:24:28.660 --> 01:24:32.430 align:middle line:84% The TPP helps save the commonwealth 01:24:32.430 --> 01:24:35.560 align:middle line:90% millions of dollars each year. 01:24:35.560 --> 01:24:38.860 align:middle line:84% Each successful case is an individual 01:24:38.860 --> 01:24:44.080 align:middle line:84% or a family that avoided expensive and unfortunate state 01:24:44.080 --> 01:24:48.350 align:middle line:84% funding emergency shelter programs. 01:24:48.350 --> 01:24:51.840 align:middle line:84% In fact, the governor recognized the importance 01:24:51.840 --> 01:24:56.380 align:middle line:84% of this expansion and included a million dollars in his budget 01:24:56.380 --> 01:24:59.890 align:middle line:84% for housing court expansion, which I was happy to see, 01:24:59.890 --> 01:25:02.990 align:middle line:84% because the Senate has tried to do this in the past. 01:25:02.990 --> 01:25:06.710 align:middle line:84% So the governor recognizes the importance of this. 01:25:06.710 --> 01:25:09.700 align:middle line:84% So we have included a million dollars 01:25:09.700 --> 01:25:12.860 align:middle line:84% to help spread it to the other areas of the state that 01:25:12.860 --> 01:25:14.210 align:middle line:90% do not have it. 01:25:14.210 --> 01:25:17.890 align:middle line:84% And these funds will be targeted to those areas. 01:25:17.890 --> 01:25:20.600 align:middle line:84% So with this relatively small investment, 01:25:20.600 --> 01:25:23.340 align:middle line:84% we will begin to see the benefits of finally 01:25:23.340 --> 01:25:28.200 align:middle line:84% having a statewide housing court that is long overdue. 01:25:28.200 --> 01:25:33.070 align:middle line:84% And from a cost expense effectiveness prospect, 01:25:33.070 --> 01:25:36.280 align:middle line:84% which the Ways and Means, and I know the minority leader always 01:25:36.280 --> 01:25:38.970 align:middle line:84% looks at these areas as well, it's 01:25:38.970 --> 01:25:41.180 align:middle line:84% something that will be well worth it. 01:25:41.180 --> 01:25:45.460 align:middle line:84% So for these reasons, I urge a no. 01:25:45.460 --> 01:25:48.350 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 01:25:48.350 --> 01:25:51.112 align:middle line:84% I just want to clarify, and perhaps the gentlelady 01:25:51.112 --> 01:25:52.820 align:middle line:84% who leads the Committee on Ways and Means 01:25:52.820 --> 01:25:55.910 align:middle line:84% might have missed this, I agree with everything she said. 01:25:55.910 --> 01:25:59.560 align:middle line:84% My only question was how we do a million dollar expansion 01:25:59.560 --> 01:26:01.900 align:middle line:84% in a budget that's already fiscally constrained. 01:26:01.900 --> 01:26:03.140 align:middle line:90% That was the extent of it. 01:26:03.140 --> 01:26:05.200 align:middle line:90% I believe in the housing court. 01:26:05.200 --> 01:26:07.130 align:middle line:84% I think it's a wonderful institution. 01:26:07.130 --> 01:26:09.930 align:middle line:84% It's not in my district, but it serves my district. 01:26:09.930 --> 01:26:13.610 align:middle line:84% My question is how do we justify a million dollar expansion 01:26:13.610 --> 01:26:16.180 align:middle line:84% in a budget that is already, if we 01:26:16.180 --> 01:26:19.410 align:middle line:84% believe the revenue numbers that are coming in, underfunded. 01:26:19.410 --> 01:26:21.410 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:26:21.410 --> 01:26:25.580 align:middle line:84% The senator from Middlesex and Norfolk, Ms. Spilka. 01:26:25.580 --> 01:26:28.220 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] serves your district. 01:26:28.220 --> 01:26:28.780 align:middle line:90% You're lucky. 01:26:28.780 --> 01:26:30.900 align:middle line:84% You have at least access to housing court. 01:26:30.900 --> 01:26:33.270 align:middle line:84% My residents, my constituents, do not. 01:26:33.270 --> 01:26:35.910 align:middle line:84% And I do want to just reiterate that 01:26:35.910 --> 01:26:38.310 align:middle line:84% by preventing people from becoming 01:26:38.310 --> 01:26:42.260 align:middle line:84% homeless saves millions of dollars each year. 01:26:42.260 --> 01:26:46.800 align:middle line:84% So to put in one million to save tense of millions, 01:26:46.800 --> 01:26:48.030 align:middle line:90% I think is worth it. 01:26:48.030 --> 01:26:51.070 align:middle line:84% So again, I urge a no on this amendment. 01:26:51.070 --> 01:26:54.140 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 01:26:54.140 --> 01:26:56.370 align:middle line:84% I was hoping to get some justification 01:26:56.370 --> 01:26:57.560 align:middle line:90% for this expansion. 01:26:57.560 --> 01:26:59.030 align:middle line:90% I've been offered one. 01:26:59.030 --> 01:27:03.640 align:middle line:84% I'm willing to give the proposition that 01:27:03.640 --> 01:27:06.450 align:middle line:84% has been advanced by the Chair lady and opportunity. 01:27:06.450 --> 01:27:08.230 align:middle line:90% I'll be watching this closely. 01:27:08.230 --> 01:27:10.220 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President I request unanimous consent 01:27:10.220 --> 01:27:12.014 align:middle line:84% to withdraw the pending amendment. 01:27:12.014 --> 01:27:13.430 align:middle line:84% Consent to withdraw the amendment. 01:27:13.430 --> 01:27:14.550 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection? 01:27:14.550 --> 01:27:17.670 align:middle line:84% The Chair hears absolutely no objection. 01:27:17.670 --> 01:27:21.070 align:middle line:90% So ordered. 01:27:21.070 --> 01:27:24.080 align:middle line:84% The next amendment offered by the same senator, Amendment 01:27:24.080 --> 01:27:26.400 align:middle line:84% number 898, the title of which the clerk will read. 01:27:26.400 --> 01:27:28.520 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 898, by Mr. Tarr, 01:27:28.520 --> 01:27:31.960 align:middle line:90% Modernizing the Wiretap Law. 01:27:31.960 --> 01:27:34.450 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 01:27:34.450 --> 01:27:35.760 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:27:35.760 --> 01:27:37.920 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, this amendment 01:27:37.920 --> 01:27:39.870 align:middle line:84% was intended to draw attention to something 01:27:39.870 --> 01:27:43.270 align:middle line:84% that we've tried to address, not only in a number of budget 01:27:43.270 --> 01:27:45.220 align:middle line:84% vehicles, but in a number of pieces 01:27:45.220 --> 01:27:48.200 align:middle line:84% of freestanding legislation over the last several years. 01:27:48.200 --> 01:27:50.340 align:middle line:84% And that is the inability of the folks 01:27:50.340 --> 01:27:53.100 align:middle line:84% who were charged with protecting us in law enforcement 01:27:53.100 --> 01:27:56.870 align:middle line:84% with being able to use the tool of wiretapping. 01:27:56.870 --> 01:28:00.400 align:middle line:84% Now, Mr. President, the statute that we have is antiquated. 01:28:00.400 --> 01:28:04.040 align:middle line:84% It requires a nexus between organized crime 01:28:04.040 --> 01:28:06.930 align:middle line:84% and whatever is being investigated, Mr. President. 01:28:06.930 --> 01:28:08.730 align:middle line:84% And it doesn't take into account all 01:28:08.730 --> 01:28:11.530 align:middle line:84% of the various means of electronic communication 01:28:11.530 --> 01:28:14.510 align:middle line:84% that have developed and can be used nefariously 01:28:14.510 --> 01:28:18.900 align:middle line:84% since the statute was most recently passed, and most 01:28:18.900 --> 01:28:20.500 align:middle line:90% recently envisioned. 01:28:20.500 --> 01:28:23.160 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, this amendment is 01:28:23.160 --> 01:28:25.990 align:middle line:84% intended to be a way to say let's 01:28:25.990 --> 01:28:29.200 align:middle line:84% bring this tool into the modern era. 01:28:29.200 --> 01:28:33.210 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, it's also intended to remind folks that 01:28:33.210 --> 01:28:35.910 align:middle line:84% in order to be able to proceed with wiretapping, 01:28:35.910 --> 01:28:38.080 align:middle line:90% it cannot be done arbitrarily. 01:28:38.080 --> 01:28:39.700 align:middle line:90% It cannot be done easily. 01:28:39.700 --> 01:28:43.090 align:middle line:84% There's still a requirement of the obtaining a warrant 01:28:43.090 --> 01:28:47.070 align:middle line:84% and other kinds of safeguards so that it cannot be used 01:28:47.070 --> 01:28:48.210 align:middle line:90% inappropriately. 01:28:48.210 --> 01:28:49.940 align:middle line:84% And those things can be challenged 01:28:49.940 --> 01:28:52.170 align:middle line:90% if in fact they are given. 01:28:52.170 --> 01:28:55.330 align:middle line:84% In fact, Mr. President, it's been 01:28:55.330 --> 01:28:59.620 align:middle line:84% 50 years ago, 50 years ago, that the wiretap 01:28:59.620 --> 01:29:00.870 align:middle line:90% statute took effect. 01:29:00.870 --> 01:29:03.670 align:middle line:90% That was back in 1968. 01:29:03.670 --> 01:29:06.550 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, that was before even you and I were 01:29:06.550 --> 01:29:07.730 align:middle line:90% in the legislature. 01:29:07.730 --> 01:29:13.100 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, since that time, millions of people 01:29:13.100 --> 01:29:17.730 align:middle line:84% have ready access to powerful applications on cell phones. 01:29:17.730 --> 01:29:21.170 align:middle line:84% And some of those applications are designed for the express 01:29:21.170 --> 01:29:24.520 align:middle line:90% purpose of providing anonymity. 01:29:24.520 --> 01:29:26.480 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, there have also 01:29:26.480 --> 01:29:29.460 align:middle line:84% been a series of tools that have been developed 01:29:29.460 --> 01:29:33.320 align:middle line:84% since that time, where law enforcement could use, 01:29:33.320 --> 01:29:36.590 align:middle line:84% if it was allowed to, a number of technologies. 01:29:36.590 --> 01:29:39.410 align:middle line:84% The 50 year passage of time makes it clear 01:29:39.410 --> 01:29:42.180 align:middle line:84% that we need to address this issue. 01:29:42.180 --> 01:29:45.010 align:middle line:84% In the past, Mr. President, sometimes we've 01:29:45.010 --> 01:29:47.090 align:middle line:84% talked about things like those who 01:29:47.090 --> 01:29:51.610 align:middle line:84% were engaged in the sale of drugs that wind up causing harm 01:29:51.610 --> 01:29:54.170 align:middle line:90% and death in our communities. 01:29:54.170 --> 01:29:56.680 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, it's not clear 01:29:56.680 --> 01:30:00.340 align:middle line:84% that wiretapping is available even in those cases, 01:30:00.340 --> 01:30:05.140 align:middle line:84% unless this issue of organized crime can be met. 01:30:05.140 --> 01:30:08.400 align:middle line:84% And it's so narrowly defined, Mr. President, 01:30:08.400 --> 01:30:12.100 align:middle line:84% that it requires activities of a continuing enterprise 01:30:12.100 --> 01:30:14.790 align:middle line:84% to supply illegal goods and services. 01:30:14.790 --> 01:30:18.860 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, the problem with that is the definition 01:30:18.860 --> 01:30:21.310 align:middle line:90% is too narrowly tailored. 01:30:21.310 --> 01:30:23.750 align:middle line:84% And so, Mr. President, a number of folks 01:30:23.750 --> 01:30:26.630 align:middle line:84% have tried to focus on this, particularly 01:30:26.630 --> 01:30:29.640 align:middle line:84% because serious crimes, a number of them, 01:30:29.640 --> 01:30:33.460 align:middle line:84% do not necessarily have a connection to organized crime, 01:30:33.460 --> 01:30:37.060 align:middle line:84% such as murder, rape, possession of explosive devices, 01:30:37.060 --> 01:30:40.170 align:middle line:84% human trafficking, trafficking in firearms. 01:30:40.170 --> 01:30:42.920 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, people in law enforcement 01:30:42.920 --> 01:30:46.530 align:middle line:84% deserve to be able to use the tool of wiretapping 01:30:46.530 --> 01:30:48.840 align:middle line:90% in those particular cases. 01:30:48.840 --> 01:30:52.660 align:middle line:84% And so, Mr. President, some of the things that this amendment 01:30:52.660 --> 01:30:56.320 align:middle line:84% does are update the definitions to reference electronic 01:30:56.320 --> 01:31:00.150 align:middle line:84% communications that were not in use in 1968, 01:31:00.150 --> 01:31:02.810 align:middle line:84% to explicitly cover communications between 01:31:02.810 --> 01:31:07.030 align:middle line:84% out-of-state parties involving an in-state crime, 01:31:07.030 --> 01:31:10.770 align:middle line:84% authorizing law enforcement officials to use contractors, 01:31:10.770 --> 01:31:13.980 align:middle line:84% such as translators, to monitor communications, 01:31:13.980 --> 01:31:17.930 align:middle line:84% and requiring that law enforcement obtain an ordinary 01:31:17.930 --> 01:31:21.600 align:middle line:84% warrant for the interception of information that is not 01:31:21.600 --> 01:31:23.590 align:middle line:90% the content of communications-- 01:31:23.590 --> 01:31:25.960 align:middle line:84% that is the content of communications, rather than 01:31:25.960 --> 01:31:28.540 align:middle line:90% a special wiretap warrant. 01:31:28.540 --> 01:31:30.220 align:middle line:84% In addition to that, Mr. President, 01:31:30.220 --> 01:31:31.990 align:middle line:84% the amendment extends the amount of time 01:31:31.990 --> 01:31:36.500 align:middle line:84% that a court can authorize an interception before requiring 01:31:36.500 --> 01:31:39.590 align:middle line:84% the renewal of a warrant, so that in appropriate cases, 01:31:39.590 --> 01:31:42.690 align:middle line:84% law enforcement does not have to be burdened with seeking 01:31:42.690 --> 01:31:45.200 align:middle line:90% as many frequent renewals. 01:31:45.200 --> 01:31:48.340 align:middle line:84% In addition, Mr. President, this amendment 01:31:48.340 --> 01:31:50.230 align:middle line:84% also responds to a concern that some 01:31:50.230 --> 01:31:54.150 align:middle line:84% have that by exempting the use of body cameras and police 01:31:54.150 --> 01:31:58.030 align:middle line:84% cruiser cameras by readily and identifiable law enforcement 01:31:58.030 --> 01:32:01.120 align:middle line:84% personnel from the statute, because many folks would 01:32:01.120 --> 01:32:03.690 align:middle line:84% like those things to be more readily available. 01:32:03.690 --> 01:32:07.050 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, we continue to talk about this issue. 01:32:07.050 --> 01:32:10.470 align:middle line:84% And we continue to see the need for greater 01:32:10.470 --> 01:32:12.470 align:middle line:90% use of this particular tool. 01:32:12.470 --> 01:32:14.190 align:middle line:90% And yet, we have not acted. 01:32:14.190 --> 01:32:18.820 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, I suspect that we are not poised to act today. 01:32:18.820 --> 01:32:21.410 align:middle line:84% And so I'm very concerned about this. 01:32:21.410 --> 01:32:24.340 align:middle line:84% I hope that we will stay focused on this issue. 01:32:24.340 --> 01:32:26.270 align:middle line:84% I hope that we'll continue to work on it. 01:32:26.270 --> 01:32:28.480 align:middle line:84% And this amendment, Mr. President, 01:32:28.480 --> 01:32:30.680 align:middle line:84% falls in the category of something 01:32:30.680 --> 01:32:33.870 align:middle line:84% that I hope we're not forced to talk about when we next 01:32:33.870 --> 01:32:38.570 align:middle line:84% gather here to talk about the next fiscal year's state 01:32:38.570 --> 01:32:39.110 align:middle line:90% budget. 01:32:39.110 --> 01:32:41.180 align:middle line:84% So having said all that, Mr. President, 01:32:41.180 --> 01:32:44.044 align:middle line:84% I request unanimous consent to withdraw the pending amendment. 01:32:44.044 --> 01:32:45.460 align:middle line:84% The Senator asks unanimous consent 01:32:45.460 --> 01:32:46.280 align:middle line:90% to withdraw the amendment. 01:32:46.280 --> 01:32:47.196 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection? 01:32:47.196 --> 01:32:48.660 align:middle line:90% The Chair hears none. 01:32:48.660 --> 01:32:49.850 align:middle line:90% It is so ordered. 01:32:49.850 --> 01:32:52.740 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator from Plymouth and Barnstable, 01:32:52.740 --> 01:32:53.550 align:middle line:90% Mr. deMacedo. 01:32:53.550 --> 01:32:55.969 align:middle line:84% For what purpose does the gentleman rise? 01:32:55.969 --> 01:32:57.010 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:32:57.010 --> 01:32:59.890 align:middle line:84% I ask for unanimous consent to make a brief statement 01:32:59.890 --> 01:33:02.130 align:middle line:84% on a previously disposed amendment. 01:33:02.130 --> 01:33:04.390 align:middle line:84% The Senator asks consent to make a brief statement. 01:33:04.390 --> 01:33:05.450 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection? 01:33:05.450 --> 01:33:06.780 align:middle line:90% The Chair hears none. 01:33:06.780 --> 01:33:10.740 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Plymouth and Barnstable, Mr. deMacedo. 01:33:10.740 --> 01:33:12.650 align:middle line:84% I will try to be as brief as possible, 01:33:12.650 --> 01:33:14.730 align:middle line:84% but this is a very important issue. 01:33:14.730 --> 01:33:17.580 align:middle line:84% It was a previous amendment filed from my good friend 01:33:17.580 --> 01:33:18.800 align:middle line:90% from Westport. 01:33:18.800 --> 01:33:21.660 align:middle line:84% And it addresses the issue of the DEP. 01:33:21.660 --> 01:33:24.470 align:middle line:84% This is an area where we've been trying to get 01:33:24.470 --> 01:33:26.840 align:middle line:90% greater resources to the DEP. 01:33:26.840 --> 01:33:30.570 align:middle line:84% This new $1.4 million water quality 01:33:30.570 --> 01:33:33.770 align:middle line:84% advancement line item would support 12 new FTEs 01:33:33.770 --> 01:33:37.140 align:middle line:84% to provide enhanced water quality science to assist 01:33:37.140 --> 01:33:41.300 align:middle line:84% the Mass DEP and its long term goals of developing a program 01:33:41.300 --> 01:33:43.990 align:middle line:84% to allow Massachusetts to join 46 01:33:43.990 --> 01:33:48.344 align:middle line:84% other states in administering the NPDES program. 01:33:48.344 --> 01:33:49.760 align:middle line:84% And I know many of you are asking, 01:33:49.760 --> 01:33:51.540 align:middle line:90% what is the NPDES program? 01:33:51.540 --> 01:33:56.010 align:middle line:84% That is the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System 01:33:56.010 --> 01:33:56.930 align:middle line:90% Program. 01:33:56.930 --> 01:33:59.760 align:middle line:84% And what that does is it enables us 01:33:59.760 --> 01:34:02.140 align:middle line:84% to do a better job of protecting the water 01:34:02.140 --> 01:34:05.140 align:middle line:84% quality of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 01:34:05.140 --> 01:34:09.600 align:middle line:84% The funding will allow Mass DEP to build a robust program that 01:34:09.600 --> 01:34:12.810 align:middle line:84% will result in better information on water quality 01:34:12.810 --> 01:34:14.030 align:middle line:90% in the Commonwealth. 01:34:14.030 --> 01:34:16.370 align:middle line:84% It will use integrated water management 01:34:16.370 --> 01:34:19.670 align:middle line:84% to ensure a practical big picture 01:34:19.670 --> 01:34:24.060 align:middle line:84% approach to make permitting and water quality decisions. 01:34:24.060 --> 01:34:26.990 align:middle line:84% And it would enable for more up to date permits 01:34:26.990 --> 01:34:30.190 align:middle line:84% through an enhanced technical assistance, that addresses 01:34:30.190 --> 01:34:31.920 align:middle line:90% current environmental issues. 01:34:31.920 --> 01:34:35.240 align:middle line:84% It is my hope that all that we have done, 01:34:35.240 --> 01:34:38.120 align:middle line:84% and I know the gentleman from Acton just recently advocated 01:34:38.120 --> 01:34:40.110 align:middle line:84% for another million dollars to go 01:34:40.110 --> 01:34:43.170 align:middle line:84% to DEP to enable them to be in a position 01:34:43.170 --> 01:34:46.070 align:middle line:84% to do a better job of protecting our environment. 01:34:46.070 --> 01:34:48.230 align:middle line:90% This goes hand-in-hand with it. 01:34:48.230 --> 01:34:53.570 align:middle line:84% I hope that we will understand the significance of why 01:34:53.570 --> 01:34:56.900 align:middle line:90% amendment 876 was filed. 01:34:56.900 --> 01:35:00.700 align:middle line:84% Because it will empower the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, 01:35:00.700 --> 01:35:03.460 align:middle line:84% instead of right now, where it's in the hands of the EPA. 01:35:03.460 --> 01:35:06.740 align:middle line:84% It will bring it closer to home and put this responsibility 01:35:06.740 --> 01:35:08.170 align:middle line:90% in with the Mass DEP. 01:35:08.170 --> 01:35:11.110 align:middle line:90% Thank you Mr. President. 01:35:11.110 --> 01:35:13.762 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the Senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 01:35:13.762 --> 01:35:15.470 align:middle line:84% For what purpose does the gentleman rise? 01:35:15.470 --> 01:35:18.000 align:middle line:90% 01:35:18.000 --> 01:35:19.860 align:middle line:84% To the raucous behavior that was occurring 01:35:19.860 --> 01:35:20.985 align:middle line:90% in the rear of the chamber. 01:35:20.985 --> 01:35:24.450 align:middle line:84% But now Mr. President, I hope to offer some remarks, 01:35:24.450 --> 01:35:26.380 align:middle line:84% and so I request unanimous consent 01:35:26.380 --> 01:35:27.530 align:middle line:90% to make a brief statement. 01:35:27.530 --> 01:35:29.147 align:middle line:84% The Senator asks unanimous consent 01:35:29.147 --> 01:35:30.230 align:middle line:90% to make a brief statement. 01:35:30.230 --> 01:35:30.870 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection? 01:35:30.870 --> 01:35:31.950 align:middle line:90% The Chair hears none. 01:35:31.950 --> 01:35:34.059 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 01:35:34.059 --> 01:35:35.350 align:middle line:90% And through you to the members. 01:35:35.350 --> 01:35:38.910 align:middle line:84% I too wish to speak to Amendment number 876, 01:35:38.910 --> 01:35:41.650 align:middle line:84% knowing that that amendment has not been adopted. 01:35:41.650 --> 01:35:43.270 align:middle line:90% But Mr. President, the-- 01:35:43.270 --> 01:35:47.010 align:middle line:90% 01:35:47.010 --> 01:35:49.695 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. 01:35:49.695 --> 01:35:52.070 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, and through you to the members. 01:35:52.070 --> 01:35:56.310 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, Amendment number 876 calls our attention 01:35:56.310 --> 01:35:57.780 align:middle line:90% to a very serious issue. 01:35:57.780 --> 01:35:59.530 align:middle line:84% And it's the issue of how we are going 01:35:59.530 --> 01:36:03.200 align:middle line:84% to enforce various environmental regulations that are not 01:36:03.200 --> 01:36:06.770 align:middle line:84% necessarily being enforced in the most effective way 01:36:06.770 --> 01:36:09.160 align:middle line:90% by the National EPA. 01:36:09.160 --> 01:36:12.050 align:middle line:84% And so in order to make a change, 01:36:12.050 --> 01:36:14.610 align:middle line:84% so that our Department of Environmental Protection 01:36:14.610 --> 01:36:17.490 align:middle line:84% can enforce these laws in an effective way, 01:36:17.490 --> 01:36:21.600 align:middle line:84% the amendment would require about $1.4 million 01:36:21.600 --> 01:36:24.980 align:middle line:84% so the DEP could have sufficient personnel to be 01:36:24.980 --> 01:36:28.170 align:middle line:84% able to give a tailored approach to enforcing 01:36:28.170 --> 01:36:30.220 align:middle line:90% laws that are very impactful. 01:36:30.220 --> 01:36:32.310 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, those laws are 01:36:32.310 --> 01:36:36.260 align:middle line:84% known as the National Pollution Elimination System Program, 01:36:36.260 --> 01:36:37.740 align:middle line:90% or NPDES. 01:36:37.740 --> 01:36:41.750 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, NPDES has tremendous ramifications 01:36:41.750 --> 01:36:45.040 align:middle line:84% for cities and towns and others throughout the commonwealth. 01:36:45.040 --> 01:36:50.330 align:middle line:84% And interestingly enough, 46 other states actually 01:36:50.330 --> 01:36:53.300 align:middle line:84% have received delegation of the authority 01:36:53.300 --> 01:36:56.750 align:middle line:84% to enforce these laws, 46 other states. 01:36:56.750 --> 01:36:58.700 align:middle line:84% And the reason that they've done that 01:36:58.700 --> 01:37:01.520 align:middle line:84% is because they understand that they have a better working 01:37:01.520 --> 01:37:03.670 align:middle line:84% knowledge of the natural environment 01:37:03.670 --> 01:37:05.720 align:middle line:84% and the resources in their state. 01:37:05.720 --> 01:37:09.170 align:middle line:84% And they have a better ability to cooperatively enforce 01:37:09.170 --> 01:37:12.070 align:middle line:84% these requirements in a way that's cost effective 01:37:12.070 --> 01:37:15.680 align:middle line:84% and receives a better result for everyone. 01:37:15.680 --> 01:37:19.020 align:middle line:84% And currently, Mr. President, we know those permits 01:37:19.020 --> 01:37:21.550 align:middle line:90% are issued by the US EPA. 01:37:21.550 --> 01:37:24.900 align:middle line:84% And while we have admiration for the US EPA, 01:37:24.900 --> 01:37:27.400 align:middle line:84% they are not always on the ground 01:37:27.400 --> 01:37:29.600 align:middle line:84% here in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, 01:37:29.600 --> 01:37:31.660 align:middle line:90% having the same understanding. 01:37:31.660 --> 01:37:35.020 align:middle line:84% And so, Mr. President, I would point out 01:37:35.020 --> 01:37:38.220 align:middle line:84% that all of the communities currently, 01:37:38.220 --> 01:37:40.590 align:middle line:84% for instance, in my senatorial district, 01:37:40.590 --> 01:37:44.160 align:middle line:84% are impacted by the small municipal separate storm sewer 01:37:44.160 --> 01:37:46.120 align:middle line:90% systems general permit. 01:37:46.120 --> 01:37:49.590 align:middle line:84% And if you haven't heard about this, I guarantee you, 01:37:49.590 --> 01:37:52.050 align:middle line:84% you will in your part of the state. 01:37:52.050 --> 01:37:54.600 align:middle line:90% That permit is known as MS4. 01:37:54.600 --> 01:37:56.600 align:middle line:90% It is just now taking effect. 01:37:56.600 --> 01:38:00.490 align:middle line:84% And it will affect communities in some very substantial ways 01:38:00.490 --> 01:38:01.930 align:middle line:90% over the next decade. 01:38:01.930 --> 01:38:05.010 align:middle line:84% And so I would encourage people to focus on this, 01:38:05.010 --> 01:38:08.030 align:middle line:84% and maybe take a moment and call some of your local officials, 01:38:08.030 --> 01:38:12.700 align:middle line:84% and ask them about MS4 and find out a little bit more about it. 01:38:12.700 --> 01:38:16.620 align:middle line:84% But interestingly enough, Mr. President, the new permit 01:38:16.620 --> 01:38:19.100 align:middle line:90% was issued in April 2016. 01:38:19.100 --> 01:38:23.820 align:middle line:84% It becomes effective in July 2017. 01:38:23.820 --> 01:38:27.480 align:middle line:90% So MS4 is becoming a reality. 01:38:27.480 --> 01:38:30.760 align:middle line:84% It's much more detailed than the similar permit 01:38:30.760 --> 01:38:33.000 align:middle line:90% that was issued in 2003. 01:38:33.000 --> 01:38:35.190 align:middle line:84% And here's the interesting thing, Mr. President, 01:38:35.190 --> 01:38:40.720 align:middle line:84% it requires communities to meet over 200 separate reporting 01:38:40.720 --> 01:38:44.920 align:middle line:84% requirements, 200 separate reporting requirements. 01:38:44.920 --> 01:38:49.280 align:middle line:84% And it is expected to cost municipalities between $10,000 01:38:49.280 --> 01:38:53.090 align:middle line:90% and $300,000 per year. 01:38:53.090 --> 01:38:55.440 align:middle line:84% So again, I remind folks, you want 01:38:55.440 --> 01:38:59.400 align:middle line:84% to talk to your local officials about MS4, because it's 01:38:59.400 --> 01:39:03.780 align:middle line:90% taking effect in July of 2017. 01:39:03.780 --> 01:39:06.210 align:middle line:84% Now in addition to that permit, which generally 01:39:06.210 --> 01:39:08.130 align:middle line:84% deals with treatment of stormwater 01:39:08.130 --> 01:39:11.190 align:middle line:84% and other things, Mr. President, a number of our communities 01:39:11.190 --> 01:39:14.590 align:middle line:90% hold individual NPDES permits. 01:39:14.590 --> 01:39:17.440 align:middle line:84% And those permits are for wastewater treatment 01:39:17.440 --> 01:39:18.500 align:middle line:90% facilities. 01:39:18.500 --> 01:39:21.660 align:middle line:84% And again, they can be very costly. 01:39:21.660 --> 01:39:25.080 align:middle line:84% And if we don't have the right partnership between regulators 01:39:25.080 --> 01:39:29.180 align:middle line:84% and municipalities, we can not have the best result, 01:39:29.180 --> 01:39:31.760 align:middle line:84% either for the environment or the people 01:39:31.760 --> 01:39:34.530 align:middle line:84% that we represent in those municipalities. 01:39:34.530 --> 01:39:37.420 align:middle line:84% So interestingly enough, Mr. President, 01:39:37.420 --> 01:39:40.860 align:middle line:84% just in my area alone, the Town of Wilmington, 01:39:40.860 --> 01:39:44.280 align:middle line:84% has been subject to long delays in the NPDES permit being 01:39:44.280 --> 01:39:45.920 align:middle line:90% issued by the EPA. 01:39:45.920 --> 01:39:48.690 align:middle line:84% I don't think those similar delays 01:39:48.690 --> 01:39:51.380 align:middle line:90% would occur from the DEP. 01:39:51.380 --> 01:39:55.400 align:middle line:84% And similarly, Mr. President, the city of Gloucester 01:39:55.400 --> 01:39:58.510 align:middle line:84% has been dealing with a number of challenges 01:39:58.510 --> 01:40:02.100 align:middle line:84% in trying to get its wastewater treatment facility 01:40:02.100 --> 01:40:04.690 align:middle line:90% re-permitted by the EPA. 01:40:04.690 --> 01:40:08.260 align:middle line:84% Currently the city operates under a 301(h) waiver 01:40:08.260 --> 01:40:11.630 align:middle line:84% which exempts the city from requiring to meet 01:40:11.630 --> 01:40:13.930 align:middle line:90% secondary treatment standards. 01:40:13.930 --> 01:40:17.700 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, the city is the only facility 01:40:17.700 --> 01:40:21.910 align:middle line:84% in Gloucester, in the state, with this particular waiver. 01:40:21.910 --> 01:40:26.260 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, the EPA, as part of the renewal process 01:40:26.260 --> 01:40:28.870 align:middle line:84% indicated they plan to deny the waiver 01:40:28.870 --> 01:40:32.320 align:middle line:84% and cause the city to upgrade the treatment plant to comply 01:40:32.320 --> 01:40:33.580 align:middle line:90% with a new permit. 01:40:33.580 --> 01:40:36.700 align:middle line:84% And the upgrade, Mr. President, may 01:40:36.700 --> 01:40:42.050 align:middle line:84% require things that elude common sense, like using a performance 01:40:42.050 --> 01:40:44.290 align:middle line:84% standard as opposed to an outright requirement 01:40:44.290 --> 01:40:45.690 align:middle line:90% of particular equipment. 01:40:45.690 --> 01:40:48.110 align:middle line:84% If the goal is to protect the environment 01:40:48.110 --> 01:40:50.590 align:middle line:84% and to do it in the most cost effective way, 01:40:50.590 --> 01:40:53.360 align:middle line:84% then there could be a different way to approach this. 01:40:53.360 --> 01:40:56.360 align:middle line:84% But under the current paradigm, those opportunities 01:40:56.360 --> 01:40:58.260 align:middle line:90% are rare, if they ever occur. 01:40:58.260 --> 01:41:01.480 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, this is a very important issue 01:41:01.480 --> 01:41:02.790 align:middle line:90% for consideration. 01:41:02.790 --> 01:41:06.730 align:middle line:84% I know that the amendment has been rejected. 01:41:06.730 --> 01:41:10.520 align:middle line:84% But I would suggest that we look at this issue very carefully, 01:41:10.520 --> 01:41:12.360 align:middle line:84% and particularly, Mr. President, look 01:41:12.360 --> 01:41:17.910 align:middle line:84% at the bill that represents this concept, which is House 2777. 01:41:17.910 --> 01:41:21.340 align:middle line:84% And Mr. President, I hope that as we deal with MS4, 01:41:21.340 --> 01:41:24.250 align:middle line:84% and as we deal with municipalities with NPDES 01:41:24.250 --> 01:41:29.100 align:middle line:84% permits, and as we deal with the possibility of dramatic changes 01:41:29.100 --> 01:41:31.470 align:middle line:84% at EPA at the federal level, that we 01:41:31.470 --> 01:41:35.270 align:middle line:84% think about putting the folks at DEP to work on protecting 01:41:35.270 --> 01:41:39.280 align:middle line:84% our environment and doing it in partnership with permit holders 01:41:39.280 --> 01:41:41.840 align:middle line:84% and the people that are responsible for operating 01:41:41.840 --> 01:41:42.984 align:middle line:90% our municipalities. 01:41:42.984 --> 01:41:44.900 align:middle line:84% So Mr. President, again, I know this amendment 01:41:44.900 --> 01:41:45.940 align:middle line:90% has been rejected. 01:41:45.940 --> 01:41:47.720 align:middle line:90% This issue will continue. 01:41:47.720 --> 01:41:50.160 align:middle line:84% And I hope that we'll continue to focus on it. 01:41:50.160 --> 01:41:54.900 align:middle line:84% And I appreciate the opportunity to make a brief statement. 01:41:54.900 --> 01:42:02.090 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Norfolk [INAUDIBLE].. 01:42:02.090 --> 01:42:04.310 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much, Mr. President. 01:42:04.310 --> 01:42:06.690 align:middle line:84% I desire to make a brief statement as well. 01:42:06.690 --> 01:42:08.670 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] can make his brief statement 01:42:08.670 --> 01:42:09.670 align:middle line:90% if there's no objection. 01:42:09.670 --> 01:42:11.030 align:middle line:90% Does the chair hear objection? 01:42:11.030 --> 01:42:12.570 align:middle line:90% The chair does not. 01:42:12.570 --> 01:42:13.150 align:middle line:90% Senator. 01:42:13.150 --> 01:42:15.525 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, and through you to the members. 01:42:15.525 --> 01:42:18.890 align:middle line:84% I also rise in support of this bipartisan amendment that 01:42:18.890 --> 01:42:23.060 align:middle line:84% was defeated, which is also supported bypartisanly 01:42:23.060 --> 01:42:24.260 align:middle line:90% in the administration. 01:42:24.260 --> 01:42:26.710 align:middle line:84% This will help DEP, would have helped 01:42:26.710 --> 01:42:29.490 align:middle line:84% DEP, develop a program to administer 01:42:29.490 --> 01:42:35.810 align:middle line:84% the national pollutant discharge elimation system. 01:42:35.810 --> 01:42:37.890 align:middle line:84% Currently permits are issued by the EPA, 01:42:37.890 --> 01:42:40.260 align:middle line:84% but I have felt that it would be better 01:42:40.260 --> 01:42:44.350 align:middle line:84% to run more effectively by the DEP here in Massachusetts. 01:42:44.350 --> 01:42:49.020 align:middle line:84% The program would also allow DEP to provide much needed water 01:42:49.020 --> 01:42:52.100 align:middle line:84% quality monitoring and technical assistance to many communities 01:42:52.100 --> 01:42:54.250 align:middle line:84% here in the Commonwealth, Mr. President. 01:42:54.250 --> 01:42:57.430 align:middle line:90% 01:42:57.430 --> 01:43:00.010 align:middle line:84% And this is to many of the communities that I represent. 01:43:00.010 --> 01:43:03.590 align:middle line:84% This would result in many better environmental outcomes. 01:43:03.590 --> 01:43:06.490 align:middle line:84% I ask you to join me in supporting enhanced quality 01:43:06.490 --> 01:43:09.510 align:middle line:84% management, and when we have the opportunity in the future, 01:43:09.510 --> 01:43:11.925 align:middle line:84% to vote yes on this important issue. 01:43:11.925 --> 01:43:15.260 align:middle line:90% 01:43:15.260 --> 01:43:17.620 align:middle line:84% Just a point of clarification, I think 01:43:17.620 --> 01:43:21.340 align:middle line:84% we're having unanimous brief statements on a matter that's 01:43:21.340 --> 01:43:22.750 align:middle line:90% already been resolved. 01:43:22.750 --> 01:43:23.630 align:middle line:90% Is that correct? 01:43:23.630 --> 01:43:24.440 align:middle line:90% OK. 01:43:24.440 --> 01:43:28.970 align:middle line:84% The chair recognizes the Senator from Worcester, Ms. Gobi. 01:43:28.970 --> 01:43:31.050 align:middle line:84% For what purpose does the lady rise? 01:43:31.050 --> 01:43:32.990 align:middle line:84% It's just for a little clarification hopefully 01:43:32.990 --> 01:43:34.150 align:middle line:90% for the members as well. 01:43:34.150 --> 01:43:35.990 align:middle line:90% This bill is still in committee. 01:43:35.990 --> 01:43:38.300 align:middle line:84% It's before the Environment and Natural Resources 01:43:38.300 --> 01:43:40.180 align:middle line:84% and Agriculture Committee at this time. 01:43:40.180 --> 01:43:44.037 align:middle line:84% And obviously, I'll be happy to listen when the bill comes up 01:43:44.037 --> 01:43:44.620 align:middle line:90% for a hearing. 01:43:44.620 --> 01:43:47.270 align:middle line:84% And I expect that that will happen in a few months. 01:43:47.270 --> 01:43:50.017 align:middle line:84% And it'll be more debated at that time. 01:43:50.017 --> 01:43:50.600 align:middle line:90% So, thank you. 01:43:50.600 --> 01:43:54.540 align:middle line:90% 01:43:54.540 --> 01:44:01.650 align:middle line:84% The chair recognizes the Senator from Middlesex and Worcester, 01:44:01.650 --> 01:44:03.050 align:middle line:90% Mr. Eldridge. 01:44:03.050 --> 01:44:05.166 align:middle line:84% For what purpose does the gentleman rise? 01:44:05.166 --> 01:44:07.540 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, I ask for the unanimous consent 01:44:07.540 --> 01:44:07.690 align:middle line:90% to make-- 01:44:07.690 --> 01:44:09.773 align:middle line:84% The gentleman asks for unanimous consent to make-- 01:44:09.773 --> 01:44:13.110 align:middle line:84% on a subject that's been resolved. 01:44:13.110 --> 01:44:14.860 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection? 01:44:14.860 --> 01:44:16.740 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 01:44:16.740 --> 01:44:19.070 align:middle line:90% The senator is recognized. 01:44:19.070 --> 01:44:22.480 align:middle line:84% I just wanted to add that the [INAUDIBLE] from Spencer 01:44:22.480 --> 01:44:25.310 align:middle line:84% just said that, of course, the issue about changing 01:44:25.310 --> 01:44:28.980 align:middle line:84% the regulation of wastewater from the federal government 01:44:28.980 --> 01:44:32.430 align:middle line:84% to the state is a bill filed by the governor in the Environment 01:44:32.430 --> 01:44:35.740 align:middle line:84% Committee, which I happen to have serious concerns about. 01:44:35.740 --> 01:44:38.190 align:middle line:84% The good news as far as this budget goes 01:44:38.190 --> 01:44:41.740 align:middle line:84% is there has been a $1 billion increase in the DEP 01:44:41.740 --> 01:44:44.270 align:middle line:84% administrative line item, which I worked on very closely 01:44:44.270 --> 01:44:46.130 align:middle line:84% with the minority leader, speaking 01:44:46.130 --> 01:44:49.340 align:middle line:84% to the fact of the need for more resources for the DEP 01:44:49.340 --> 01:44:52.460 align:middle line:84% to regulate our state laws and federal laws. 01:44:52.460 --> 01:44:54.890 align:middle line:84% But I just want to note that I do have concerns 01:44:54.890 --> 01:44:58.410 align:middle line:84% about the governor's proposal and how that would potentially 01:44:58.410 --> 01:45:01.370 align:middle line:84% weaken the enforcement of cleaning up our rivers 01:45:01.370 --> 01:45:04.100 align:middle line:84% and streams through the enforcement of the Clean Water 01:45:04.100 --> 01:45:06.490 align:middle line:90% Act. 01:45:06.490 --> 01:45:09.540 align:middle line:84% And now, I've been asked to consider 01:45:09.540 --> 01:45:12.170 align:middle line:84% that the Senate consider that no action as having 01:45:12.170 --> 01:45:15.760 align:middle line:84% been previously been taken on Amendment number 771. 01:45:15.760 --> 01:45:17.000 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection. 01:45:17.000 --> 01:45:18.460 align:middle line:90% The chair hears none. 01:45:18.460 --> 01:45:19.820 align:middle line:90% It is so ordered. 01:45:19.820 --> 01:45:23.581 align:middle line:84% And now we return to Amendment number 913, 01:45:23.581 --> 01:45:25.580 align:middle line:84% offered by the Senator from Essex and Middlesex, 01:45:25.580 --> 01:45:28.222 align:middle line:84% Ms. L'Italien, a redrafted amendment, the title 01:45:28.222 --> 01:45:29.430 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:45:29.430 --> 01:45:32.390 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 913 by me Ms. L'Italien, Middlesex County 01:45:32.390 --> 01:45:33.290 align:middle line:90% Restoration Center. 01:45:33.290 --> 01:45:35.500 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:45:35.500 --> 01:45:38.600 align:middle line:84% The chair recognizes the Senator from Essex and Middlesex, 01:45:38.600 --> 01:45:39.900 align:middle line:90% Ms. L'Italien. 01:45:39.900 --> 01:45:42.980 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, and through you to the members. 01:45:42.980 --> 01:45:45.130 align:middle line:84% This amendment was actually filed 01:45:45.130 --> 01:45:48.270 align:middle line:84% on behalf of our late colleague, Senator Ken Donnelly. 01:45:48.270 --> 01:45:51.510 align:middle line:84% This was something that he cared very deeply about. 01:45:51.510 --> 01:45:55.040 align:middle line:84% It's for the Middlesex County Restoration Center. 01:45:55.040 --> 01:45:57.970 align:middle line:84% And so I'm going to speak a little bit about this. 01:45:57.970 --> 01:46:00.340 align:middle line:84% This appropriation would provide funding 01:46:00.340 --> 01:46:02.720 align:middle line:84% for the first year of a multi-year project, 01:46:02.720 --> 01:46:05.580 align:middle line:84% a four-year pilot that would move Massachusetts 01:46:05.580 --> 01:46:08.390 align:middle line:84% to a more effective, efficient, and humane model 01:46:08.390 --> 01:46:11.640 align:middle line:84% for treating people with serious mental illness, 01:46:11.640 --> 01:46:14.100 align:middle line:84% including those with co-occurring conditions 01:46:14.100 --> 01:46:16.370 align:middle line:84% of serious mental illness and substance abuse 01:46:16.370 --> 01:46:20.790 align:middle line:84% disorder, something that Ken cared very deeply about. 01:46:20.790 --> 01:46:24.060 align:middle line:84% And folks that are at high risk of interacting with law 01:46:24.060 --> 01:46:26.910 align:middle line:84% enforcement, or have interacted with law enforcement, 01:46:26.910 --> 01:46:28.860 align:middle line:84% the courts, and the Department of Corrections, 01:46:28.860 --> 01:46:30.540 align:middle line:90% because of their mental illness. 01:46:30.540 --> 01:46:33.470 align:middle line:84% There's a crisis in the mental health system in Massachusetts. 01:46:33.470 --> 01:46:36.200 align:middle line:84% Individual programs exist in silos. 01:46:36.200 --> 01:46:39.090 align:middle line:84% And there's no plan to provide a comprehensive and integrative 01:46:39.090 --> 01:46:41.660 align:middle line:84% set of services that meet the needs of those 01:46:41.660 --> 01:46:44.980 align:middle line:84% with acute and persistent mental illness. 01:46:44.980 --> 01:46:47.490 align:middle line:84% Individuals with severe mental illness and their families 01:46:47.490 --> 01:46:49.950 align:middle line:84% struggle to get timely and adequate treatment. 01:46:49.950 --> 01:46:52.030 align:middle line:84% And more often than not, try to navigate 01:46:52.030 --> 01:46:55.320 align:middle line:84% a system that appears to create barriers to treatment, rather 01:46:55.320 --> 01:46:57.230 align:middle line:90% than providing access to it. 01:46:57.230 --> 01:46:59.160 align:middle line:84% For most, treatment options are determined 01:46:59.160 --> 01:47:02.250 align:middle line:84% by insurance companies or woefully inadequate state 01:47:02.250 --> 01:47:03.240 align:middle line:90% funding levels. 01:47:03.240 --> 01:47:06.000 align:middle line:84% So this is, again, something that Ken Donnelly 01:47:06.000 --> 01:47:07.620 align:middle line:90% cared very deeply about. 01:47:07.620 --> 01:47:09.870 align:middle line:84% It's a program that will be administered 01:47:09.870 --> 01:47:14.530 align:middle line:84% through the Middlesex County Sheriff's Office. 01:47:14.530 --> 01:47:16.170 align:middle line:90% It's a pilot program. 01:47:16.170 --> 01:47:19.190 align:middle line:84% And it will provide a mechanism for diverse agencies 01:47:19.190 --> 01:47:22.770 align:middle line:84% to collaborate and communicate across the mental health, 01:47:22.770 --> 01:47:25.920 align:middle line:84% physical health, social services and criminal justice systems 01:47:25.920 --> 01:47:28.420 align:middle line:84% in order to provide seamless care. 01:47:28.420 --> 01:47:30.630 align:middle line:84% And this is based on a model of delivery 01:47:30.630 --> 01:47:32.590 align:middle line:90% done in Texas and in Florida. 01:47:32.590 --> 01:47:34.370 align:middle line:84% It's been highly successful there 01:47:34.370 --> 01:47:37.340 align:middle line:84% in reducing incarceration and emergency room 01:47:37.340 --> 01:47:40.650 align:middle line:84% visits, adversarial interactions with law enforcement, 01:47:40.650 --> 01:47:42.900 align:middle line:84% court usage, and all the associated 01:47:42.900 --> 01:47:45.970 align:middle line:84% costs that are incurred when proper treatment is denied. 01:47:45.970 --> 01:47:47.580 align:middle line:84% I feel very, very honored to have 01:47:47.580 --> 01:47:49.940 align:middle line:84% been asked by Senator Donnelly's staff 01:47:49.940 --> 01:47:52.400 align:middle line:90% to carry this on behalf of him. 01:47:52.400 --> 01:47:53.580 align:middle line:90% We all miss him. 01:47:53.580 --> 01:47:56.050 align:middle line:84% We see the empty seat this evening. 01:47:56.050 --> 01:47:59.150 align:middle line:84% And this is something he cared very, very deeply about. 01:47:59.150 --> 01:48:01.920 align:middle line:84% So I'm incredibly honored to carry this in his behalf. 01:48:01.920 --> 01:48:04.000 align:middle line:84% Thank you, and I hope the amendment is adoption. 01:48:04.000 --> 01:48:05.874 align:middle line:84% Adoption of the amendment, all those in favor 01:48:05.874 --> 01:48:07.210 align:middle line:90% say aye, oppose, no. 01:48:07.210 --> 01:48:08.140 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 01:48:08.140 --> 01:48:09.270 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 01:48:09.270 --> 01:48:10.736 align:middle line:84% The next was offered by the Senator 01:48:10.736 --> 01:48:12.360 align:middle line:84% from Middlesex, Ms. Donoghue, the title 01:48:12.360 --> 01:48:13.670 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:48:13.670 --> 01:48:17.180 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 914 by Ms. Donoghue, Shannon Grants. 01:48:17.180 --> 01:48:21.420 align:middle line:84% The chair recognizes the Senator from Middlesex, Ms. Donoghue. 01:48:21.420 --> 01:48:23.510 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] and through you to the members. 01:48:23.510 --> 01:48:26.380 align:middle line:84% I rise in support of this crucial amendment 01:48:26.380 --> 01:48:30.070 align:middle line:84% to increase funding for the Shannon Grants, by $2 million 01:48:30.070 --> 01:48:32.650 align:middle line:84% to a total of $7 million dollars. 01:48:32.650 --> 01:48:36.300 align:middle line:84% Shannon Grants funds organizations and programs 01:48:36.300 --> 01:48:39.780 align:middle line:84% that reduce gang violence and involvement and youth 01:48:39.780 --> 01:48:42.220 align:middle line:84% violence in more than 40 communities, where 01:48:42.220 --> 01:48:43.750 align:middle line:90% gangs are prevalent. 01:48:43.750 --> 01:48:47.360 align:middle line:84% Undergirding the grant program is the understanding 01:48:47.360 --> 01:48:52.540 align:middle line:84% that gangs are not simply an law enforcement problem. 01:48:52.540 --> 01:48:54.830 align:middle line:84% Youth violence is the result of a web 01:48:54.830 --> 01:48:57.410 align:middle line:90% of social and economic factors. 01:48:57.410 --> 01:49:00.640 align:middle line:84% And we can best combat it by addressing those underlying 01:49:00.640 --> 01:49:01.700 align:middle line:90% factors. 01:49:01.700 --> 01:49:05.960 align:middle line:84% Shannon Grant's support outreach workers, job training programs, 01:49:05.960 --> 01:49:09.260 align:middle line:84% social activities, after school programs, 01:49:09.260 --> 01:49:12.320 align:middle line:84% and many more youth oriented initiatives. 01:49:12.320 --> 01:49:15.460 align:middle line:84% They also facilitate better coordination 01:49:15.460 --> 01:49:18.620 align:middle line:84% between law enforcement and social service agencies, 01:49:18.620 --> 01:49:22.230 align:middle line:84% helping to steer gang involved young people toward more 01:49:22.230 --> 01:49:24.010 align:middle line:90% positive pursuits. 01:49:24.010 --> 01:49:25.760 align:middle line:90% The results are impressive. 01:49:25.760 --> 01:49:28.520 align:middle line:84% Consider the impact that Shannon Grant funding 01:49:28.520 --> 01:49:31.310 align:middle line:84% had on my home city of Lowell during the most 01:49:31.310 --> 01:49:33.050 align:middle line:90% recent fiscal year. 01:49:33.050 --> 01:49:40.010 align:middle line:84% Nearly 3,008 youths were served by roughly $560,000 in funding. 01:49:40.010 --> 01:49:44.550 align:middle line:84% 78 young people completed a subsidized summer employment 01:49:44.550 --> 01:49:45.410 align:middle line:90% program. 01:49:45.410 --> 01:49:49.800 align:middle line:84% 268 received street outreach services. 01:49:49.800 --> 01:49:55.480 align:middle line:84% And 1,262 participated in youth development programs. 01:49:55.480 --> 01:49:59.430 align:middle line:84% Shannon funded programs help replicate the kind of impact 01:49:59.430 --> 01:50:03.700 align:middle line:84% in dozens of other cities and towns, with just shy of 20,000 01:50:03.700 --> 01:50:05.610 align:middle line:90% youth served around the state. 01:50:05.610 --> 01:50:07.980 align:middle line:84% And statistics show that those programs 01:50:07.980 --> 01:50:10.410 align:middle line:90% are making a real difference. 01:50:10.410 --> 01:50:15.180 align:middle line:84% From 2012 to 2016, communities that received Shannon Grants 01:50:15.180 --> 01:50:18.570 align:middle line:84% saw significant declines in youth violence. 01:50:18.570 --> 01:50:21.140 align:middle line:84% The number of arrests of young people 01:50:21.140 --> 01:50:25.870 align:middle line:84% declined 19.5% for aggravated assaults, 01:50:25.870 --> 01:50:32.110 align:middle line:84% 25.4% for simple assaults, and declined a whopping 51% 01:50:32.110 --> 01:50:33.210 align:middle line:90% for robbery. 01:50:33.210 --> 01:50:36.010 align:middle line:84% This amendment calls for the additional $2 million 01:50:36.010 --> 01:50:39.910 align:middle line:84% that will sustain the programs and make the community safer 01:50:39.910 --> 01:50:43.730 align:middle line:84% and set at-risk youth on a path to healthier, happier, 01:50:43.730 --> 01:50:45.350 align:middle line:90% and more productive lives. 01:50:45.350 --> 01:50:47.090 align:middle line:90% I hope the amendment passes. 01:50:47.090 --> 01:50:48.820 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:50:48.820 --> 01:50:51.480 align:middle line:90% Are we going to do a roll call? 01:50:51.480 --> 01:50:57.610 align:middle line:90% Do you want a roll call? 01:50:57.610 --> 01:50:59.200 align:middle line:84% I ask that when a vote is taken, it 01:50:59.200 --> 01:51:00.792 align:middle line:84% be taken by call of the yeas and nays. 01:51:00.792 --> 01:51:02.250 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] to be taken to be taken 01:51:02.250 --> 01:51:03.240 align:middle line:90% by a call of the yeas and nays. 01:51:03.240 --> 01:51:05.160 align:middle line:84% Those joining with her, rise and be counted. 01:51:05.160 --> 01:51:07.420 align:middle line:84% A sufficient number having risen, 01:51:07.420 --> 01:51:09.420 align:middle line:90% the roll call is ordered. 01:51:09.420 --> 01:51:14.160 align:middle line:84% The clerk will call the roll, and call the chair, 01:51:14.160 --> 01:51:16.060 align:middle line:84% and take Senator Tarr out of order. 01:51:16.060 --> 01:51:28.010 align:middle line:90% 01:51:28.010 --> 01:51:30.100 align:middle line:90% Rosenberg? 01:51:30.100 --> 01:51:30.760 align:middle line:90% Yes 01:51:30.760 --> 01:51:32.350 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:51:32.350 --> 01:51:33.990 align:middle line:90% Bruce E. Tarr? 01:51:33.990 --> 01:51:34.490 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:51:34.490 --> 01:51:37.050 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:51:37.050 --> 01:51:39.940 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Barrett? 01:51:39.940 --> 01:51:40.590 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:51:40.590 --> 01:51:42.450 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:51:42.450 --> 01:51:43.580 align:middle line:90% Joseph A Boncore? 01:51:43.580 --> 01:51:45.060 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:51:45.060 --> 01:51:46.840 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:51:46.840 --> 01:51:48.600 align:middle line:90% Michael D. Brady? 01:51:48.600 --> 01:51:49.100 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:51:49.100 --> 01:51:50.320 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:51:50.320 --> 01:51:52.120 align:middle line:90% William N. Brownsberger? 01:51:52.120 --> 01:51:52.630 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:51:52.630 --> 01:51:54.130 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:51:54.130 --> 01:51:55.490 align:middle line:90% Harriette L. Chandler? 01:51:55.490 --> 01:51:55.990 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:51:55.990 --> 01:51:57.150 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:51:57.150 --> 01:51:58.320 align:middle line:90% Sonia Chang-Diaz? 01:51:58.320 --> 01:51:58.820 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:51:58.820 --> 01:52:00.890 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:00.890 --> 01:52:02.460 align:middle line:90% Cynthia Stone Creem? 01:52:02.460 --> 01:52:02.960 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:02.960 --> 01:52:04.260 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:04.260 --> 01:52:04.920 align:middle line:90% Julian Cyr? 01:52:04.920 --> 01:52:05.770 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:05.770 --> 01:52:07.480 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:07.480 --> 01:52:09.480 align:middle line:90% Viriato deMacedo? 01:52:09.480 --> 01:52:09.980 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:09.980 --> 01:52:11.090 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:11.090 --> 01:52:13.051 align:middle line:90% Sal N. DiDomenico? 01:52:13.051 --> 01:52:13.550 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:13.550 --> 01:52:15.240 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:15.240 --> 01:52:17.000 align:middle line:90% Eileen M. Donoghue? 01:52:17.000 --> 01:52:17.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:17.500 --> 01:52:18.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:18.800 --> 01:52:19.980 align:middle line:90% James B. Eldridge? 01:52:19.980 --> 01:52:20.680 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:20.680 --> 01:52:22.340 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:22.340 --> 01:52:23.950 align:middle line:90% Ryan C. Fattman? 01:52:23.950 --> 01:52:25.260 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:25.260 --> 01:52:25.760 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:25.760 --> 01:52:27.450 align:middle line:90% Jennifer L. Flanagan? 01:52:27.450 --> 01:52:27.950 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:27.950 --> 01:52:29.550 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:29.550 --> 01:52:31.580 align:middle line:90% Linda Dorcena Forry? 01:52:31.580 --> 01:52:33.490 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:33.490 --> 01:52:33.990 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:33.990 --> 01:52:34.830 align:middle line:90% Anne M. Gobi? 01:52:34.830 --> 01:52:35.330 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:35.330 --> 01:52:37.100 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:37.100 --> 01:52:38.170 align:middle line:90% Adam J. Hinds? 01:52:38.170 --> 01:52:42.680 align:middle line:90% 01:52:42.680 --> 01:52:44.020 align:middle line:90% Donald F. Humason, Jr.? 01:52:44.020 --> 01:52:44.730 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:44.730 --> 01:52:46.250 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:46.250 --> 01:52:49.640 align:middle line:90% Patricia D. Jehlen? 01:52:49.640 --> 01:52:51.930 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:51.930 --> 01:52:53.470 align:middle line:90% John F. Keenan? 01:52:53.470 --> 01:52:54.671 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:54.671 --> 01:52:55.170 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:55.170 --> 01:52:56.660 align:middle line:90% Eric P. Lesser? 01:52:56.660 --> 01:52:57.180 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:57.180 --> 01:52:58.290 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:52:58.290 --> 01:53:00.170 align:middle line:90% Jason M. Lewis? 01:53:00.170 --> 01:53:00.670 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:00.670 --> 01:53:01.990 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:01.990 --> 01:53:03.040 align:middle line:90% Barbara A. L'Italien? 01:53:03.040 --> 01:53:04.030 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:04.030 --> 01:53:05.740 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:05.740 --> 01:53:06.720 align:middle line:90% Joan B. Lovely? 01:53:06.720 --> 01:53:07.500 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:07.500 --> 01:53:09.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:09.800 --> 01:53:12.100 align:middle line:90% Thomas M. McGee? 01:53:12.100 --> 01:53:12.680 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:12.680 --> 01:53:13.960 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:13.960 --> 01:53:15.300 align:middle line:90% Mark C. Montigny? 01:53:15.300 --> 01:53:15.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:15.800 --> 01:53:17.180 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:17.180 --> 01:53:19.040 align:middle line:90% Michael O. Moore? 01:53:19.040 --> 01:53:20.290 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:20.290 --> 01:53:20.790 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:20.790 --> 01:53:22.310 align:middle line:90% Patrick M. O'Connor? 01:53:22.310 --> 01:53:22.810 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:22.810 --> 01:53:24.430 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:24.430 --> 01:53:26.251 align:middle line:90% Kathleen O'Connor Ives? 01:53:26.251 --> 01:53:26.750 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:26.750 --> 01:53:27.810 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:27.810 --> 01:53:28.660 align:middle line:90% Marc R. Pacheco? 01:53:28.660 --> 01:53:31.670 align:middle line:90% 01:53:31.670 --> 01:53:33.300 align:middle line:90% Michael J. Rodrigues? 01:53:33.300 --> 01:53:33.830 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:33.830 --> 01:53:35.380 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:35.380 --> 01:53:36.990 align:middle line:90% Richard J. Ross? 01:53:36.990 --> 01:53:37.490 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:37.490 --> 01:53:38.620 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:38.620 --> 01:53:40.520 align:middle line:90% Michael F. Rush? 01:53:40.520 --> 01:53:41.020 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:41.020 --> 01:53:42.350 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:42.350 --> 01:53:44.310 align:middle line:90% Karen E. Spilka? 01:53:44.310 --> 01:53:44.810 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:44.810 --> 01:53:46.230 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:46.230 --> 01:53:47.660 align:middle line:90% Walter F. Timilty? 01:53:47.660 --> 01:53:48.160 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:48.160 --> 01:53:49.800 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:49.800 --> 01:53:52.781 align:middle line:90% James T. Welch? 01:53:52.781 --> 01:53:53.280 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:53.280 --> 01:53:55.130 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:55.130 --> 01:53:56.480 align:middle line:90% Have all members been recorded? 01:53:56.480 --> 01:54:01.630 align:middle line:90% 01:54:01.630 --> 01:54:03.810 align:middle line:90% Adam G. Hinds votes yes. 01:54:03.810 --> 01:54:07.500 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] Bristol, Mr. Montigny. 01:54:07.500 --> 01:54:10.410 align:middle line:90% 01:54:10.410 --> 01:54:14.010 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] I decided to be recorded in the affirmative. 01:54:14.010 --> 01:54:15.855 align:middle line:90% Marc R. Pacheco votes yes. 01:54:15.855 --> 01:54:29.600 align:middle line:90% 01:54:29.600 --> 01:54:32.040 align:middle line:84% On this matter, 38 having voted in the affirmative, none 01:54:32.040 --> 01:54:34.180 align:middle line:84% in the negative, the amendment is adopted. 01:54:34.180 --> 01:54:37.010 align:middle line:84% The next is Amendment number 922, offered by the Senator 01:54:37.010 --> 01:54:40.040 align:middle line:84% from Essex, Mr. Tarr, the title of which the clerk will read. 01:54:40.040 --> 01:54:43.780 align:middle line:84% Number 922 by Mr. Tarr, creating the Commonwealth Technical 01:54:43.780 --> 01:54:46.814 align:middle line:84% Rescue Regions and Coordinating Council. 01:54:46.814 --> 01:54:48.980 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the adoption of the amendment. 01:54:48.980 --> 01:54:51.180 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 01:54:51.180 --> 01:54:52.000 align:middle line:90% The nos have it. 01:54:52.000 --> 01:54:53.208 align:middle line:90% The amendment is not adopted. 01:54:53.208 --> 01:54:55.090 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 925 offered by the Senator 01:54:55.090 --> 01:54:57.050 align:middle line:84% from Middlesex and Worcester, Mr. Eldridge, the title 01:54:57.050 --> 01:54:58.258 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:54:58.258 --> 01:55:00.050 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 929, by Mr. Eldridge, 01:55:00.050 --> 01:55:03.220 align:middle line:84% Resolve to Stop the Violence Project. 01:55:03.220 --> 01:55:07.730 align:middle line:84% The Chair calls upon the Senator from Middlesex and Worcester, 01:55:07.730 --> 01:55:09.370 align:middle line:90% Mr. Eldridge. 01:55:09.370 --> 01:55:12.690 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, this amendment 925 01:55:12.690 --> 01:55:18.980 align:middle line:84% would fund a new program in the Department of Corrections 01:55:18.980 --> 01:55:22.580 align:middle line:84% called Resolve to Stop the Violence Project, 01:55:22.580 --> 01:55:26.690 align:middle line:90% with funding for $300,000. 01:55:26.690 --> 01:55:31.630 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, in the gallery is a activist and someone 01:55:31.630 --> 01:55:34.870 align:middle line:84% who has visited many of our offices, Char Simpson, 01:55:34.870 --> 01:55:38.400 align:middle line:84% in advocating for this restorative justice program. 01:55:38.400 --> 01:55:41.860 align:middle line:84% And for those of you who are familiar with the legislation I 01:55:41.860 --> 01:55:43.730 align:middle line:84% have filed for the past six years 01:55:43.730 --> 01:55:46.580 align:middle line:84% an act to promote restorative justice practices, 01:55:46.580 --> 01:55:50.710 align:middle line:84% I have been encouraging us and our criminal justice system 01:55:50.710 --> 01:55:53.740 align:middle line:84% to embrace restorative justice, whether it's 01:55:53.740 --> 01:55:56.760 align:middle line:84% diversion in the courts, or in this case, 01:55:56.760 --> 01:55:59.950 align:middle line:84% our restorative justice in our state prisons. 01:55:59.950 --> 01:56:03.050 align:middle line:84% What we have seen is that restorative justice 01:56:03.050 --> 01:56:08.730 align:middle line:84% is a very powerful tool, both to address a person who 01:56:08.730 --> 01:56:11.550 align:middle line:84% has committed an offense coming to terms with the offense 01:56:11.550 --> 01:56:15.580 align:middle line:84% that he or she has caused, but also to create healing 01:56:15.580 --> 01:56:18.440 align:middle line:84% with the victims that person has hurt. 01:56:18.440 --> 01:56:24.250 align:middle line:84% The Resolve to Stop the Violence Project, RSVP, is 01:56:24.250 --> 01:56:27.450 align:middle line:84% a unique restorative justice program providing 01:56:27.450 --> 01:56:29.930 align:middle line:84% an intensive 12-hours a day, six days a week 01:56:29.930 --> 01:56:33.320 align:middle line:84% restorative justice program for incarcerated men 01:56:33.320 --> 01:56:36.340 align:middle line:84% with violent behavior in our state prisons. 01:56:36.340 --> 01:56:38.440 align:middle line:84% Its a program that currently exists 01:56:38.440 --> 01:56:40.350 align:middle line:90% in the City of San Francisco. 01:56:40.350 --> 01:56:42.740 align:middle line:84% There's a very powerful documentary about it. 01:56:42.740 --> 01:56:45.800 align:middle line:84% And what we are trying to do is bring this program 01:56:45.800 --> 01:56:47.240 align:middle line:90% to Massachusetts. 01:56:47.240 --> 01:56:50.350 align:middle line:84% The good news is that restorative justice is already 01:56:50.350 --> 01:56:54.200 align:middle line:84% happening in our prison system not only with prisoners, 01:56:54.200 --> 01:56:57.870 align:middle line:84% but interestingly, with many correctional officers, who also 01:56:57.870 --> 01:57:01.950 align:middle line:84% struggle with the day to day difficult job of being 01:57:01.950 --> 01:57:03.680 align:middle line:90% a correctional officer. 01:57:03.680 --> 01:57:06.700 align:middle line:84% What we know is that restorative justice 01:57:06.700 --> 01:57:09.140 align:middle line:90% works in many other countries. 01:57:09.140 --> 01:57:12.090 align:middle line:84% It is growing across the United States. 01:57:12.090 --> 01:57:16.140 align:middle line:84% And the Resolve to Stop the Violence Project, RSVP, is 01:57:16.140 --> 01:57:18.820 align:middle line:84% just such a program that I believe 01:57:18.820 --> 01:57:23.050 align:middle line:84% would address dealing with prisoners who are still 01:57:23.050 --> 01:57:27.220 align:middle line:84% coming to terms with the crimes they committed, helping them 01:57:27.220 --> 01:57:30.720 align:middle line:84% transition, if they are leaving the prison at some point, 01:57:30.720 --> 01:57:35.910 align:middle line:84% as well as improving overall the culture within prisons across. 01:57:35.910 --> 01:57:37.820 align:middle line:90% Massachusetts. 01:57:37.820 --> 01:57:41.350 align:middle line:84% I would just finish and say that clearly this session, there 01:57:41.350 --> 01:57:44.060 align:middle line:84% is a big push for criminal justice reform, 01:57:44.060 --> 01:57:48.720 align:middle line:84% and part of that theory, in part, led by the lady 01:57:48.720 --> 01:57:51.940 align:middle line:84% from Jamaica plains legislation, the Justice Reinvestment Act, 01:57:51.940 --> 01:57:55.510 align:middle line:84% is that if we save money through criminal justice reform, 01:57:55.510 --> 01:57:58.860 align:middle line:84% we use some of that money for treatment, 01:57:58.860 --> 01:58:01.860 align:middle line:84% for vocational training, and also 01:58:01.860 --> 01:58:05.670 align:middle line:84% to help change and address the culture of violence 01:58:05.670 --> 01:58:08.320 align:middle line:84% within our prisons, and communities 01:58:08.320 --> 01:58:10.010 align:middle line:90% across Massachusetts. 01:58:10.010 --> 01:58:13.670 align:middle line:84% The RSVP program is just such a project 01:58:13.670 --> 01:58:15.430 align:middle line:84% that I would hope would be funded. 01:58:15.430 --> 01:58:18.440 align:middle line:84% So I urge my colleagues to support this project 01:58:18.440 --> 01:58:22.120 align:middle line:84% to begin the efforts of innovative programs 01:58:22.120 --> 01:58:26.760 align:middle line:84% within our prison system in expanding restorative justice. 01:58:26.760 --> 01:58:28.990 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:58:28.990 --> 01:58:31.510 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 01:58:31.510 --> 01:58:33.700 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 01:58:33.700 --> 01:58:35.950 align:middle line:90% The nos have it at this time. 01:58:35.950 --> 01:58:39.490 align:middle line:84% But like some other measures, we'll see it again. 01:58:39.490 --> 01:58:44.310 align:middle line:84% The question now comes on Amendment number 927, offered 01:58:44.310 --> 01:58:46.470 align:middle line:84% by the Senator from Suffolk and Middlesex, 01:58:46.470 --> 01:58:50.850 align:middle line:84% Mr. Brownsberger, the title of which the clerk will read. 01:58:50.850 --> 01:58:53.500 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 927, Mr. Brownsberger, 01:58:53.500 --> 01:58:56.960 align:middle line:90% Municipal Police Training Fund. 01:58:56.960 --> 01:58:58.990 align:middle line:90% The senator from Middlesex-- 01:58:58.990 --> 01:59:00.871 align:middle line:84% Suffolk and Middlesex, Mr. Brownsberger. 01:59:00.871 --> 01:59:01.870 align:middle line:90% Thank you Mr. President. 01:59:01.870 --> 01:59:04.080 align:middle line:84% I ask unanimous consent to make-- 01:59:04.080 --> 01:59:06.847 align:middle line:84% to withdraw this amendment and then to make a brief statement. 01:59:06.847 --> 01:59:08.680 align:middle line:84% Unanimous consent to withdraw the amendment. 01:59:08.680 --> 01:59:09.730 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection? 01:59:09.730 --> 01:59:11.940 align:middle line:84% Chair hears none and now the gentleman 01:59:11.940 --> 01:59:14.850 align:middle line:84% asks unanimous consent to make a brief statement Does 01:59:14.850 --> 01:59:15.820 align:middle line:90% chair hear objection? 01:59:15.820 --> 01:59:16.810 align:middle line:90% Chair hears none. 01:59:16.810 --> 01:59:20.249 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Suffolk and Middlesex, Mr. Brownsberger. 01:59:20.249 --> 01:59:21.290 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:59:21.290 --> 01:59:23.873 align:middle line:84% This is an amendment that had a lot of support in the chamber. 01:59:23.873 --> 01:59:25.350 align:middle line:90% I think about half the members. 01:59:25.350 --> 01:59:29.270 align:middle line:84% Unfortunately for those who co-sponsored it with me, 01:59:29.270 --> 01:59:32.850 align:middle line:84% we were unable to agree on a workable funding source. 01:59:32.850 --> 01:59:34.404 align:middle line:84% And therefore, the agreement-- it 01:59:34.404 --> 01:59:36.070 align:middle line:84% was felt best to withdraw the amendment, 01:59:36.070 --> 01:59:37.153 align:middle line:90% so that's what we've done. 01:59:37.153 --> 01:59:39.610 align:middle line:90% 01:59:39.610 --> 01:59:41.150 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:59:41.150 --> 01:59:44.842 align:middle line:84% 933 offered by the Senator from Suffolk, Ms. Forry, the title 01:59:44.842 --> 01:59:46.050 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 01:59:46.050 --> 01:59:48.820 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 933 by Ms. Forry, Suffolk County 01:59:48.820 --> 01:59:49.946 align:middle line:90% Children's Advocacy Center. 01:59:49.946 --> 01:59:52.111 align:middle line:84% The question comes on the adoption of the amendment. 01:59:52.111 --> 01:59:53.970 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 01:59:53.970 --> 01:59:54.920 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 01:59:54.920 --> 01:59:56.160 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 01:59:56.160 --> 01:59:58.209 align:middle line:84% Number 940 offered by the Senator 01:59:58.209 --> 02:00:00.500 align:middle line:84% from Suffolk and Middlesex, Mr. Brownsberger, the title 02:00:00.500 --> 02:00:01.708 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:00:01.708 --> 02:00:03.630 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 940 by Mr. Brownsberger, 02:00:03.630 --> 02:00:08.350 align:middle line:84% the Elimination of Parole Fees, Part One. 02:00:08.350 --> 02:00:11.670 align:middle line:84% The senator from Camden, New Hampshire, Mr. Humason. 02:00:11.670 --> 02:00:13.140 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 02:00:13.140 --> 02:00:14.819 align:middle line:84% With respect to Amendment number 940, 02:00:14.819 --> 02:00:17.360 align:middle line:84% we're hoping the sponsor can get up and tell us what it does. 02:00:17.360 --> 02:00:18.120 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 02:00:18.120 --> 02:00:20.450 align:middle line:84% Senator from Suffolk and Middlesex, Mr. Brownsberger. 02:00:20.450 --> 02:00:26.210 align:middle line:90% 02:00:26.210 --> 02:00:28.300 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 02:00:28.300 --> 02:00:31.740 align:middle line:84% In our wisdom some years ago, I believe in 2003, 02:00:31.740 --> 02:00:34.270 align:middle line:84% we decided to start charging people 02:00:34.270 --> 02:00:36.410 align:middle line:84% for the privilege of being on parole. 02:00:36.410 --> 02:00:38.770 align:middle line:84% This is one of the most ironic decisions 02:00:38.770 --> 02:00:41.200 align:middle line:84% we've made, because in fact, people who are on parole 02:00:41.200 --> 02:00:44.940 align:middle line:84% are, almost all of them were indigent when they entered 02:00:44.940 --> 02:00:48.320 align:middle line:84% prison, and certainly they are all indigent upon the time they 02:00:48.320 --> 02:00:51.690 align:middle line:84% leave prison, and especially unable to work. 02:00:51.690 --> 02:00:56.420 align:middle line:84% So this amendment would simply abolish parole fees 02:00:56.420 --> 02:00:58.840 align:middle line:84% and this related amendment would have 02:00:58.840 --> 02:01:02.620 align:middle line:84% the effect of holding the parole board harmless. 02:01:02.620 --> 02:01:04.580 align:middle line:84% Currently they have a retained revenue amount 02:01:04.580 --> 02:01:06.080 align:middle line:84% from these parole fees which they're 02:01:06.080 --> 02:01:09.020 align:middle line:84% able to use for sex offender supervision. 02:01:09.020 --> 02:01:11.350 align:middle line:84% This would abolish the fees and give them 02:01:11.350 --> 02:01:13.850 align:middle line:84% the money that they had through an appropriation. 02:01:13.850 --> 02:01:16.159 align:middle line:84% This is a very sound criminal justice measure. 02:01:16.159 --> 02:01:17.200 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 02:01:17.200 --> 02:01:19.760 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] the amendment, all those in favor, 02:01:19.760 --> 02:01:21.480 align:middle line:90% say aye, opposed no. 02:01:21.480 --> 02:01:23.620 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it and the amendment is adopted. 02:01:23.620 --> 02:01:26.752 align:middle line:84% The same senator offers Amendment number 941, the title 02:01:26.752 --> 02:01:27.960 align:middle line:90% of which the clerk will read. 02:01:27.960 --> 02:01:30.200 align:middle line:84% Amendment number 941 by Mr. Brownsberger, 02:01:30.200 --> 02:01:32.250 align:middle line:84% Elimination of Parole Fees, Part Two. 02:01:32.250 --> 02:01:34.340 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the amendment. 02:01:34.340 --> 02:01:36.260 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, say aye, opposed no. 02:01:36.260 --> 02:01:37.150 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 02:01:37.150 --> 02:01:38.290 align:middle line:90% The amendment is adopted. 02:01:38.290 --> 02:01:43.200 align:middle line:90% 02:01:43.200 --> 02:01:48.730 align:middle line:84% The Senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr asks for a brief recess. 02:01:48.730 --> 02:01:59.355 align:middle line:90%