WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:02.495 align:middle line:90% [BEEP] 00:00:02.495 --> 00:23:57.619 align:middle line:90% 00:23:57.619 --> 00:24:00.613 align:middle line:90% [BEEP] 00:24:00.613 --> 00:36:52.720 align:middle line:90% 00:36:52.720 --> 00:36:54.640 align:middle line:84% Under the provisions of Article X 00:36:54.640 --> 00:36:56.592 align:middle line:84% of the Amendments to the Constitution, 00:36:56.592 --> 00:36:58.300 align:middle line:84% the Senate will come to order and proceed 00:36:58.300 --> 00:37:00.092 align:middle line:84% to the business of the first annual session 00:37:00.092 --> 00:37:02.470 align:middle line:90% of the 191st General Court. 00:37:02.470 --> 00:37:04.600 align:middle line:84% I call upon the eldest senior senator 00:37:04.600 --> 00:37:07.285 align:middle line:84% with continuous service, the Honorable Marc R. Pacheco, 00:37:07.285 --> 00:37:09.160 align:middle line:84% to take the gavel and preside over the Senate 00:37:09.160 --> 00:37:12.100 align:middle line:84% until such time a president of the Senate has been elected. 00:37:12.100 --> 00:37:12.880 align:middle line:90% Senator Pacheco. 00:37:12.880 --> 00:37:38.030 align:middle line:90% 00:37:38.030 --> 00:37:42.810 align:middle line:90% The Senate will come to order. 00:37:42.810 --> 00:37:51.750 align:middle line:84% Welcome to this beautiful, refurbished Senate Chamber. 00:37:51.750 --> 00:37:55.590 align:middle line:90% Welcome to all. 00:37:55.590 --> 00:38:02.310 align:middle line:84% I would ask that all members, guests, and staff please rise 00:38:02.310 --> 00:38:06.690 align:middle line:84% and join me in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance 00:38:06.690 --> 00:38:07.260 align:middle line:90% to the Flag. 00:38:07.260 --> 00:38:10.212 align:middle line:90% 00:38:10.212 --> 00:38:15.780 align:middle line:84% I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America 00:38:15.780 --> 00:38:20.970 align:middle line:84% and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, 00:38:20.970 --> 00:38:26.615 align:middle line:84% indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. 00:38:26.615 --> 00:38:28.065 align:middle line:90% Please remain standing. 00:38:28.065 --> 00:38:31.420 align:middle line:90% 00:38:31.420 --> 00:38:39.300 align:middle line:84% Our prayer this morning will be offered by Rabbi Joseph Metzler 00:38:39.300 --> 00:38:42.510 align:middle line:90% of the Temple Sinai in Sharon. 00:38:42.510 --> 00:38:45.885 align:middle line:84% Rabbi Metzler will-- if you'll please join me 00:38:45.885 --> 00:38:47.260 align:middle line:84% on the rostrum-- oh, you're here. 00:38:47.260 --> 00:38:47.760 align:middle line:90% OK. 00:38:47.760 --> 00:38:48.570 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 00:38:48.570 --> 00:38:50.970 align:middle line:90% Please join me on the rostrum. 00:38:50.970 --> 00:38:53.130 align:middle line:84% Ladies and gentlemen, Rabbi Metzler. 00:38:53.130 --> 00:38:57.650 align:middle line:90% 00:38:57.650 --> 00:39:02.450 align:middle line:84% God, you have blessed us this day and we feel thankful. 00:39:02.450 --> 00:39:05.600 align:middle line:84% Our elected leaders are gathered here at the beginning 00:39:05.600 --> 00:39:07.400 align:middle line:90% up a new session. 00:39:07.400 --> 00:39:09.980 align:middle line:84% Such a beginning brings hope for what 00:39:09.980 --> 00:39:13.490 align:middle line:84% can be done with a long and optimistic 00:39:13.490 --> 00:39:17.810 align:middle line:84% to do list that inspires a feeling of deep privilege 00:39:17.810 --> 00:39:20.600 align:middle line:84% to represent others who have given not only 00:39:20.600 --> 00:39:24.650 align:middle line:84% their votes but their trust, and instills in all of us 00:39:24.650 --> 00:39:28.370 align:middle line:84% the duty to raise up the voices of those who otherwise would 00:39:28.370 --> 00:39:30.020 align:middle line:90% not be heard. 00:39:30.020 --> 00:39:34.880 align:middle line:84% Teach us to look out for the most vulnerable among us. 00:39:34.880 --> 00:39:36.950 align:middle line:84% And this beginning kindles a feeling 00:39:36.950 --> 00:39:40.040 align:middle line:84% of awesome responsibility for all people 00:39:40.040 --> 00:39:43.530 align:middle line:84% to work well together for the greater good. 00:39:43.530 --> 00:39:46.550 align:middle line:84% We also may feel pride in our Commonwealth 00:39:46.550 --> 00:39:50.160 align:middle line:84% where people do, in fact, work together. 00:39:50.160 --> 00:39:53.060 align:middle line:84% We are grateful to live where we live. 00:39:53.060 --> 00:39:56.900 align:middle line:84% All the more so is then the responsibility 00:39:56.900 --> 00:39:59.240 align:middle line:84% for our representatives to be leaders and role 00:39:59.240 --> 00:40:04.310 align:middle line:84% models of cooperation, respect, and reason to the rest 00:40:04.310 --> 00:40:07.380 align:middle line:90% of the nation and the world. 00:40:07.380 --> 00:40:09.990 align:middle line:84% God help those gathered here to turn 00:40:09.990 --> 00:40:13.440 align:middle line:84% to you for patience, thoughtfulness, 00:40:13.440 --> 00:40:15.890 align:middle line:90% and the long view. 00:40:15.890 --> 00:40:21.510 align:middle line:84% In my Jewish tradition, we pray in the names of our ancestors. 00:40:21.510 --> 00:40:24.930 align:middle line:84% This approach casts each of us in a special role, 00:40:24.930 --> 00:40:27.600 align:middle line:84% for we are not just participants now 00:40:27.600 --> 00:40:30.420 align:middle line:84% But the ancestors for tomorrow let 00:40:30.420 --> 00:40:33.420 align:middle line:84% those who work here today be worthy 00:40:33.420 --> 00:40:37.110 align:middle line:84% ancestors for the generations to come 00:40:37.110 --> 00:40:39.540 align:middle line:84% God, we look to you as not only the creator 00:40:39.540 --> 00:40:44.160 align:middle line:84% of this beautiful world, but also as the origin of law. 00:40:44.160 --> 00:40:48.600 align:middle line:84% You have entrusted us to bring peace, healing, harmony, 00:40:48.600 --> 00:40:51.060 align:middle line:84% dignity, and wholeness to each other. 00:40:51.060 --> 00:40:53.400 align:middle line:84% In that spirit, bless now those who 00:40:53.400 --> 00:40:56.790 align:middle line:84% have gathered here to rise to the best that is in us. 00:40:56.790 --> 00:40:58.560 align:middle line:90% And let us say, Amen. 00:40:58.560 --> 00:40:59.557 align:middle line:90% Amen. 00:40:59.557 --> 00:41:00.057 align:middle line:90% Amen. 00:41:00.057 --> 00:41:02.182 align:middle line:84% [MUSIC - VOICES OF PRAISE, "STAR SPANGLED BANNER"] 00:41:02.182 --> 00:41:12.532 align:middle line:84% (SINGING) Oh, say can you see by the dawn's early light what 00:41:12.532 --> 00:41:21.514 align:middle line:84% so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming, whose 00:41:21.514 --> 00:41:28.500 align:middle line:84% broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight 00:41:28.500 --> 00:41:38.319 align:middle line:84% o'er the ramparts we watched we so gallantly streaming? 00:41:38.319 --> 00:41:47.301 align:middle line:84% And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air, 00:41:47.301 --> 00:41:56.790 align:middle line:84% gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. 00:41:56.790 --> 00:42:04.140 align:middle line:84% Oh, say does that star spangled banner yet 00:42:04.140 --> 00:42:22.566 align:middle line:84% wave o'er the land of the free and the home of the brave? 00:42:22.566 --> 00:42:26.131 align:middle line:90% 00:42:26.131 --> 00:42:27.048 align:middle line:90% Ladies and gentlemen-- 00:42:27.048 --> 00:42:29.538 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:42:29.538 --> 00:42:37.050 align:middle line:90% 00:42:37.050 --> 00:42:39.340 align:middle line:84% Ladies and gentlemen, you may be seated. 00:42:39.340 --> 00:42:41.800 align:middle line:84% We've just heard from the Voices of Praise 00:42:41.800 --> 00:42:45.820 align:middle line:84% from the Greater Framingham Community Church. 00:42:45.820 --> 00:42:49.130 align:middle line:84% They are here today as guests of Senator Spilka. 00:42:49.130 --> 00:42:52.090 align:middle line:84% They are accompanied by Reverend Lord, 00:42:52.090 --> 00:42:56.560 align:middle line:84% and they are under the direction of David F Coleman, Minister 00:42:56.560 --> 00:42:58.240 align:middle line:90% of Music. 00:42:58.240 --> 00:43:00.760 align:middle line:84% And, as you've just heard, they have 00:43:00.760 --> 00:43:03.672 align:middle line:90% performed our national anthem. 00:43:03.672 --> 00:43:05.380 align:middle line:84% Let's give them another round of applause 00:43:05.380 --> 00:43:06.680 align:middle line:90% for the beautiful rendition. 00:43:06.680 --> 00:43:08.640 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:43:08.640 --> 00:43:15.500 align:middle line:90% 00:43:15.500 --> 00:43:18.350 align:middle line:84% The senator from Bristol and Norfolk, Mr. Feeney, 00:43:18.350 --> 00:43:20.600 align:middle line:84% moves that the remarks of Rabbi Metzler 00:43:20.600 --> 00:43:24.530 align:middle line:84% be printed in the Journal of the Senate. 00:43:24.530 --> 00:43:26.570 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection? 00:43:26.570 --> 00:43:30.230 align:middle line:84% The Chair hears none, and the Rabbi's remarks 00:43:30.230 --> 00:43:35.390 align:middle line:84% will be printed in the Journal of the Senate. 00:43:35.390 --> 00:43:40.010 align:middle line:84% Communication from the Secretary of State. 00:43:40.010 --> 00:43:42.860 align:middle line:84% To the Honorable Senate, I have had the honor 00:43:42.860 --> 00:43:45.410 align:middle line:84% to lay before you the return of votes cast at election 00:43:45.410 --> 00:43:48.968 align:middle line:84% in the Commonwealth on the 6th day of November, 2018, 00:43:48.968 --> 00:43:50.510 align:middle line:84% for the senators in the General Court 00:43:50.510 --> 00:43:52.240 align:middle line:84% and the several districts, together with schedules 00:43:52.240 --> 00:43:53.790 align:middle line:84% for showing the number of ballots 00:43:53.790 --> 00:43:56.487 align:middle line:84% which appear to have been cast for each person forth. 00:43:56.487 --> 00:43:58.070 align:middle line:84% These returns have been duly canvassed 00:43:58.070 --> 00:44:00.035 align:middle line:84% by the Governor's Counsel and the Governor, 00:44:00.035 --> 00:44:02.630 align:middle line:84% and are now transmitted for examination by the Senate, 00:44:02.630 --> 00:44:05.300 align:middle line:84% as required by the Constitution and general laws. 00:44:05.300 --> 00:44:09.890 align:middle line:84% William Francis Galvin, Secretary of the Commonwealth. 00:44:09.890 --> 00:44:12.400 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester, Hampden, Hampshire, 00:44:12.400 --> 00:44:15.260 align:middle line:84% and Middlesex, Miss Colby, offers an order, 00:44:15.260 --> 00:44:16.787 align:middle line:90% which the Clerk will read. 00:44:16.787 --> 00:44:18.620 align:middle line:84% Order that a special committee of the Senate 00:44:18.620 --> 00:44:20.787 align:middle line:84% be appointed for the purpose of canvassing the votes 00:44:20.787 --> 00:44:23.870 align:middle line:84% for senators in several districts. 00:44:23.870 --> 00:44:26.870 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the order. 00:44:26.870 --> 00:44:29.030 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, signify by saying aye. 00:44:29.030 --> 00:44:30.020 align:middle line:90% Aye. 00:44:30.020 --> 00:44:32.190 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, no. 00:44:32.190 --> 00:44:34.580 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the order is adopted. 00:44:34.580 --> 00:44:38.330 align:middle line:84% The Senate members appointed are as follows-- 00:44:38.330 --> 00:44:43.970 align:middle line:84% Senator Lewis, of Middlesex, Senator Chandler, of Worcester, 00:44:43.970 --> 00:44:48.770 align:middle line:84% and Senator Humason, of Hampden and Hampshire. 00:44:48.770 --> 00:44:51.860 align:middle line:84% I'd ask the committee to meet in the well 00:44:51.860 --> 00:44:56.300 align:middle line:84% and be escorted to the Senate Reading Room by the Sergeant 00:44:56.300 --> 00:44:57.740 align:middle line:90% at Arms. 00:44:57.740 --> 00:44:59.510 align:middle line:84% The Senate will be in a brief recess. 00:44:59.510 --> 00:45:02.850 align:middle line:90% 00:45:02.850 --> 00:45:05.640 align:middle line:84% Let us give the committee a round of applause 00:45:05.640 --> 00:45:09.088 align:middle line:84% as they go and count the ballots. 00:45:09.088 --> 00:45:10.072 align:middle line:90% [GAVEL BANGS] 00:45:10.072 --> 00:45:12.532 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:45:12.532 --> 00:45:15.484 align:middle line:90% 00:45:15.484 --> 00:45:17.452 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 00:45:17.452 --> 00:45:35.170 align:middle line:90% 00:45:35.170 --> 00:45:40.270 align:middle line:84% We are waiting for the committee. 00:45:40.270 --> 00:45:45.880 align:middle line:84% I would at this time like to recognize a few special guests 00:45:45.880 --> 00:45:46.925 align:middle line:90% who have joined us today. 00:45:46.925 --> 00:45:50.710 align:middle line:90% 00:45:50.710 --> 00:45:55.778 align:middle line:84% United States Senator Elizabeth Warren. 00:45:55.778 --> 00:45:56.278 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:45:56.278 --> 00:45:58.748 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:45:58.748 --> 00:46:22.990 align:middle line:90% 00:46:22.990 --> 00:46:25.990 align:middle line:84% United States Senator Edward Markey. 00:46:25.990 --> 00:46:28.250 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:46:28.250 --> 00:46:43.600 align:middle line:90% 00:46:43.600 --> 00:46:45.970 align:middle line:84% Thank you both so very, very much 00:46:45.970 --> 00:46:50.960 align:middle line:84% for coming to this ceremony today. 00:46:50.960 --> 00:46:54.460 align:middle line:84% I'd also like to recognize former Senate 00:46:54.460 --> 00:46:59.820 align:middle line:84% presidents, former Senate President Murray and former-- 00:46:59.820 --> 00:47:01.820 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:47:01.820 --> 00:47:16.545 align:middle line:90% 00:47:16.545 --> 00:47:18.630 align:middle line:84% Former Senate President Travaglini. 00:47:18.630 --> 00:47:21.030 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:47:21.030 --> 00:47:28.720 align:middle line:90% 00:47:28.720 --> 00:47:31.390 align:middle line:84% The Auditor of the Commonwealth, Suzanne Bump. 00:47:31.390 --> 00:47:33.366 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:47:33.366 --> 00:47:42.270 align:middle line:90% 00:47:42.270 --> 00:47:48.130 align:middle line:84% The Mayor of the City of Lynn and a former Senate colleague, 00:47:48.130 --> 00:47:48.810 align:middle line:90% Senator McGee. 00:47:48.810 --> 00:47:49.798 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:47:49.798 --> 00:47:50.786 align:middle line:90% Mayor McGee. 00:47:50.786 --> 00:47:52.268 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:47:52.268 --> 00:47:59.200 align:middle line:90% 00:47:59.200 --> 00:48:02.430 align:middle line:84% And the Mayor of the City of Boston, Mayor Walsh. 00:48:02.430 --> 00:48:04.845 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:48:04.845 --> 00:48:16.440 align:middle line:90% 00:48:16.440 --> 00:48:21.644 align:middle line:84% And the Mayor of the City of Framingham, Mayor Spicer. 00:48:21.644 --> 00:48:23.620 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:48:23.620 --> 00:48:36.250 align:middle line:90% 00:48:36.250 --> 00:48:39.470 align:middle line:84% Mr President, the Honorable Senate Committee. 00:48:39.470 --> 00:48:42.020 align:middle line:84% Admit the Honorable Senate Committee. 00:48:42.020 --> 00:48:44.016 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:48:44.016 --> 00:48:57.988 align:middle line:90% 00:48:57.988 --> 00:49:00.840 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, it took some time, 00:49:00.840 --> 00:49:03.045 align:middle line:84% but we reviewed the election results 00:49:03.045 --> 00:49:05.750 align:middle line:84% and all the members are duly elected. 00:49:05.750 --> 00:49:08.270 align:middle line:84% All the members are duly elected? 00:49:08.270 --> 00:49:09.034 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 00:49:09.034 --> 00:49:09.800 align:middle line:90% 00:49:09.800 --> 00:49:12.980 align:middle line:84% Well, I thank you very much for your service-- 00:49:12.980 --> 00:49:16.430 align:middle line:84% for your public service in this regard. 00:49:16.430 --> 00:49:21.860 align:middle line:84% It is very nice to know that we don't have some of the returns 00:49:21.860 --> 00:49:24.530 align:middle line:84% that we have in other parts of the country. 00:49:24.530 --> 00:49:26.340 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 00:49:26.340 --> 00:49:28.790 align:middle line:84% I thank the committee for its service, 00:49:28.790 --> 00:49:30.410 align:middle line:90% and you are hereby discharged. 00:49:30.410 --> 00:49:32.225 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:49:32.225 --> 00:49:51.035 align:middle line:90% 00:49:51.035 --> 00:49:52.515 align:middle line:90% We go to this? 00:49:52.515 --> 00:49:53.015 align:middle line:90% Yes, sir. 00:49:53.015 --> 00:49:54.005 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 00:49:54.005 --> 00:49:55.985 align:middle line:90% 00:49:55.985 --> 00:49:59.710 align:middle line:84% --Norfolk, Miss Creem, has presented an order, 00:49:59.710 --> 00:50:02.230 align:middle line:90% which the Clerk will read. 00:50:02.230 --> 00:50:04.593 align:middle line:84% Order that a committee be appointed by the Chair 00:50:04.593 --> 00:50:06.760 align:middle line:84% to wait upon His Excellency, the Governor, Charles D 00:50:06.760 --> 00:50:09.388 align:middle line:84% Baker, Her Honor, Karyn E Polito, Lieutenant 00:50:09.388 --> 00:50:11.180 align:middle line:84% Governor of the Commonwealth, the Honorable 00:50:11.180 --> 00:50:12.910 align:middle line:84% Counsel, and the constitutional officers, 00:50:12.910 --> 00:50:15.370 align:middle line:84% and inform them that quorum of the senators elect 00:50:15.370 --> 00:50:18.830 align:middle line:84% have assembled and are ready to be qualified. 00:50:18.830 --> 00:50:21.010 align:middle line:84% The question comes of adoption of the order. 00:50:21.010 --> 00:50:23.110 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, signify by saying aye. 00:50:23.110 --> 00:50:23.920 align:middle line:90% Aye. 00:50:23.920 --> 00:50:25.970 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, no. 00:50:25.970 --> 00:50:28.060 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the order is adopted. 00:50:28.060 --> 00:50:32.320 align:middle line:84% The Senate members appointed are as follows-- 00:50:32.320 --> 00:50:36.850 align:middle line:84% Senator Friedman, of Middlesex; Senator Comerford, 00:50:36.850 --> 00:50:39.400 align:middle line:84% of Hampshire, Franklin, and Worcester; 00:50:39.400 --> 00:50:42.910 align:middle line:84% Senator Lesser, of Hampton and Hampshire; 00:50:42.910 --> 00:50:47.230 align:middle line:84% Senator Jehlen, of Middlesex; Senator Eldridge, 00:50:47.230 --> 00:50:50.740 align:middle line:84% of Middlesex and Worcester; Senator Tran, 00:50:50.740 --> 00:50:54.430 align:middle line:90% of Worcester and Middlesex. 00:50:54.430 --> 00:51:00.040 align:middle line:84% I'd ask the Sergeant at Arms to meet the committee 00:51:00.040 --> 00:51:03.160 align:middle line:84% in the well of the Chamber and proceed 00:51:03.160 --> 00:51:04.210 align:middle line:90% to the Governor's Office. 00:51:04.210 --> 00:51:17.990 align:middle line:90% 00:51:17.990 --> 00:51:21.680 align:middle line:84% We want to thank the distinguished committee, 00:51:21.680 --> 00:51:27.545 align:middle line:84% and urge them to say hi to the Governor for us. 00:51:27.545 --> 00:51:29.365 align:middle line:84% The Senate will stand in a brief recess. 00:51:29.365 --> 00:51:30.118 align:middle line:90% [GAVEL BANGS] 00:51:30.118 --> 00:51:32.110 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:51:32.110 --> 00:51:34.102 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 00:51:34.102 --> 00:54:37.680 align:middle line:90% 00:54:37.680 --> 00:54:42.748 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, the Honorable Senate Committee. 00:54:42.748 --> 00:54:44.290 align:middle line:84% Admit the Honorable Senate Committee. 00:54:44.290 --> 00:54:46.064 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:54:46.064 --> 00:55:02.520 align:middle line:90% 00:55:02.520 --> 00:55:03.810 align:middle line:90% Senator Friedman? 00:55:03.810 --> 00:55:05.102 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:55:05.102 --> 00:55:09.080 align:middle line:84% Not only is he ready, but he is eager to join us. 00:55:09.080 --> 00:55:10.830 align:middle line:90% All right. 00:55:10.830 --> 00:55:13.650 align:middle line:90% That is great. 00:55:13.650 --> 00:55:17.250 align:middle line:84% Let me thank the Honorable Senate 00:55:17.250 --> 00:55:23.820 align:middle line:84% Committee for discharging its duties so expeditiously. 00:55:23.820 --> 00:55:27.068 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much, and you are discharged. 00:55:27.068 --> 00:55:29.064 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:55:29.064 --> 00:55:44.034 align:middle line:90% 00:55:44.034 --> 00:55:46.529 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 00:55:46.529 --> 00:58:27.207 align:middle line:90% 00:58:27.207 --> 00:58:30.940 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, His Excellency Charles E Baker, 00:58:30.940 --> 00:58:34.810 align:middle line:84% Governor of the Commonwealth, Her Honor, Karyn Polito, 00:58:34.810 --> 00:58:37.480 align:middle line:84% Lieutenant Governor of the Commonwealth, the Executive 00:58:37.480 --> 00:58:41.812 align:middle line:84% Council, and the constitutional officers. 00:58:41.812 --> 00:58:43.304 align:middle line:90% Thank you very much. 00:58:43.304 --> 00:58:43.804 align:middle line:90% Admit. 00:58:43.804 --> 00:58:45.796 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:58:45.796 --> 00:58:51.274 align:middle line:90% 00:58:51.274 --> 00:58:57.280 align:middle line:84% Please admit His Excellency, the Governor Charles E Baker, 00:58:57.280 --> 00:59:01.170 align:middle line:84% Karyn E Polito, the Lieutenant Governor, 00:59:01.170 --> 00:59:05.710 align:middle line:84% the Executive Council, and the constitutional officers. 00:59:05.710 --> 00:59:08.156 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:59:08.156 --> 00:59:24.623 align:middle line:90% 00:59:24.623 --> 00:59:26.619 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 00:59:26.619 --> 00:59:45.650 align:middle line:90% 00:59:45.650 --> 00:59:53.240 align:middle line:84% I'd ask all of the senators to rise as the Governor 00:59:53.240 --> 00:59:57.290 align:middle line:90% administers the oath of office. 00:59:57.290 --> 00:59:59.636 align:middle line:90% Mr. Governor. 00:59:59.636 --> 01:00:00.760 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Leader. 01:00:00.760 --> 01:00:02.880 align:middle line:90% Good to see you. 01:00:02.880 --> 01:00:07.790 align:middle line:84% So I would ask all the senators to raise their right hand 01:00:07.790 --> 01:00:09.343 align:middle line:90% and repeat after me-- 01:00:09.343 --> 01:00:11.260 align:middle line:84% it's probably the last time that ever happens. 01:00:11.260 --> 01:00:12.690 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 01:00:12.690 --> 01:00:13.190 align:middle line:90% 01:00:13.190 --> 01:00:14.755 align:middle line:90% I, state your name-- 01:00:14.755 --> 01:00:16.760 align:middle line:90% I-- 01:00:16.760 --> 01:00:18.290 align:middle line:90% --do solemnly swear-- 01:00:18.290 --> 01:00:19.490 align:middle line:90% --do solemnly swear-- 01:00:19.490 --> 01:00:22.075 align:middle line:84% --that I will bear true faith and allegiance-- 01:00:22.075 --> 01:00:24.080 align:middle line:84% --that I will bear true faith and allegiance-- 01:00:24.080 --> 01:00:25.747 align:middle line:84% --to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts-- 01:00:25.747 --> 01:00:27.810 align:middle line:84% --to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts-- 01:00:27.810 --> 01:00:30.350 align:middle line:84% --and will support the Constitution thereof-- 01:00:30.350 --> 01:00:32.360 align:middle line:84% --and will support the Constitution thereof-- 01:00:32.360 --> 01:00:33.230 align:middle line:90% --so help me, God. 01:00:33.230 --> 01:00:34.820 align:middle line:90% --so help me, God. 01:00:34.820 --> 01:00:36.284 align:middle line:90% I, state your name-- 01:00:36.284 --> 01:00:37.940 align:middle line:90% I-- 01:00:37.940 --> 01:00:39.680 align:middle line:90% --do solemnly swear and affirm-- 01:00:39.680 --> 01:00:41.800 align:middle line:90% --do solemnly swear and affirm-- 01:00:41.800 --> 01:00:43.660 align:middle line:84% --that I will faithfully and impartially-- 01:00:43.660 --> 01:00:45.595 align:middle line:84% --that I will faithfully and impartially-- 01:00:45.595 --> 01:00:47.830 align:middle line:90% --discharge and perform-- 01:00:47.830 --> 01:00:49.120 align:middle line:90% --discharge and perform-- 01:00:49.120 --> 01:00:51.150 align:middle line:84% --all the duties incumbent on me-- 01:00:51.150 --> 01:00:53.340 align:middle line:84% --all the duties incumbent on me-- 01:00:53.340 --> 01:00:55.950 align:middle line:84% --as a member of the Massachusetts State Senate-- 01:00:55.950 --> 01:00:58.205 align:middle line:84% --as a member of the Massachusetts State Senate-- 01:00:58.205 --> 01:01:00.990 align:middle line:84% --according to the best of my abilities and understanding-- 01:01:00.990 --> 01:01:05.085 align:middle line:84% --according to the best of my abilities and understanding-- 01:01:05.085 --> 01:01:06.630 align:middle line:90% --agreeably-- 01:01:06.630 --> 01:01:08.678 align:middle line:90% --agreeably-- 01:01:08.678 --> 01:01:11.220 align:middle line:84% --to the rules and regulations-- to the rules and regulations 01:01:11.220 --> 01:01:12.270 align:middle line:90% of the Constitution-- 01:01:12.270 --> 01:01:14.713 align:middle line:84% --to the rules and regulations of the Constitution-- 01:01:14.713 --> 01:01:16.255 align:middle line:84% --and the laws of this Commonwealth-- 01:01:16.255 --> 01:01:18.170 align:middle line:84% --and the laws of this Commonwealth-- 01:01:18.170 --> 01:01:18.980 align:middle line:90% --so help me, God. 01:01:18.980 --> 01:01:20.660 align:middle line:90% --so help me, God. 01:01:20.660 --> 01:01:22.102 align:middle line:90% I, state your name-- 01:01:22.102 --> 01:01:23.835 align:middle line:90% I-- 01:01:23.835 --> 01:01:24.710 align:middle line:90% --do solemnly swear-- 01:01:24.710 --> 01:01:26.803 align:middle line:90% --do solemnly swear-- 01:01:26.803 --> 01:01:28.970 align:middle line:84% --that I will support the Constitution of the United 01:01:28.970 --> 01:01:29.480 align:middle line:90% States-- 01:01:29.480 --> 01:01:31.647 align:middle line:84% --that I will support the Constitution of the United 01:01:31.647 --> 01:01:32.720 align:middle line:90% States. 01:01:32.720 --> 01:01:35.480 align:middle line:84% Congratulations, happy new year, and good luck. 01:01:35.480 --> 01:01:35.980 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:01:35.980 --> 01:01:38.455 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:01:38.455 --> 01:02:01.720 align:middle line:90% 01:02:01.720 --> 01:02:02.710 align:middle line:90% [GAVEL BANGS] 01:02:02.710 --> 01:02:03.730 align:middle line:90% 01:02:03.730 --> 01:02:07.480 align:middle line:84% On behalf of the members of the Senate, 01:02:07.480 --> 01:02:11.050 align:middle line:84% we want to thank the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, 01:02:11.050 --> 01:02:14.800 align:middle line:84% the Executive Council, and the distinguished constitutional 01:02:14.800 --> 01:02:17.120 align:middle line:90% officers for being with us. 01:02:17.120 --> 01:02:21.400 align:middle line:84% I know that they have to go over to the House of Representatives 01:02:21.400 --> 01:02:24.440 align:middle line:90% to do the swearing in there now. 01:02:24.440 --> 01:02:27.280 align:middle line:84% And so I'd ask the Sergeant at Arms 01:02:27.280 --> 01:02:30.910 align:middle line:84% will now take this opportunity to escort 01:02:30.910 --> 01:02:33.580 align:middle line:84% His Excellency, the Governor, Her Honor, the Lieutenant 01:02:33.580 --> 01:02:37.390 align:middle line:84% Governor, the Executive Council, and the constitutional officers 01:02:37.390 --> 01:02:38.800 align:middle line:90% from the Chamber. 01:02:38.800 --> 01:02:40.750 align:middle line:84% Let us give them another round of applause. 01:02:40.750 --> 01:02:41.744 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:02:41.744 --> 01:02:42.738 align:middle line:90% [GAVEL BANGS] 01:02:42.738 --> 01:02:45.223 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:02:45.223 --> 01:03:25.500 align:middle line:90% 01:03:25.500 --> 01:03:28.350 align:middle line:84% In addition to the Executive Council, 01:03:28.350 --> 01:03:32.160 align:middle line:84% I just wanted to make note that the Attorney 01:03:32.160 --> 01:03:35.280 align:middle line:84% General of the Commonwealth, Maura Healey, was with us; 01:03:35.280 --> 01:03:39.900 align:middle line:84% the Secretary of the Commonwealth, Secretary Galvin, 01:03:39.900 --> 01:03:42.360 align:middle line:84% was with us; along with I mentioned 01:03:42.360 --> 01:03:45.720 align:middle line:84% earlier the Auditor of the Commonwealth Bump; 01:03:45.720 --> 01:03:49.030 align:middle line:84% and the Treasurer of the Commonwealth, Treasurer 01:03:49.030 --> 01:03:49.530 align:middle line:90% Goldberg. 01:03:49.530 --> 01:03:53.258 align:middle line:84% So I thank them all for being with us today. 01:03:53.258 --> 01:03:55.210 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:03:55.210 --> 01:04:05.970 align:middle line:90% 01:04:05.970 --> 01:04:08.390 align:middle line:90% All the members may be seated. 01:04:08.390 --> 01:04:18.520 align:middle line:90% 01:04:18.520 --> 01:04:22.410 align:middle line:84% The senator from Bristol and Plymouth, Mr. Rodrigues, 01:04:22.410 --> 01:04:26.400 align:middle line:84% presents an order which the Clerk will read. 01:04:26.400 --> 01:04:29.160 align:middle line:84% Order that pursuant to the provisions of Senate Bill 4A, 01:04:29.160 --> 01:04:33.210 align:middle line:84% the Senate shall proceed to the election of a president. 01:04:33.210 --> 01:04:36.450 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the order. 01:04:36.450 --> 01:04:38.520 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, signify by saying aye. 01:04:38.520 --> 01:04:40.100 align:middle line:90% Aye. 01:04:40.100 --> 01:04:41.740 align:middle line:90% Opposed, no. 01:04:41.740 --> 01:04:43.890 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the order is adopted. 01:04:43.890 --> 01:04:51.180 align:middle line:84% The Senate will proceed to the election of a Senate president. 01:04:51.180 --> 01:04:54.450 align:middle line:90% Nominations will be open. 01:04:54.450 --> 01:04:59.540 align:middle line:84% And for the purpose of a nomination, 01:04:59.540 --> 01:05:03.216 align:middle line:90% Chair recognizes Senator Creem. 01:05:03.216 --> 01:05:06.640 align:middle line:84% Mr. Acting President, I rise to place in nomination 01:05:06.640 --> 01:05:09.300 align:middle line:84% as president of the Massachusetts State Senate 01:05:09.300 --> 01:05:11.930 align:middle line:84% the name of the Honorable Karen E Spilka, 01:05:11.930 --> 01:05:14.790 align:middle line:84% the distinguished senator from Ashland, 01:05:14.790 --> 01:05:18.600 align:middle line:84% who represents the Second Middlesex and Norfolk District. 01:05:18.600 --> 01:05:21.660 align:middle line:84% Senator Spilka has already proven 01:05:21.660 --> 01:05:25.410 align:middle line:84% to be an effective leader of this historic body. 01:05:25.410 --> 01:05:29.460 align:middle line:84% She has already shown us her diligence, her intellect, 01:05:29.460 --> 01:05:33.330 align:middle line:84% and her collaborative spirit in developing and advocating 01:05:33.330 --> 01:05:36.510 align:middle line:84% for initiatives important to all of us members, 01:05:36.510 --> 01:05:38.940 align:middle line:84% as well as the people of our state. 01:05:38.940 --> 01:05:42.510 align:middle line:84% Justice Sandra Day O'Connor once noted, 01:05:42.510 --> 01:05:45.750 align:middle line:84% we don't accomplish anything in this world alone, 01:05:45.750 --> 01:05:47.880 align:middle line:84% and whatever happens is the result 01:05:47.880 --> 01:05:50.640 align:middle line:84% of the whole tapestry of one's life 01:05:50.640 --> 01:05:54.000 align:middle line:84% and all the weaving of individual threads from one 01:05:54.000 --> 01:05:56.520 align:middle line:84% to another that creates something. 01:05:56.520 --> 01:05:58.980 align:middle line:84% Karen would be the first to acknowledge 01:05:58.980 --> 01:06:01.880 align:middle line:90% the truth of these statements. 01:06:01.880 --> 01:06:05.480 align:middle line:84% Karen came to Boston to attend Northeastern Law School. 01:06:05.480 --> 01:06:08.840 align:middle line:84% Many lawyers upon graduation go on 01:06:08.840 --> 01:06:13.250 align:middle line:84% to adversarial and often quite lucrative legal work. 01:06:13.250 --> 01:06:14.660 align:middle line:90% But not Karen. 01:06:14.660 --> 01:06:17.600 align:middle line:84% She opted instead for the kind of law 01:06:17.600 --> 01:06:21.840 align:middle line:84% that was in keeping with her broader vision of society. 01:06:21.840 --> 01:06:25.280 align:middle line:84% She went into community mediation and arbitration. 01:06:25.280 --> 01:06:27.260 align:middle line:84% And if you think about that, that 01:06:27.260 --> 01:06:30.440 align:middle line:84% has been her approach to her work here in the Senate, 01:06:30.440 --> 01:06:31.800 align:middle line:90% as well. 01:06:31.800 --> 01:06:33.500 align:middle line:84% We already know from her leadership 01:06:33.500 --> 01:06:38.330 align:middle line:84% here that she is a change maker for the public good, 01:06:38.330 --> 01:06:41.510 align:middle line:84% and a woman who leads by doing the work 01:06:41.510 --> 01:06:43.340 align:middle line:90% and sharing the credit. 01:06:43.340 --> 01:06:46.820 align:middle line:84% Her public record of accomplishment is impressive. 01:06:46.820 --> 01:06:49.070 align:middle line:84% But it is her personal story that 01:06:49.070 --> 01:06:53.780 align:middle line:84% makes me so excited about this opportunity to nominate her. 01:06:53.780 --> 01:06:56.120 align:middle line:84% She grew up in Yonkers, New York, 01:06:56.120 --> 01:06:59.630 align:middle line:84% and went upstate to attend Cornell University. 01:06:59.630 --> 01:07:03.560 align:middle line:84% And one of my favorite stories is about the time 01:07:03.560 --> 01:07:07.340 align:middle line:84% that she graduated, her car broke down. 01:07:07.340 --> 01:07:09.140 align:middle line:90% She didn't have a job. 01:07:09.140 --> 01:07:10.430 align:middle line:90% She was worried about it. 01:07:10.430 --> 01:07:14.090 align:middle line:84% Like most of us, she brought her car to a garage. 01:07:14.090 --> 01:07:17.240 align:middle line:84% But then Karen found out how much it would cost. 01:07:17.240 --> 01:07:19.820 align:middle line:84% So she bought the manual, read it, 01:07:19.820 --> 01:07:21.980 align:middle line:84% and learned how to do it herself. 01:07:21.980 --> 01:07:23.900 align:middle line:90% That was just the beginning. 01:07:23.900 --> 01:07:27.710 align:middle line:84% Apparently, she even had a lift installed in her home garage. 01:07:27.710 --> 01:07:31.310 align:middle line:84% And to this day, she does many of her own repairs. 01:07:31.310 --> 01:07:33.350 align:middle line:84% And I hear her rates are very reasonable. 01:07:33.350 --> 01:07:34.564 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 01:07:34.564 --> 01:07:35.480 align:middle line:90% 01:07:35.480 --> 01:07:38.450 align:middle line:84% Curious and undaunted by obstacles, 01:07:38.450 --> 01:07:41.390 align:middle line:84% that's how I think of Karen, someone who doesn't 01:07:41.390 --> 01:07:43.400 align:middle line:90% see any kind of ceiling-- 01:07:43.400 --> 01:07:45.440 align:middle line:90% glass or otherwise. 01:07:45.440 --> 01:07:48.800 align:middle line:84% She is always willing to put in the time and effort 01:07:48.800 --> 01:07:50.930 align:middle line:90% and learn more. 01:07:50.930 --> 01:07:54.860 align:middle line:84% On a personal level, Karen has been there for her family. 01:07:54.860 --> 01:07:57.770 align:middle line:84% When health care and other issues have arisen, 01:07:57.770 --> 01:08:00.210 align:middle line:84% she has always stepped up, again, 01:08:00.210 --> 01:08:02.900 align:middle line:84% acquiring the necessary knowledge to know 01:08:02.900 --> 01:08:04.910 align:middle line:90% what to do and be useful. 01:08:04.910 --> 01:08:06.710 align:middle line:84% Working with medical advisors, she 01:08:06.710 --> 01:08:09.470 align:middle line:84% was able to help evaluate and assist 01:08:09.470 --> 01:08:11.810 align:middle line:84% with different medication and regimes 01:08:11.810 --> 01:08:16.490 align:middle line:84% to treat her father's lifelong psychological issues resulting 01:08:16.490 --> 01:08:20.569 align:middle line:84% from the trauma of military service for our country. 01:08:20.569 --> 01:08:24.260 align:middle line:84% And she was a lifelong advocate for her sister, Susie. 01:08:24.260 --> 01:08:27.859 align:middle line:84% Susie worked and played hard as a child and adult. 01:08:27.859 --> 01:08:31.189 align:middle line:84% And Karen and her family made sure she was not 01:08:31.189 --> 01:08:35.060 align:middle line:84% discriminated against or treated any differently because 01:08:35.060 --> 01:08:36.890 align:middle line:90% of her Down syndrome. 01:08:36.890 --> 01:08:40.640 align:middle line:84% I was lucky to have met said Susie here in this Chamber 01:08:40.640 --> 01:08:43.370 align:middle line:84% and to see the closeness of the sisters. 01:08:43.370 --> 01:08:48.439 align:middle line:84% I saw how much Susie loved and admired and how very proud 01:08:48.439 --> 01:08:51.319 align:middle line:84% she was of Karen, and I saw how much Karen 01:08:51.319 --> 01:08:53.810 align:middle line:90% cared and loved her sister. 01:08:53.810 --> 01:08:56.899 align:middle line:84% When Susie was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, 01:08:56.899 --> 01:08:59.120 align:middle line:84% Karen was her strongest supporter, 01:08:59.120 --> 01:09:03.319 align:middle line:84% making sure Susie received care with dignity and love. 01:09:03.319 --> 01:09:05.569 align:middle line:90% That's who Karen is. 01:09:05.569 --> 01:09:07.970 align:middle line:84% And these personal life experiences 01:09:07.970 --> 01:09:11.660 align:middle line:84% are woven into who Karen is, what she stands for, 01:09:11.660 --> 01:09:15.050 align:middle line:84% and what she will fight for to better the lives of people 01:09:15.050 --> 01:09:16.670 align:middle line:90% in our Commonwealth. 01:09:16.670 --> 01:09:20.060 align:middle line:84% Karen has shown us unwavering commitment 01:09:20.060 --> 01:09:23.359 align:middle line:84% to better health care, including equity in mental health 01:09:23.359 --> 01:09:26.090 align:middle line:84% coverage and access to Affordable Care, 01:09:26.090 --> 01:09:29.600 align:middle line:84% including prescription drugs for all people. 01:09:29.600 --> 01:09:31.399 align:middle line:84% She has worked to remove barriers 01:09:31.399 --> 01:09:35.120 align:middle line:84% for individuals whose equal rights were not guaranteed, 01:09:35.120 --> 01:09:38.420 align:middle line:84% and to remove barriers that prevented equal access, 01:09:38.420 --> 01:09:42.200 align:middle line:84% whether it was discrimination by gender, race, income, 01:09:42.200 --> 01:09:43.819 align:middle line:90% or disability. 01:09:43.819 --> 01:09:47.090 align:middle line:84% In this building, we have seen Karen's passion 01:09:47.090 --> 01:09:50.439 align:middle line:84% for taking on large and complicated issues, 01:09:50.439 --> 01:09:54.109 align:middle line:84% and her sensible even handedness in working together 01:09:54.109 --> 01:09:57.800 align:middle line:84% with fellow senators to resolve differences. 01:09:57.800 --> 01:10:01.880 align:middle line:84% We know her success with the difficult and contentious task 01:10:01.880 --> 01:10:05.090 align:middle line:84% of developing and negotiating state budgets. 01:10:05.090 --> 01:10:08.300 align:middle line:84% We have seen her stand firm and strong 01:10:08.300 --> 01:10:11.480 align:middle line:84% on equal rights, equal pay, and on reforming 01:10:11.480 --> 01:10:13.970 align:middle line:84% our juvenile justice system, and so 01:10:13.970 --> 01:10:17.450 align:middle line:84% many other issues of basic fairness. 01:10:17.450 --> 01:10:20.480 align:middle line:84% She has done so by working with others, 01:10:20.480 --> 01:10:22.790 align:middle line:84% working with each and every one of us, 01:10:22.790 --> 01:10:25.340 align:middle line:84% with advocates on different sides of an issue, 01:10:25.340 --> 01:10:27.800 align:middle line:84% with the minority party, and, of course, 01:10:27.800 --> 01:10:31.610 align:middle line:84% our colleagues in the House and the corner office. 01:10:31.610 --> 01:10:35.600 align:middle line:84% Karen has shown us that she will listen to good ideas, whoever 01:10:35.600 --> 01:10:39.320 align:middle line:84% they come from, and incorporate them to make legislation 01:10:39.320 --> 01:10:40.250 align:middle line:90% better. 01:10:40.250 --> 01:10:44.660 align:middle line:84% I've often been so surprised to hear Karen say, oh, I never 01:10:44.660 --> 01:10:45.470 align:middle line:90% thought of that. 01:10:45.470 --> 01:10:47.720 align:middle line:90% That's a wonderful idea. 01:10:47.720 --> 01:10:49.670 align:middle line:84% And she will not be outworked when 01:10:49.670 --> 01:10:52.550 align:middle line:84% it comes to fixing the pressing issues facing 01:10:52.550 --> 01:10:55.670 align:middle line:90% our constituents in our state. 01:10:55.670 --> 01:10:59.060 align:middle line:84% Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has said, fight 01:10:59.060 --> 01:11:01.120 align:middle line:90% for the things you care about. 01:11:01.120 --> 01:11:04.470 align:middle line:84% But do it in a way that will lead others to join you. 01:11:04.470 --> 01:11:08.790 align:middle line:84% This is the type of leader Karen has been for so many years. 01:11:08.790 --> 01:11:13.110 align:middle line:84% And now I ask you to join me in supporting Karen 01:11:13.110 --> 01:11:17.670 align:middle line:84% as she works with us and for us to fight for the environment, 01:11:17.670 --> 01:11:21.060 align:middle line:84% for public education, for equality and civil rights, 01:11:21.060 --> 01:11:24.250 align:middle line:84% for economic growth, public transportation, 01:11:24.250 --> 01:11:28.500 align:middle line:84% and so many of the other issues that we care so deeply about. 01:11:28.500 --> 01:11:31.110 align:middle line:84% It has been my pleasure to serve with Karen 01:11:31.110 --> 01:11:33.780 align:middle line:84% in this Chamber for more than a decade, 01:11:33.780 --> 01:11:37.500 align:middle line:84% and I am proud of the way she has led the Senate. 01:11:37.500 --> 01:11:40.680 align:middle line:84% And now I'm so proud to formally nominate 01:11:40.680 --> 01:11:43.620 align:middle line:84% my friend and colleague, Karen E Spilka, 01:11:43.620 --> 01:11:46.336 align:middle line:84% to be the president of the Massachusetts State Senate. 01:11:46.336 --> 01:11:46.836 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:11:46.836 --> 01:11:49.326 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:11:49.326 --> 01:12:15.222 align:middle line:90% 01:12:15.222 --> 01:12:19.530 align:middle line:84% The senator from the Cape and the Islands, Mr. Cyr, 01:12:19.530 --> 01:12:24.510 align:middle line:84% is recognized for the purpose of seconding the nomination. 01:12:24.510 --> 01:12:26.610 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, and through 01:12:26.610 --> 01:12:28.860 align:middle line:84% my colleagues and their honored guests, 01:12:28.860 --> 01:12:31.020 align:middle line:84% the citizens of the Commonwealth, 01:12:31.020 --> 01:12:34.680 align:middle line:84% we assemble today in this glorious Chamber, 01:12:34.680 --> 01:12:37.620 align:middle line:84% each of us marveling at the opportunity to serve, 01:12:37.620 --> 01:12:41.310 align:middle line:84% each of us humbled by the once in a generation chance 01:12:41.310 --> 01:12:44.940 align:middle line:84% to do so in this sparkling, refurbished Chamber, each of us 01:12:44.940 --> 01:12:47.730 align:middle line:84% keenly aware of the legacy of this body 01:12:47.730 --> 01:12:51.810 align:middle line:84% and the promise of what's possible in the 191st session 01:12:51.810 --> 01:12:53.640 align:middle line:90% of the great General Court. 01:12:53.640 --> 01:12:55.980 align:middle line:84% The walls of this Chamber were stripped 01:12:55.980 --> 01:12:59.130 align:middle line:84% to its foundation, as I think you all can see, 01:12:59.130 --> 01:13:02.820 align:middle line:84% the chandelier dismantled and burnished, 01:13:02.820 --> 01:13:07.590 align:middle line:84% each wooden block and beam taken apart, steamed, sanded by hand, 01:13:07.590 --> 01:13:09.720 align:middle line:90% painted, and put back in place. 01:13:09.720 --> 01:13:11.820 align:middle line:84% And when this Chamber was in scaffolding, 01:13:11.820 --> 01:13:15.780 align:middle line:84% we too underwent a parallel if unplanned renovation, 01:13:15.780 --> 01:13:17.710 align:middle line:90% and we are better for it. 01:13:17.710 --> 01:13:19.380 align:middle line:84% And I'd be remiss, Mr. President, 01:13:19.380 --> 01:13:21.330 align:middle line:84% if I did not recognize the soon to be 01:13:21.330 --> 01:13:23.790 align:middle line:84% new Clerk who stands beside our presiding 01:13:23.790 --> 01:13:25.560 align:middle line:90% officer at the rostrum. 01:13:25.560 --> 01:13:29.340 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, when it comes to choosing who among us should 01:13:29.340 --> 01:13:33.210 align:middle line:84% lead us, it is my profound honor to second the nomination 01:13:33.210 --> 01:13:36.810 align:middle line:84% of our colleague from Ashland, Karen E Spilka, 01:13:36.810 --> 01:13:39.600 align:middle line:84% to be president of the Massachusetts Senate. 01:13:39.600 --> 01:13:44.040 align:middle line:84% I first met Karen Spilka in 2011 at a gathering 01:13:44.040 --> 01:13:46.980 align:middle line:84% after the FY12 budget had been passed. 01:13:46.980 --> 01:13:50.160 align:middle line:84% I was a newly minted legislative liaison at the time, 01:13:50.160 --> 01:13:52.530 align:middle line:84% but I somehow struck up a conversation 01:13:52.530 --> 01:13:54.750 align:middle line:84% with the gentle lady from Ashland. 01:13:54.750 --> 01:13:58.200 align:middle line:84% We talked about my work in public health and our dogs. 01:13:58.200 --> 01:14:00.840 align:middle line:84% She showed me pictures of her dogs. 01:14:00.840 --> 01:14:02.700 align:middle line:84% I don't recall what else was said. 01:14:02.700 --> 01:14:05.250 align:middle line:84% I don't-- I don't think we talked about mechanics, 01:14:05.250 --> 01:14:05.970 align:middle line:90% car mechanics. 01:14:05.970 --> 01:14:08.280 align:middle line:84% But I don't recall what else was said, 01:14:08.280 --> 01:14:11.790 align:middle line:84% but I distinctly remember how she made me feel, 01:14:11.790 --> 01:14:15.030 align:middle line:84% that she was genuinely interested in what I did. 01:14:15.030 --> 01:14:19.002 align:middle line:84% She was approachable, with no pretense, and wicked funny. 01:14:19.002 --> 01:14:21.210 align:middle line:84% I didn't imagine then that I'd be a colleague serving 01:14:21.210 --> 01:14:23.010 align:middle line:90% alongside Karen and all of you. 01:14:23.010 --> 01:14:25.440 align:middle line:84% Yet two years ago, I find myself-- 01:14:25.440 --> 01:14:28.740 align:middle line:84% I found myself finding my way here. 01:14:28.740 --> 01:14:32.490 align:middle line:84% And Karen, from then on, was a constant presence, always 01:14:32.490 --> 01:14:34.920 align:middle line:84% looking out for how she could help. 01:14:34.920 --> 01:14:37.430 align:middle line:84% How can we make you successful? she'd ask. 01:14:37.430 --> 01:14:39.630 align:middle line:84% What are the priorities in your district? 01:14:39.630 --> 01:14:42.450 align:middle line:84% We can't get this done yet, but there's always another day. 01:14:42.450 --> 01:14:44.400 align:middle line:90% Let's figure it out. 01:14:44.400 --> 01:14:47.580 align:middle line:84% When I put my foot in my own mouth, as eager millennials 01:14:47.580 --> 01:14:49.620 align:middle line:84% like me are wont to do, Karen was 01:14:49.620 --> 01:14:52.320 align:middle line:84% there to throw me a life vest and shared 01:14:52.320 --> 01:14:54.570 align:middle line:84% her own colorful stumbles when she 01:14:54.570 --> 01:14:57.060 align:middle line:84% was a new member of the legislature, which is really 01:14:57.060 --> 01:15:00.270 align:middle line:84% the best sort of mentorship you can ask for. 01:15:00.270 --> 01:15:02.970 align:middle line:84% Those two years went by mighty fast. 01:15:02.970 --> 01:15:06.780 align:middle line:84% And in that time, Karen became more than a colleague. 01:15:06.780 --> 01:15:10.170 align:middle line:84% She became a mentor and a treasured friend. 01:15:10.170 --> 01:15:13.380 align:middle line:84% And now at the outset of 191st General Court, 01:15:13.380 --> 01:15:17.400 align:middle line:84% it is upon us to select who among us should lead our august 01:15:17.400 --> 01:15:18.660 align:middle line:90% body. 01:15:18.660 --> 01:15:21.210 align:middle line:84% Who among us should be the champion for our work 01:15:21.210 --> 01:15:22.200 align:middle line:90% and cause? 01:15:22.200 --> 01:15:25.560 align:middle line:84% For me, I want a president of the Senate 01:15:25.560 --> 01:15:28.260 align:middle line:84% who sees the promise in each and every member, 01:15:28.260 --> 01:15:31.170 align:middle line:84% no matter their party or seniority. 01:15:31.170 --> 01:15:35.370 align:middle line:84% I want a president the Senate who sinks her teeth into policy 01:15:35.370 --> 01:15:37.260 align:middle line:84% and cares about getting it right, 01:15:37.260 --> 01:15:39.540 align:middle line:84% not keeping up with the news cycle or scoring 01:15:39.540 --> 01:15:41.190 align:middle line:90% political points. 01:15:41.190 --> 01:15:45.030 align:middle line:84% I want a president of the Senate was is a fierce negotiator. 01:15:45.030 --> 01:15:47.250 align:middle line:84% I want a president who can navigate her way 01:15:47.250 --> 01:15:50.070 align:middle line:84% through the stakeholders and egos in this building, who 01:15:50.070 --> 01:15:53.580 align:middle line:84% transcends the status quo of Beacon Hill politics 01:15:53.580 --> 01:15:58.320 align:middle line:84% with the skills of a mediator and a seasoned social worker. 01:15:58.320 --> 01:15:59.880 align:middle line:84% I want a president of the Senate who 01:15:59.880 --> 01:16:02.130 align:middle line:84% listens to staff, who goes out of her way 01:16:02.130 --> 01:16:03.660 align:middle line:90% to be invested in them. 01:16:03.660 --> 01:16:05.450 align:middle line:84% I want a president who understands 01:16:05.450 --> 01:16:07.690 align:middle line:84% that the people who keep our offices 01:16:07.690 --> 01:16:11.670 align:middle line:84% and this building humming are as essential as anything else. 01:16:11.670 --> 01:16:13.170 align:middle line:84% I want a president of the Senate who 01:16:13.170 --> 01:16:16.050 align:middle line:84% sees all parts of the Commonwealth, who appreciates 01:16:16.050 --> 01:16:18.150 align:middle line:84% the problems that face Pittsfield 01:16:18.150 --> 01:16:21.540 align:middle line:84% or Provincetown aren't secondary to those communities 01:16:21.540 --> 01:16:24.540 align:middle line:84% geographically closer to the Hill. 01:16:24.540 --> 01:16:26.730 align:middle line:84% I want a Senate president who knows 01:16:26.730 --> 01:16:28.840 align:middle line:90% what it's like to be left out. 01:16:28.840 --> 01:16:31.800 align:middle line:84% And I want a President of the Senate is a woman. 01:16:31.800 --> 01:16:34.440 align:middle line:84% My friends, we need a president of the Senate 01:16:34.440 --> 01:16:36.720 align:middle line:84% who believes in uplifting every member, 01:16:36.720 --> 01:16:39.300 align:middle line:84% but who has the grit to go toe to toe for what 01:16:39.300 --> 01:16:43.870 align:middle line:84% this Chamber passes, and to get those actions signed into law. 01:16:43.870 --> 01:16:46.890 align:middle line:84% We need a president the Senate who listens to her constituents 01:16:46.890 --> 01:16:48.870 align:middle line:84% and isn't afraid to be challenged 01:16:48.870 --> 01:16:52.560 align:middle line:84% by new conceptions and novel ways of seeing the world. 01:16:52.560 --> 01:16:54.340 align:middle line:84% We need a president the Senate who 01:16:54.340 --> 01:16:56.190 align:middle line:90% is an ally to the forgotten. 01:16:56.190 --> 01:17:00.100 align:middle line:84% We need a president who is a fierce protector of justice, 01:17:00.100 --> 01:17:02.220 align:middle line:84% especially at this time when the values that 01:17:02.220 --> 01:17:05.070 align:middle line:84% make this Commonwealth and our country truly great 01:17:05.070 --> 01:17:08.130 align:middle line:84% are under assault. And in Karen Spilka, 01:17:08.130 --> 01:17:09.960 align:middle line:84% we have a president of the Senate 01:17:09.960 --> 01:17:11.700 align:middle line:84% who has a bevy of accomplishments 01:17:11.700 --> 01:17:14.100 align:middle line:84% that have fundamentally changed the structures 01:17:14.100 --> 01:17:17.150 align:middle line:84% of the Commonwealth and our society so that all people-- 01:17:17.150 --> 01:17:20.420 align:middle line:84% women, children, those across the developmental spectrum, 01:17:20.420 --> 01:17:23.490 align:middle line:84% immigrants and their children, transgender people, 01:17:23.490 --> 01:17:25.400 align:middle line:90% the most vulnerable among us-- 01:17:25.400 --> 01:17:27.960 align:middle line:84% they have equal access and opportunity. 01:17:27.960 --> 01:17:30.500 align:middle line:84% In Karen Spilka we have a president the Senate 01:17:30.500 --> 01:17:33.390 align:middle line:84% who will work with any of us on a good idea, 01:17:33.390 --> 01:17:35.620 align:middle line:90% however complicated or minute. 01:17:35.620 --> 01:17:37.550 align:middle line:84% In Karen, we have a president of the Senate 01:17:37.550 --> 01:17:40.510 align:middle line:84% who has a bold vision for our work and our Commonwealth. 01:17:40.510 --> 01:17:42.440 align:middle line:84% In Karen Spilka, we have a president 01:17:42.440 --> 01:17:45.680 align:middle line:84% of the Senate who understands that leadership isn't bravado, 01:17:45.680 --> 01:17:48.650 align:middle line:84% or in hearing the sound of one's own voice. 01:17:48.650 --> 01:17:50.390 align:middle line:84% In Karen, we have a president who 01:17:50.390 --> 01:17:53.840 align:middle line:84% knows the true-- that true leadership takes knowing 01:17:53.840 --> 01:17:56.720 align:middle line:84% oneself, your flaws and your strengths, 01:17:56.720 --> 01:17:59.270 align:middle line:84% that effective leadership takes facilitation, 01:17:59.270 --> 01:18:01.790 align:middle line:84% and true leadership raises others up, 01:18:01.790 --> 01:18:05.720 align:middle line:84% not just simply advances one's own fortunes. 01:18:05.720 --> 01:18:07.520 align:middle line:84% In Karen, we have a president who 01:18:07.520 --> 01:18:11.310 align:middle line:84% brings humor and a joie de vivre into this essential work. 01:18:11.310 --> 01:18:13.550 align:middle line:84% In Karen Spilka, we have a president of the Senate 01:18:13.550 --> 01:18:16.640 align:middle line:84% who can take the big, pressing dreams that each of us 01:18:16.640 --> 01:18:19.610 align:middle line:84% bring to this body and to work tirelessly 01:18:19.610 --> 01:18:23.930 align:middle line:84% to ensure that bold new ideas don't end up as empty rhetoric 01:18:23.930 --> 01:18:27.080 align:middle line:84% but rather become something truly transformational 01:18:27.080 --> 01:18:28.970 align:middle line:90% and are enacted into law. 01:18:28.970 --> 01:18:31.640 align:middle line:84% My friends, the walls of this storied Chamber 01:18:31.640 --> 01:18:36.560 align:middle line:84% are now primed and painted with an inch of historic accuracy, 01:18:36.560 --> 01:18:39.210 align:middle line:90% and I'm told dating to 1900. 01:18:39.210 --> 01:18:42.440 align:middle line:84% But our Senate is a far cry from the one that 01:18:42.440 --> 01:18:46.280 align:middle line:90% first assembled here in 1900. 01:18:46.280 --> 01:18:48.590 align:middle line:84% It is fitting in this moment that we 01:18:48.590 --> 01:18:52.610 align:middle line:84% be led by a woman with the strength, wisdom, poise, 01:18:52.610 --> 01:18:55.970 align:middle line:84% and sense of fairness as Karen E Spilka. 01:18:55.970 --> 01:18:59.480 align:middle line:84% Our colleague from Ashland is invested in our successes. 01:18:59.480 --> 01:19:02.360 align:middle line:84% She shares the dreams of our constituents, 01:19:02.360 --> 01:19:05.060 align:middle line:84% and will bring a needed urgency and diligence 01:19:05.060 --> 01:19:06.920 align:middle line:90% to the work that lies ahead. 01:19:06.920 --> 01:19:11.060 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, I stand here today honored and excited 01:19:11.060 --> 01:19:14.030 align:middle line:84% for what's possible to second the nomination 01:19:14.030 --> 01:19:16.640 align:middle line:84% for the senator from Ashland, Karen E Spilka, 01:19:16.640 --> 01:19:18.130 align:middle line:90% to be our Senate president. 01:19:18.130 --> 01:19:19.130 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:19:19.130 --> 01:19:23.130 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:19:23.130 --> 01:19:53.130 align:middle line:90% 01:19:53.130 --> 01:19:54.130 align:middle line:90% [GAVEL BANGS] 01:19:54.130 --> 01:19:55.130 align:middle line:90% 01:19:55.130 --> 01:19:59.000 align:middle line:84% And now the senator from Worcester and Norfolk, 01:19:59.000 --> 01:20:01.570 align:middle line:84% Mr. Fattman, is recognized for the purpose 01:20:01.570 --> 01:20:05.080 align:middle line:84% of placing a name in nomination for the president 01:20:05.080 --> 01:20:06.640 align:middle line:90% of the Senate. 01:20:06.640 --> 01:20:08.260 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:20:08.260 --> 01:20:11.110 align:middle line:84% And first let me begin by welcoming my colleagues 01:20:11.110 --> 01:20:14.800 align:middle line:84% with a happy new year, and their friends and their family. 01:20:14.800 --> 01:20:17.020 align:middle line:84% Today, the members of the State Senate 01:20:17.020 --> 01:20:20.580 align:middle line:84% will be choosing a leader of this prestigious body. 01:20:20.580 --> 01:20:22.480 align:middle line:84% And although members have before them 01:20:22.480 --> 01:20:26.140 align:middle line:84% two qualified and well-respected candidates, 01:20:26.140 --> 01:20:29.745 align:middle line:84% today it is my honor to nominate Senator Bruce E 01:20:29.745 --> 01:20:33.550 align:middle line:84% Tarr as president of the Massachusetts Senate. 01:20:33.550 --> 01:20:37.390 align:middle line:84% In this historic 191st assembling at the Massachusetts 01:20:37.390 --> 01:20:41.680 align:middle line:84% General Court, we'd be remiss if we failed to remind ourselves 01:20:41.680 --> 01:20:43.990 align:middle line:84% as public servants of the Commonwealth 01:20:43.990 --> 01:20:46.970 align:middle line:84% that we are a government of the people, by the people, 01:20:46.970 --> 01:20:49.990 align:middle line:84% for the people, never above the people. 01:20:49.990 --> 01:20:52.280 align:middle line:84% In the long days and nights ahead, it 01:20:52.280 --> 01:20:54.940 align:middle line:84% will be important for us to remember that whatever else 01:20:54.940 --> 01:20:59.830 align:middle line:84% is happening in the world or in our country, 01:20:59.830 --> 01:21:04.060 align:middle line:84% that we rely upon each other irrespective of what letter 01:21:04.060 --> 01:21:06.730 align:middle line:90% might come before our name. 01:21:06.730 --> 01:21:10.370 align:middle line:84% And speaking of names, for those of you who don't know me, 01:21:10.370 --> 01:21:12.667 align:middle line:84% I grew up with the last name Fattman. 01:21:12.667 --> 01:21:14.500 align:middle line:84% I've been called a lot of things in my life, 01:21:14.500 --> 01:21:16.840 align:middle line:84% prepared me very well for politics. 01:21:16.840 --> 01:21:18.910 align:middle line:84% But today we're reminded that the best 01:21:18.910 --> 01:21:22.720 align:middle line:84% names that we are called are not that of senator or even 01:21:22.720 --> 01:21:24.310 align:middle line:90% Senate president. 01:21:24.310 --> 01:21:28.180 align:middle line:84% The best names are father, and mother, husband, and wife, 01:21:28.180 --> 01:21:31.240 align:middle line:90% sister, brother, indeed friend. 01:21:31.240 --> 01:21:34.690 align:middle line:84% These titles give us commonality in an uncommon time 01:21:34.690 --> 01:21:37.420 align:middle line:84% for our country, and they bring us together 01:21:37.420 --> 01:21:39.670 align:middle line:90% at a time when we need it most. 01:21:39.670 --> 01:21:42.310 align:middle line:84% As the father of two children, who you may have heard here 01:21:42.310 --> 01:21:46.150 align:middle line:84% today, I like to serve in this historic Chamber 01:21:46.150 --> 01:21:48.130 align:middle line:90% as a vessel to the future. 01:21:48.130 --> 01:21:49.870 align:middle line:84% In the current political climate, 01:21:49.870 --> 01:21:52.540 align:middle line:84% filled with divisiveness and uncertainty, 01:21:52.540 --> 01:21:54.310 align:middle line:84% there remains a need for this body 01:21:54.310 --> 01:21:56.620 align:middle line:84% to live up to the great potential 01:21:56.620 --> 01:21:59.890 align:middle line:84% and be heard as a voice of the people. 01:21:59.890 --> 01:22:02.725 align:middle line:84% Author Robert Greenleaf stated in his essay, The Servant 01:22:02.725 --> 01:22:06.640 align:middle line:84% as Leader, that where there is not community, not trust, 01:22:06.640 --> 01:22:09.370 align:middle line:84% and not respect, ethical behavior 01:22:09.370 --> 01:22:12.010 align:middle line:84% is difficult for the young to learn 01:22:12.010 --> 01:22:14.680 align:middle line:90% and for the old to maintain. 01:22:14.680 --> 01:22:18.580 align:middle line:84% During my tenure serving besides the gentleman from Gloucester, 01:22:18.580 --> 01:22:22.660 align:middle line:84% he has displayed empathy, understanding, courtesy, 01:22:22.660 --> 01:22:25.520 align:middle line:90% and ethics under his leadership. 01:22:25.520 --> 01:22:27.490 align:middle line:84% The consummate public servant, who 01:22:27.490 --> 01:22:31.030 align:middle line:84% served as a former prosecutor, state representative, and now 01:22:31.030 --> 01:22:35.200 align:middle line:84% state senator, Bruce Tarr has dedicated his life 01:22:35.200 --> 01:22:38.460 align:middle line:84% to serving and helping other people. 01:22:38.460 --> 01:22:40.720 align:middle line:84% He is usually the first person in this building, 01:22:40.720 --> 01:22:43.570 align:middle line:84% and the last to leave, oftentimes consulting 01:22:43.570 --> 01:22:45.800 align:middle line:84% on the difficult issues of our time, 01:22:45.800 --> 01:22:47.890 align:middle line:84% whether it be it through Melissa's Law, working 01:22:47.890 --> 01:22:50.950 align:middle line:84% to support our police, fire, first responders, 01:22:50.950 --> 01:22:55.720 align:middle line:84% working to fund our schools, ensuring the welfare of animals 01:22:55.720 --> 01:23:00.580 align:middle line:84% and our pets, Senator Tarr holds a knowledge of this institution 01:23:00.580 --> 01:23:06.010 align:middle line:84% that few rival, and less could hope to keep. 01:23:06.010 --> 01:23:08.980 align:middle line:84% No matter who you are or where you come from, 01:23:08.980 --> 01:23:11.920 align:middle line:84% Senator Tarr will be there for you. 01:23:11.920 --> 01:23:13.690 align:middle line:84% If you have a question on procedure, 01:23:13.690 --> 01:23:17.680 align:middle line:84% he can answer it; a problem on policy, he will solve it; 01:23:17.680 --> 01:23:21.610 align:middle line:84% and perhaps most importantly, if you need someone to talk to 01:23:21.610 --> 01:23:26.560 align:middle line:84% he will lend a listening ear and offer sage advice. 01:23:26.560 --> 01:23:31.120 align:middle line:84% Talented on the podium no less, the gentleman from Gloucester 01:23:31.120 --> 01:23:34.210 align:middle line:84% has been compared to the likes of Cicero, 01:23:34.210 --> 01:23:38.690 align:middle line:84% Massachusetts' own Cicero, yet a younger and more handsome 01:23:38.690 --> 01:23:39.190 align:middle line:90% Cicero. 01:23:39.190 --> 01:23:39.912 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 01:23:39.912 --> 01:23:41.270 align:middle line:90% 01:23:41.270 --> 01:23:44.330 align:middle line:84% But instead of donning a purple toga, 01:23:44.330 --> 01:23:48.640 align:middle line:84% he's settled more for a purple tie, a symbol of his commitment 01:23:48.640 --> 01:23:53.830 align:middle line:84% to consensus, constellation, and bipartisan leadership. 01:23:53.830 --> 01:23:55.720 align:middle line:84% It is in this spirit that we are reminded 01:23:55.720 --> 01:23:58.360 align:middle line:84% about the need for trust, honesty, and integrity 01:23:58.360 --> 01:24:02.140 align:middle line:84% in this body, after a long fog has dissipated 01:24:02.140 --> 01:24:03.910 align:middle line:90% from the last session. 01:24:03.910 --> 01:24:06.400 align:middle line:84% Senator Tarr possesses the attributes 01:24:06.400 --> 01:24:09.260 align:middle line:84% necessary to lead this great body forward, 01:24:09.260 --> 01:24:13.030 align:middle line:84% including laying his own personal relationships aside 01:24:13.030 --> 01:24:16.180 align:middle line:84% for the betterment of this institution. 01:24:16.180 --> 01:24:18.520 align:middle line:84% In recent times, there's been a great deal 01:24:18.520 --> 01:24:23.470 align:middle line:84% of talk about our institutions, our democracy, and those who 01:24:23.470 --> 01:24:27.220 align:middle line:90% serve in American greatness. 01:24:27.220 --> 01:24:29.380 align:middle line:84% I recently attended a forum talking about what 01:24:29.380 --> 01:24:31.600 align:middle line:90% makes our country exceptional. 01:24:31.600 --> 01:24:35.240 align:middle line:84% Throughout human history, there have been many great nations, 01:24:35.240 --> 01:24:37.180 align:middle line:90% many great civilizations. 01:24:37.180 --> 01:24:41.280 align:middle line:84% But what makes America great is that we are good. 01:24:41.280 --> 01:24:43.960 align:middle line:84% And the manifestation of that goodness 01:24:43.960 --> 01:24:46.690 align:middle line:90% is found in our citizens. 01:24:46.690 --> 01:24:50.650 align:middle line:84% Every Christmas, a group of sick, unexpecting children 01:24:50.650 --> 01:24:53.610 align:middle line:84% at Boston Children's Hospital find themselves receiving 01:24:53.610 --> 01:24:56.850 align:middle line:84% dozens of gifts, hugs, laughs, and love 01:24:56.850 --> 01:24:59.970 align:middle line:84% from a man they hardly even know. 01:24:59.970 --> 01:25:02.730 align:middle line:90% No, it's not Santa Claus. 01:25:02.730 --> 01:25:06.660 align:middle line:84% It's Senator Bruce Tarr at Boston Children's Hospital, 01:25:06.660 --> 01:25:10.990 align:middle line:84% where he has been every Christmas for over a decade. 01:25:10.990 --> 01:25:15.150 align:middle line:84% This is just one example of that goodness. 01:25:15.150 --> 01:25:18.270 align:middle line:84% And so long as America is good and our leaders 01:25:18.270 --> 01:25:22.740 align:middle line:84% act accordingly, America will always be great. 01:25:22.740 --> 01:25:26.460 align:middle line:84% Cicero once said that it is not by muscle, speed, 01:25:26.460 --> 01:25:28.560 align:middle line:84% or physical dexterity that great things are 01:25:28.560 --> 01:25:32.550 align:middle line:84% achieved, but by reflection, force of character, 01:25:32.550 --> 01:25:34.110 align:middle line:90% and judgment. 01:25:34.110 --> 01:25:36.450 align:middle line:84% I can think of no other who possesses 01:25:36.450 --> 01:25:41.430 align:middle line:84% these attributes more than the gentleman from Gloucester. 01:25:41.430 --> 01:25:46.140 align:middle line:84% And if nothing else, we can give Bruce Tarr a birthday gift 01:25:46.140 --> 01:25:47.680 align:middle line:84% today that he will never forget-- 01:25:47.680 --> 01:25:48.180 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 01:25:48.180 --> 01:25:50.580 align:middle line:84% --by electing him to the Massachusetts Senate 01:25:50.580 --> 01:25:51.250 align:middle line:90% presidency. 01:25:51.250 --> 01:25:51.750 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:25:51.750 --> 01:25:53.300 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:25:53.300 --> 01:26:14.900 align:middle line:90% 01:26:14.900 --> 01:26:18.830 align:middle line:84% The senator from Plymouth and Norfolk, Mr. O'Connor, 01:26:18.830 --> 01:26:23.370 align:middle line:84% is recognized for the purpose of seconding the nomination. 01:26:23.370 --> 01:26:25.310 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. President. 01:26:25.310 --> 01:26:27.440 align:middle line:84% I rise to second the nomination of the gentleman 01:26:27.440 --> 01:26:30.110 align:middle line:84% from Gloucester, Bruce E Tarr, for president 01:26:30.110 --> 01:26:32.600 align:middle line:84% of the Massachusetts State Senate. 01:26:32.600 --> 01:26:35.750 align:middle line:84% It's hard to mention State Senator Tarr without someone 01:26:35.750 --> 01:26:38.482 align:middle line:84% noting how good of an orator he is. 01:26:38.482 --> 01:26:40.940 align:middle line:84% I think it's very fair to say that he's one of the greatest 01:26:40.940 --> 01:26:42.982 align:middle line:84% orators that we've had in the Massachusetts State 01:26:42.982 --> 01:26:44.900 align:middle line:90% Legislature. 01:26:44.900 --> 01:26:46.580 align:middle line:90% It would also be remiss-- 01:26:46.580 --> 01:26:49.430 align:middle line:84% amiss, excuse me, to not mention his profound Constitutional 01:26:49.430 --> 01:26:52.980 align:middle line:84% knowledge, his respect for our democratic process, 01:26:52.980 --> 01:26:56.070 align:middle line:84% and legislative accomplishments, of which there are many. 01:26:56.070 --> 01:26:59.330 align:middle line:84% He has championed numerous bills to strengthen public safety, 01:26:59.330 --> 01:27:02.720 align:middle line:84% improve our schools, protect our environment, 01:27:02.720 --> 01:27:06.050 align:middle line:84% and enhance government efficiency, transparency, 01:27:06.050 --> 01:27:07.800 align:middle line:90% and accountability. 01:27:07.800 --> 01:27:11.680 align:middle line:84% This is the Bruce Tarr we all know, love, and respect. 01:27:11.680 --> 01:27:13.940 align:middle line:84% The Bruce Tarr that I want to talk about 01:27:13.940 --> 01:27:16.730 align:middle line:84% is not the legislator delivering impassioned speeches here 01:27:16.730 --> 01:27:18.090 align:middle line:90% in this Chamber. 01:27:18.090 --> 01:27:21.080 align:middle line:84% I want to talk about Bruce Tarr outside of this Chamber, 01:27:21.080 --> 01:27:23.630 align:middle line:84% who he is at his core, and why he is the person 01:27:23.630 --> 01:27:25.990 align:middle line:90% to lead this esteemed body. 01:27:25.990 --> 01:27:28.753 align:middle line:84% The Bruce Tarr that I have had the honor of coming to know 01:27:28.753 --> 01:27:30.170 align:middle line:84% does not miss a single opportunity 01:27:30.170 --> 01:27:32.660 align:middle line:84% to give back to his community, do something 01:27:32.660 --> 01:27:36.620 align:middle line:90% charitable, gracious, or kind. 01:27:36.620 --> 01:27:39.140 align:middle line:84% As the gentleman from Webster touched upon, 01:27:39.140 --> 01:27:41.750 align:middle line:84% every single Christmastime, Senator Tarr 01:27:41.750 --> 01:27:44.180 align:middle line:84% takes it upon himself to organize toy drives 01:27:44.180 --> 01:27:46.670 align:middle line:84% through radio stations across his district 01:27:46.670 --> 01:27:49.790 align:middle line:84% from the early morning hours all the way to late at night. 01:27:49.790 --> 01:27:52.790 align:middle line:84% He criss-crosses his district, going to all these events, 01:27:52.790 --> 01:27:56.090 align:middle line:84% spreading holiday cheer, and collecting these toys. 01:27:56.090 --> 01:27:58.220 align:middle line:84% He then takes these toys, employees help 01:27:58.220 --> 01:28:02.300 align:middle line:84% of the volunteers, some of whom end up 01:28:02.300 --> 01:28:04.820 align:middle line:84% talking to a lot of these children, 01:28:04.820 --> 01:28:08.630 align:middle line:84% gets the help of Santa Claus, and goes to Shriners Hospital 01:28:08.630 --> 01:28:11.990 align:middle line:84% to deliver these to children who are suffering with burns, 01:28:11.990 --> 01:28:14.510 align:middle line:84% spinal cord injuries, and other injuries and ailments 01:28:14.510 --> 01:28:17.390 align:middle line:84% no child should ever have to cope with. 01:28:17.390 --> 01:28:20.870 align:middle line:84% Last year I joined this caravan to the Shriners Hospital 01:28:20.870 --> 01:28:23.450 align:middle line:84% and I got to see the looks of pure joy and excitement 01:28:23.450 --> 01:28:26.000 align:middle line:84% on these children's faces as our colleague told them 01:28:26.000 --> 01:28:29.570 align:middle line:84% they can go pick out a toy and meet Santa Claus. 01:28:29.570 --> 01:28:32.600 align:middle line:84% This is the character of Bruce Tarr. 01:28:32.600 --> 01:28:34.460 align:middle line:84% This is just one of hundreds and hundreds 01:28:34.460 --> 01:28:37.940 align:middle line:84% of untold stories like this that define our minority leader. 01:28:37.940 --> 01:28:40.310 align:middle line:84% And it is this kind of behind the scenes action 01:28:40.310 --> 01:28:42.170 align:middle line:84% that each of us don't see but what 01:28:42.170 --> 01:28:45.500 align:middle line:84% makes him truly a dedicated servant to his community 01:28:45.500 --> 01:28:47.650 align:middle line:90% and to our Commonwealth. 01:28:47.650 --> 01:28:51.230 align:middle line:84% In my ultimate opinion, it is compassion, selflessness, 01:28:51.230 --> 01:28:53.090 align:middle line:84% conviction, and bravery there are just 01:28:53.090 --> 01:28:54.590 align:middle line:84% some of the characteristics you want 01:28:54.590 --> 01:28:56.990 align:middle line:90% in a person to lead this body. 01:28:56.990 --> 01:28:59.870 align:middle line:84% We are so fortunate to have both caucuses led by people 01:28:59.870 --> 01:29:02.450 align:middle line:84% who embodies these ideals, and that each member 01:29:02.450 --> 01:29:04.850 align:middle line:84% in this Chamber also shares these values 01:29:04.850 --> 01:29:06.470 align:middle line:84% for the benefit of your districts 01:29:06.470 --> 01:29:08.540 align:middle line:90% and your constituents. 01:29:08.540 --> 01:29:10.490 align:middle line:84% In a time that we see unprecedented division 01:29:10.490 --> 01:29:13.100 align:middle line:84% in our nation's capital, and at city halls and state 01:29:13.100 --> 01:29:16.010 align:middle line:84% capitals across our country, we in this Chamber 01:29:16.010 --> 01:29:18.470 align:middle line:84% choose to buck that trend by standing up 01:29:18.470 --> 01:29:21.260 align:middle line:84% to this unfortunate new status quo. 01:29:21.260 --> 01:29:24.050 align:middle line:84% We choose to have conversations rather than arguments. 01:29:24.050 --> 01:29:26.350 align:middle line:84% We choose to put people before politics 01:29:26.350 --> 01:29:28.520 align:middle line:84% and we choose to work together and compromise 01:29:28.520 --> 01:29:31.000 align:middle line:84% for the better of our constituents, our communities, 01:29:31.000 --> 01:29:32.570 align:middle line:90% and this Commonwealth. 01:29:32.570 --> 01:29:35.960 align:middle line:84% We do this in large part because of the leadership of Bruce 01:29:35.960 --> 01:29:37.100 align:middle line:90% Tarr. 01:29:37.100 --> 01:29:40.790 align:middle line:84% His actions and bravery are sending a resounding message 01:29:40.790 --> 01:29:42.800 align:middle line:84% that good government is achievable 01:29:42.800 --> 01:29:45.860 align:middle line:84% and that it is well underway here in the Massachusetts State 01:29:45.860 --> 01:29:47.042 align:middle line:90% Senate. 01:29:47.042 --> 01:29:48.500 align:middle line:84% It is for these reasons and so many 01:29:48.500 --> 01:29:50.810 align:middle line:84% more that I am honored and privilege not just 01:29:50.810 --> 01:29:53.030 align:middle line:84% to second the nomination of Senator Bruce E 01:29:53.030 --> 01:29:56.480 align:middle line:84% Tarr for Senate President, but to call him a friend. 01:29:56.480 --> 01:29:57.666 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr President. 01:29:57.666 --> 01:30:00.146 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:30:00.146 --> 01:30:03.122 align:middle line:90% 01:30:03.122 --> 01:30:04.110 align:middle line:90% You done good. 01:30:04.110 --> 01:30:04.610 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:30:04.610 --> 01:30:07.090 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:30:07.090 --> 01:30:20.490 align:middle line:90% 01:30:20.490 --> 01:30:24.420 align:middle line:84% The senator from Middlesex, Mr. Barrett, 01:30:24.420 --> 01:30:28.380 align:middle line:84% now moves that nominations be closed. 01:30:28.380 --> 01:30:30.450 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 01:30:30.450 --> 01:30:31.950 align:middle line:90% Aye. 01:30:31.950 --> 01:30:34.450 align:middle line:90% All those opposed, no. 01:30:34.450 --> 01:30:37.590 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and nominations 01:30:37.590 --> 01:30:41.460 align:middle line:84% for presidency of the Massachusetts Senate 01:30:41.460 --> 01:30:43.950 align:middle line:90% are closed. 01:30:43.950 --> 01:30:47.100 align:middle line:84% The question now comes on election 01:30:47.100 --> 01:30:49.700 align:middle line:90% of the Senate President. 01:30:49.700 --> 01:30:54.410 align:middle line:84% Each senator will state the name of the candidate 01:30:54.410 --> 01:31:04.510 align:middle line:84% they wish to vote for, Karen E Spilka or Bruce E Tarr. 01:31:04.510 --> 01:31:07.510 align:middle line:84% The middle initial is what they have in common. 01:31:07.510 --> 01:31:08.470 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 01:31:08.470 --> 01:31:09.910 align:middle line:90% 01:31:09.910 --> 01:31:12.060 align:middle line:84% Make sure they're signing the document. 01:31:12.060 --> 01:31:14.880 align:middle line:84% Just before I call the role, the Clerk 01:31:14.880 --> 01:31:20.970 align:middle line:84% has asked me to make sure you are cognizant 01:31:20.970 --> 01:31:25.290 align:middle line:84% of the piece of paper that is before you that has been sent 01:31:25.290 --> 01:31:29.010 align:middle line:84% over by the Secretary of State's office, 01:31:29.010 --> 01:31:34.200 align:middle line:84% that everybody needs to sign that document if you 01:31:34.200 --> 01:31:38.814 align:middle line:84% care to receive compensation this session. 01:31:38.814 --> 01:31:40.146 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 01:31:40.146 --> 01:31:41.480 align:middle line:90% 01:31:41.480 --> 01:31:50.020 align:middle line:84% So, again, the choices are Karen E Spilka or Bruce E Tarr. 01:31:50.020 --> 01:31:53.140 align:middle line:84% Mr. Clerk, please call the role and call the Chair. 01:31:53.140 --> 01:31:56.120 align:middle line:90% 01:31:56.120 --> 01:31:57.020 align:middle line:90% Marc R. Pacheco. 01:31:57.020 --> 01:31:58.130 align:middle line:90% 01:31:58.130 --> 01:32:00.770 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:00.770 --> 01:32:02.423 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:02.423 --> 01:32:03.409 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:03.409 --> 01:32:06.860 align:middle line:90% 01:32:06.860 --> 01:32:08.832 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 01:32:08.832 --> 01:32:09.818 align:middle line:90% 01:32:09.818 --> 01:32:11.790 align:middle line:90% Sorry. 01:32:11.790 --> 01:32:13.710 align:middle line:90% Michael J Barrett. 01:32:13.710 --> 01:32:14.520 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:14.520 --> 01:32:16.410 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:16.410 --> 01:32:18.277 align:middle line:90% Joseph A Boncore. 01:32:18.277 --> 01:32:19.470 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:19.470 --> 01:32:21.090 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:21.090 --> 01:32:22.170 align:middle line:90% Michael D Brady. 01:32:22.170 --> 01:32:24.060 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:24.060 --> 01:32:26.220 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:26.220 --> 01:32:28.122 align:middle line:90% William M Brownsberger. 01:32:28.122 --> 01:32:29.420 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:29.420 --> 01:32:31.070 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:31.070 --> 01:32:32.360 align:middle line:90% Harriette L Chandler. 01:32:32.360 --> 01:32:33.710 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:33.710 --> 01:32:35.960 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:35.960 --> 01:32:38.224 align:middle line:90% Sonia Chang-Diaz. 01:32:38.224 --> 01:32:39.110 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:39.110 --> 01:32:40.880 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:40.880 --> 01:32:42.320 align:middle line:90% Nick Collins. 01:32:42.320 --> 01:32:43.280 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:43.280 --> 01:32:45.320 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:45.320 --> 01:32:47.390 align:middle line:90% Joanne M Comerford. 01:32:47.390 --> 01:32:48.890 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:48.890 --> 01:32:50.900 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:50.900 --> 01:32:53.240 align:middle line:90% Cynthia Stone Creem. 01:32:53.240 --> 01:32:54.680 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:54.680 --> 01:32:56.600 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:56.600 --> 01:32:58.235 align:middle line:90% Brendan P Crighton. 01:32:58.235 --> 01:32:59.480 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:32:59.480 --> 01:33:01.250 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:01.250 --> 01:33:03.184 align:middle line:90% Julian Cyr. 01:33:03.184 --> 01:33:04.160 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:04.160 --> 01:33:06.140 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:06.140 --> 01:33:07.880 align:middle line:90% Viriato M deMacedo. 01:33:07.880 --> 01:33:09.580 align:middle line:90% Bruce E Tarr. 01:33:09.580 --> 01:33:11.340 align:middle line:90% Bruce E Tarr. 01:33:11.340 --> 01:33:13.574 align:middle line:90% Sal N DiDomenico. 01:33:13.574 --> 01:33:14.780 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:14.780 --> 01:33:17.210 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:17.210 --> 01:33:19.524 align:middle line:90% Diana DiZoglio. 01:33:19.524 --> 01:33:20.850 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:20.850 --> 01:33:22.680 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:22.680 --> 01:33:24.582 align:middle line:90% James B Eldridge. 01:33:24.582 --> 01:33:26.370 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:26.370 --> 01:33:28.290 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:28.290 --> 01:33:29.450 align:middle line:90% Ryan C Fattman. 01:33:29.450 --> 01:33:30.690 align:middle line:90% Bruce E Tarr. 01:33:30.690 --> 01:33:32.170 align:middle line:90% Bruce E Tarr. 01:33:32.170 --> 01:33:33.500 align:middle line:90% Paul R Feeney. 01:33:33.500 --> 01:33:35.070 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:35.070 --> 01:33:36.880 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:36.880 --> 01:33:38.280 align:middle line:90% Barry R Finegold. 01:33:38.280 --> 01:33:40.020 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:40.020 --> 01:33:41.820 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:41.820 --> 01:33:43.020 align:middle line:90% Cindy F Friedman. 01:33:43.020 --> 01:33:44.550 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:44.550 --> 01:33:46.590 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:46.590 --> 01:33:47.790 align:middle line:90% Anne M Gobi. 01:33:47.790 --> 01:33:49.150 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:49.150 --> 01:33:51.180 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:51.180 --> 01:33:52.420 align:middle line:90% Adam G Hinds. 01:33:52.420 --> 01:33:54.540 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:54.540 --> 01:33:56.490 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:33:56.490 --> 01:33:58.910 align:middle line:90% Donald F Humason, Jr. 01:33:58.910 --> 01:33:59.630 align:middle line:90% Bruce E Tarr. 01:33:59.630 --> 01:34:01.630 align:middle line:90% Bruce E Tarr. 01:34:01.630 --> 01:34:03.622 align:middle line:90% Patricia D Jehlen. 01:34:03.622 --> 01:34:04.860 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:04.860 --> 01:34:06.750 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:06.750 --> 01:34:10.040 align:middle line:90% John F Keenan. 01:34:10.040 --> 01:34:11.996 align:middle line:90% Edward J Kennedy. 01:34:11.996 --> 01:34:13.220 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:13.220 --> 01:34:15.170 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:15.170 --> 01:34:16.700 align:middle line:90% Eric P Lesser. 01:34:16.700 --> 01:34:18.050 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:18.050 --> 01:34:19.790 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:19.790 --> 01:34:21.964 align:middle line:90% Jason M Lewis. 01:34:21.964 --> 01:34:22.910 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:22.910 --> 01:34:24.860 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:24.860 --> 01:34:25.940 align:middle line:90% Joan B Lovely. 01:34:25.940 --> 01:34:27.650 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:27.650 --> 01:34:29.360 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:29.360 --> 01:34:31.220 align:middle line:90% Mark C Montigny. 01:34:31.220 --> 01:34:32.900 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:32.900 --> 01:34:35.630 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:35.630 --> 01:34:37.092 align:middle line:90% Michael O Moore. 01:34:37.092 --> 01:34:38.510 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:38.510 --> 01:34:40.010 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:40.010 --> 01:34:41.697 align:middle line:90% Patrick M O'Connor. 01:34:41.697 --> 01:34:42.860 align:middle line:90% Bruce E Tarr. 01:34:42.860 --> 01:34:44.690 align:middle line:90% Bruce E Tarr. 01:34:44.690 --> 01:34:46.352 align:middle line:90% Rebecca L Rausch. 01:34:46.352 --> 01:34:47.650 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:47.650 --> 01:34:49.370 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:49.370 --> 01:34:50.802 align:middle line:90% Michael J Rodrigues. 01:34:50.802 --> 01:34:52.490 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:52.490 --> 01:34:54.110 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:54.110 --> 01:34:55.670 align:middle line:90% Michael F Rush. 01:34:55.670 --> 01:34:56.840 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:56.840 --> 01:34:58.970 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:34:58.970 --> 01:35:00.070 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:35:00.070 --> 01:35:01.340 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:35:01.340 --> 01:35:02.538 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:35:02.538 --> 01:35:03.870 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 01:35:03.870 --> 01:35:04.370 align:middle line:90% 01:35:04.370 --> 01:35:06.302 align:middle line:90% Bruce E Tarr. 01:35:06.302 --> 01:35:08.250 align:middle line:90% Bruce E Tarr. 01:35:08.250 --> 01:35:09.842 align:middle line:90% Bruce E Tarr. 01:35:09.842 --> 01:35:10.746 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 01:35:10.746 --> 01:35:12.630 align:middle line:90% Walter F Timilty. 01:35:12.630 --> 01:35:13.930 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:35:13.930 --> 01:35:16.360 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:35:16.360 --> 01:35:17.775 align:middle line:90% Dean A Tran. 01:35:17.775 --> 01:35:18.960 align:middle line:90% Bruce E Tarr. 01:35:18.960 --> 01:35:20.520 align:middle line:90% Bruce E Tarr. 01:35:20.520 --> 01:35:21.996 align:middle line:90% James T Welch. 01:35:21.996 --> 01:35:23.700 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:35:23.700 --> 01:35:24.900 align:middle line:90% Karen E Spilka. 01:35:24.900 --> 01:35:34.660 align:middle line:90% 01:35:34.660 --> 01:35:36.612 align:middle line:90% 33 for Karen E Spilka. 01:35:36.612 --> 01:35:38.590 align:middle line:90% Six for Bruce E Tarr. 01:35:38.590 --> 01:35:43.738 align:middle line:84% 33 members having voted for Karen E Spilka. 01:35:43.738 --> 01:35:45.410 align:middle line:90% How many members for-- 01:35:45.410 --> 01:35:50.480 align:middle line:84% and six members voting for Bruce E Tarr, the Chair 01:35:50.480 --> 01:35:54.230 align:middle line:84% declares that Karen E Spilka has been elected 01:35:54.230 --> 01:35:56.732 align:middle line:90% president of the Senate. 01:35:56.732 --> 01:35:59.212 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:35:59.212 --> 01:36:47.840 align:middle line:90% 01:36:47.840 --> 01:36:51.315 align:middle line:84% Senator Tarr, for what purpose does the gentleman rise? 01:36:51.315 --> 01:36:53.690 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Mr. President, and through you to the members. 01:36:53.690 --> 01:36:57.200 align:middle line:84% Mr. President, in the spirit of bipartisanship 01:36:57.200 --> 01:37:00.140 align:middle line:84% and collaboration that has always characterized 01:37:00.140 --> 01:37:04.028 align:middle line:84% this Chamber, and is equally as important to its future, 01:37:04.028 --> 01:37:06.320 align:middle line:84% I move that it be declared that the sense of the Senate 01:37:06.320 --> 01:37:12.248 align:middle line:84% be that the election of Karen E Spilka be unanimous. 01:37:12.248 --> 01:37:13.310 align:middle line:90% The Senator-- 01:37:13.310 --> 01:37:15.282 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:37:15.282 --> 01:37:22.200 align:middle line:90% 01:37:22.200 --> 01:37:24.510 align:middle line:84% The senator from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr, 01:37:24.510 --> 01:37:27.720 align:middle line:84% moves that it be the sense of the Senate 01:37:27.720 --> 01:37:33.480 align:middle line:84% that the vote for election of Senator Spilka as president 01:37:33.480 --> 01:37:35.370 align:middle line:90% be declared unanimous. 01:37:35.370 --> 01:37:37.650 align:middle line:84% All those in favor, signify by saying aye. 01:37:37.650 --> 01:37:38.580 align:middle line:90% Aye. 01:37:38.580 --> 01:37:40.350 align:middle line:90% All those opposed. 01:37:40.350 --> 01:37:45.060 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and Senator Karen E Spilka is unanimously 01:37:45.060 --> 01:37:47.114 align:middle line:90% declared Senate president. 01:37:47.114 --> 01:37:48.596 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:37:48.596 --> 01:38:11.350 align:middle line:90% 01:38:11.350 --> 01:38:18.550 align:middle line:84% At this time, I ask that the Sergeant at Arms 01:38:18.550 --> 01:38:25.060 align:middle line:84% meet the senator from Norfolk and Suffolk, Mr. Rush, 01:38:25.060 --> 01:38:28.060 align:middle line:84% and the senator from Suffolk, Mr. Brownsberger 01:38:28.060 --> 01:38:31.030 align:middle line:84% in the well, for they will escort 01:38:31.030 --> 01:38:33.824 align:middle line:90% Senator Spilka to the rostrum. 01:38:33.824 --> 01:38:54.698 align:middle line:90% 01:38:54.698 --> 01:38:57.183 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:38:57.183 --> 01:39:17.560 align:middle line:90% 01:39:17.560 --> 01:39:19.990 align:middle line:84% Members of the Senate, ladies and gentlemen 01:39:19.990 --> 01:39:24.970 align:middle line:84% of the Commonwealth, I give you Karen E Spilka, 01:39:24.970 --> 01:39:26.990 align:middle line:84% President of the Massachusetts Senate. 01:39:26.990 --> 01:39:27.972 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:39:27.972 --> 01:39:29.936 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:39:29.936 --> 01:39:46.150 align:middle line:90% 01:39:46.150 --> 01:39:48.950 align:middle line:90% Good afternoon. 01:39:48.950 --> 01:39:53.190 align:middle line:84% Thank you so very much to Senator Creem and Senator 01:39:53.190 --> 01:39:56.620 align:middle line:90% Cyr for your very kind words. 01:39:56.620 --> 01:39:58.160 align:middle line:90% They're greatly appreciated. 01:39:58.160 --> 01:40:00.040 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:40:00.040 --> 01:40:04.480 align:middle line:84% And thank you from the bottom of my heart to my colleagues 01:40:04.480 --> 01:40:08.260 align:middle line:84% for putting your faith and trust in me once again 01:40:08.260 --> 01:40:10.330 align:middle line:90% as your Senate President. 01:40:10.330 --> 01:40:12.400 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:40:12.400 --> 01:40:14.810 align:middle line:84% And thank you to the minority leader. 01:40:14.810 --> 01:40:17.230 align:middle line:84% We have much more in common than our middle initials. 01:40:17.230 --> 01:40:18.090 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 01:40:18.090 --> 01:40:19.090 align:middle line:90% 01:40:19.090 --> 01:40:20.980 align:middle line:90% And to the minority crescent. 01:40:20.980 --> 01:40:23.260 align:middle line:84% I look forward to our continuing working 01:40:23.260 --> 01:40:26.590 align:middle line:84% together with this upcoming session. 01:40:26.590 --> 01:40:29.410 align:middle line:84% And I'd like to extend a particularly warm 01:40:29.410 --> 01:40:35.200 align:middle line:84% welcome to our new senators, Senator Comerford, Senator 01:40:35.200 --> 01:40:41.620 align:middle line:84% DiZoglio, Senator Finegold, Senator Kennedy, and Senator 01:40:41.620 --> 01:40:43.130 align:middle line:90% Rausch. 01:40:43.130 --> 01:40:45.086 align:middle line:90% Congratulations and welcome. 01:40:45.086 --> 01:40:47.566 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:40:47.566 --> 01:41:19.320 align:middle line:90% 01:41:19.320 --> 01:41:22.560 align:middle line:84% We look forward to working closely with you in the months 01:41:22.560 --> 01:41:24.100 align:middle line:90% and years ahead. 01:41:24.100 --> 01:41:25.470 align:middle line:90% Welcome. 01:41:25.470 --> 01:41:28.780 align:middle line:84% And thank you to our new Clerk, and the Clerk's office, 01:41:28.780 --> 01:41:33.300 align:middle line:84% Senate Counsel, and our court officers that we rely upon, 01:41:33.300 --> 01:41:35.610 align:middle line:84% the business office, all of the folks 01:41:35.610 --> 01:41:38.620 align:middle line:84% that help us make today possible. 01:41:38.620 --> 01:41:40.740 align:middle line:90% Thank you so much. 01:41:40.740 --> 01:41:42.540 align:middle line:84% And to our distinguished guests, I 01:41:42.540 --> 01:41:45.770 align:middle line:90% would like to recognize that-- 01:41:45.770 --> 01:41:49.500 align:middle line:84% and they may be back, our wonderful senators, Elizabeth 01:41:49.500 --> 01:41:51.990 align:middle line:90% Warren and Senator Markey. 01:41:51.990 --> 01:41:55.030 align:middle line:84% I'm happy that we're able to join us. 01:41:55.030 --> 01:41:58.230 align:middle line:84% And I want to give a special thanks to Rabbi Metzler, 01:41:58.230 --> 01:42:00.314 align:middle line:90% my cousin from-- 01:42:00.314 --> 01:42:01.766 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:42:01.766 --> 01:42:03.218 align:middle line:90% And his family. 01:42:03.218 --> 01:42:04.670 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:42:04.670 --> 01:42:07.090 align:middle line:90% 01:42:07.090 --> 01:42:08.320 align:middle line:90% And his family. 01:42:08.320 --> 01:42:11.110 align:middle line:84% For those of you who heard my speech in July 01:42:11.110 --> 01:42:15.250 align:middle line:84% about my grandfather, Joseph, Rabbi Metzler's first name 01:42:15.250 --> 01:42:15.900 align:middle line:90% is Joseph. 01:42:15.900 --> 01:42:18.305 align:middle line:84% He's made named after my grandfather. 01:42:18.305 --> 01:42:18.805 align:middle line:90% So welcome. 01:42:18.805 --> 01:42:20.874 align:middle line:84% It's a special honor to have you. 01:42:20.874 --> 01:42:21.374 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:42:21.374 --> 01:42:23.238 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:42:23.238 --> 01:42:25.580 align:middle line:90% 01:42:25.580 --> 01:42:27.990 align:middle line:84% And I would like to especially thank 01:42:27.990 --> 01:42:32.610 align:middle line:84% the terrific voices of Praise Chorus and the Reverend Lloyd, 01:42:32.610 --> 01:42:34.882 align:middle line:84% from the Greater Framingham Community Church. 01:42:34.882 --> 01:42:37.184 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:42:37.184 --> 01:42:47.510 align:middle line:90% 01:42:47.510 --> 01:42:50.480 align:middle line:84% Thank you for your voices and your passion, 01:42:50.480 --> 01:42:54.920 align:middle line:84% and for lifting us all today and joining us today. 01:42:54.920 --> 01:42:57.800 align:middle line:84% I would like to also acknowledge that our constitutional 01:42:57.800 --> 01:43:01.730 align:middle line:84% officers were here, and the Executive Council, 01:43:01.730 --> 01:43:08.960 align:middle line:84% and recognize Mayor Spicer, Mayor Walsh, and Mayor McGee. 01:43:08.960 --> 01:43:10.670 align:middle line:90% It's great to have them. 01:43:10.670 --> 01:43:13.670 align:middle line:84% And to our prior Senate presidents, 01:43:13.670 --> 01:43:17.810 align:middle line:84% Senator Murray, Senator Travaglini, Senator Emerita-- 01:43:17.810 --> 01:43:20.060 align:middle line:84% Senate President Emerita Chandler. 01:43:20.060 --> 01:43:23.390 align:middle line:84% I truly stand on your shoulders and thank you 01:43:23.390 --> 01:43:25.872 align:middle line:90% so much for joining us today. 01:43:25.872 --> 01:43:27.848 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:43:27.848 --> 01:43:35.260 align:middle line:90% 01:43:35.260 --> 01:43:39.700 align:middle line:84% And, finally, I'd like to extend a warm welcome to my family 01:43:39.700 --> 01:43:44.740 align:middle line:84% and friends, and especially to my husband, Joel Loitherstein, 01:43:44.740 --> 01:43:47.830 align:middle line:84% and our two sons, Scott and Jake. 01:43:47.830 --> 01:43:51.770 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for your constant support, 01:43:51.770 --> 01:43:53.950 align:middle line:90% encouragement, and love. 01:43:53.950 --> 01:43:56.710 align:middle line:84% As all of us know, we can't do it without you. 01:43:56.710 --> 01:43:58.180 align:middle line:90% I can't do it without you. 01:43:58.180 --> 01:43:58.860 align:middle line:90% So thank you. 01:43:58.860 --> 01:44:01.355 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:44:01.355 --> 01:44:23.850 align:middle line:90% 01:44:23.850 --> 01:44:27.810 align:middle line:84% It is my honor today to be the first to welcome you 01:44:27.810 --> 01:44:31.230 align:middle line:90% to the renovated Senate Chamber. 01:44:31.230 --> 01:44:33.610 align:middle line:90% Isn't it spectacular? 01:44:33.610 --> 01:44:34.110 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:44:34.110 --> 01:44:35.535 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:44:35.535 --> 01:44:38.860 align:middle line:90% 01:44:38.860 --> 01:44:41.800 align:middle line:84% On behalf of everyone here, I'd like 01:44:41.800 --> 01:44:46.030 align:middle line:84% to thank the many, many people who worked hard 01:44:46.030 --> 01:44:50.140 align:middle line:90% on this historic restoration. 01:44:50.140 --> 01:44:53.710 align:middle line:84% In a world that has become increasingly virtual, 01:44:53.710 --> 01:44:56.080 align:middle line:84% the Senate Chamber remains a place 01:44:56.080 --> 01:44:58.990 align:middle line:84% where we can come together and sit side 01:44:58.990 --> 01:45:02.440 align:middle line:84% by side as equals to work on behalf 01:45:02.440 --> 01:45:05.890 align:middle line:84% of the people of the Commonwealth, a place where we 01:45:05.890 --> 01:45:09.040 align:middle line:84% can look each other in the eye as we advocate 01:45:09.040 --> 01:45:14.170 align:middle line:84% for our positions, and sometimes strongly and respectfully 01:45:14.170 --> 01:45:20.050 align:middle line:84% disagree, and shake hands at the end of a long day. 01:45:20.050 --> 01:45:22.300 align:middle line:84% Soon, this Chamber will be filled 01:45:22.300 --> 01:45:28.330 align:middle line:84% with our voices for the 191st legislative session. 01:45:28.330 --> 01:45:32.050 align:middle line:84% As we started on this renovation, however, 01:45:32.050 --> 01:45:34.510 align:middle line:84% we found that this Chamber was already 01:45:34.510 --> 01:45:38.560 align:middle line:84% filled with voices from our past that we could just no 01:45:38.560 --> 01:45:45.430 align:middle line:84% longer ignore, the voices who by either accident or design 01:45:45.430 --> 01:45:48.250 align:middle line:84% have been excluded from this great Chamber 01:45:48.250 --> 01:45:51.190 align:middle line:90% throughout our history. 01:45:51.190 --> 01:45:55.480 align:middle line:84% We heard the voice of one of our great leaders, Frederick 01:45:55.480 --> 01:46:01.270 align:middle line:84% Douglass, who dedicated his life to eradicating slavery, 01:46:01.270 --> 01:46:04.480 align:middle line:84% and worked with abolitionists to not only free 01:46:04.480 --> 01:46:09.640 align:middle line:84% his fellow enslaved countrymen, but create true equality 01:46:09.640 --> 01:46:12.430 align:middle line:90% for African-Americans. 01:46:12.430 --> 01:46:17.470 align:middle line:84% His words have proven to be so powerful that we have enshrined 01:46:17.470 --> 01:46:20.590 align:middle line:90% them on our wall here-- 01:46:20.590 --> 01:46:25.660 align:middle line:84% truth, justice, liberty, and humanity 01:46:25.660 --> 01:46:33.890 align:middle line:84% will ultimately prevail, words that will guide our work here. 01:46:33.890 --> 01:46:37.010 align:middle line:84% We have also heard the voices of the women who, 01:46:37.010 --> 01:46:43.040 align:middle line:84% despite Abigail Adams' demand to remember the ladies, 01:46:43.040 --> 01:46:48.440 align:middle line:84% had to fight for the right to vote, then legislate, and then 01:46:48.440 --> 01:46:49.970 align:middle line:90% lead. 01:46:49.970 --> 01:46:55.400 align:middle line:84% As record numbers of women take office nationwide this month, 01:46:55.400 --> 01:46:57.770 align:middle line:84% we remember the tremendous courage 01:46:57.770 --> 01:47:02.720 align:middle line:84% of the suffragettes, who 100 years ago organized, 01:47:02.720 --> 01:47:08.600 align:middle line:84% they protested, and they fought for their rights as Americans. 01:47:08.600 --> 01:47:11.060 align:middle line:84% Finally, we have heard from the voices 01:47:11.060 --> 01:47:13.430 align:middle line:84% of those whose minds were excluded 01:47:13.430 --> 01:47:18.230 align:middle line:84% from full debate in this Chamber because their physical bodies 01:47:18.230 --> 01:47:20.810 align:middle line:90% just were not able. 01:47:20.810 --> 01:47:25.010 align:middle line:84% And, as a result, we have made this Chamber fully 01:47:25.010 --> 01:47:29.660 align:middle line:90% accessible from front to back. 01:47:29.660 --> 01:47:33.830 align:middle line:84% And we remember with fondness and sadness, 01:47:33.830 --> 01:47:38.780 align:middle line:84% our recently departed colleagues Senator Tom Kennedy 01:47:38.780 --> 01:47:42.020 align:middle line:84% and majority leader Fred Berry, who 01:47:42.020 --> 01:47:45.680 align:middle line:84% forced us to confront the physical limitations 01:47:45.680 --> 01:47:49.790 align:middle line:84% of this space, and who also made us realize 01:47:49.790 --> 01:47:52.910 align:middle line:84% the importance of encouraging all 01:47:52.910 --> 01:47:59.150 align:middle line:84% to have a seat or a wheelchair at this table in this Chamber. 01:47:59.150 --> 01:48:01.820 align:middle line:84% I so wish they could be here today 01:48:01.820 --> 01:48:06.320 align:middle line:84% to take the new lift that's behind me up to this rostrum 01:48:06.320 --> 01:48:11.180 align:middle line:84% and sit beside me, and to know that physical ability will 01:48:11.180 --> 01:48:17.470 align:middle line:84% never be an impediment to being a senator ever again. 01:48:17.470 --> 01:48:21.070 align:middle line:84% To all who have come before us and raised their voices 01:48:21.070 --> 01:48:26.770 align:middle line:84% in a chorus of demands for more truth, more justice, more 01:48:26.770 --> 01:48:33.610 align:middle line:84% liberty, and more humanity, we have heard you. 01:48:33.610 --> 01:48:37.300 align:middle line:84% As we marvel at the beauty of this renovated Chamber, 01:48:37.300 --> 01:48:42.040 align:middle line:84% we can look to the two alcoves that have been left empty 01:48:42.040 --> 01:48:45.700 align:middle line:84% and know that soon they will be filled 01:48:45.700 --> 01:48:51.370 align:middle line:84% with the bust of Frederick Douglass and an important woman 01:48:51.370 --> 01:48:53.050 align:middle line:90% from our history-- 01:48:53.050 --> 01:48:57.280 align:middle line:84% very possibly our own Abigail Adams. 01:48:57.280 --> 01:49:00.730 align:middle line:84% Their presence will remind us that we are moving closer 01:49:00.730 --> 01:49:05.630 align:middle line:84% towards the goals of equity, diversity, 01:49:05.630 --> 01:49:10.180 align:middle line:84% and accessibility, both in our physical space 01:49:10.180 --> 01:49:13.960 align:middle line:90% and in the work that we do. 01:49:13.960 --> 01:49:16.870 align:middle line:84% The voices of our past called upon us 01:49:16.870 --> 01:49:20.530 align:middle line:84% to create a better Senate Chamber. 01:49:20.530 --> 01:49:23.500 align:middle line:84% And now as we begin this new session, 01:49:23.500 --> 01:49:27.640 align:middle line:84% the voices of our future call to us 01:49:27.640 --> 01:49:31.510 align:middle line:90% to create a better Commonwealth. 01:49:31.510 --> 01:49:34.750 align:middle line:84% When rising ocean levels threaten our coasts, 01:49:34.750 --> 01:49:37.420 align:middle line:84% and when unreliable public transportation 01:49:37.420 --> 01:49:42.070 align:middle line:84% makes the lives of working families almost impossible, 01:49:42.070 --> 01:49:46.060 align:middle line:84% what are these voices trying to tell us? 01:49:46.060 --> 01:49:49.810 align:middle line:84% When the level of income inequality in Massachusetts 01:49:49.810 --> 01:49:53.140 align:middle line:84% is the highest in the nation, and families 01:49:53.140 --> 01:49:57.250 align:middle line:84% feel they must choose between a house they can afford 01:49:57.250 --> 01:50:00.940 align:middle line:84% and a decent education for their children, 01:50:00.940 --> 01:50:04.720 align:middle line:84% what are these voices trying to tell us? 01:50:04.720 --> 01:50:08.200 align:middle line:84% And when the cost of health care threatens the well-being 01:50:08.200 --> 01:50:11.750 align:middle line:84% of our small businesses, our schools, 01:50:11.750 --> 01:50:15.100 align:middle line:84% our public institutions, our municipalities, 01:50:15.100 --> 01:50:20.710 align:middle line:84% and our families, what are the voices of our future trying 01:50:20.710 --> 01:50:23.940 align:middle line:90% to tell us? 01:50:23.940 --> 01:50:28.800 align:middle line:84% They are telling us it's time to get to work. 01:50:28.800 --> 01:50:32.190 align:middle line:84% They are telling us that the time for small ideas 01:50:32.190 --> 01:50:36.630 align:middle line:90% and incremental change is over. 01:50:36.630 --> 01:50:39.780 align:middle line:84% They are telling us that we cannot let the political 01:50:39.780 --> 01:50:45.210 align:middle line:84% battles of today prevent us from conquering the complex 01:50:45.210 --> 01:50:48.300 align:middle line:90% challenges of tomorrow. 01:50:48.300 --> 01:50:55.620 align:middle line:84% And, yes, they are also telling us that we must be bold. 01:50:55.620 --> 01:51:03.630 align:middle line:84% To those voices, I say, we hear you and we are ready to lead. 01:51:03.630 --> 01:51:05.970 align:middle line:84% When I first ran for state representative, 01:51:05.970 --> 01:51:11.760 align:middle line:84% I chose as my campaign slogan the phrase, for our future. 01:51:11.760 --> 01:51:15.510 align:middle line:84% I didn't realize it at the time, but that phrase 01:51:15.510 --> 01:51:19.590 align:middle line:84% would be much more than a slogan for me. 01:51:19.590 --> 01:51:22.380 align:middle line:84% It would become a guiding principle 01:51:22.380 --> 01:51:25.380 align:middle line:90% and a constant call to action. 01:51:25.380 --> 01:51:30.990 align:middle line:84% Today, that call to action feels more urgent than ever before. 01:51:30.990 --> 01:51:35.010 align:middle line:84% We are living through a time of remarkable change. 01:51:35.010 --> 01:51:40.500 align:middle line:84% Technology has radically changed the way that we live and work. 01:51:40.500 --> 01:51:42.810 align:middle line:84% And shifting priorities have caused 01:51:42.810 --> 01:51:45.150 align:middle line:84% us to rethink everything from where 01:51:45.150 --> 01:51:48.450 align:middle line:90% we live to how we commute. 01:51:48.450 --> 01:51:51.900 align:middle line:84% Massachusetts, in true form, has led 01:51:51.900 --> 01:51:54.540 align:middle line:90% the way in this new landscape. 01:51:54.540 --> 01:51:57.690 align:middle line:84% We have produced entirely new industries 01:51:57.690 --> 01:52:01.510 align:middle line:84% fueled by creativity, innovation, 01:52:01.510 --> 01:52:04.620 align:middle line:90% and technological expertise. 01:52:04.620 --> 01:52:08.820 align:middle line:84% But we have also experienced pain points in the areas 01:52:08.820 --> 01:52:10.320 align:middle line:90% where we have failed-- 01:52:10.320 --> 01:52:14.100 align:middle line:90% failed to adjust or keep up. 01:52:14.100 --> 01:52:18.090 align:middle line:84% I have faith, however, that Massachusetts will not only 01:52:18.090 --> 01:52:21.630 align:middle line:84% succeed, that we will rise to the challenges, 01:52:21.630 --> 01:52:24.720 align:middle line:84% but that we will be an example for others 01:52:24.720 --> 01:52:29.730 align:middle line:84% on how to navigate our way to a better future 01:52:29.730 --> 01:52:31.770 align:middle line:84% by calling on the fundamentals that 01:52:31.770 --> 01:52:34.740 align:middle line:90% have guided us in the past-- 01:52:34.740 --> 01:52:42.120 align:middle line:84% namely, education, innovation, and caring for the common good. 01:52:42.120 --> 01:52:46.260 align:middle line:84% Education has always been Massachusetts' lodestar, 01:52:46.260 --> 01:52:49.740 align:middle line:84% beginning with the birth of public education 01:52:49.740 --> 01:52:52.950 align:middle line:84% under the guidance of Senate President and Franklin 01:52:52.950 --> 01:52:55.800 align:middle line:90% native, Horace Mann. 01:52:55.800 --> 01:52:58.110 align:middle line:84% I'm proud that the Senate successfully 01:52:58.110 --> 01:53:02.340 align:middle line:84% advocated for a record investment in education funding 01:53:02.340 --> 01:53:04.530 align:middle line:90% these past few years. 01:53:04.530 --> 01:53:08.820 align:middle line:90% But we must do more. 01:53:08.820 --> 01:53:11.460 align:middle line:84% Adequately funding our education system 01:53:11.460 --> 01:53:14.340 align:middle line:84% will be one of the top priorities of the Senate 01:53:14.340 --> 01:53:16.110 align:middle line:90% this session. 01:53:16.110 --> 01:53:18.660 align:middle line:84% And I hope that we will pass a bill 01:53:18.660 --> 01:53:21.810 align:middle line:84% to finally implement the recommendation 01:53:21.810 --> 01:53:24.720 align:middle line:84% of the Foundation Budget Review Commission 01:53:24.720 --> 01:53:26.190 align:middle line:90% as soon as we are able. 01:53:26.190 --> 01:53:28.452 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:53:28.452 --> 01:53:45.920 align:middle line:90% 01:53:45.920 --> 01:53:50.690 align:middle line:84% Because we all know that all children deserve access 01:53:50.690 --> 01:53:55.910 align:middle line:84% to a quality public education regardless of where they live, 01:53:55.910 --> 01:53:57.980 align:middle line:90% or who they are. 01:53:57.980 --> 01:54:01.640 align:middle line:84% Education drives our economic growth, 01:54:01.640 --> 01:54:04.490 align:middle line:84% our national leadership, and our ability 01:54:04.490 --> 01:54:09.020 align:middle line:84% to strive for an ever greater quality of life 01:54:09.020 --> 01:54:11.480 align:middle line:90% for all of our residents. 01:54:11.480 --> 01:54:16.400 align:middle line:84% It also drives our passion for ingenuity and innovation, 01:54:16.400 --> 01:54:19.520 align:middle line:90% our second fundamental value. 01:54:19.520 --> 01:54:23.210 align:middle line:84% Massachusetts has never been shy about shaking up 01:54:23.210 --> 01:54:27.350 align:middle line:84% the status quo from the Revolutionary War 01:54:27.350 --> 01:54:30.260 align:middle line:90% to the fight for equal marriage. 01:54:30.260 --> 01:54:33.530 align:middle line:84% As gridlock grips the federal government, 01:54:33.530 --> 01:54:39.140 align:middle line:84% we have here both the opportunity and the obligation 01:54:39.140 --> 01:54:40.880 align:middle line:90% to lead. 01:54:40.880 --> 01:54:43.220 align:middle line:84% Right now, increasing health care costs 01:54:43.220 --> 01:54:48.320 align:middle line:84% serve as a silent stranglehold on budgets everywhere. 01:54:48.320 --> 01:54:51.980 align:middle line:84% We can begin to address this by passing legislation that 01:54:51.980 --> 01:54:55.820 align:middle line:84% slows the rise of prescription drugs prices, 01:54:55.820 --> 01:55:00.440 align:middle line:84% and increases transparency to the consumer. 01:55:00.440 --> 01:55:04.280 align:middle line:84% And when it comes to climate change adaptation, 01:55:04.280 --> 01:55:10.460 align:middle line:84% our potential for leadership is virtually limitless, especially 01:55:10.460 --> 01:55:13.880 align:middle line:84% as our proactive and evidence-based approach 01:55:13.880 --> 01:55:19.400 align:middle line:84% stands in stark contrast to the inaction of Washington. 01:55:19.400 --> 01:55:21.920 align:middle line:84% We can work with businesses and scientists 01:55:21.920 --> 01:55:25.940 align:middle line:84% to push the envelope on clean energy technologies, 01:55:25.940 --> 01:55:29.360 align:middle line:84% creating new jobs in the process. 01:55:29.360 --> 01:55:32.030 align:middle line:84% Collaborating with city and town governments, 01:55:32.030 --> 01:55:35.210 align:middle line:84% we can determine smart environmental changes 01:55:35.210 --> 01:55:40.460 align:middle line:84% on the local level that will help offset our transportation 01:55:40.460 --> 01:55:42.980 align:middle line:90% and our housing concerns. 01:55:42.980 --> 01:55:46.160 align:middle line:84% We can commit ourselves to creating a transportation 01:55:46.160 --> 01:55:51.230 align:middle line:84% infrastructure that matches our innovation economy by studying 01:55:51.230 --> 01:55:55.250 align:middle line:84% the feasibility of reenvisioning our outdated commuter rail 01:55:55.250 --> 01:56:01.160 align:middle line:84% system as a true rapid regional rail system. 01:56:01.160 --> 01:56:03.650 align:middle line:84% And we can take on the challenge of creating 01:56:03.650 --> 01:56:08.030 align:middle line:84% livable neighborhoods where people can afford to live, 01:56:08.030 --> 01:56:11.240 align:middle line:90% work, and raise a family. 01:56:11.240 --> 01:56:15.170 align:middle line:84% And we can and should continue our leadership 01:56:15.170 --> 01:56:20.570 align:middle line:84% in the areas of juvenile justice and criminal justice reform, 01:56:20.570 --> 01:56:22.850 align:middle line:84% so that we level the playing field 01:56:22.850 --> 01:56:29.210 align:middle line:84% and give all of our residents a fair shot at a brighter future. 01:56:29.210 --> 01:56:33.290 align:middle line:84% As we call on our ingenuity to deliver innovative solutions 01:56:33.290 --> 01:56:40.670 align:middle line:84% for our future, no idea should be beyond consideration. 01:56:40.670 --> 01:56:45.070 align:middle line:84% Finally, the term "commonwealth" reminds us 01:56:45.070 --> 01:56:50.050 align:middle line:84% that we are all invested in preserving our common good. 01:56:50.050 --> 01:56:54.580 align:middle line:84% To that end, we must create an economic development and tax 01:56:54.580 --> 01:56:58.420 align:middle line:84% framework for the 21st century, where 01:56:58.420 --> 01:57:02.980 align:middle line:84% innovative technology-driven businesses can develop 01:57:02.980 --> 01:57:08.470 align:middle line:84% and thrive here, but where we also capture new revenue 01:57:08.470 --> 01:57:12.190 align:middle line:84% to continue providing essential services 01:57:12.190 --> 01:57:16.420 align:middle line:84% and to fund our vision for our future. 01:57:16.420 --> 01:57:20.230 align:middle line:84% So far, we have been addressing these industries 01:57:20.230 --> 01:57:23.860 align:middle line:84% on a piecemeal basis, which only serves 01:57:23.860 --> 01:57:29.590 align:middle line:84% to breed confusion for business, government, and consumers. 01:57:29.590 --> 01:57:33.100 align:middle line:84% We must work together to find a balance that 01:57:33.100 --> 01:57:37.150 align:middle line:84% benefits us all, especially as we 01:57:37.150 --> 01:57:39.520 align:middle line:84% will be relying on these industries 01:57:39.520 --> 01:57:43.870 align:middle line:84% to fuel our future economic success. 01:57:43.870 --> 01:57:48.280 align:middle line:84% In the meantime, we can be proud that the legislature has 01:57:48.280 --> 01:57:51.430 align:middle line:84% increased the balance of our rainy day fund 01:57:51.430 --> 01:57:54.775 align:middle line:90% to over $2 billion. 01:57:54.775 --> 01:57:56.715 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 01:57:56.715 --> 01:58:03.990 align:middle line:90% 01:58:03.990 --> 01:58:08.010 align:middle line:84% That will provide for our resilience as a Commonwealth 01:58:08.010 --> 01:58:15.510 align:middle line:84% as we prepare for a future that is both exciting and uncertain. 01:58:15.510 --> 01:58:18.480 align:middle line:84% As I contemplate how the Massachusetts Senate will 01:58:18.480 --> 01:58:21.870 align:middle line:84% address these complex challenges before us, 01:58:21.870 --> 01:58:27.360 align:middle line:84% I am reminded of another Frederick Douglass quote-- 01:58:27.360 --> 01:58:33.030 align:middle line:84% I would unite with anybody to do right, and with nobody 01:58:33.030 --> 01:58:35.600 align:middle line:90% to do wrong. 01:58:35.600 --> 01:58:38.570 align:middle line:84% As your Senate President, I am committed 01:58:38.570 --> 01:58:44.340 align:middle line:84% to making sure we invite all voices to the table. 01:58:44.340 --> 01:58:49.170 align:middle line:84% And if we find that our table just isn't big enough, 01:58:49.170 --> 01:58:52.340 align:middle line:90% we will build a bigger table. 01:58:52.340 --> 01:58:55.400 align:middle line:84% I promise to listen to your employees 01:58:55.400 --> 01:59:00.140 align:middle line:84% and, through each of you, your constituents' voices. 01:59:00.140 --> 01:59:03.020 align:middle line:84% I promise to listen to the voices of our partners 01:59:03.020 --> 01:59:08.210 align:middle line:84% in state government, the Speaker of the House and the Governor. 01:59:08.210 --> 01:59:11.820 align:middle line:84% I promise to listen to our minority leader, 01:59:11.820 --> 01:59:14.360 align:middle line:84% to business leaders, labor unions, 01:59:14.360 --> 01:59:16.760 align:middle line:84% our institutions of higher learning, 01:59:16.760 --> 01:59:19.470 align:middle line:90% and government officials. 01:59:19.470 --> 01:59:23.270 align:middle line:84% And I also promise to listen to the voices 01:59:23.270 --> 01:59:26.960 align:middle line:84% of children, and working mothers, 01:59:26.960 --> 01:59:32.390 align:middle line:84% of teachers, and steelworkers, and seniors, and veterans, 01:59:32.390 --> 01:59:36.350 align:middle line:84% and nurses, and home health aides, and police, 01:59:36.350 --> 01:59:41.570 align:middle line:84% and firefighters, of immigrants, of small business owners, 01:59:41.570 --> 01:59:45.530 align:middle line:84% of scientists, artists, academics, members 01:59:45.530 --> 01:59:50.400 align:middle line:84% of the LGBTQ community, and many, many others-- 01:59:50.400 --> 01:59:53.690 align:middle line:84% especially those who don't believe they 01:59:53.690 --> 01:59:56.870 align:middle line:84% have a voice at the table right now. 01:59:56.870 --> 02:00:01.190 align:middle line:84% Because these are all the voices of our future 02:00:01.190 --> 02:00:07.820 align:middle line:84% and I want us all to be able to say, we hear you. 02:00:07.820 --> 02:00:11.750 align:middle line:84% There is one more voice from the past that compels me to action 02:00:11.750 --> 02:00:16.250 align:middle line:84% and I've saved it for last because it's personal. 02:00:16.250 --> 02:00:19.700 align:middle line:84% And that is the voice of my father. 02:00:19.700 --> 02:00:21.650 align:middle line:84% While you heard, the physical injuries 02:00:21.650 --> 02:00:27.020 align:middle line:84% he sustained during his military service were attended to, 02:00:27.020 --> 02:00:31.950 align:middle line:84% the psychological trauma he experienced never was. 02:00:31.950 --> 02:00:35.300 align:middle line:84% And this inattention to his mental health 02:00:35.300 --> 02:00:41.660 align:middle line:84% had long-term consequences for him and for my family, 02:00:41.660 --> 02:00:45.140 align:middle line:84% just as undiagnosed or untreated mental illness 02:00:45.140 --> 02:00:48.710 align:middle line:84% has long-term consequences for so many families 02:00:48.710 --> 02:00:51.200 align:middle line:90% across our Commonwealth. 02:00:51.200 --> 02:00:53.630 align:middle line:84% And as we fight for our future, we 02:00:53.630 --> 02:00:57.260 align:middle line:84% must make the care of our mental health 02:00:57.260 --> 02:01:00.450 align:middle line:84% as routine as the care of our physical health. 02:01:00.450 --> 02:01:03.420 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 02:01:03.420 --> 02:01:28.190 align:middle line:90% 02:01:28.190 --> 02:01:31.880 align:middle line:84% And we must work to end the stigma surrounding 02:01:31.880 --> 02:01:36.180 align:middle line:84% mental illness for once and for all. 02:01:36.180 --> 02:01:41.840 align:middle line:84% We simply cannot end the epidemic of addiction or solve 02:01:41.840 --> 02:01:46.310 align:middle line:84% the problems of chronic homelessness, and unemployment, 02:01:46.310 --> 02:01:53.120 align:middle line:84% child abuse and neglect, veteran and first responder PTSD, 02:01:53.120 --> 02:01:59.600 align:middle line:84% childhood bullying, or repeated incarceration without first 02:01:59.600 --> 02:02:04.430 align:middle line:84% addressing the underlying issue of mental health. 02:02:04.430 --> 02:02:08.240 align:middle line:84% This is my personal promise to all of you, 02:02:08.240 --> 02:02:11.210 align:middle line:84% that achieving true mental health parity 02:02:11.210 --> 02:02:13.790 align:middle line:84% and finding creative ways to integrate 02:02:13.790 --> 02:02:18.620 align:middle line:84% preventative mental health care into our health care system 02:02:18.620 --> 02:02:23.000 align:middle line:84% will be my priority for this session 02:02:23.000 --> 02:02:26.780 align:middle line:84% and, frankly, for as long as it takes. 02:02:26.780 --> 02:02:30.440 align:middle line:84% As we begin our new session, it is a privilege 02:02:30.440 --> 02:02:34.160 align:middle line:84% to be in this Chamber with you today, 02:02:34.160 --> 02:02:36.890 align:middle line:84% in this place where we can listen to 02:02:36.890 --> 02:02:41.060 align:middle line:84% and be guided by the voices of our past, 02:02:41.060 --> 02:02:46.610 align:middle line:84% the voices of our present, and the voices of our future, 02:02:46.610 --> 02:02:51.950 align:middle line:84% and work together for a future where we not only succeed, 02:02:51.950 --> 02:02:55.430 align:middle line:84% we become the model for navigating change 02:02:55.430 --> 02:02:59.330 align:middle line:84% while maintaining our core values. 02:02:59.330 --> 02:03:02.030 align:middle line:90% The work will be hard. 02:03:02.030 --> 02:03:07.820 align:middle line:84% And sometimes the voices of our critics will overwhelm us. 02:03:07.820 --> 02:03:11.660 align:middle line:84% But if we promise to remain true to ourselves, 02:03:11.660 --> 02:03:16.070 align:middle line:84% each other, and our common values, 02:03:16.070 --> 02:03:19.640 align:middle line:84% and listen to one another, we will 02:03:19.640 --> 02:03:23.540 align:middle line:90% create a better Commonwealth. 02:03:23.540 --> 02:03:27.590 align:middle line:84% I thank you again for the trust you put in me. 02:03:27.590 --> 02:03:32.750 align:middle line:84% And I stand as ready as ever to be your Senate President. 02:03:32.750 --> 02:03:36.130 align:middle line:84% I thank you, and I wish you all a happy and healthy new year. 02:03:36.130 --> 02:03:39.094 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 02:03:39.094 --> 02:04:23.140 align:middle line:90% 02:04:23.140 --> 02:04:26.770 align:middle line:84% The Chair recognizes the senator from Essex and Middlesex, 02:04:26.770 --> 02:04:29.493 align:middle line:90% Mr. Tarr. 02:04:29.493 --> 02:04:30.910 align:middle line:84% Well, well, well, Madam President. 02:04:30.910 --> 02:04:32.230 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 02:04:32.230 --> 02:04:33.990 align:middle line:90% 02:04:33.990 --> 02:04:37.300 align:middle line:84% Madam President, I want to offer my heartiest congratulations 02:04:37.300 --> 02:04:38.380 align:middle line:90% to you. 02:04:38.380 --> 02:04:40.630 align:middle line:84% You can understand my surprise because when 02:04:40.630 --> 02:04:42.190 align:middle line:84% I got up this morning I was listening 02:04:42.190 --> 02:04:43.810 align:middle line:90% to all of the exit polls. 02:04:43.810 --> 02:04:47.140 align:middle line:84% And they all said that somebody with a middle initial E 02:04:47.140 --> 02:04:49.690 align:middle line:84% was going to be the next Senate president. 02:04:49.690 --> 02:04:53.590 align:middle line:84% I was so excited for the prospect of that. 02:04:53.590 --> 02:04:57.660 align:middle line:84% But lo and behold, Madam President, someone has to win, 02:04:57.660 --> 02:04:59.890 align:middle line:90% and someone has to lose. 02:04:59.890 --> 02:05:02.860 align:middle line:90% But when your win, we all win. 02:05:02.860 --> 02:05:06.400 align:middle line:84% And I want to extend my very, very sincere congratulations 02:05:06.400 --> 02:05:08.830 align:middle line:84% to you, and let you know how much I look forward 02:05:08.830 --> 02:05:13.090 align:middle line:84% to working with you in the days ahead on so many shared 02:05:13.090 --> 02:05:14.360 align:middle line:90% priorities. 02:05:14.360 --> 02:05:17.890 align:middle line:84% And I appreciate your partnership, your interaction 02:05:17.890 --> 02:05:19.930 align:middle line:84% with all of us, and your commitment 02:05:19.930 --> 02:05:23.080 align:middle line:84% to make sure that the best ideas that we all have get 02:05:23.080 --> 02:05:27.490 align:middle line:84% elevated to action, and that action builds a better 02:05:27.490 --> 02:05:28.840 align:middle line:90% Commonwealth. 02:05:28.840 --> 02:05:30.610 align:middle line:90% So thank you. 02:05:30.610 --> 02:05:33.550 align:middle line:84% And, on a side note, my truck needs an oil change. 02:05:33.550 --> 02:05:34.821 align:middle line:90% I'll see you tomorrow at 4. 02:05:34.821 --> 02:05:36.785 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 02:05:36.785 --> 02:05:40.222 align:middle line:90% 02:05:40.222 --> 02:05:43.250 align:middle line:84% Madam President, I also want to say thank you 02:05:43.250 --> 02:05:46.190 align:middle line:84% to Senator Fattman for nominating me 02:05:46.190 --> 02:05:49.850 align:middle line:84% and for his words of eloquence, and to congratulate him 02:05:49.850 --> 02:05:53.330 align:middle line:84% for his rising leadership role in this Chamber, 02:05:53.330 --> 02:05:55.200 align:middle line:90% and for his friendship. 02:05:55.200 --> 02:05:59.180 align:middle line:84% And so to Senator O'Connor, whose constant attention 02:05:59.180 --> 02:06:04.080 align:middle line:84% to detail and passion make a true difference in this Chamber 02:06:04.080 --> 02:06:05.960 align:middle line:90% for all of us. 02:06:05.960 --> 02:06:09.590 align:middle line:84% And I want to say thank you also to Senator deMacedo, Senator 02:06:09.590 --> 02:06:14.480 align:middle line:84% Tran, and Senator Humason for investing their faith 02:06:14.480 --> 02:06:18.590 align:middle line:84% and trust in me to lead our efforts to work 02:06:18.590 --> 02:06:20.910 align:middle line:90% with all of you. 02:06:20.910 --> 02:06:24.260 align:middle line:84% It is truly an honor to serve with them, 02:06:24.260 --> 02:06:26.810 align:middle line:90% as it is with all of you. 02:06:26.810 --> 02:06:32.130 align:middle line:84% And I want to thank you all for the trust, and respect, 02:06:32.130 --> 02:06:36.200 align:middle line:84% and interaction that you have with all of us 02:06:36.200 --> 02:06:40.490 align:middle line:90% here in our part of the Chamber. 02:06:40.490 --> 02:06:44.600 align:middle line:84% Now you may be asking why I said our part of the Chamber, 02:06:44.600 --> 02:06:46.740 align:middle line:84% and I'll get to that in a minute. 02:06:46.740 --> 02:06:51.800 align:middle line:84% But I do want to say thank you too to Senate President Emerita 02:06:51.800 --> 02:06:56.510 align:middle line:84% Chandler for her work that was then carried on 02:06:56.510 --> 02:06:59.810 align:middle line:84% by Senate President Spilka to bring us 02:06:59.810 --> 02:07:05.360 align:middle line:84% to this beautiful place that has now new added significance, not 02:07:05.360 --> 02:07:07.010 align:middle line:84% only because of that quote but because 02:07:07.010 --> 02:07:10.040 align:middle line:84% of the next chapter in the life of this Chamber 02:07:10.040 --> 02:07:13.400 align:middle line:90% that that quote represents. 02:07:13.400 --> 02:07:15.770 align:middle line:90% So thank you. 02:07:15.770 --> 02:07:18.650 align:middle line:84% I also want to say thank you to the other Senate 02:07:18.650 --> 02:07:21.140 align:middle line:84% presidents that are here for the partnership 02:07:21.140 --> 02:07:23.000 align:middle line:84% that we have had because it has built 02:07:23.000 --> 02:07:26.540 align:middle line:84% an incredible tradition in this Chamber 02:07:26.540 --> 02:07:30.800 align:middle line:84% that transcends time and place and defies the negativity 02:07:30.800 --> 02:07:34.190 align:middle line:84% that we see in so many other quarters. 02:07:34.190 --> 02:07:36.980 align:middle line:84% So thank you, Senate President Murray, 02:07:36.980 --> 02:07:42.230 align:middle line:84% Senate President Travaglini for that partnership, as well. 02:07:42.230 --> 02:07:46.970 align:middle line:84% You know, Teddy Roosevelt said, far and away the best prize 02:07:46.970 --> 02:07:49.340 align:middle line:84% that life has to offer is the chance 02:07:49.340 --> 02:07:53.117 align:middle line:84% to work hard at something worth doing. 02:07:53.117 --> 02:07:54.950 align:middle line:84% Thanks to the people that have sent us here, 02:07:54.950 --> 02:07:58.160 align:middle line:90% we all now have that chance. 02:07:58.160 --> 02:08:02.810 align:middle line:84% And we have it in this glorious new Chamber. 02:08:02.810 --> 02:08:06.470 align:middle line:84% Now I know some of you may be asking a few questions. 02:08:06.470 --> 02:08:10.070 align:middle line:84% So we are trying out the term that this would be the minority 02:08:10.070 --> 02:08:13.940 align:middle line:84% arc, with arc being an acronym for advancing 02:08:13.940 --> 02:08:16.410 align:middle line:90% reasonable concepts. 02:08:16.410 --> 02:08:17.840 align:middle line:84% I know a few of you that I talked 02:08:17.840 --> 02:08:21.980 align:middle line:84% to when I came in were very concerned about what happened 02:08:21.980 --> 02:08:23.990 align:middle line:84% to the Ways and Means Mystery Closet 02:08:23.990 --> 02:08:26.810 align:middle line:84% and the Minority Innovation Chamber. 02:08:26.810 --> 02:08:29.750 align:middle line:90% Rest assured, they are here. 02:08:29.750 --> 02:08:32.210 align:middle line:84% And they will reveal themselves in due time. 02:08:32.210 --> 02:08:33.360 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 02:08:33.360 --> 02:08:33.860 align:middle line:90% 02:08:33.860 --> 02:08:37.910 align:middle line:84% But there is also a very interesting new element 02:08:37.910 --> 02:08:42.530 align:middle line:84% to this Chamber that we like to call the Minority Collaboration 02:08:42.530 --> 02:08:43.550 align:middle line:90% Center. 02:08:43.550 --> 02:08:45.680 align:middle line:84% If you look behind the rostrum, you 02:08:45.680 --> 02:08:48.680 align:middle line:84% will see that a new space has been created for us to be 02:08:48.680 --> 02:08:50.180 align:middle line:90% able to talk with each other. 02:08:50.180 --> 02:08:54.110 align:middle line:84% Very interestingly, it has an entrance from the left 02:08:54.110 --> 02:08:56.810 align:middle line:90% and an entrance from the right. 02:08:56.810 --> 02:08:58.970 align:middle line:84% And our passionate hope is that we will all 02:08:58.970 --> 02:09:01.880 align:middle line:84% walk through those entrances at one time or another, 02:09:01.880 --> 02:09:07.190 align:middle line:84% meet in the middle, and come back here with a resolution 02:09:07.190 --> 02:09:12.200 align:middle line:84% to a problem that before seemed unsolvable. 02:09:12.200 --> 02:09:17.960 align:middle line:84% Because that is what we do in the Massachusetts State Senate. 02:09:17.960 --> 02:09:20.780 align:middle line:84% You know, it would be easy to be bedazzled 02:09:20.780 --> 02:09:24.980 align:middle line:84% by this wonderful, glorious, new Chamber that we're in. 02:09:24.980 --> 02:09:28.700 align:middle line:84% And a special thanks is owed to all of the craftsmen and women 02:09:28.700 --> 02:09:32.240 align:middle line:84% who've made it so, and transformed our vision for what 02:09:32.240 --> 02:09:37.550 align:middle line:84% this Chamber should be into the reality that we are now in-- 02:09:37.550 --> 02:09:39.470 align:middle line:84% the bright colors, the warm feeling, 02:09:39.470 --> 02:09:43.460 align:middle line:84% the sunlight that streams into the Chamber. 02:09:43.460 --> 02:09:47.150 align:middle line:84% But it would be well to remember that while some things have 02:09:47.150 --> 02:09:50.750 align:middle line:90% changed other things have not. 02:09:50.750 --> 02:09:54.830 align:middle line:84% This is the Chamber that the cornerstone was laid to 02:09:54.830 --> 02:09:58.610 align:middle line:90% by Paul Revere and Sam Adams. 02:09:58.610 --> 02:10:04.010 align:middle line:84% This is the Chamber where, in 1838, Angelina Grimke gave 02:10:04.010 --> 02:10:07.670 align:middle line:84% a speech advocating the abolition of slavery, 02:10:07.670 --> 02:10:11.360 align:middle line:84% in this Chamber, and she was the first woman 02:10:11.360 --> 02:10:16.850 align:middle line:84% to address a legislative body in the United States. 02:10:16.850 --> 02:10:20.510 align:middle line:84% In fact, Douglass quoted her in his book, 02:10:20.510 --> 02:10:24.260 align:middle line:90% American Slavery As It Is. 02:10:24.260 --> 02:10:27.530 align:middle line:84% This is also the Chamber in which John Andrew was first 02:10:27.530 --> 02:10:31.820 align:middle line:84% elected to office in 1857 as a representative 02:10:31.820 --> 02:10:33.700 align:middle line:90% to the General Court. 02:10:33.700 --> 02:10:36.050 align:middle line:90% And he served here as a member. 02:10:36.050 --> 02:10:39.740 align:middle line:84% He distinguished himself in leading the successful effort 02:10:39.740 --> 02:10:42.740 align:middle line:84% to have Judge Edward Greely Warring, who 02:10:42.740 --> 02:10:45.560 align:middle line:84% had ordered the return of fugitive slaves Thomas 02:10:45.560 --> 02:10:51.740 align:middle line:84% Sims in 1851 and Anthony Burns in 1854 removed 02:10:51.740 --> 02:10:54.770 align:middle line:90% as a judge in the probate court. 02:10:54.770 --> 02:10:57.650 align:middle line:84% His great championing of the end of slavery 02:10:57.650 --> 02:11:01.760 align:middle line:84% caused Senator Charles Sumner, upon hearing about a vacancy 02:11:01.760 --> 02:11:06.650 align:middle line:84% in the governorship, to say, give me my boots. 02:11:06.650 --> 02:11:13.850 align:middle line:84% John A Andrew must be the next governor of Massachusetts. 02:11:13.850 --> 02:11:19.590 align:middle line:84% So as we think about that legacy of which we are stewards, 02:11:19.590 --> 02:11:21.230 align:middle line:84% we think about the fact that this 02:11:21.230 --> 02:11:26.330 align:middle line:84% must be a new chapter in the life of this Chamber, 02:11:26.330 --> 02:11:29.840 align:middle line:84% where every person is represented, everyone that 02:11:29.840 --> 02:11:33.830 align:middle line:84% has contributed to getting us to where we are that may have been 02:11:33.830 --> 02:11:37.730 align:middle line:84% sadly lost in the representations in this Chamber 02:11:37.730 --> 02:11:40.100 align:middle line:90% along the way. 02:11:40.100 --> 02:11:42.500 align:middle line:84% And on that, Madam President, you and I 02:11:42.500 --> 02:11:45.920 align:middle line:90% share a solemn commitment. 02:11:45.920 --> 02:11:48.140 align:middle line:84% As we move forward, we need to think 02:11:48.140 --> 02:11:51.800 align:middle line:84% about the importance also of another great tradition 02:11:51.800 --> 02:11:53.720 align:middle line:90% in this Chamber. 02:11:53.720 --> 02:11:56.930 align:middle line:84% It is true that we have been through some stormy times. 02:11:56.930 --> 02:11:58.640 align:middle line:90% None that no one-- 02:11:58.640 --> 02:12:00.740 align:middle line:84% anyone could have predicted when we last 02:12:00.740 --> 02:12:06.060 align:middle line:84% left this Chamber to go to our temporary Chamber. 02:12:06.060 --> 02:12:09.740 align:middle line:84% But the members of minority arc never once-- 02:12:09.740 --> 02:12:14.370 align:middle line:84% not once-- sought to exploit difficult times 02:12:14.370 --> 02:12:16.390 align:middle line:90% for political gain. 02:12:16.390 --> 02:12:21.130 align:middle line:84% Instead, we joined with you to uphold the greatest traditions 02:12:21.130 --> 02:12:23.020 align:middle line:84% of this Senate, that we would have 02:12:23.020 --> 02:12:28.900 align:middle line:84% transparency, accountability, honesty, and integrity. 02:12:28.900 --> 02:12:31.090 align:middle line:90% And we will do no less now. 02:12:31.090 --> 02:12:36.160 align:middle line:84% Sure, we'll answer or ask the difficult questions. 02:12:36.160 --> 02:12:39.020 align:middle line:84% Maybe too many of them for some of you. 02:12:39.020 --> 02:12:43.900 align:middle line:84% We will use the charts that we hope to illustrate our points. 02:12:43.900 --> 02:12:48.640 align:middle line:84% And we will put our ideas on the table 02:12:48.640 --> 02:12:54.970 align:middle line:84% because to only offer a critique of the ideas of the majority, 02:12:54.970 --> 02:12:58.510 align:middle line:84% without putting on the table the ideas the minority, 02:12:58.510 --> 02:13:00.880 align:middle line:84% would be a disservice to the greatest 02:13:00.880 --> 02:13:04.340 align:middle line:84% traditions of this Chamber and American democracy. 02:13:04.340 --> 02:13:09.200 align:middle line:90% And we will not do it. 02:13:09.200 --> 02:13:13.930 align:middle line:84% And that's why we share a couple of things, Madam President. 02:13:13.930 --> 02:13:18.340 align:middle line:84% I was pleasantly delighted to read your op ed 02:13:18.340 --> 02:13:21.760 align:middle line:84% piece in a newspaper of general circulation 02:13:21.760 --> 02:13:26.170 align:middle line:84% in the Boston area that appeared this morning. 02:13:26.170 --> 02:13:29.860 align:middle line:84% Because we share so many priorities 02:13:29.860 --> 02:13:31.720 align:middle line:90% with everyone in the Chamber. 02:13:31.720 --> 02:13:37.180 align:middle line:84% And you, we have to continue to address the crisis of addiction 02:13:37.180 --> 02:13:42.640 align:middle line:84% with innovation and compassion, and lead this country. 02:13:42.640 --> 02:13:45.610 align:middle line:84% We have to be able to continue to support the people who 02:13:45.610 --> 02:13:49.540 align:middle line:84% protect us every day, as police officers, and firefighters, 02:13:49.540 --> 02:13:51.610 align:middle line:84% and first responders, and continue 02:13:51.610 --> 02:13:56.620 align:middle line:84% to send the message that we support them from this Chamber. 02:13:56.620 --> 02:14:00.460 align:middle line:84% We need to capture economic opportunity for everyone 02:14:00.460 --> 02:14:02.380 align:middle line:84% in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts 02:14:02.380 --> 02:14:05.440 align:middle line:84% in every corner of the state, including 02:14:05.440 --> 02:14:08.140 align:middle line:84% those who are engaged in fishing, and farming, 02:14:08.140 --> 02:14:11.440 align:middle line:84% and the creative economy, and in every other sector. 02:14:11.440 --> 02:14:15.380 align:middle line:84% Because that needs to be our role. 02:14:15.380 --> 02:14:18.090 align:middle line:84% And we do in fact need to control the cost of health 02:14:18.090 --> 02:14:21.220 align:middle line:84% care, but making sure that we have 02:14:21.220 --> 02:14:25.600 align:middle line:90% quality care and good access. 02:14:25.600 --> 02:14:30.250 align:middle line:84% Because one without the others is unacceptable. 02:14:30.250 --> 02:14:32.980 align:middle line:84% In addition to that, we need to think about, 02:14:32.980 --> 02:14:35.410 align:middle line:84% Madam President, that we live in times 02:14:35.410 --> 02:14:38.260 align:middle line:90% of relative economic prosperity. 02:14:38.260 --> 02:14:42.800 align:middle line:84% But we will not always enjoy those times. 02:14:42.800 --> 02:14:45.550 align:middle line:84% And that's why we need to redouble our commitment 02:14:45.550 --> 02:14:48.950 align:middle line:84% to keeping the promises we have made, 02:14:48.950 --> 02:14:52.240 align:middle line:84% like founding-- funding education 02:14:52.240 --> 02:14:55.840 align:middle line:84% and the recommendations of the Foundation Budget Review 02:14:55.840 --> 02:14:59.170 align:middle line:84% Commission, and like revenue sharing 02:14:59.170 --> 02:15:01.510 align:middle line:90% with our municipal partners. 02:15:01.510 --> 02:15:02.950 align:middle line:84% And with an eye toward the future, 02:15:02.950 --> 02:15:04.570 align:middle line:84% we need to make sure that we develop 02:15:04.570 --> 02:15:07.090 align:middle line:84% spending plans that are sustainable, 02:15:07.090 --> 02:15:12.160 align:middle line:84% and defensible, and accountable so that we never again make 02:15:12.160 --> 02:15:16.780 align:middle line:84% promises that we can't keep to the people who 02:15:16.780 --> 02:15:20.710 align:middle line:84% will benefit from those and to the people who 02:15:20.710 --> 02:15:22.980 align:middle line:90% must pay for them. 02:15:22.980 --> 02:15:28.150 align:middle line:84% And, Madam President, we must always think about the issue 02:15:28.150 --> 02:15:31.150 align:middle line:84% that you have highlighted, that never-- 02:15:31.150 --> 02:15:33.560 align:middle line:90% not for one minute-- 02:15:33.560 --> 02:15:38.690 align:middle line:84% in this Commonwealth, which has led the country in health care, 02:15:38.690 --> 02:15:42.530 align:middle line:84% should anyone who has a mental health issue 02:15:42.530 --> 02:15:48.050 align:middle line:84% be subordinate to someone who has another physical health 02:15:48.050 --> 02:15:48.630 align:middle line:90% issue. 02:15:48.630 --> 02:15:51.210 align:middle line:90% Never. 02:15:51.210 --> 02:15:52.930 align:middle line:90% That will take work. 02:15:52.930 --> 02:15:56.370 align:middle line:90% But we need to do it together. 02:15:56.370 --> 02:15:59.370 align:middle line:84% You know, Madam President, we pledge 02:15:59.370 --> 02:16:02.370 align:middle line:84% to work with everyone in this Chamber collaboratively 02:16:02.370 --> 02:16:06.120 align:middle line:90% on so many priorities. 02:16:06.120 --> 02:16:11.310 align:middle line:84% But we are also aware that the climate sometimes 02:16:11.310 --> 02:16:14.490 align:middle line:90% will challenge us to do so. 02:16:14.490 --> 02:16:20.760 align:middle line:84% We will uphold our commitment to work to find common ground, 02:16:20.760 --> 02:16:24.690 align:middle line:84% to disagree honestly and respectfully, 02:16:24.690 --> 02:16:29.490 align:middle line:84% and to always try to leave the discussion with a solution 02:16:29.490 --> 02:16:33.240 align:middle line:90% rather than an obstruction. 02:16:33.240 --> 02:16:37.290 align:middle line:84% You know, Madam President, these are difficult times. 02:16:37.290 --> 02:16:39.570 align:middle line:84% And, in fact, it was Abigail Adams 02:16:39.570 --> 02:16:45.600 align:middle line:84% who said that great necessities call out great virtues. 02:16:45.600 --> 02:16:50.250 align:middle line:84% And Teddy Roosevelt said, the most practical kind of politics 02:16:50.250 --> 02:16:55.500 align:middle line:84% is the politics of decency, the very kind of politics 02:16:55.500 --> 02:16:59.549 align:middle line:84% that we practice in this Chamber. 02:16:59.549 --> 02:17:03.959 align:middle line:84% And so, Madam President, I would be remiss 02:17:03.959 --> 02:17:08.790 align:middle line:84% if I also didn't mention the urgency with which we must 02:17:08.790 --> 02:17:13.139 align:middle line:90% address a changing climate. 02:17:13.139 --> 02:17:15.840 align:middle line:90% We need to do so thoughtfully. 02:17:15.840 --> 02:17:19.750 align:middle line:84% We need to do so in a cost effective way. 02:17:19.750 --> 02:17:27.969 align:middle line:84% But we need to press on, and we cannot ignore it. 02:17:27.969 --> 02:17:32.820 align:middle line:84% So as we think about this great future, 02:17:32.820 --> 02:17:38.219 align:middle line:84% I want to as well welcome our new members-- 02:17:38.219 --> 02:17:42.709 align:middle line:84% Diana DiZoglio, from Methuen; Edward Kennedy, of Lowell; 02:17:42.709 --> 02:17:47.309 align:middle line:84% Jo Comerford, of Northhampton; Becca Rausch, of Needham; 02:17:47.309 --> 02:17:50.639 align:middle line:84% and Barry Finegold 2.0, from Andover. 02:17:50.639 --> 02:17:52.031 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 02:17:52.031 --> 02:17:54.820 align:middle line:90% 02:17:54.820 --> 02:17:58.410 align:middle line:84% And let me just ask you, let me ask 02:17:58.410 --> 02:18:04.900 align:middle line:84% you to hold in these next two years in your hands 02:18:04.900 --> 02:18:07.570 align:middle line:84% the sacred trust that has been built 02:18:07.570 --> 02:18:12.250 align:middle line:84% in this Chamber for our democracy, 02:18:12.250 --> 02:18:15.180 align:middle line:84% and for our members to work together, 02:18:15.180 --> 02:18:21.730 align:middle line:84% and for a tradition of making progress collaboratively. 02:18:21.730 --> 02:18:24.690 align:middle line:90% Welcome to our Chamber. 02:18:24.690 --> 02:18:29.709 align:middle line:84% And let me also say a warm and hearty thank you 02:18:29.709 --> 02:18:33.040 align:middle line:84% to everyone in this Chamber who returns, 02:18:33.040 --> 02:18:37.959 align:middle line:84% that has worked to build that foundation of trust which 02:18:37.959 --> 02:18:40.940 align:middle line:90% will allow us to carry forward. 02:18:40.940 --> 02:18:46.030 align:middle line:84% You know, Madam President, it was Aristotle Onassis who said, 02:18:46.030 --> 02:18:48.459 align:middle line:84% we must free ourselves of the hope 02:18:48.459 --> 02:18:51.760 align:middle line:90% that the sea will ever rest. 02:18:51.760 --> 02:18:54.100 align:middle line:84% We must learn-- you knew I would get a Greek in there. 02:18:54.100 --> 02:18:55.396 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 02:18:55.396 --> 02:18:56.260 align:middle line:90% 02:18:56.260 --> 02:19:00.770 align:middle line:84% We must learn to sail in high winds. 02:19:00.770 --> 02:19:07.110 align:middle line:84% We've been through a lot of tumultuous, turbulent seas. 02:19:07.110 --> 02:19:08.940 align:middle line:84% And, as we look to the next horizon, 02:19:08.940 --> 02:19:11.549 align:middle line:90% we know that there will be more. 02:19:11.549 --> 02:19:14.340 align:middle line:90% 02:19:14.340 --> 02:19:18.900 align:middle line:84% We need to operate independently of the conflict 02:19:18.900 --> 02:19:22.290 align:middle line:84% and the controversy that grips our federal government, 02:19:22.290 --> 02:19:25.110 align:middle line:84% and lead by example to show what is 02:19:25.110 --> 02:19:28.620 align:middle line:84% possible in this Chamber, which is 02:19:28.620 --> 02:19:33.059 align:middle line:84% the crucible of good faith and good ideas. 02:19:33.059 --> 02:19:35.190 align:middle line:84% And, in fact, Madam President, it 02:19:35.190 --> 02:19:38.730 align:middle line:84% was John McCain who said, the glory belongs 02:19:38.730 --> 02:19:41.879 align:middle line:84% to the act of being constant to something 02:19:41.879 --> 02:19:46.889 align:middle line:84% greater than yourself, to a cause, to your principles, 02:19:46.889 --> 02:19:55.020 align:middle line:84% to the people on whom you rely, and the people who rely on you. 02:19:55.020 --> 02:20:00.920 align:middle line:84% May that be our sacred commitment to each other. 02:20:00.920 --> 02:20:05.750 align:middle line:84% Madam President, let me also thank you and congratulate you 02:20:05.750 --> 02:20:08.820 align:middle line:84% on the selection of Michael Hurley as our Clerk 02:20:08.820 --> 02:20:11.360 align:middle line:84% and Jennifer Miller as our Counsel. 02:20:11.360 --> 02:20:13.760 align:middle line:90% They are proven-- proven-- 02:20:13.760 --> 02:20:17.660 align:middle line:90% assets to this body. 02:20:17.660 --> 02:20:24.510 align:middle line:84% And so, Madam President, it's 2019. 02:20:24.510 --> 02:20:27.570 align:middle line:84% We can see a bright horizon, one that 02:20:27.570 --> 02:20:29.550 align:middle line:84% is full of opportunity and promise, 02:20:29.550 --> 02:20:34.170 align:middle line:84% and one which can be illuminated by the light of democracy 02:20:34.170 --> 02:20:38.940 align:middle line:84% streaming out these windows to the rest of the world. 02:20:38.940 --> 02:20:41.730 align:middle line:90% It is 2019. 02:20:41.730 --> 02:20:45.020 align:middle line:84% We have a great voyage to embark on. 02:20:45.020 --> 02:20:47.460 align:middle line:90% The seas will be rough. 02:20:47.460 --> 02:20:50.630 align:middle line:84% But we are all in this boat together, 02:20:50.630 --> 02:20:54.350 align:middle line:84% and we can reach that next horizon. 02:20:54.350 --> 02:20:57.354 align:middle line:90% Happy new year to everyone. 02:20:57.354 --> 02:20:59.346 align:middle line:90% Let's set sail. 02:20:59.346 --> 02:21:01.836 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 02:21:01.836 --> 02:21:29.760 align:middle line:90% 02:21:29.760 --> 02:21:32.220 align:middle line:84% The senator from Worcester, Miss Chandler, 02:21:32.220 --> 02:21:35.250 align:middle line:84% moves that the remarks of this Senate President and the Senate 02:21:35.250 --> 02:21:38.730 align:middle line:84% Minority Leader be printed in the Journal of the Senate. 02:21:38.730 --> 02:21:40.320 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:21:40.320 --> 02:21:41.270 align:middle line:90% Opposed, nay. 02:21:41.270 --> 02:21:41.860 align:middle line:90% Aye. 02:21:41.860 --> 02:21:43.500 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the remarks 02:21:43.500 --> 02:21:47.460 align:middle line:84% will be printed in the Senate Journal. 02:21:47.460 --> 02:21:51.120 align:middle line:84% The senator from Suffolk, Mr. Collins, 02:21:51.120 --> 02:21:54.090 align:middle line:84% moves that the president cast one ballot 02:21:54.090 --> 02:21:59.442 align:middle line:84% for Michael D Hurley of South Boston as Clerk of the Senate. 02:21:59.442 --> 02:22:01.378 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 02:22:01.378 --> 02:22:11.080 align:middle line:90% 02:22:11.080 --> 02:22:14.221 align:middle line:84% The senator from Suffolk, Mr. Collins. 02:22:14.221 --> 02:22:16.013 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Madam President, and through you 02:22:16.013 --> 02:22:17.070 align:middle line:90% to each of the members. 02:22:17.070 --> 02:22:21.190 align:middle line:84% I rise today to nominate Michael Hurley of South Boston 02:22:21.190 --> 02:22:23.380 align:middle line:84% as Clerk of the Massachusetts Senate. 02:22:23.380 --> 02:22:26.770 align:middle line:84% As a Senator, beginning my second term in this august 02:22:26.770 --> 02:22:30.490 align:middle line:84% body, but my seventh as a state elected official, 02:22:30.490 --> 02:22:33.170 align:middle line:84% Michael's reputation as a hardworking, 02:22:33.170 --> 02:22:35.650 align:middle line:84% dedicated member of the Massachusetts Senate 02:22:35.650 --> 02:22:39.167 align:middle line:84% Clerk's Office is widely known in the State House. 02:22:39.167 --> 02:22:41.500 align:middle line:84% I've had the fortune to know Michael on a personal level 02:22:41.500 --> 02:22:44.620 align:middle line:84% as a neighbor, a dedicated family man, a father 02:22:44.620 --> 02:22:46.190 align:middle line:90% to seven beautiful children-- 02:22:46.190 --> 02:22:48.720 align:middle line:84% Michael, Deirdre, Mary, James, and Elizabeth, 02:22:48.720 --> 02:22:51.775 align:middle line:84% who are with us today, Evelyn, and Nola, and husband 02:22:51.775 --> 02:22:54.550 align:middle line:84% to his lovely wife, Mary, who's with us today, as well. 02:22:54.550 --> 02:22:57.560 align:middle line:84% We were also joined by Michael's sister, Jean, 02:22:57.560 --> 02:23:00.579 align:middle line:84% her-- his brother-in-law, Paul, and nephew, Paul. 02:23:00.579 --> 02:23:02.046 align:middle line:90% So welcome. 02:23:02.046 --> 02:23:04.491 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 02:23:04.491 --> 02:23:10.370 align:middle line:90% 02:23:10.370 --> 02:23:13.610 align:middle line:84% A son of South Boston, Michael is an early product 02:23:13.610 --> 02:23:16.600 align:middle line:84% of the Boston public schools, having gone to John Boyle 02:23:16.600 --> 02:23:20.120 align:middle line:84% O'Reilly and, it was mentioned earlier, Governor James A 02:23:20.120 --> 02:23:22.820 align:middle line:84% Andrew Elementary Schools in South Boston's Andrew Square, 02:23:22.820 --> 02:23:25.310 align:middle line:84% named after the late governor, before graduating 02:23:25.310 --> 02:23:28.537 align:middle line:84% from St. Bridget's School and Boston College High School. 02:23:28.537 --> 02:23:30.620 align:middle line:84% Michael then worked to put himself through college 02:23:30.620 --> 02:23:33.940 align:middle line:84% at one of our great state institutions, UMass Boston, 02:23:33.940 --> 02:23:35.990 align:middle line:84% working as a laborer and then in the proofing 02:23:35.990 --> 02:23:38.807 align:middle line:84% department at bank-- at the Bank of Boston, 02:23:38.807 --> 02:23:41.390 align:middle line:84% preparing him for an opportunity to work in the Senate Clerk's 02:23:41.390 --> 02:23:45.140 align:middle line:84% office, which led him to commit 25 years working at almost 02:23:45.140 --> 02:23:47.390 align:middle line:84% every job in the Clerk's Office, from the front office 02:23:47.390 --> 02:23:48.910 align:middle line:90% all the way to Assistant Clerk. 02:23:48.910 --> 02:23:52.670 align:middle line:84% And today, with your support, Clerk of the Senate. 02:23:52.670 --> 02:23:54.830 align:middle line:84% Along the way, Michael has distinguished himself 02:23:54.830 --> 02:23:56.780 align:middle line:84% as a technology leader in the field, 02:23:56.780 --> 02:23:59.510 align:middle line:84% moving the Senate's bills to digital online texts, 02:23:59.510 --> 02:24:02.480 align:middle line:84% leading the Upper Chamber to be the first one to do so, 02:24:02.480 --> 02:24:05.510 align:middle line:84% putting Massachusetts General laws online, 02:24:05.510 --> 02:24:07.910 align:middle line:84% introducing display boards, progressively leading 02:24:07.910 --> 02:24:10.760 align:middle line:84% the business of the Senate into the modern era, 02:24:10.760 --> 02:24:14.000 align:middle line:84% providing a more efficient, user friendly experience for members 02:24:14.000 --> 02:24:16.610 align:middle line:84% and staff, while opening up the Senate to the public 02:24:16.610 --> 02:24:18.662 align:middle line:84% and making our business more transparent, 02:24:18.662 --> 02:24:20.120 align:middle line:84% gaining more of the public's trust, 02:24:20.120 --> 02:24:23.540 align:middle line:84% as we conduct such important business on their behalf. 02:24:23.540 --> 02:24:25.820 align:middle line:84% To quote the former Clerk, William Welch, 02:24:25.820 --> 02:24:28.550 align:middle line:84% there is nobody more capable of taking the Clerk's Office 02:24:28.550 --> 02:24:31.130 align:middle line:84% and the Senate into a more advanced digital space 02:24:31.130 --> 02:24:32.150 align:middle line:90% than Michael Hurley. 02:24:32.150 --> 02:24:34.945 align:middle line:84% And, quite frankly, you couldn't ask for a better person. 02:24:34.945 --> 02:24:36.730 align:middle line:84% Before I close my remarks, I want 02:24:36.730 --> 02:24:38.810 align:middle line:84% to share a personal anecdote about Michael. 02:24:38.810 --> 02:24:43.420 align:middle line:84% Before I joined the Senate, the session before last, 02:24:43.420 --> 02:24:46.040 align:middle line:84% like I have on occasion, I grabbed a late lunch at Florina 02:24:46.040 --> 02:24:47.900 align:middle line:90% behind the State House. 02:24:47.900 --> 02:24:51.080 align:middle line:84% It was a Friday afternoon, the Friday before Memorial Day 02:24:51.080 --> 02:24:54.090 align:middle line:84% weekend, just after the Senate budget. 02:24:54.090 --> 02:24:58.160 align:middle line:84% I saw Michael eating a slice of pizza with a co-worker. 02:24:58.160 --> 02:24:58.750 align:middle line:90% I said, hello. 02:24:58.750 --> 02:25:00.350 align:middle line:90% We exchanged pleasantries. 02:25:00.350 --> 02:25:01.730 align:middle line:90% I asked how he was-- 02:25:01.730 --> 02:25:03.403 align:middle line:84% both of us asked how we were doing. 02:25:03.403 --> 02:25:05.570 align:middle line:84% On the way out, I asked Michael if he was going away 02:25:05.570 --> 02:25:06.710 align:middle line:90% for the long weekend. 02:25:06.710 --> 02:25:09.850 align:middle line:84% He replied to me, happily as I recall, content 02:25:09.850 --> 02:25:12.195 align:middle line:84% as the day is long, nope, I'll be right here, 02:25:12.195 --> 02:25:13.820 align:middle line:84% pointing toward the State House, making 02:25:13.820 --> 02:25:16.170 align:middle line:84% sure all the amendments that were passed this week 02:25:16.170 --> 02:25:17.960 align:middle line:90% were ready to go. 02:25:17.960 --> 02:25:20.300 align:middle line:84% As I walked out, I thought to myself, Michael Hurley, 02:25:20.300 --> 02:25:22.880 align:middle line:84% a humble public servant who loves his job, 02:25:22.880 --> 02:25:25.310 align:middle line:84% and I hope I get to work with him someday. 02:25:25.310 --> 02:25:27.200 align:middle line:84% So today I'm honored and proud to nominate 02:25:27.200 --> 02:25:29.660 align:middle line:84% my neighbor, constituent, friend, and colleague, Michael 02:25:29.660 --> 02:25:32.525 align:middle line:84% Hurley, as Clerk of the Massachusetts Senate. 02:25:32.525 --> 02:25:35.990 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 02:25:35.990 --> 02:26:05.668 align:middle line:90% 02:26:05.668 --> 02:26:06.585 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection? 02:26:06.585 --> 02:26:07.390 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 02:26:07.390 --> 02:26:09.660 align:middle line:90% The Chair hears none. 02:26:09.660 --> 02:26:11.790 align:middle line:84% And the president casts one ballot 02:26:11.790 --> 02:26:16.530 align:middle line:84% for Michael D Hurley of South Boston as Senate Clerk. 02:26:16.530 --> 02:26:20.760 align:middle line:84% I will now administer the oath of office. 02:26:20.760 --> 02:26:23.730 align:middle line:90% Please raise your right hand. 02:26:23.730 --> 02:26:26.520 align:middle line:90% I do solemnly swear-- 02:26:26.520 --> 02:26:28.200 align:middle line:84% I, Michael Hurley, do solemnly swear-- 02:26:28.200 --> 02:26:31.290 align:middle line:84% --that I will bear true faith and allegiance-- 02:26:31.290 --> 02:26:33.300 align:middle line:84% --that I will bear true faith and allegiance-- 02:26:33.300 --> 02:26:35.170 align:middle line:84% --to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts-- 02:26:35.170 --> 02:26:36.900 align:middle line:84% --to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts-- 02:26:36.900 --> 02:26:39.210 align:middle line:84% --and will support the Constitution thereof-- 02:26:39.210 --> 02:26:41.740 align:middle line:84% --and will support the Constitution thereof-- 02:26:41.740 --> 02:26:42.540 align:middle line:90% --so help me, God. 02:26:42.540 --> 02:26:44.100 align:middle line:90% --so help me, God. 02:26:44.100 --> 02:26:46.610 align:middle line:90% I do solemnly swear and affirm-- 02:26:46.610 --> 02:26:48.810 align:middle line:84% I, Michael Hurley, do solemnly swear to affirm-- 02:26:48.810 --> 02:26:52.050 align:middle line:84% --that I will faithfully and impartially discharge 02:26:52.050 --> 02:26:53.020 align:middle line:90% and perform-- 02:26:53.020 --> 02:26:55.860 align:middle line:84% --that I will faithfully and impartially discharge my duties 02:26:55.860 --> 02:26:56.940 align:middle line:90% and perform-- 02:26:56.940 --> 02:26:59.700 align:middle line:84% --incumbent upon me as Senate Clerk-- 02:26:59.700 --> 02:27:02.245 align:middle line:84% --incumbent upon me as Senate Clerk-- 02:27:02.245 --> 02:27:05.055 align:middle line:84% --according to the best of my abilities and understanding-- 02:27:05.055 --> 02:27:07.828 align:middle line:84% --according to the best of my abilities and understanding-- 02:27:07.828 --> 02:27:08.370 align:middle line:90% --agreeably-- 02:27:08.370 --> 02:27:10.110 align:middle line:90% --agreeably-- 02:27:10.110 --> 02:27:12.550 align:middle line:84% --to the rules and regulations of the Commonwealth-- 02:27:12.550 --> 02:27:14.880 align:middle line:84% --to the rules and regulations of the Commonwealth-- 02:27:14.880 --> 02:27:17.148 align:middle line:84% --and the laws of this Commonwealth-- 02:27:17.148 --> 02:27:18.690 align:middle line:84% --and the laws of this Commonwealth-- 02:27:18.690 --> 02:27:19.530 align:middle line:90% --so help me, God. 02:27:19.530 --> 02:27:21.060 align:middle line:90% --so help me, God. 02:27:21.060 --> 02:27:22.730 align:middle line:90% I do solemnly swear-- 02:27:22.730 --> 02:27:24.570 align:middle line:84% I, Michael Hurley, do solemnly swear-- 02:27:24.570 --> 02:27:27.180 align:middle line:84% --that I will support the Constitution of the United 02:27:27.180 --> 02:27:27.750 align:middle line:90% States-- 02:27:27.750 --> 02:27:29.917 align:middle line:84% --that I will support the Constitution of the United 02:27:29.917 --> 02:27:30.450 align:middle line:90% States-- 02:27:30.450 --> 02:27:32.400 align:middle line:84% Whereas you, Michael D Hurley, are 02:27:32.400 --> 02:27:34.860 align:middle line:84% chosen Clerk of the Senate of the Commonwealth 02:27:34.860 --> 02:27:38.910 align:middle line:84% of Massachusetts, you do swear that you will truly 02:27:38.910 --> 02:27:42.760 align:middle line:84% enter all of the votes and orders thereof, 02:27:42.760 --> 02:27:45.390 align:middle line:84% and in all things relating to your office 02:27:45.390 --> 02:27:48.210 align:middle line:84% that you will act faithfully and impartially 02:27:48.210 --> 02:27:53.230 align:middle line:84% according to your best skill and judgment, so help you, God? 02:27:53.230 --> 02:27:54.658 align:middle line:90% I do. 02:27:54.658 --> 02:27:55.325 align:middle line:90% Congratulations. 02:27:55.325 --> 02:27:56.450 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 02:27:56.450 --> 02:27:58.175 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 02:27:58.175 --> 02:28:26.830 align:middle line:90% 02:28:26.830 --> 02:28:30.080 align:middle line:84% And, at this time, I have the distinct pleasure 02:28:30.080 --> 02:28:34.250 align:middle line:84% to announce that I have appointed Jennifer Grace Miller 02:28:34.250 --> 02:28:37.610 align:middle line:90% of Ipswich as Senate Counsel. 02:28:37.610 --> 02:28:41.900 align:middle line:84% I asked that the senator from Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr, 02:28:41.900 --> 02:28:45.320 align:middle line:84% escort Miss Miller to the rostrum to take and subscribe 02:28:45.320 --> 02:28:49.650 align:middle line:84% to the oaths of office as required by the Constitution. 02:28:49.650 --> 02:28:52.110 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 02:28:52.110 --> 02:29:11.340 align:middle line:90% 02:29:11.340 --> 02:29:14.460 align:middle line:84% Raise your right hand and repeat after me. 02:29:14.460 --> 02:29:16.660 align:middle line:90% I do solemnly swear-- 02:29:16.660 --> 02:29:19.470 align:middle line:84% I, Jennifer Grace Miller, do solemnly swear-- 02:29:19.470 --> 02:29:21.660 align:middle line:84% --that I will bear true faith and allegiance-- 02:29:21.660 --> 02:29:23.863 align:middle line:84% --that I will bear true faith and allegiance-- 02:29:23.863 --> 02:29:25.530 align:middle line:84% --to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts-- 02:29:25.530 --> 02:29:27.690 align:middle line:84% --to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts-- 02:29:27.690 --> 02:29:30.060 align:middle line:84% --and will support the Constitution thereof-- 02:29:30.060 --> 02:29:32.350 align:middle line:84% --and will support the Constitution thereof-- 02:29:32.350 --> 02:29:33.120 align:middle line:90% --so help me, God. 02:29:33.120 --> 02:29:34.590 align:middle line:90% --so help me, God. 02:29:34.590 --> 02:29:37.160 align:middle line:90% I do solemnly swear and affirm-- 02:29:37.160 --> 02:29:40.470 align:middle line:84% I, Jennifer Grace Miller, do solemnly swear and affirm-- 02:29:40.470 --> 02:29:42.750 align:middle line:84% --that I will faithfully and impartially-- 02:29:42.750 --> 02:29:44.610 align:middle line:84% --that I will faithfully and impartially-- 02:29:44.610 --> 02:29:46.260 align:middle line:90% --discharge and perform-- 02:29:46.260 --> 02:29:48.360 align:middle line:90% --discharge and perform-- 02:29:48.360 --> 02:29:51.810 align:middle line:84% --all the duties incumbent on me as Senate Counsel-- 02:29:51.810 --> 02:29:54.585 align:middle line:84% --all the duties incumbent on me as Senate Counsel-- 02:29:54.585 --> 02:29:57.660 align:middle line:84% --according to the best of my abilities and understanding-- 02:29:57.660 --> 02:30:00.450 align:middle line:84% --according to the best of my abilities and understanding-- 02:30:00.450 --> 02:30:01.095 align:middle line:90% --agreeably-- 02:30:01.095 --> 02:30:02.520 align:middle line:90% --agreeably-- 02:30:02.520 --> 02:30:05.190 align:middle line:84% --to the rules and regulations of the Constitution-- 02:30:05.190 --> 02:30:07.800 align:middle line:84% --to the rules and regulations of the Constitution-- 02:30:07.800 --> 02:30:09.408 align:middle line:84% --and the laws of this Commonwealth-- 02:30:09.408 --> 02:30:10.950 align:middle line:84% --and the laws of this Commonwealth-- 02:30:10.950 --> 02:30:11.940 align:middle line:90% --so help me, God. 02:30:11.940 --> 02:30:13.200 align:middle line:90% --so help me, God. 02:30:13.200 --> 02:30:15.210 align:middle line:90% I do solemnly swear-- 02:30:15.210 --> 02:30:17.700 align:middle line:84% I, Jennifer Grace Miller, do solemnly swear-- 02:30:17.700 --> 02:30:19.970 align:middle line:84% --that I will support the Constitution of the United 02:30:19.970 --> 02:30:20.470 align:middle line:90% States-- 02:30:20.470 --> 02:30:22.170 align:middle line:84% --that I will support the Constitution of the United 02:30:22.170 --> 02:30:22.410 align:middle line:90% States. 02:30:22.410 --> 02:30:23.230 align:middle line:90% Congratulations. 02:30:23.230 --> 02:30:24.706 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Madam President. 02:30:24.706 --> 02:30:28.150 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 02:30:28.150 --> 02:30:44.900 align:middle line:90% 02:30:44.900 --> 02:30:48.200 align:middle line:84% The senator from Bristol and Plymouth, Mr. Montigny, 02:30:48.200 --> 02:30:51.380 align:middle line:84% has presented an order which the Clerk will read. 02:30:51.380 --> 02:30:53.300 align:middle line:84% Order that it may be appointed to notify 02:30:53.300 --> 02:30:56.100 align:middle line:84% His Excellency, the Governor, Charles D Baker, to honor 02:30:56.100 --> 02:30:58.930 align:middle line:84% Karyn E Polito, Lieutenant Governor of the Commonwealth, 02:30:58.930 --> 02:31:01.910 align:middle line:84% and the Honorable Counsel of the organization of the Senate, 02:31:01.910 --> 02:31:04.760 align:middle line:84% and that the Honorable Karen E Spilka of Second Middlesex 02:31:04.760 --> 02:31:07.740 align:middle line:84% and Norfolk has been elected President the Senate, Michael D 02:31:07.740 --> 02:31:11.180 align:middle line:84% Hurley of South Boston had been elected Clerk of the Senate. 02:31:11.180 --> 02:31:13.563 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the order. 02:31:13.563 --> 02:31:14.730 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:31:14.730 --> 02:31:15.230 align:middle line:90% Aye. 02:31:15.230 --> 02:31:16.260 align:middle line:90% Opposed, no. 02:31:16.260 --> 02:31:19.850 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the order is adopted. 02:31:19.850 --> 02:31:24.320 align:middle line:84% The Senate members appointed are as follows-- 02:31:24.320 --> 02:31:27.500 align:middle line:84% Senator Brownsberger, of Suffolk and Middlesex; 02:31:27.500 --> 02:31:31.490 align:middle line:84% Senator DiZoglio, of Essex; Senator Rausch, 02:31:31.490 --> 02:31:34.070 align:middle line:84% of Norfolk, and Bristol, and Middlesex; 02:31:34.070 --> 02:31:37.910 align:middle line:84% Senator Welch, of Hampden; and Senator deMacedo, 02:31:37.910 --> 02:31:39.480 align:middle line:90% of Plymouth and Barnstable. 02:31:39.480 --> 02:31:42.590 align:middle line:84% Please come to the well, and the Sergeant at Arms 02:31:42.590 --> 02:31:44.510 align:middle line:84% will meet the committee and proceed 02:31:44.510 --> 02:31:46.070 align:middle line:90% to the Governor's Office. 02:31:46.070 --> 02:31:47.795 align:middle line:84% The Senate will be in a brief recess. 02:31:47.795 --> 02:31:48.639 align:middle line:90% [GAVEL BANGS] 02:31:48.639 --> 02:31:50.635 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 02:31:50.635 --> 02:39:12.250 align:middle line:90% 02:39:12.250 --> 02:39:17.320 align:middle line:84% Madam President, Committee of the Honorable Senate. 02:39:17.320 --> 02:39:19.098 align:middle line:90% Admit the Honorable Committee. 02:39:19.098 --> 02:39:21.538 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 02:39:21.538 --> 02:39:34.226 align:middle line:90% 02:39:34.226 --> 02:39:36.360 align:middle line:84% Madam President, I beg to inform you 02:39:36.360 --> 02:39:39.030 align:middle line:84% that we have traveled to Governor's Chambers, 02:39:39.030 --> 02:39:42.267 align:middle line:84% and there delivered the message that you 02:39:42.267 --> 02:39:44.684 align:middle line:84% have been elected as a leader, and we have been organized, 02:39:44.684 --> 02:39:47.030 align:middle line:84% and we've appointed Michael Hurley to Senate Clerk. 02:39:47.030 --> 02:39:48.410 align:middle line:90% Thank you so kindly. 02:39:48.410 --> 02:39:49.520 align:middle line:90% Great work. 02:39:49.520 --> 02:39:54.540 align:middle line:84% And we now disband this Honorable Committee. 02:39:54.540 --> 02:39:55.520 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 02:39:55.520 --> 02:39:57.480 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 02:39:57.480 --> 02:40:02.870 align:middle line:90% 02:40:02.870 --> 02:40:05.100 align:middle line:84% What are we going to do with this one? 02:40:05.100 --> 02:40:06.523 align:middle line:90% Let's adopt the rules. 02:40:06.523 --> 02:40:07.440 align:middle line:90% So we'll do two of it. 02:40:07.440 --> 02:40:08.982 align:middle line:84% Because we're waiting on the joint. 02:40:08.982 --> 02:40:10.950 align:middle line:90% So we'll do the Senate one-- 02:40:10.950 --> 02:40:13.410 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 02:40:13.410 --> 02:40:31.122 align:middle line:90% 02:40:31.122 --> 02:40:34.170 align:middle line:84% The senator from Berkshire, Hampshire, Franklin, 02:40:34.170 --> 02:40:37.330 align:middle line:84% and Hampden, Mr. Hinds, has presented an order, 02:40:37.330 --> 02:40:39.090 align:middle line:90% which the Clerk will read. 02:40:39.090 --> 02:40:41.188 align:middle line:84% Order that the rules of the Senate 02:40:41.188 --> 02:40:42.730 align:middle line:84% rules of the last session be observed 02:40:42.730 --> 02:40:44.272 align:middle line:84% as the temporary rules for the Senate 02:40:44.272 --> 02:40:46.810 align:middle line:90% for the present General Court. 02:40:46.810 --> 02:40:49.030 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the order. 02:40:49.030 --> 02:40:50.530 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, aye. 02:40:50.530 --> 02:40:51.740 align:middle line:90% Opposed, no. 02:40:51.740 --> 02:40:56.300 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the order is adopted. 02:40:56.300 --> 02:41:00.160 align:middle line:84% The senator from Second Suffolk, Miss Chang-Diaz, 02:41:00.160 --> 02:41:03.110 align:middle line:84% has presented an order, which the Clerk will read. 02:41:03.110 --> 02:41:05.170 align:middle line:84% Order that the joint rules of the last session 02:41:05.170 --> 02:41:06.670 align:middle line:84% be observed as temporary joint rules 02:41:06.670 --> 02:41:08.650 align:middle line:84% to the two branches of the present General Court, 02:41:08.650 --> 02:41:10.483 align:middle line:84% until the adoption of permanent joint rules, 02:41:10.483 --> 02:41:13.930 align:middle line:84% or March 1, 2019, whichever comes first. 02:41:13.930 --> 02:41:15.310 align:middle line:90% The question comes on adoption-- 02:41:15.310 --> 02:41:16.150 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 02:41:16.150 --> 02:41:17.530 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 02:41:17.530 --> 02:41:18.350 align:middle line:90% Opposed, no. 02:41:18.350 --> 02:41:20.800 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the order is adopted. 02:41:20.800 --> 02:41:25.297 align:middle line:90% 02:41:25.297 --> 02:41:28.040 align:middle line:84% The senator from Norfolk, Bristol, and Plymouth, 02:41:28.040 --> 02:41:30.280 align:middle line:84% Mr. Timilty, has presented an order 02:41:30.280 --> 02:41:32.160 align:middle line:90% which the Clerk will read. 02:41:32.160 --> 02:41:35.062 align:middle line:90% 02:41:35.062 --> 02:41:36.520 align:middle line:84% Order that a committee be appointed 02:41:36.520 --> 02:41:38.103 align:middle line:84% to inform the House of Representatives 02:41:38.103 --> 02:41:39.530 align:middle line:84% of the organization of the Senate, 02:41:39.530 --> 02:41:41.710 align:middle line:84% that the Honorable Karen E Spilka of Second Middlesex 02:41:41.710 --> 02:41:43.765 align:middle line:84% and Norfolk has been elected President of the Senate, 02:41:43.765 --> 02:41:45.400 align:middle line:84% that Michael D Hurley of South Boston 02:41:45.400 --> 02:41:47.140 align:middle line:90% was elected Clerk of the Senate. 02:41:47.140 --> 02:41:49.330 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the order. 02:41:49.330 --> 02:41:50.770 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, aye. 02:41:50.770 --> 02:41:51.860 align:middle line:90% Opposed, no. 02:41:51.860 --> 02:41:55.480 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the order is adopted. 02:41:55.480 --> 02:41:58.630 align:middle line:84% The Senate members appointed are as follows-- 02:41:58.630 --> 02:42:02.320 align:middle line:84% Senator Lovely, of Essex; Senator Boncore, 02:42:02.320 --> 02:42:06.670 align:middle line:84% of Suffolk and Middlesex; Senator Crighton, of Essex; 02:42:06.670 --> 02:42:10.750 align:middle line:84% Senator Kennedy, of Middlesex; Senator Finegold, 02:42:10.750 --> 02:42:14.200 align:middle line:84% of Middlesex and Essex; and Senator O'Connor, 02:42:14.200 --> 02:42:16.420 align:middle line:90% of Plymouth and Norfolk. 02:42:16.420 --> 02:42:18.310 align:middle line:84% The Sergeant at Arms will meet the Committee 02:42:18.310 --> 02:42:21.760 align:middle line:84% in the well of the Chamber, and proceed to the House Chamber. 02:42:21.760 --> 02:42:23.960 align:middle line:84% The Senate will be in a brief recess. 02:42:23.960 --> 02:42:24.958 align:middle line:90% [GAVEL BANGS] 02:42:24.958 --> 02:42:26.954 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 02:42:26.954 --> 02:42:49.409 align:middle line:90% 02:42:49.409 --> 02:42:51.405 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 02:42:51.405 --> 02:42:53.900 align:middle line:90% 02:42:53.900 --> 02:42:56.395 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 02:42:56.395 --> 03:04:33.795 align:middle line:90% 03:04:33.795 --> 03:04:36.230 align:middle line:90% [GAVEL BANGS] 03:04:36.230 --> 03:04:36.730 align:middle line:90% 03:04:36.730 --> 03:04:40.786 align:middle line:84% Madam President, the Committee of the Honorable Senate. 03:04:40.786 --> 03:04:42.778 align:middle line:90% Admit the Honorable Committee. 03:04:42.778 --> 03:04:45.268 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 03:04:45.268 --> 03:05:00.210 align:middle line:90% 03:05:00.210 --> 03:05:00.820 align:middle line:90% Hello. 03:05:00.820 --> 03:05:04.950 align:middle line:84% Madam President, we have gone over to the House Chamber 03:05:04.950 --> 03:05:08.040 align:middle line:84% and we've told the Speaker that we have organized as a Senate 03:05:08.040 --> 03:05:10.310 align:middle line:84% and we elected you as our president. 03:05:10.310 --> 03:05:13.125 align:middle line:84% We've elected Michael Hurley as our Clerk. 03:05:13.125 --> 03:05:16.720 align:middle line:84% The Speaker sends his congratulations to both you 03:05:16.720 --> 03:05:19.680 align:middle line:84% as the President, Michael as our Clerk. 03:05:19.680 --> 03:05:23.330 align:middle line:84% He looks forward to continuing the collaboration and longtime 03:05:23.330 --> 03:05:25.940 align:middle line:84% friendship that he has with you, and he looks forward 03:05:25.940 --> 03:05:28.970 align:middle line:84% to a very productive session coming forward. 03:05:28.970 --> 03:05:31.670 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for this hard work. 03:05:31.670 --> 03:05:35.310 align:middle line:84% And we appreciate you going over there. 03:05:35.310 --> 03:05:37.848 align:middle line:84% And we now discharge this committee. 03:05:37.848 --> 03:05:38.836 align:middle line:90% But thank you. 03:05:38.836 --> 03:05:39.824 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:05:39.824 --> 03:05:41.800 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 03:05:41.800 --> 03:05:47.234 align:middle line:90% 03:05:47.234 --> 03:05:49.698 align:middle line:84% We just need to wait for the House now. 03:05:49.698 --> 03:05:50.198 align:middle line:90% OK. 03:05:50.198 --> 03:05:51.186 align:middle line:90% So we can move-- 03:05:51.186 --> 03:05:53.162 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 03:05:53.162 --> 03:05:57.140 align:middle line:90% 03:05:57.140 --> 03:06:00.270 align:middle line:84% --from Worcester, Mr. Moore, has presented 03:06:00.270 --> 03:06:03.760 align:middle line:84% an order, which the Clerk shall read. 03:06:03.760 --> 03:06:07.230 align:middle line:84% Order that the Clerk begin the daily printing of the Journal 03:06:07.230 --> 03:06:09.113 align:middle line:84% and as authorized by Senate Rule 6 03:06:09.113 --> 03:06:10.530 align:middle line:84% and that the daily reading thereof 03:06:10.530 --> 03:06:12.780 align:middle line:84% be dispensed with, that under the authority of Section 03:06:12.780 --> 03:06:15.597 align:middle line:84% 22a of the general laws, copies of the Journals 03:06:15.597 --> 03:06:17.430 align:middle line:84% with the entire session be printed and bound 03:06:17.430 --> 03:06:19.652 align:middle line:84% with customary appendices and an index, 03:06:19.652 --> 03:06:21.360 align:middle line:84% and that a certified copy of that will be 03:06:21.360 --> 03:06:23.880 align:middle line:84% deposited with the Secretary of the Commonwealth. 03:06:23.880 --> 03:06:26.280 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of this order. 03:06:26.280 --> 03:06:27.780 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 03:06:27.780 --> 03:06:28.520 align:middle line:90% Opposed, no. 03:06:28.520 --> 03:06:32.336 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the order is adopted. 03:06:32.336 --> 03:06:37.590 align:middle line:90% 03:06:37.590 --> 03:06:40.910 align:middle line:84% The senator from Middlesex and Suffolk, Mr. DiDomenico, 03:06:40.910 --> 03:06:43.637 align:middle line:84% has presented an order, which the Clerk shall read. 03:06:43.637 --> 03:06:45.470 align:middle line:84% Order that a special committee of the Senate 03:06:45.470 --> 03:06:48.823 align:middle line:84% to consist of two members of the Senate be-- oh, wrong one. 03:06:48.823 --> 03:06:51.457 align:middle line:90% Sorry. 03:06:51.457 --> 03:06:54.040 align:middle line:84% Order that a convention of the two Houses be held at a quarter 03:06:54.040 --> 03:06:56.500 align:middle line:84% before 11 o'clock noon on Thursday, January 3, 03:06:56.500 --> 03:06:59.080 align:middle line:84% 2019 for the purpose of administering 03:06:59.080 --> 03:07:01.480 align:middle line:84% the oath of office to the Governor Elect, the Lieutenant 03:07:01.480 --> 03:07:05.440 align:middle line:84% Governor Elect, and the several [INAUDIBLE] Elect. 03:07:05.440 --> 03:07:08.020 align:middle line:84% --from Suffolk, Miss Chang-Diaz, moves 03:07:08.020 --> 03:07:10.510 align:middle line:84% that the rules be suspended so that the matter may 03:07:10.510 --> 03:07:12.490 align:middle line:90% be considered forthwith. 03:07:12.490 --> 03:07:13.580 align:middle line:90% Is there an objection? 03:07:13.580 --> 03:07:15.110 align:middle line:90% The Chair hears none. 03:07:15.110 --> 03:07:17.110 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the order. 03:07:17.110 --> 03:07:18.400 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 03:07:18.400 --> 03:07:19.618 align:middle line:90% Opposed, no. 03:07:19.618 --> 03:07:22.606 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the order is adopted. 03:07:22.606 --> 03:07:25.096 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 03:07:25.096 --> 03:08:04.020 align:middle line:90% 03:08:04.020 --> 03:08:06.660 align:middle line:84% Just to let folks know, we are waiting 03:08:06.660 --> 03:08:09.720 align:middle line:84% for an Honorable Committee from the House 03:08:09.720 --> 03:08:12.180 align:middle line:84% to let us know that they have formed 03:08:12.180 --> 03:08:14.920 align:middle line:84% and who they've elected as Speaker, et cetera, 03:08:14.920 --> 03:08:17.400 align:middle line:84% just like we just did to the House. 03:08:17.400 --> 03:08:20.580 align:middle line:84% We are pretty much completed with our work though. 03:08:20.580 --> 03:08:22.950 align:middle line:84% You're certainly welcome to stay here, 03:08:22.950 --> 03:08:26.940 align:middle line:84% or you're welcome to go across into the Senate Reading Room 03:08:26.940 --> 03:08:29.580 align:middle line:84% and have some refreshments, and spend 03:08:29.580 --> 03:08:34.300 align:middle line:84% some time with friends and family, whichever you desire. 03:08:34.300 --> 03:08:36.030 align:middle line:84% But we don't have much more left here. 03:08:36.030 --> 03:08:37.503 align:middle line:90% So thank you very much. 03:08:37.503 --> 03:08:39.958 align:middle line:84% Have a great day if you decide to leave. 03:08:39.958 --> 03:08:41.922 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 03:08:41.922 --> 03:08:48.310 align:middle line:90% 03:08:48.310 --> 03:08:49.840 align:middle line:90% We'll be in brief recess. 03:08:49.840 --> 03:08:51.336 align:middle line:90% [GAVEL BANGS] 03:08:51.336 --> 03:08:51.836 align:middle line:90% 03:08:51.836 --> 03:08:53.832 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 03:08:53.832 --> 03:31:45.370 align:middle line:90% 03:31:45.370 --> 03:31:46.358 align:middle line:90% Good afternoon. 03:31:46.358 --> 03:31:48.334 align:middle line:90% Admit the Honorable Committee. 03:31:48.334 --> 03:31:49.322 align:middle line:90% Welcome. 03:31:49.322 --> 03:31:51.792 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 03:31:51.792 --> 03:32:03.648 align:middle line:90% 03:32:03.648 --> 03:32:05.580 align:middle line:90% Good afternoon, Madam President. 03:32:05.580 --> 03:32:08.960 align:middle line:84% We have been sent to tell you that our House is organized, 03:32:08.960 --> 03:32:12.570 align:middle line:84% and that we are looking forward with great anticipation 03:32:12.570 --> 03:32:15.570 align:middle line:84% to work with you and your members in what we hope 03:32:15.570 --> 03:32:19.050 align:middle line:84% will be a very, very productive session. 03:32:19.050 --> 03:32:21.680 align:middle line:84% And we also really wanted to come and see your new House. 03:32:21.680 --> 03:32:22.540 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 03:32:22.540 --> 03:32:23.400 align:middle line:90% 03:32:23.400 --> 03:32:24.360 align:middle line:90% And it's beautiful. 03:32:24.360 --> 03:32:27.420 align:middle line:84% And we congratulate you and want you 03:32:27.420 --> 03:32:31.830 align:middle line:84% to do great work in this beautifully adorned new room. 03:32:31.830 --> 03:32:34.080 align:middle line:90% So thank you for having us. 03:32:34.080 --> 03:32:35.830 align:middle line:90% Well, thank you for coming in. 03:32:35.830 --> 03:32:37.020 align:middle line:90% We welcome all of you. 03:32:37.020 --> 03:32:40.740 align:middle line:84% You're welcome at anytime to come to this newly 03:32:40.740 --> 03:32:43.050 align:middle line:90% renovated, beautiful Chamber. 03:32:43.050 --> 03:32:45.990 align:middle line:84% We also look forward to working with all of you 03:32:45.990 --> 03:32:50.820 align:middle line:84% to be productive and do some really wonderful work 03:32:50.820 --> 03:32:53.460 align:middle line:84% for the people of the Commonwealth. 03:32:53.460 --> 03:32:54.670 align:middle line:90% We thank you. 03:32:54.670 --> 03:32:58.590 align:middle line:84% We thank the Speaker, and congratulate him 03:32:58.590 --> 03:33:03.000 align:middle line:84% on his re-election, and wish you all a very, very 03:33:03.000 --> 03:33:06.767 align:middle line:84% healthy and happy new year and a wonderful 109st 03:33:06.767 --> 03:33:08.258 align:middle line:90% legislative session. 03:33:08.258 --> 03:33:10.246 align:middle line:90% Thank you very much. 03:33:10.246 --> 03:33:12.234 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 03:33:12.234 --> 03:33:21.180 align:middle line:90% 03:33:21.180 --> 03:33:23.168 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 03:33:23.168 --> 03:33:49.012 align:middle line:90% 03:33:49.012 --> 03:33:52.000 align:middle line:84% --from Bristow, Mr. Brady, offers an order, 03:33:52.000 --> 03:33:53.260 align:middle line:90% which the Clerk shall read. 03:33:53.260 --> 03:33:55.360 align:middle line:84% Order that when the Senate adjourns today, 03:33:55.360 --> 03:33:59.480 align:middle line:84% it adjourns to meet again at a quarter past 11:00 AM tomorrow. 03:33:59.480 --> 03:34:01.390 align:middle line:84% The question comes on adoption of the order. 03:34:01.390 --> 03:34:02.680 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 03:34:02.680 --> 03:34:03.480 align:middle line:90% Opposed, no. 03:34:03.480 --> 03:34:05.150 align:middle line:90% The ayes have it. 03:34:05.150 --> 03:34:07.210 align:middle line:84% The Chair hears none if there is an objection, 03:34:07.210 --> 03:34:09.560 align:middle line:90% and the order is adopted. 03:34:09.560 --> 03:34:12.100 align:middle line:84% The senator from Middlesex and Norfolk, Miss Creem, 03:34:12.100 --> 03:34:14.680 align:middle line:84% moves that the Senate do now adjourn. 03:34:14.680 --> 03:34:16.030 align:middle line:90% All those in favor, say aye. 03:34:16.030 --> 03:34:16.860 align:middle line:90% Opposed, no. 03:34:16.860 --> 03:34:18.550 align:middle line:84% The ayes have it, and the Senate stands 03:34:18.550 --> 03:34:24.550 align:middle line:84% adjourned to meet again tomorrow at a quarter past 11 o'clock 03:34:24.550 --> 03:34:25.450 align:middle line:90% AM. 03:34:25.450 --> 03:34:26.050 align:middle line:90% [GAVEL BANGS] 03:34:26.050 --> 03:34:26.550 align:middle line:90% Thank-- 03:34:26.550 --> 03:34:28.800 align:middle line:90% [AUDIO OUT] 03:34:28.800 --> 04:05:02.200 align:middle line:90%