http://www.scribd.com/doc/77789660/Winter-Newsletter-January-2012#source:facebook

http://www.scribd.com/doc/64274625/Newsletter-Fall-2011-Final-9-8

Dear Friends,

I hope this newsletter finds you well and enjoying the warm summer days.  We have had a very busy couple of months on Beacon Hill.  Please find included in this issue:

• Legislative Events: Alimony legislation, Creative Economy, Social Impact Bonds, Transgender Rights legislation, Gas Leaks legislation, Realtor Day, Center for Women and Enterprise, Federal Health Care Reform, Safer Alternatives legislation, Incarcerated Women, Budget Buddies, Bottle Bill legislation, Access to Justice
• Annual State Budget: Fiscal Year 2012, Domestic Violence SAFEPLAN funding, Massachusetts Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Higher Education Matching Grants
• Local Items: Right-to-Dry legislation, Preserving the Fifth Congressional District, Third Grade Reading Proficiency, Equal Pay legislation
• Congratulations: Assabet River grant, Toxic Use Reduction, Student Government Day, Green-Minded House Award
• Summertime: Energy Efficient Appliance Rebates, Fixed-interest College Loans, Teenage Drinking
• Upcoming Events

As always, please do not hesitate to contact me at 617-722-2692 or email at cory.atkins@mahouse.gov .

Sincerely,

Cory Atkins

Legislative Events

Alimony Briefing

On Tuesday, June 7 the Women’s Caucus held a standing-room-only briefing about the Alimony Reform bill. Our guest speaker, Massachusetts Bar Association president Denise Squillante, was extremely helpful in explaining the need for the bill and answering questions. Earlier this week the legislature passed the bill and sent it to the Governor’s desk for his approval.

Creative Economy

On Tuesday, June 7 I attended the Cultural Caucus led by Senator Dan Wolf and Representative Smitty Pignatelli. There I heard Anita Walker, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Cultural Council, speak about the five dollar return on every dollar spent on the arts and cultural in Massachusetts and how casino gambling could affect the creative sector to the economic and social wellbeing of the commonwealth. After Mrs. Walker voiced her concerns, former North Adams mayor John Barrett aired a movie showing the impact arts and culture have on a community. By using art programs as an economic stimulus, North Adams was able to transform from a run-down mill town into an aesthetically pleasing locale attracting new businesses. I look forward to exploring how this idea of “creative economy” could help Concord, Carlisle, Chelmsford, and Acton.

Social Impact Bonds

On Wednesday, June 8 I attended a meeting regarding Social Impact Bonds presented by Professor Jeffrey Liebman from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government and the Rappaport Institute for Greater Boston. These financial bonds would allow private investors to lend money to social programs with well-defined objectives. After a period of time, investors and social leaders would determine whether a program achieved its goal. If the programs succeeded, the government would reimburse the investors. However if the program fell short, the government would not repay the investors, thus ensuring that taxpayers are not paying for faulty programs. These new type of bonds would simultaneously improve performance and lower costs by measuring the efficacy of the programs. Social Impact Bonds would not supplant core social spending but would explore new social programs that could then become eligible for standard funding if they are successful.

Transgender Rights Legislation

On Wednesday, June 8 I stood in solitary with many of my colleagues before the Joint Committee on the Judiciary and testified in support of H.502, An Act relative to transgender equal rights. The bill would incorporate “gender identity and expression” into existing Massachusetts civil rights laws such as those dealing with employment and housing discrimination. The bill would also add offenses regarding gender identity or expression to the list of offenses that are subject to treatment as hate crimes. As you may have read, Nevada and Connecticut recently passed similar laws, making fifteen states with non-discrimination laws protecting transgender people. I am proud to be a cosponsor of this legislation.

Gas Leaks

On Wednesday, June 8 I joined my colleague Lori Ehrlich (D-Marblehead) in testifying before the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy in support of three bills that she filed and I cosponsored. The bills seek to establish a natural gas leak classification system, require leak repairs on prescribed timelines, mandate the monitoring of cast iron mains susceptible to freeze-and-thaw damage in the winter, and create a publicly accessible database of leak information. Many firefighters and gas workers support these bills, and 40 members of the legislature, including members of both parties and both branches, have signed on as supporters.

Realtor Day on Beacon Hill

The Massachusetts Association of Realtors held its annual Legislative Day on Wednesday, June 8. This day provided an opportunity for realtors from across the state to meet with their representatives to discuss legislation they support. Among other bills, realtors discussed their support for S.145, An Act Regulating Secondary Metals Dealing.

Center for Women and Enterprise

On Thursday, June 9 I spoke to women small business owners at the Center for Women & Enterprise’s reception about the importance of their work to our economy. I also informed them about the initiatives State Treasurer Steve Grossman is taking to ensure the commonwealth does business with women-owned enterprises and to encourage businesses to have women on their boards and in their executive suites.

Federal Health Care Reform law

On Wednesday, June 15 Senator Susan Fargo and Representative Jeffrey Sanchez held a briefing with Health and Human Services Secretary JudyAnn Bigby and members of the Patrick administration who are working on federal health reform implementation. They discussed the Federal Health Care Reform law and implementation activities to date.

Safer Alternatives Hearing

On Tuesday, July 12 I submitted testimony in support of the Safer Alternatives Bill. Currently, many common household items such as shower curtains and cans of tuna fish contain chemicals that are harmful to children and expectant mothers. This bill would create a regulatory structure that will help companies to switch to developing cutting edge, toxin-free products to sell on the international market.

Incarcerated Women and the Children Who Wait for Them

On Monday, July 18 the Caucus of Women Legislators’ Taskforce on Incarcerated Women sponsored a presentation about the famous Glueck and Glueck study that traced the lives of 500 former MCI Framingham inmates in the early twentieth century. The presentation addressed whether state services that provide housing, job training, medical care, and mental health care really help women re-enter normative life paths. The issues explored included recidivism, mental and physical health, family status, children, and employment status. The presenters were Maureen Norton – Hawk, PhD., an Associate Professor in the Department of Sociology at Suffolk University and Susan Sered, PhD., a Senior Research Analyst at the Center for Women’s Health and Human Rights within the Department of Sociology at Suffolk University.

Budget Buddies Briefing

On Wednesday, July 20 I had the honor of introducing to my colleagues in the legislature some of my most talented and caring constituents from Chelmsford including Anita Saville, Kathy Brough, and Michael Rigney, who have formed a new non-profit organization called Budget Buddies. Located in the Lowell area, Budget Buddies works to improve financial literacy and self-sufficiency for low income women. The programming combines one-on-one mentoring with hands-on, interactive workshops about banking, budgeting, and credit. Volunteer coaches help clients in the program resolve their individual financial issues in these areas as they master basic money-management skills. Anyone seeking more information or interested in volunteering should go to www.budget-buddies.org or contact Kathy Brough at 978-703-0820 or email her at kathrynbrough@budget-buddies.org.

Bottle Bill Call to Action and Public Hearing

On Wednesday, July 20 I testified, along with many of my colleagues in support of the Updated Bottle Bill. This bill would expand the state’s container deposit system to include water, iced tea, juice, sports drinks, and other non carbonated beverages. Of bottled containers purchased in Massachusetts, 80 percent of those already covered by the bottle bill are redeemed or recycled while only 22 percent of non-deposit containers are recycled. I continue to strongly support this bill.

Access to Justice Briefing

On Thursday, July 21 Judge Dina Fein, a Special Advisor for Access to Justice Initiatives from the Massachusetts Trial Court and Sandra Lundy, an attorney with the Supreme Judicial Court, spoke to members of the legislature about the Massachusetts Access to Justice Commission. The Commission’s goal is to achieve equal justice for all persons in the Commonwealth. It strives to accomplish this goal by providing leadership and vision to the many organizations and interested persons involved in providing and improving access to justice for those unable to afford counsel.

Annual State Budget

Fiscal Year 2012

Despite what you may hear, Massachusetts has weathered this recession better than almost every other state in the nation, and we have a AAA bond rating. On Monday, July 11 the Massachusetts Legislature passed a $30.59 billion budget for fiscal year 2012. The budget improves government efficiency and preserves essential services. It also reduces the draw from the state’s Rainy Day Fund by $15 million and closes a $1.9 billion budget gap. Additionally, the budget will increase Chapter 70 funding by $140 million and Special Education Circuit Breaker funding by $80 million. Included in the budget is a municipal health insurance reform that provides savings for cities and towns while ensuring employees and retirees have a strong voice without a veto. The municipal employee health reform plan does not alter collective bargaining rights associated with premium splits, and municipalities will have the option to implement or abstain from plan design changes. The spending plan includes no new taxes and focuses resources for the Department of Mental Health, early intervention services, and public safety initiatives. I am relieved that the state was able to fund programs and policies that my constituents and I care about deeply.

SAFEPLAN

In April I filed an amendment to the House budget on behalf of the Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance (MOVA) to increase the funding for SAFEPLAN from $728,773 to $772,500. As a result of my filing, I had helped to secure an increase of $43,827 in funding in the House version of the state’s budget for SAFEPLAN. SAFEPLAN is a partnership program between MOVA and 41 district and probate courts in which advocates are situated. SAFEPLAN advocates assist victims in obtaining protective orders for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. They also create safety plans for victims and their children to escape escalating violence and serve as a crucial link to long-term services. In 2010 SAFEPLAN assisted over 23,000 victims and facilitated over 62,000 referrals. Seventy-two percent of those clients had no prior contact with critical domestic violence and related services. While the House was able to secure the extra funds for SAFEPLAN, the Senate funded the line item at $741,199. Ultimately, the final figure adopted and presented to the Governor was the Senate version of $741,199. I will continue to push for increased funding for SAFEPLAN because of the results we can see from this program.

Massachusetts Vietnam Veterans Memorial

I have worked along with many other state representatives and senators to help fund the Massachusetts Vietnam Veterans Memorial. For the Fiscal Year 2012, the legislature has decided to include $25,000 in the budget to fund the memorial. Even in these hard economic times, it is very important to honor the men and women who have sacrificed their lives to protect this country. I am very glad that the funding of this memorial made it into the budget.

Higher Education Matching Grants Program

As a member of the Joint Committee on Higher Education, I recently voted to release bill H.3563, An Act establishing the Massachusetts higher education matching grants program from the committee. This legislation would dedicate $100 million to match grant money or venture capital investment in research and development projects at research universities and non-profit research centers throughout Massachusetts. The funding for this grant will come from issuance of state bonds and will be maintained by the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative. Also, in order to qualify, a grant must leverage at minimum $3 to every dollar in matching funds. Finally, at least 50% of all matching grants will go to the University of Massachusetts. I am in favor of this bill because of the intellectual capital research universities provide. Research projects produce new businesses that create jobs and revenue, and the students and professors who participate in the research become invaluable experts and industry leaders.

Local Items

Right-to-Dry Legislation

On Tuesday, June 14 I testified before the Joint Committee on Housing with Peggy Brace of Concord in support of S. 589, An Act ensuring the right to dry. This legislation of which I am a cosponsor would prevent any restrictions of the use of clotheslines. Currently, many homeowners’ associations prohibit the use of clotheslines or render them ineffective through restrictive regulation.

Ms. Brace, a tireless advocate, filed an article for Concord’s 2010 Town Meeting that would have nullified all future real estate contracts, deed restrictions and other agreements that ban the use of clotheslines for drying clothes on residential property. Although Town Meeting passed the article, it was rejected by the Attorney General. The Attorney General determined that the bylaw conflicted with state law governing civil contracts. Allowing people to use clotheslines and reducing the use of electric clothes dryers statewide could substantially decrease the amount of energy that households use and thereby reduce the amount of fossil fuels used. Last spring Vermont and Maine approved statewide legislation that supports the right to use a clothesline. Hopefully Massachusetts will do the same.

Preserving the Fifth Congressional District

On Monday, July 11 I testified at the final redistricting in support of keeping the Fifth Congressional District intact. I am proud to be a member of the Democratic Party, which established the Equal Division Rule or “fifty-fifty” rule in 1978, mandating gender-balanced delegations at national and state conventions. Yet despite the fact that women make up 52 percent of the U.S. population, female legislators in Massachusetts only comprise 23.5 percent of the state legislature and 8 percent of our delegation to Congress. Worldwide, women account for approximately 15.7 percent of legislators and merely 17 percent of the U.S. Congress. There is no other political group that would accept this reality. Of the four women who have served in Congress from Massachusetts, the Fifth District has sent two of them – including the longest serving female member of Congress in history and the only woman elected to the U.S. House from Massachusetts in the last 30 years.

More communities in the Fifth District are represented by a woman in the State Legislature than in any other congressional district in the state, making the district unique among Massachusetts’ congressional districts. I believe that equal attention should be given to maintaining the districts that are represented by women in the Massachusetts House and Senate. We will not reach equal representation until we arrive at a fifty-fifty percentage and the composition of leadership reflects that reality.

Third Grade Reading Proficiency

According to Early Education for All and the Department of Education, nearly 40 percent of the state’s third grade students do not read proficiently, and third grade reading MCAS scores have stagnated since 2001. To address this critical problem I support a bill entitled An Act Relative to Third Grade Reading Proficiency. This bill focuses state attention on children’s language development and early literacy. It also would establish the Massachusetts Early Reading Council, whose purpose would be to advise the state’s education departments on language and literacy development programs.

Equal Pay

I take antidiscrimination laws very seriously, and I look forward to ensuring that men and women receive the same pay. Currently the antidiscrimination bill does not clarify comparable work, and I want to make sure that there is not any misunderstanding in equality. This bill will close the loophole that companies use to pay woman unfairly.

Congratulations

Grant will preserve land along Assabet River

The state awarded an $85,000 grant to the Concord Land Conservation Trust to preserve 4.7 acres of fields and woods located along the Assabet River. The funds are among $602,525 in Conservation Partnership Grants to preserve 136 acres across the Commonwealth. Since the time of Henry David Thoreau, Concord has been a leader in conservation. I am delighted that the Concord Land Conservation Trust will be able to continue this proud tradition by preserving land for generations to come. The Land Conservation Trust received one of nine grants given to non-profit organizations from the state. The awards will fund projects in Brewster, Concord, Falmouth, Fitchburg, Mendon, Wellfleet, Westhampton, Westport, and Worcester. The Patrick- Murray administration has preserved more than 75,000 acres of land in Massachusetts in the past four years.

Honoring Champions of Toxic Use Reduction in Massachusetts

I would like to join the Toxic Use Reduction Institute (TURI) in applauding the Boston Public Health Commission, Brazilian Women’s Group, Frank Newhall Look Memorial Park, Groundwork Lawrence, and Northeast Organic Farming Association for their outstanding efforts in making Massachusetts a safer place to live and work. TURI, based out of UMass Lowell, provides research, laboratory services, and grant programs to reduce the use of toxic chemicals.

Student Government Day

Congratulations to Benjamin Rizkin of Concord for being elected to Student Government Day. Upon being elected, Benjamin came to the State House and conducted mock hearings and session as if he were a member of the legislature.

Green-Minded House Award Winner

I would like to congratulate Acton on being named the Greenest Community in the state designated realtor survey. If a new Acton resident renovates a home, he or she has to make it between 20 and 35 percent more energy efficient than required by state code. I applaud Acton for working hard at becoming greener.

Summertime

Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate program

I encourage the residents in the communities I represent to participate in the Massachusetts Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate program that begins on July 28, 2011. The U. S. Department of Energy allocated $2 million to Massachusetts as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. This money was for the Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Program, which is designed to spur significant household energy savings. This program seeks to take high energy-consuming home appliances out of service and replace them with qualified ENERGY STAR models. Old appliances need not be in working condition when exchanged for eligible high efficiency models. All Massachusetts residents, including those served by municipal electric departments, will be eligible for these rebates. Only Massachusetts participating retail store purchases will qualify. Internet purchases are not eligible. The Massachusetts Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Program will offer rebates of $150 for qualified refrigerators and $50 for room air conditioners. The Rebate program is a limited time only offer, ending when funding has been exhausted. Rebates are on a first-come, first-served basis. Before purchasing new ENGERY STAR appliances, residents are urged to visit the programs website at www.MassEnergyRebates.com or call toll-free (877) 574-1128 to track the status of funds available to consumers and to view participating retailers.

Fixed-interest College Loans Now Available

Fixed-interest college loans will immediately become available to families through the Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority (MEFA), the Patrick administration recently announced. With students and their families beginning to receive tuition bills for the fall semester, MEFA plans to offers loans at a fixed interest rate of 6.89 percent, lower than the 7.9 percent interest rate attached to family loans through the Federal PLUS program. As tuition rates continue to rise at both public and private colleges, I am glad to see MEFA offering lower-cost loans to students and their families.

Teenage Drinking

On behalf of the police departments in Concord, Carlisle, Acton, and Chelmsford, I want to remind parents about their responsibilities relative to underage drinking. Homeowners can be held responsible for injuries that occur as a result of alcohol consumption in their home. Even if the owners are not present at the time of consumption, they can still be held liable. Also, taking car keys away from drinkers is not guaranteed to keep them safe because there have been cases of children suffering injuries while walking home. Please be aware that police departments want to work together with parents and children to ensure everyone’s safety.

Upcoming Events

The Girl Scouts are celebrating their 100th Anniversary this coming year, and as part of the celebration they are forming honorary Girl Scout Troops of female legislators throughout the country. In the fall the Girl Scouts will hold an event at the State House to honor Troop Beacon Hill, which will consist of Rep. Atkins and Massachusetts’ other female legislators.

July 29 – Free admission to Boston Children’s Museum, the American Textile History Museum in Lowell, the New Bedford Whaling Museum, and Shakespeare on the Common in Boston

August 5 – Free admission to Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston, Cape Cod Children’s Museum in Mashpee, the Springfield Museums, the Concord Museum

August 12- Free admission to the JFK Library and Museum in Boston, and the Stone Zoo in Stoneham

August 18 – The Acton Council on Aging is organizing a trip to a Lowell Spinners baseball game. The group will be sitting together in box seats in an area that does not require a significant amount of walking. The bus will depart at 5:30 p.m. from the Senior Center on Audubon Way and return at about 10 p.m. The cost is $25 for a ticket and transportation.. For details, please call 978-929-6652.

August 19 – Free admission to the Boston Harbor Islands, the Children’s Museum in Easton, the USS Constitution Museum in Charlestown, and the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield

August 26 – Free admission to Old Sturbridge Village, the New Repertory Theater in Watertown, the Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield, and the Ecotarium in Worcester

4th Mondays – Beginning July 25, a free blood pressure clinic for seniors will be held on the fourth Monday of every month from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Ferns Country Store, 8 Lowell St., Carlisle. The monthly screenings are being sponsored by Right at Home, a company that provides help to seniors wanting to remain in their homes, and offered as part of the weekly “Senior Moments’’ social drop-in sessions that Ferns Country Store hosts every Monday morning from 9:30 to 11 a.m.

As the weather gets warmer, the pace of activity at the State House has quickened.  The House passed the annual state budget at the end of April, and the Senate passed the budget at the end of May.  I continue to testify at hearings, speak at events, and advocate for bills I believe are important.  Please see below for summaries of what has been happening recently at the State House and in Acton, Carlisle, Chelmsford and Concord.  As always, if you want to discuss a bill, the state budget, or any other issue, you can call my office at 617-722-2692.

Sincerely,

Cory Atkins

In this issue:

Legislative Priorities

State House Events

Around the District

Local Celebrations

Office Interns

Get Involved 

Legislative Priorities

Transparent Public Records

I have a deep commitment to government transparency. In that spirit I have co-signed a bill proposed by Senator Jamie Eldridge of Acton and Representative Antonio Cabral of New Bedford which would allow for easy access to public records. For years these records have been legally accessible but unaffordable and difficult to obtain. I believe that public information should be readily accessible to all.

 Insurance Billing

On Tuesday, March 8 I testified at the Public Service Committee’s hearing that dealt with municipal health insurance bills, specifically the home rule petition bill that I filed on behalf of Chelmsford, which passed in town meeting in 2010.  Additionally, the House budget includes language intended to reduce the cost to cities and towns of providing health insurance for their employees. The plan also allows municipalities the option to transfer employees to the state’s Group Insurance Commission if that would produce greater cost savings than would plan design changes.

Municipal Funding

On Wednesday, March 30 I joined my colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing legislation to authorize $200 million for the maintenance and upkeep of municipal roads and bridges across the Commonwealth. This commitment to road and bridge maintenance is critical for the efficient operation of our state’s economy.  Many individuals and businesses are affected and will benefit from this imperative maintenance.  Drivers need safe roads that are reliable and well-maintained, construction workers will find the job markets expand, and our economy will continue to prosper as people and goods move all over the commonwealth faster and more safely.

Plastic Bags

On Wednesday, March 9 Representative Ehrlich and Senator Eldridge hosted a meeting regarding An Act relative to plastic bag reduction, a bill that I co-sponsored, which will reduce the number of plastic bags used in Massachusetts each year by directing large retailers to stop providing non-compostable plastic checkout bags to their customers. If a retailer still chooses to provide plastic check out bags to their customers, they must conform to the ASTM standard for compostable plastic. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in the legislature to organize a strategy for passing this bill.

 Jane Doe, Inc. Lobby Day

On Thursday, April 28 Jane Doe, Inc. held their annual lobby day. I was pleased to share with the advocates that I helped to secure an additional $43,827 in funding in the House Ways and Means budget for SAFEPLAN, a partnership program between the Massachusetts Office of Victim Assistance, community-based domestic violence and sexual assault programs, and the 41 district and probate courts in which the Advocates are situated. SAFEPLAN Advocates assist victims in obtaining protective orders for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking, create safety plans for victims and their children to escape escalating violence, and serve as a crucial link to long term services including but not limited to: counseling, support, shelter services, housing and financial assistance, and legal advocacy. 

Government Reform

Court Reorganization and Probation Reform Legislation

On Wednesday, May 11 I joined my colleagues in the House of Representatives in unanimously voting to overhaul management of the trial court and impose government-wide reforms aimed at curbing the influence of politics on hiring decisions. I have been pushing for court reform for ten years so I am delighted that Speaker DeLeo made it a priority.  The bill adds needed transparency to hiring and promotion practices across state agencies by requiring recommendations offered on behalf of any applicant to be made in writing and shielded from hiring authorities until the final round of the interview process.  In addition, applicants for employment within the executive, legislative, and judicial branches will have to disclose the names of all immediate family members who are state employees. This information will be made public for successful applicants.  Finally, to continue the ongoing reform effort at the Probation Department, the bill establishes an Advisory Board to help craft additional improvements within the department. The board will be comprised of seven members with expertise in the fields of criminal justice, public policy, human resources and management.

Human Trafficking

Seeking to eradicate the exploitation of victims for sexual servitude and labor in Massachusetts, Attorney General Martha Coakley advocated for passage of human trafficking legislation before the Joint Committee on the Judiciary on Wednesday, May 18. I was pleased to join her in testifying in support of legislation that seeks to protect victims and penalize both traffickers and people who purchase sex. The legislation would create two new felonies, increasing penalties for people who purchase sex, and creating an interagency task force. Human trafficking is thought to be the second largest and single fastest growing illegal industry in the world. Experts estimate that 27 million people are trafficked internationally and domestically, bringing in $32 billion annually. The average age of entry into the sex trade is children between the ages of 12-14 years old. The time has come for Massachusetts to outlaw this heinous crime.

State House Events

Women’s History Month

As the new House Chair of the Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators I was pleased to celebrate Women’s History Month throughout the month of March and the anniversary of women earning the right to vote. Libby Franck, a “living history storyteller,” told the story of a suffragist on a journey from Framingham to Boston to win the right to vote.  To read the Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators 1^st quarter newsletter, click here.  

Women’s Global Health

On Tuesday, March 29 Senate President Therese Murray of Plymouth and Rep. Kay Khan of Newton held a forum on Women’s Global Health and Rights.  The United States is a major funder of health and development in countries where unmet health needs are fueled by poverty, lack of infrastructure, health workforce deficiency, and gender inequality. The panelists discussed how this impact is connected to achieving larger United States global health and development goals and the importance of ensuring strong policy and adequate funding for maternal health, HIV, and family planning.

 Preventative Health Caucus

On Tuesday, March 29 I joined my colleagues to celebrate the launch of the Prevention for Health Caucus.  Secretary of Health and Human Services, JudyAnn Bigby, Commissioner of the Department of Public Health John Auerbach, and other state and local leaders who are working on the front lines of prevention and public health in the Commonwealth spoke. This caucus supports legislation that creates access to preventative health measures.

Disabilities 101

On Monday, April 4 I attended “Disabilities 101: A workshop for legislators and staff” presented by the Disability Law Center. The workshop gave my staff and me the tools we need to help constituents with disabilities. Whether it is access to education, employment or housing, we are well-equipped to assist individuals and families. Please do not hesitate to call our office.  

Children’s Hospital

On Monday, April 4 Children’s Hospital Boston hosted legislative briefing regarding the hospital’s mission and priorities. Founded in 1869 as a 20-bed hospital for children, Children’s Hospital Boston today has 392 pediatric and adolescent inpatient beds and more than 100 outpatient programs. Hospital officials say the facility houses the world’s largest research enterprise based at a pediatric medical center. Members of the Brown family from Norwood, MA, including 16-year-old Matt, who was cared for at Children’s after being seriously injured playing hockey in 2010, spoke at the event.

Long Term Care Insurance

On Tuesday, April 5, I attended a briefing on the subject featuring presentations from legislators, consumers and industry leaders regarding Long Term Care Insurance legislation, how Long Term Care Insurance works, and the benefits it can provide families and consumers. As we work toward affordable and comprehensive care in the Commonwealth, long term care insurance will be on the forefront. 

Additionally, on Tuesday, May 17 I testified at the Financial Services Committee in support of legislation that would allow the Commonwealth to join with other states that have enacted national standards for long term care insurance and establish the necessary regulatory procedures to protect policy holders from unwarranted rate increases and deceptive practices. By stabilizing and regulating long term care insurance, we can incentivize the purchase of long term care insurance products and guarantee that consumers are purchasing qualified policies, thereby preserving their ability to pay and reducing statewide dependence on Medicaid.

Equal Pay Day

 On Tuesday, April 12, as House Chair of the Women’s Caucus, I joined Senate chair Karen Spilka of Ashland to host an informational forum commemorating Equal Pay Day.  Equal Pay Day is the day in the year to which women must work in order to make the same amount of money as their male counterparts did in the previous year.  Attorney Lauren Stiller Rikleen, founder of the Rikleen Institute for Strategic Leadership spoke about the history of the wage gap and closing the gap in the future. Rikleen noted that the widening gap is due to a number of factors including the fact that women do not negotiate higher salaries for their first job. “Data shows that 57 percent of men negotiate their first salary, but only 7 percent of women do,” she said. “We have to be training women to understand how important it is to have that negotiation at the very first job offer.” 

State Treasurer Steve Grossman also addressed the standing-room-only crowd in support of equal pay for women. He spoke of initiatives his office is taking to ensure the Commonwealth does business with women owned enterprises and to encourage businesses to have women on their boards and in their executive suites.  We were joined by members of the Massachusetts legislature, advocates, and allies both to recognize this day and to plan for the future. It is imperative to close the gap and help to enable women to excel in the workplace.  

Members of the Women’s Caucus have filed legislation to address the issues of comparable work and pay parity. Representative Alice Wolf of Cambridge and Senator Patricia Jehlen of Somerville are the lead sponsors of House Bill 1415/Senate Bill 931, An Act Further Defining Comparable Work.  Currently Massachusetts General Law prohibits employers from paying male and female employees different wages “for work of like or comparable character or work on like or comparable operations.” However, the law does not define “comparable work.” The legislation would define the skills, effort and responsibility of a job to ensure pay parity. Additionally, Senate Bill 1567/House Bill 1855, An Act to Authorize the Human Resources Division to Undertake a Study of the State’s Job Classification System were filed by Senator Harriette Chandler of Worcester and Representative Alice Wolf of Cambridge. The bill requires a job classification study by the Massachusetts Human Resources Division, which would look at the qualifications and tasks of employees in the state’s executive branch. Senator Chandler noted it has been 20 years since the state last did this.

To listen to a clip from WBUR’s All Things Considered that I recorded on these issues with Senator Karen Spilka, click here. 

 Men with Heart

On Wednesday, April 27 Rep. Charley Murphy of Burlington sponsored an event for Men With Heart, a New England-based all-volunteer team dedicated to eradicating breast cancer by raising awareness and funds and motivating men in the fight. In 2011, the team is celebrating its 10th year and will surpass the $1 million fundraising milestone.

Around the District

Citizens United Rally on Patriot’s Day

Last January, in the Citizens United v. FEC decision, a narrow majority of the United States Supreme Court struck down bipartisan legislation that had limited corporations from spending money on political advertisements during the months preceding an election. The Court overruled two of its own precedents and reversed law that had stood for decades. The decision also invalidated similar provisions of state law across the country, including a provision of Massachusetts law that had been in place since the beginning of the last century. Now, for-profit corporations may spend unlimited amounts to influence elections at all levels of government.

 The potential aftermath of this court decision the most important challenge facing American politics today. It engages democracy at its core. In response, I am cosponsoring a resolution that Senator James Eldridge (D-Acton) filed in the Massachusetts Legislature calling on Congress to reverse the decision with an amendment to the federal Constitution that clarifies that freedom of speech and other constitutional rights are rights of people, not corporations.  To raise local awareness, Senator Eldridge and I held a rally on Patriots Day, Monday, April 18 on the Grounds of the Minute Man National Historic Park headquarters overlooking the North Bridge and the Concord River. 

 Homelessness Forum 

On Sunday, March 6 I attended the Seventh Annual Ending Homelessness Forum. Attendees learned of the successes, innovations, and future growth plans of the regional pilot network programs, which focus on avoiding family homelessness through prevention and also rapid re-housing of families from shelters. Tina Brooks, the co-leader of the Massachusetts Commission to End Homelessness, was the keynote speaker, and I followed her remarks.

 MMA Legislative Breakfast

On Friday, March 11 I attended the Massachusetts Municipal Association (MMA) Spring 2011 Local Government Legislative Breakfast Meeting at the Chelmsford Police Station. The meeting brought together municipal officials and legislators to discuss the state budget and other issues affecting cities and towns. The meeting occurred as legislators begin the 2011-2012 legislative session and prepare the fiscal 2012 state budget. Local officials were urged to take advantage of this opportunity to discuss the challenges they face, what solutions they might employ, and what can be done collaboratively to enhance quality of life for residents.

Blanding’s Turtle Disney Planet Challenge

On Monday, March 14 Ms. Erickson’s fourth grade class from Thoreau Elementary School joined me to record a Concord Carlisle television show. The class has created an awareness campaign to save Blanding’s turtle, a threatened species. They have been awarded second place in the Disney Planet Challenge for their outstanding work.

Meals on Wheels

On Monday, March 28 I delivered meals on wheels to Acton residents through Minuteman Senior Services and the Acton Senior Center.

Clean Technology and Green Jobs 

On Thursday, April 7 I sponsored a green jobs forum with State Senator Jamie Eldridge and Representative Jen Benson. Associate Professor Joel Ticker from UMass Lowell spoke about ” Clean Technology and Green Jobs: What is it and Where are they?” at the Acton Public Safety Facility. He works in the Department of Community Health and Sustainability and is the Director of the Lowell Center for Sustainable Production’s Chemicals Policy Initiative.

Chelmsford Community Read-In

On April 14 I celebrated Chelmsford community read-in week. I read to Mrs. Winterson’s second grade class at South Row Elementary School. It was a privilege to be a part of this educational week encouraging readers of all ages.

Financial Literacy in School Curriculum

On Thursday, May 5 a briefing was held relative to ten bills that have been filed this legislative session with the intention of incorporating financial education into the public school curriculum. Speakers at the briefing included Rep. Tom Stanley of Waltham, Margaret Miley of the Massachusetts Education Collaborative, Robert Amara of Massachusetts Asset Building, Andrea Levere of the Corporation for Enterprise Development, and Leanne Martin from the Office of State Treasurer Steve Grossman.  

Carlisle Conservation Coffee

On Tuesday, May 10 I spoke with Carlisle residents at a morning conservation coffee about topics ranging from budgets for environmental agencies and use of Community Preservation Act funds to state legislative redistricting.  I noted that the House budget for Fiscal Year 2012 includes 6.5 percent less funding for the environment than the final Fiscal Year 2011 budget.  In spite of the overall reduction, the Department of Environmental Protection would receive $1.4 million more than in the current year.  The House budget also reestablishes dedicated funding for the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program in the amount of $4.4 million and provides dedicated support for the Toxics Use Reduction Institute at UMass Lowell.  It also increases funding for the Buy Local program for fruits and vegetables and gives slight increases to the Departments of Conservation and Recreation and Fish and Game.

Local Celebrations

Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court

Congratulations to Carlisle resident Barbara Lenk on her nomination to the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court. Ms. Lenk has been committed to the Massachusetts judiciary for nearly two decades. She will make an excellent addition to the court.

2011 Unsung Heroines

Congratulations to Ruth Lauer of Concord and Lauren Rosenzweig-Morton of Acton for being selected by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women as two of the 100 Massachusetts Unsung Heroines of 2011. They have tirelessly served their communities for years, and I sincerely thank them for all their contributions.

Carlisle School Groundbreaking

Congratulations to the Carlisle School for the groundbreaking ceremony that took place on Tuesday, May 3. Katherine Craven, Executive Director of the Massachusetts School Building Authority, put it best when she said, “we will soon deliver a big check . . . for $6.9 million.” Great work everyone!

Third Middlesex Area Democrats Brunch

Congratulations to Carlisle’s Ken Deitch, Chelmsford’s Angelo Taranto, and Concord’s Annabelle Shepherd for being honored at the Third Middlesex Area Democrats brunch on Saturday. They were recognized for their efforts to ensure rights and security for all people. The honorees are chosen by their town Democratic committees and do not have to be members of the committee to be honored.  

Center for Parents and Teachers, Inc.

The Center for Parent and Teachers, Inc in Concord hosts wonderful programming for parents and teachers geared towards all age groups of children. From a smooth transition into kindergarten to bullying to relationships, our students rely on their adult leadership for guidance. Many of the workshops are free, though some have a small fee. Check out their website at www.centerforparentsandteachers.org for a full listing of classes.

Chelmsford Water District Award

The Chelmsford Water District has been recognized by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and the federal Environmental Protection Agency for its innovation and commitment to energy management.  The solar photovoltaic panels which generate enough annual electricity to offset 844,680 pounds of carbon dioxide will provide approximately half of the power for the water treatment facility. The Chelmsford Water District’s array is the largest ground-mounted array in Massachusetts.  The award recognizes Chelmsford as a leader in sustainability and energy efficiency in the Commonwealth.  The Town of Chelmsford has taken the Patrick-Murray Administration seriously in their commitment to energy management and has set an example for both the Commonwealth and the nation.

Concord Water District Award

The Concord Water District has won a public water system award for excellence from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection in the category of medium and large community systems.  MassDEP presents awards to the top 5 percent of public water districts in the Commonwealth. Districts earn points for energy conservation, water management, and emergency response.  Concord has won a number of awards for its excellent water district in the past, though this is the first year it has won this specific award.

Office Interns

It was a pleasure having Amanda Milad, a graduating senior from Simmons College intern, in our office this spring.  She earned a Barbara Lee Family Foundation Fellowship.  The goal of the fellowship program is to encourage more women to enter politics. Amanda contributed significantly to the daily operation of our office.  For female elected officials, it is a blessing to have qualified, driven interns in our offices.  Historically female legislators have had fewer staff in their offices than their male counterparts.  The Barbara Lee Family Foundation fellows give us a much-needed supplement to our staff.  Amanda will be working for my campaign committee during the early summer months. Additionally, my office benefited from having Nirali Patel, a graduating senior from Acton-Boxborough Regional High School, who worked full time in our office for three weeks during the month of May and received full academic credit from Acton-Boxborough Regional High School.  I thank them both for their hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm.

Get Involved!

Revolution Boston

Tired of conservative radio shows? Want to her your ideas discussed on air? Revolution Boston 1510AM is a new progressive radio station featuring programming focused on political issues ranging from health care to the environment. The station serves as a platform for voices of progress in the Commonwealth. Let’s work together to support Revolution Boston. If you would like to advertise on Revolution Boston or support the programming of this new station, please contact Sarah Billingsely at sara@revolutionboston.com .

Unclaimed Property

A number of you may have received letters from my office on behalf of State Treasurer Steve Grossman’s Unclaimed Property Division. Each year the Commonwealth takes possession of unclaimed property which includes cash, forgotten savings and checking accounts, uncashed checks, insurance policy proceeds, stocks, dividends, and contents of abandoned safe deposit boxes. Most accounts are considered “abandoned” and turned over to the Treasury after three years because people either forgot about them, moved without notification, or for some other minor reason. If you received a letter, please contact the Department of the State Treasurer to reclaim your property!

Women’s Caucus Newsletter Spring 2011

I wanted to take a moment to touch base and give you a preview of the coming year.

The 2011-2012 legislative session began on January 5, and I look forward to working with 38 new members of the House of Representatives. Of the 200 members of the House and Senate, forty-seven women legislators took office on January 5. This session I have the pleasure of continuing to serve as the Vice Chair of the House Rules Committee. In addition, I will be serving as the new House Chair of the Caucus of Women Legislators, and I will continue to be an active member of the Biotechnology Caucus. Finally, I look forward to working on education, economic development, and government reform issues. If you have any ideas or questions about government, please call me at 617-722-2692 or email me at cory.atkins@mahouse.gov.

A very happy and healthy new year to you and your family,

Cory Atkins

FINISHING UP 2010

Concord Carlisle Parents Initiative (CCPI)

In December 2010 I had the privilege of attending a Concord Carlisle Parents Initiative (CCPI) meeting. CCPI is a coalition of parents, educators, and community members that promotes the well-being of students in the Concord-Carlisle community by fostering a positive environment for youth. The main focus of CCPI is health promotion and the prevention of youth risk-taking behaviors. CCPI accomplishes this goal through partnership with the schools and other community groups and by offering parent education programs. CCPI is also the parent advisory group to the Superintendent’s Community Advisory Council on Student Health. Membership in CCPI is open to anyone interested in working within the schools and towns on programs that support positive youth development. CCPI meets either the third or fourth Wednesday of the month at 9:30 A.M. Upcoming meetings include: February 23, March 16, April 27, and May 18 in the Trustees Room or Downstairs Conference Room of the Concord Main Public Library. All are welcome. For more information and list of upcoming programs, visit www.ccpionline.org .

Organ and Tissue Donations through the Registry of Motor Vehicles

Registry of Motor Vehicle (RMV) internet customers will be able to contribute to a new Organ and Tissue Donor Registration Fund when they renew or request a duplicate of their license and Mass ID online. The fund was created by legislation that I helped to pass earlier in the year. It is designed to help increase donor registration rates and build greater awareness of the need for organ and tissue donation. The fund will be administered by a nine-member advisory council that will coordinate organ and tissue donation and transplantation in Massachusetts and develop strategies to increase registrations and contributions to the fund. Even though more than 2.2 million RMV customers are enrolled donors, Massachusetts lags behind a number of other states where more than half of the driving population is registered as organ and tissue donors. There are currently 110,000 people nationally and 2,945 in Massachusetts waiting for a life saving organ transplant, and one new name is added to that waiting list every 11 minutes. Over the last two years, the RMV launched online organ and tissue enrollment as one of 18 new internet transactions available at www.mass.gov/rmv. For transportation news and updates, visit MassDOT website at www.mass.gov/massdot .

Recovery Act Impact on Massachusetts

As we enter into another difficult legislative session, it is important to recognize the effects that federal stimulus, and in particular, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) are having on the Commonwealth. Much of the assistance that Massachusetts is receiving is directed towards continuing to provide many citizens with the resources needed to provide for themselves, families, and communities.

As of December 31, 2010, $3.79 billion has been spent on direct benefits (Unemployment Insurance, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Medicaid, and other Safety Net Programs) while $1.72 billion has been spent on programs and infrastructure projects through state agencies. Over six thousand jobs have been funded by ARRA reported to the federal government between October 1 and December 31, 2010 with an additional 815 jobs not subject to federal reporting, for a total of 7,005 jobs for the quarter for an estimated employment impact of 31,613 (21,075 direct and 10,538 indirect). Over 71,000 individuals received an ARRA funded paycheck between February 17, 2009 and December 31, 2010.

A FRESH START FOR 2011

Meet my new grandson, William Atkins!

Cory and William

William “Will” Stewart Atkins was born at 9:32 P.M. on February 10, 2011, my birthday! He weighed 7 pounds 15 ounces.

Local Aid and Education Funding

Gov. Deval Patrick addressed mayors, educators and other officials on Friday, February 4 at the Gateway Cities Education Summit in Worcester. In his address he said that Massachusetts leads the nation in a variety of categories, including student achievement, health care coverage, clean energy initiatives, and veterans’ services. The Governor listed investment in education as one of the reasons Massachusetts is recovering from economic recession. He said his fiscal year 2012 budget proposal funds K-12 education at the highest level in the history of the Commonwealth and singled out the plan’s $3.9 billion for Chapter 70 funding, $213 million for special education circuit breaker programs, and other line items as commitments his administration is making to education.

On Wednesday, February 16 the House and Senate Ways and Means Committees hosted the first of many hearings on Gov. Deval Patrick’s $30.5 billion budget proposal. This hearing featured testimony from the Executive Office of Administration and Finance, constitutional officers and the Office of Campaign and Political Finance. The House will file its budget in April.

LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

Citizens United

In January 2010 the United States Supreme Court issued a harmful decision, Citizens United v. Federal Elections Commission, which allows corporations to spend unlimited amounts of money on political campaigns. I am deeply concerned about the corrosive effect of corporate money in politics, and so I am proud to have joined Senator Jamie Eldridge of Acton and Rep. Bill Straus of Mattapoisett in filing legislation that would limit the scope of corporations’ involvement in Massachusetts political campaigns. We won an early victory in the FY11 budget, passing a piece of the bill as an amendment. CEOs are now required to appear in person in the ads their companies pay for in Massachusetts, to take credit for the ad, and to inform the public that they “approved the message.” The remainder of the bill has been filed this session.

Gas Leaks

Currently, the Commonwealth’s natural gas pipeline infrastructure has more than 20,000 known leaks contributing to more than 8 billion cubic feet of annual unaccounted for natural gas. Awareness of this problem tends to come into sharp focus around the public safety hazard most apparent when fires occur or buildings explode, as was the case in Philadelphia last week, killing a 19 year old utility worker and injuring a firefighter and several other utility workers. These cases are often tragic and high profile, but the situation deserves our attention before a crisis occurs and for reasons beyond public safety. Unfortunately, industry does not focus enough resources to upgrading and replacing our aging natural gas pipeline infrastructure. By cosponsoring four hazardous natural gas leaks bills, I hope to draw attention to the growing problem of natural gas pipeline infrastructure maintenance and compel repair.

Young Voter Efforts

One way to encourage voter participation is to help make sure that all people are registered to vote when they turn 18. Pre-registration seeks to allow 16½ and 17 year-olds to pre-register to vote so when they turn 18 they are immediately added to the voting rolls. Pre-registrants would be placed in the pending status in the Central Voter Registry and appear on voter rolls when they turn 18. The bill would not change the voting age. Instead, it would create a uniform voter registration age. Pre-registration would save money by cutting the number of last-minute registrations at the deadline and reducing the need for costly temporary staff before Election Day. It would also save money by fixing a defect in the Motor Voter Law. Presently, many youth register to vote before they are eligible and their registrations are kicked out by the system. This inefficiency creates a bad experience for new voters and wastes administrative resources. The Massachusetts Central Voter Registry already has a pending queue that pre-registrants could be entered into, so that upon their 18th birthday they can be automatically added to the voter rolls.

Cell Phone Use in a Car

In February 2010, the House of Representatives voted in favor of legislation that would have disallowed cell phone use while driving unless the driver used a hands-free device. The final bill banned text-messaging while driving, prohibited junior operators from using cell phones, instituted new license renewal procedures for mature drivers, and required any driver age 75 or older to renew their license in person at an RMV branch or office location and undergo a vision test every five years. However, the final bill did not require the use of hands-free devices for drivers over age 18 who talk on their cell phones while driving. My bill would amend the current law so that no person would be able to drive while using a cell phone unless the phone is hands free. California and New York passed similar hands-free cell phone bills and have seen significant declines in the number of distracted-driving accidents. Getting people’s hands off their phones and onto their steering wheels will save lives by making our roads safer.

An Act Relative to the Sales Tax

This bill would remove junk foods from the list of goods that are exempt from the sales tax. I support the existing sales tax exemptions on groceries and clothing, but I believe it is wrong to offer incentives for the purchase of candy, soda, and other sugary foods and drinks that are not necessary for a balanced diet.

RECENT STATE HOUSE EVENTS

Annual Go Red for Women: American Heart/American Stroke Association and the Women’s Legislative Caucus

Representative Cory Atkins (D-Concord, podium) speaks before her fellow legislators in support of Go Red For Women on February 3rd at the Massachusetts State House. Go Red For Women is the American Heart Association’s campaign to raise awareness among women about heart disease, which kills one woman a minute. In fact, heart disease kills more women than the next four leading causes of death combined—including all forms of cancer.

As the new House chair of the Caucus of Women Legislators, I had the opportunity to introduce my colleagues, Senate President Therese Murray Speaker Robert DeLeo, and the Senate chair of Caucus of Women Legislators, Senator Karen Spilka at this year’s annual Go Red For Women event. The event is the American Heart Association’s campaign to raise awareness among women about heart disease, which kills one woman a minute. I also welcomed American Heart Association volunteer, Dr. Maya Yiodum, and heart survivor, Gail Canty Ioven who shared moving testimonies of heart disease’s impact on women. Heart disease kills more women than the next four leading causes of death combined—including all forms of cancer.

Women’s Caucus

This week the Caucus of Women Legislators introduced our new Executive Director, Susan Wojtas, to the State House. Susan worked as a legislative aide for Representative Nicholas Buglione for a number of years. Since then, she has worked as a legislative agent with McDermott/O’Neill, a legislative assistant for the City of Boston, as the director of alumni relations at Merrimack College, and most recently as the deputy director of the Legislative Education Office, which was eliminated last year due to budget cuts. She is a graduate of Merrimack College and received her MBA from Bentley College. We are pleased to have such a qualified candidate coordinating the caucus’ affairs.

Additionally, the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women is seeking nominations for their annual Unsung Heroine event, a celebration of 100 Massachusetts women who make a difference in their neighborhoods, cities, and towns. Click here for a nomination form.

Plan To Reduce Unemployment Insurance Rate Hike Heading to Governor’s Desk

On February 16 I voted in favor of a bill to limit an unemployment insurance rate hike on employers to $61 per worker. The bill is now on Governor Patrick’s desk. The Governor has indicated he supports the proposal, which would prevent the rate from rising by $228 per employee. The proposal passed unanimously in both branches. My colleagues and I hope the move will spur businesses to maintain and create jobs with the estimated $500 million they will collectively save by staving off a larger rate increase. House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Rep. Brian Dempsey said lawmakers are mindful of the importance of maintaining the unemployment insurance trust fund’s solvency and said recent claims data shows pressure on claims has diminished lately. The Senate passed the plan 36-0.

Entry Level Civil Service Examination

The recruitment campaign now under way for the upcoming entry-level Civil Service Examination for Police Officer, cities and towns and Transit Police Officer, and Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). The examination will be held on Saturday, April 30, 2011. Contact: Ken Gavin, Recruitment Manager, at (617) 878-9750 or e-mail KGavin@hrd.state.ma.us .

TechNet Forum to discuss policy issues impacting the technology industry

Technology continues to be of utmost importance as a political tool and a way to serve the community. On Wednesday, February 9, I attended TechNet’s Forum for New Legislators. Representatives from Dell, Facebook, Cisco, EMC, EnerNOC, WGBH and MassChallenge shared information about their respective technology companies. EMC and Cisco continue to be leaders in Massachusetts employment as well as EnerNOC, and WGBH. New England community relations manager of Cisco, Rich Powers said, “Massachusetts has proven itself as a hotbed of talent.” All the companies support the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) initiative program which works to provide resources and mentoring for students to increase technology brainpower in the Commonwealth. My good friend and colleague, the newly appointed House Speaker Pro Tem Patricia Haddad borrowed a phrase from me when she offered the introduction. Read the State House News Coverage here.

Homes for Families Hosts Annual Cookie Day to Support Massachusetts Rental Vouchers Program

On Tuesday, February 15 I joined fellow legislators along with shelter providers, and advocates to support the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP). This program allows for people on the brink of homelessness to stay in their homes and provide for their families. State Representatives Gloria Fox, George Ross, and Kevin Honan spoke about the importance of keeping families in their homes. Families who had benefited from MRVP gave testimonies about the emotional and physical benefits their children experienced from staying in their homes.

Unfunded Municipal Health Care Liabilities

The Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation released a “first of its kind” report on unfunded liabilities cities and towns are carrying on health care benefits for municipal retirees on Tuesday, February 15. “The unfunded liabilities are larger than the unfunded pension liabilities for these cities and towns. The cities and towns are taking on obligations they can’t pay for, so something has to give,” foundation president Michael Widmer told the News Service. “They can’t run away from the obligations forever. They either risk the finances of cities and towns or they have to cut deeper and deeper into services.” The report will examine the 50 largest cities and towns in Massachusetts, Widmer said, adding that all of them face major liabilities that are continuing to grow with no schedule to pay them down.

Elder Abuse

On Wednesday, February 16 Senator Katherine Clark and Rep. Paul Brodeur hosted a forum on elder abuse to discuss “risks facing elder constituents” and services to support them. Middlesex County District Attorney Gerald Leone, Mass Home Care Executive Director Al Norman, and Mystic Valley Elder Services executive director Dan O’Leary, and Marian Ryan, general counsel to the Middlesex DA also spoke.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Transportation Equity Forum, Boston Region’s Long-Range Transportation Plan, Paths to a Sustainable Region, February 23 from 5:30-7:30 P.M. Boston Public Library, Boston Room, 700 Boylston Street.

On March 5, from 9:00 A.M. to 2:00 P. M. at the Willard School, Sustainable Concord, in collaboration with ConcordCAN and the Concord Public Schools organized a forum called “Getting to Green: Building Sustainable Community.” The keynote speaker will be Professor Halina Brown of Clark University. Come participate in a lively, community-building event and help develop a shared vision of Concord’s future. Find out what Concord’s school kids are thinking about “getting to green.” Network with residents, Town officials, environmental activists, and business people, who are all working to create a sustainable community. Watch for details coming soon. For more information now, Contact Morwen@earthdrum.com .

Family homelessness remains a severe crisis in Massachusetts with record high foreclosures and layoffs. Over 33,000 families in housing crisis applied for emergency shelter last year. Tina Brooks, Co-Leader, Massachusetts Commission to End Homelessness, will be the keynote speaker at the seventh annual forum of the Advocacy Network to End Family Homelessness, on Sunday, March 6 at Trinitarian Congregational Church, 54 Walden St., Concord, from 3:00 to 5:00 P.M. Attendees will learn of the successes, innovations, and future growth plans of the regional pilot network programs, which focus on avoiding family homelessness through prevention and also rapid re-housing of families from shelters. The forum is free and open to all.

Middlesex County Chiefs of Police Association’s Legislative Breakfast, March 8 from 8:30 A.M. to 10:30 A.M. at Montvale Plaza, 54 Montvale Ave in Stoneham.

Massachusetts Municipal Association Spring 2011 Local Government Legislative Breakfast Meeting, March 11 from 8:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M. at the Chelmsford Police Station Community Training Room, 2 Olde North Road, Chelmsford.

As we welcome the warm days and cool nights of September we send our best wishes to those entering a new school year. The 2009-2010 legislative session has ended, and I am happy to report that the legislature passed a variety of important bills that the governor has signed into law. One new law helps to avert foreclosures by giving lenders and homeowners more opportunities to resolve back payments. Other new laws reform the state pension system, strengthen the ethics commission, and consolidate state transportation agencies. I am proud of the work that my colleagues and I did on these new laws, and I look forward to continuing unfinished work next session. Next session I hope to work on a bill to allow municipalities the autonomy to control more costs, and I hope the legislature can pass another bill to help further contain the costs of health care for small businesses.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call my office at 617-722-2692 or email me at Cory.Aktins@mahouse.gov .

Sincerely,

Cory Atkins

Funding for Education

I am proud to report that Massachusetts is currently funding public schools at a higher level than ever before. This is due in part to new federal funding. In August our state received $204 million in federal funding to pay teacher salaries, and we won $250 million in the federal Race to the Top competition. Our state has a reputation for having the best schools in the country, and this new funding will help to maintain our excellent schools.

Local Schools Receive High Ratings

I sincerely commend the citizens of our communities for their commitment to education. They are getting what they pay for every time they vote to pass an override, and it shows. Acton-Boxborough Public Schools were rated the second best small city public school system for places in the county with populations between 10,000 and 100,000 by GreatSchools, a national nonprofit whose mission is to inspire and guide parents to become effective champions of their children’s education at home and in their communities. In addition, Boston magazine named Concord-Carlisle High School the fifth best public high school in Massachusetts in its September 2010 issue.

Economic Development

In July the legislature passed an economic development bill that established a sales tax holiday on August 14 and 15 to encourage consumers to shop at local businesses across the state. The new law will help streamline state agencies that play a role in attracting business to Massachusetts by consolidating the agencies into a Massachusetts Marketing Partnership. It will make the commonwealth more attractive to businesses by offering the third lowest long-term capital gains tax in the nation. Finally, with each new gubernatorial administration and the help of key stakeholders appointed to an advisory council, the Secretary of Housing and Economic Development will be required to develop a long-term economic development plan for the commonwealth.

Small Business Health Care

The legislature passed a small business health care bill that seeks to reduce small business health insurance costs and promote job retention and job creation. The bill reduced premium fluctuations in the market and requires insurers to offer affordable health plans. The legislation also delivers an estimated premium relief of at least 10 percent that small businesses can save and reinvest in their operations and workforce. It also establishes standardized transparency measures for provider pricing and annual public reporting, which will decrease marketplace ambiguity and collect important financial information for ongoing policy discussions about long-term system reform.

Foreclosure Prevention

In July the legislature passed a bill to prevent foreclosures. If a landlord goes into foreclosure, the lender cannot evict tenants without giving them the opportunity to pay rent first. The bill increases the “right to cure” period, which is the length of time homeowners have to negotiate terms of payment with lenders before a foreclosure proceeds. The bill also exempts charitable organizations from paying property taxes for seven years, if they purchase a building in order to turn it into affordable housing.

Homelessness Prevention

One of my top budget priorities every year is the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program. This program subsidizes rents for low-income working families, seniors, disabled people, and other people facing housing uncertainty in order to forestall homelessness. In his response to the legislature’s budget, Governor Patrick employed a budgetary maneuver that was tantamount to a $2.7 million cut. Luckily, my colleagues in the House joined me in overriding the governor’s veto, and so we restored full funding to the program. Given the poor economy, it is vital that we do everything we can to prevent homelessness. On a similar note, Concord Housing Authority recently received $103,350 in stimulus money for Heating Systems.

Reforming Criminal Records

I am proud of the work my colleagues and I did to reform the Criminal Offender Record Information system. We passed a bill that protects public safety, widens access to criminal records while they are available, and seals the records of felonies after 10 years and misdemeanors after five years as long as the person has not reoffended. This bill protects public safety by reducing recidivism and helps former offenders by making it easier for them to find jobs.

Wine at Farmers’ Markets

Under a new economic development bill that the legislature passed in July, Massachusetts wineries will be permitted to set up and sell locally produced wines alongside other agricultural products. Farmers’ markets can now apply for a liquor license from the city or town they are operating and enforce underage drinking laws as any restaurant, bar or package store would. Farm wineries will see a tremendous benefit by having a new sales opportunity for their local products, and the new law will boost the 39 farm wineries and over 200 farmers’ markets in the commonwealth. Similarly, there is currently a pilot program being conducted for the sale of shellfish at farmers’ markets.

Encouraging Farming

The new economic development bill also exempts farms of 2 acres or more that produce at least $1,000 per acre annually from local zoning requirements for agricultural uses. By doing so, the legislature formally recognized the food production capacity and agricultural importance of small plots of land. Prior to the passage of this bill, the law only extended such protections to farms of 5 acres or more.

New Food Policy Council

Over the last two years American Farmland Trust has worked closely with a group of organizations, now the Massachusetts Food Policy Alliance, to advocate for the creation of a statewide food policy council. This session the legislature passed H.4568, which establishes a 17-member council to advance food system goals, including increased production and consumption of Massachusetts-grown foods and the protection of the land and water resources needed for local food production.

Special Farming Commission

This session I cosponsored a bill to create a community farming commission, and I expect it will be re-filed next year. This commission would make recommendations to promote community farming and enhance the state’s agricultural economy. It would seek to improve the health of the citizens of Massachusetts by promoting fresh and locally-produced food and expanding their availability through community farms. The commission would also seek to promote environmental sustainability in the food system, help protect farmland, and encourage the growth of community farming.

Banning Novelty Lighters

The legislature also passed a law this session to ban the use and sale of novelty lighters. These lighters look and sound like toys, and so children are inclined play with them. Fire officials have long warned of the danger of these lighters, and so I am glad to have joined my colleagues in passing this important public safety measure. The law will not apply to collectible lighters made prior to 1980, nor will it apply to standard disposable lighters with artwork or designs on them.

Environmental Priorities for Next Session

Next session I look forward to continuing to fight for bills to protect our environment. First, I will support the e-waste bill, which would hold electronics manufacturers responsible for the proper disposal of their products after consumers discard them. Second, I will support the safer alternatives bill, which will reduce the use of toxic chemicals in the manufacture everyday objects such as shower curtains, baby bottles, and clothing. Third, I will support the expanded bottle bill, which will apply the 5 cent deposit to water and sport drinks in addition to beer and soda.

Asian Longhorned Beetle

Two years ago an infestation of Asian longhorned beetles was discovered in Worcester. These invasive insects destroy hardwood trees, decimating public parks and forests. Earlier this summer, the beetle was discovered in trees in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood of Boston, raising the concern that the beetle may have spread. The beetle bores small, round holes into tree trunks. If you spot a beetle or evidence of a beetle, please report it so that forestry officials can work to prevent its spread. For more information please visit http://www.mass.gov/agr/alb.htm .

Concord’s 375th Anniversary

On September 11 and 12 the town of Concord will celebrate its 375th anniversary. I would like to invite you and your family to join me and the Concord 375th Birthday Celebration Committee as we commemorate this historic occasion. There will be a parade, a dance, music, and fireworks. For more information, please visit http://concord375.org/home.html .

New Acton MBTA Shuttle

On September 7 Acton opened a new parking lot at the West Acton Fire Station for people taking the train into Boston. The town also inaugurated a new shuttle bus to take commuters from the parking lot to the station. The town hopes to open additional satellite parking lots that would also be served by the shuttle bus. This new parking system will save people the hassle, expense, and environmental impact of driving their cars by allowing more people to ride the train into Boston.

Veterans Services

Dr. Joseph Fitzpatrick of Acton Chiropractic and Rehab is offering free chiropractic consultation and treatment to active duty members of the armed forces for one year after they return from Iraq or Afghanistan. I am appreciative of Dr. Fitzpatrick for helping to thank our soldiers and sailors after they return home from war.

Children’s Autism Waiver Program

This session the legislature passed an autism insurance bill that requires health insurance companies to cover the diagnosis of and treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders. When the bill was first introduced, my main concern was cost. I was hesitant to support the measure because I knew that insurers would raise premiums if they were required to cover additional services. Consumers and small business owners already pay exorbitant prices for health care, and I did not want to see these costs escalate further. However, a study by the state Division of Health Care Finance and Policy found that adding autism coverage would cause the annual claim cost per person to rise approximately $1.84 per member per month. I realized this is an investment that we cannot afford to forgo. Estimates indicate that lifetime care relating to autism costs approximately $3.2 million. This cumulative cost is a financial burden not just on families, but also on the Commonwealth’s early intervention services. Requiring coverage for autism treatment will relieve a burden to families and to state services. In addition, to help soften the financial impact, a provision was added to the original bill that will allow an insurer to drop the new autism coverage for three years if its overall insurance costs rise by more than one percent per year. The bill also exempts insurers from paying for in-school services.

Currently the Department of Developmental Services is conducting a new application process for parents of young children with autism to apply for the Children’s Autism Waiver Program. Applications are due between September 20th and October 1st. Information and applications can be found at http://www.mass.gov/dds.

Volunteer Opportunities with Stipends

Minuteman Senior Services is partnering with Governor Patrick’s Commonwealth Corps initiative and the Massachusetts Service Alliance in a 10 month grant funded project to engage Massachusetts residents of all ages and backgrounds in capacity building service opportunities that address issues in the lives of seniors. Service involves a 43 week commitment for 10 to 20 hours per week beginning on October 4, 2010. Corp members receive a bi-weekly stipend, a completion bonus, and the opportunity to learn and contribute at a vibrant agency serving 16 communities. The program is currently interviewing candidates with project management skills who can assist with fundraising, strategic planning initiatives, and volunteer/employee engagement projects. They are looking for people with a sincere desire to serve, a willingness to share experience and expertise gained from a record of achievement, computer proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel, and internet access. For more information, see http://www.minutemansenior.org/CommonwealthCorps.html .

Save the Date – Citizens United Rally on October 16

In January the United States Supreme Court issued a decision in Citizens United v. Federal Elections Commission that allows corporations to spend unlimited amounts of money on political campaigns. I am deeply concerned about the corrosive effect of corporate money in politics, and so I am proud to have joined Senator Jamie Eldridge of Acton and Rep. Bill Straus of Mattapoisett in filing legislation earlier this year that would limit the scope of corporations’ involvement in Massachusetts political campaigns. In order to draw attention to this cause, Senator Eldridge, Representative Benson, and I plan to host a rally at the Old North Bridge in Concord on Saturday, October 16. I will send more information as the event draws nearer.

As the 2010 legislative session draws to a close I have been working on important bills at the State House, and I have been attending a variety of events in my district. The governor signed the annual state budget, the legislature passed a new law increasing safety for all-terrain vehicle riders, the lieutenant governor announced new funding for the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, and Concord will soon have more affordable housing options. I hope you and your families find time to enjoy the glorious summer weather. As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call my office at 617-722-2692.

Sincerely,

Cory Atkins

State Budget

On June 30 Governor Deval Patrick signed the annual state budget. The budget was balanced and on time, but the process this year was excruciating. The recession has led to lower state revenue, requiring cuts across the budget. However, I am glad that the budget still includes significant amounts of local aid to towns and school districts. Local aid helps to pay for teachers, firefighters, police officers, and road maintenance, and it diversifies towns’ and schools’ revenue sources so that they do not have to rely solely on property taxes.

National Popular Vote

In early June my colleagues and I voted to have Massachusetts join the National Popular Vote compact. This bill proposes that the president of the United States be elected by the total vote of the people rather than by the electoral college, but it would only go into effect if states that represent a majority of the electoral votes agree to it. If the Senate passes the bill and the Governor signs it, Massachusetts would become the sixth state to join this agreement.

Bruce Freeman Rail Trail

Work continues on the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, a fifteen mile biking and walking path from Lowell to Framingham that will traverse all four towns in my district. Phase 1, from Lowell to Chelmsford and Westford, opened last summer, and planning is underway for Phase 2, which will go through Acton, Carlisle, and Concord. On June 18 I joined Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray, Senator Jamie Eldridge, and Representative Jen Benson in Acton to announce $931,500 that will be used to design Phase 2. This trail will help to connect our communities by encouraging healthy lifestyles and reducing our dependence on cars.

Road and Trail Safety

At the beginning of this legislative session I filed a bill to ban texting while driving. The House incorporated my bill into a larger bill to increase driver safety, and the governor signed this bill into law on July 2. The bill prohibits all drivers from texting, and it prohibits teenagers under age 18 from talking on a cell phone while driving. On June 9 my colleagues and I passed a bill to increase the safety of all-terrain vehicle riders. The bill prohibits children under age 14 from operating an all-terrain vehicle, and it restricts the engine size of all-terrain vehicles operated by children between the ages of 14 and 16.

Weatherization in Concord

If you live in Concord and you heat your home with gas from National Grid, you may be eligible for free or subsidized services to weatherize your home. The Concord Municipal Light Plant is offering home energy assessments, professional sealing on cracks and leaks, and up to $2000 per household for insulation. For more information please contact Jan Aceti at 978-318-3151 or jaceti@concordma.gov.

Affordable Housing in Concord

I am pleased to announce two exciting new developments for affordable housing in Concord. The first is that the state Department of Housing and Community Development awarded $1 million to the Concord Housing Authority for renovations to the Peter Bulkeley building in Concord Center. This money will help the authority to redesign Peter Bulkeley to better accommodate the needs of the residents. The second is that I successfully sponsored a law to transfer land in West Concord from the Department of Corrections to the Concord Housing Development Corporation. This land transfer will allow for construction of new affordable housing near the West Concord train station, and it will help Concord reach its affordable housing threshold as defined by state law.

Acton and Chelmsford Are Green Communities

In 2008 I voted for the Green Communities Act, which gives cities and towns grant money for becoming more environmentally friendly. On May 25 Governor Patrick announced that Acton and Chelmsford would be two of the first 35 Green Communities statewide. These towns have purchased fuel-efficient municipal vehicles, streamlined permitting for renewable energy projects, and adopted “stretch codes” to require long-term energy efficiency in new construction.

As a State Representative, one of my longstanding priorities has been reforming our government to make it more transparent and more accountable. I am pleased to report that the House of Representatives passed amendments to the annual state budget that will increase the openness and accessibility of the budget process. Taxpayers have a right to know how their money is being spent. This represents a monumental change in government. This amendment creates a website that will list all state expenditures and the names of all vendors who receive state funds. This website will be free and accessible by anyone. Citizens will be able to view and compile data on state expenditures from their own computers. Massachusetts will join 32 other states that provide an online database with in-depth detail on government expenditures.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office at 617-722-2692 or Rep.CoryAtkins@state.ma.us. And if you know anyone who would like to receive my newsletter, please forward it to them and ask them to subscribe on my website.

Sincerely,

Cory Atkins

Citizens United Supreme Court Case

Event at First Parish in Concord

On January 21 the United States Supreme Court handed down a decision in Citizens United v. Federal Elections Commission giving corporations the right to spend unlimited funds on political ads. The decision threatens both the bi-partisan, federal McCain-Feingold Campaign Finance law and the laws of 24 states limiting corporate involvement in state and national elections. Many are concerned about the implications of this decision for the role of corporations in the political process. On May 19 at the Democracy in the Balance Part II forum, I spoke about current efforts in the state legislature to respond to the Supreme Court decision. I will send out more information as we solidify our multi-faceted approach. To get involved locally, contact Launa Zimmaro of the League of Women Voters of Concord-Carlisle at 978-287-4270 or lzimmaro@alum.bu.edu.

Municipal Relief Act

On April 26 the House passed a Municipal Relief Act. This bill gives cities and towns additional flexibility in managing their finances. The bill makes it easier for cities and towns to share emergency services, and it allows them to extend pension funding schedules without reducing benefits. Additionally, the bill lets school districts reimburse parents of disabled children who drive their children to private day programs outside the municipality in which they live. To read more about the House legislation, click here.

In the picture (L to R) are Rep. Will Brownsberger of Belmont, Rep. Katherine Clark of Melrose, Speaker Robert DeLeo of Winthrop, myself, and Rep. Peter Koutoujian of Waltham

Harassment Prevention Orders

My proudest achievement this session has been the passage of An Act Relative to Harassment Prevention Orders. Earlier this year both the House and the Senate passed this bill unanimously, and Governor Patrick signed it into law on February 3. The new law affords victims of abuse or harassment the right to petition for a protection order with criminal consequences regardless of the perpetrator’s relationship to the victim. I felt humbled on April 11 when the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center presented me with their Beacon Award “for outstanding leadership in advancing the rights of sexual violence survivors.”

Bullying prevention

Bullying in schools is nothing new, but the manner in which bullying is conducted has changed dramatically in recent years. Children harass each other through facebook, text messages, and other electronic forums. Harassment has a devastating effect on a child’s ability to learn. On April 29 I joined my colleagues in the House and Senate by voting unanimously in favor of a bill to ban bullying in schools and require teachers and principals to report potentially criminal acts of bullying to the police. Governor Patrick signed the bill into law on May 3. Hopefully this law will create a safer environment for all children.

League of Women Voters Day on the Hill

In the picture are myself and Launa Zimmaro of the Concord-Carlisle League of Women Voters.

The Massachusetts League of Women Voters’ Day on the Hill took place on Wednesday, April 28. While the larger group presentation focused on transportation, league members from my district delivered support letters from Concord Academy students regarding H.3515, An Act to Improve the Recycling Rates in the Commonwealth, also known as the Bottle Bill. This bill would expand the bottle deposit to include a wider range of drink containers, including sports drinks, energy drinks, and bottled water. The bottle bill is currently before the Joint Committee on Telecommunication, Utilities and Energy. The lead sponsor of the bill, Rep. Alice Wolf of Cambridge, filed an amendment to the annual budget that would have enacted the revised Bottle Bill, but this amendment failed. As a co-sponsor of the bill, I encourage you to get involved by contacting my office so that I can illustrate the level of support to both the Chairman of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications Utilities, and Energy and the Speaker of the House.

Gaming in the Commonwealth

On April 14 the House of Representatives passed legislation to expand gambling in Massachusetts by a vote of 120-37. I am pleased to report that two amendments I filed were adopted. The first requires casino security personnel to constantly monitor the parking lots to check for children who may have been left in cars. Security personnel must immediately report abandoned children to the police who are required by law to report to the Department of Social Services. The second amendment relates to gaming facilities’ access to and use of lists of self-excluded persons. People who are concerned about their gambling habits would be able to voluntarily place themselves on a self-exclusion list, and my amendment would prohibit any gaming establishment from marketing in any form to people on the self-excluded list. The Senate has indicated they intend to hold another public hearing before they write their version of the gaming bill. They hope to debate their bill in the upcoming weeks. I urge you to attend the public hearing and voice your concerns. In this newsletter I will notify you when the hearing is scheduled.

In the picture are myself and members of the Concord Water Department.

Concord Water Department wins Water Conservation Award

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) awarded a Water Conservation award to the Concord Water Department. The DEP gives these awards to towns with very well run drinking water systems. Concord is one of four towns statewide to win an award in the Water Conservation category. I attended a ceremony on the Grand Stairs at the State House in Boston on May 4 to recognize Concord and the other award winners.

Raw Milk Regulation Changes

After hearing from residents in my district regarding the legality of raw milk buying clubs, I wrote to the Commissioner of the Department of Agricultural Resources to express my concerns and the concerns of my constituents. On May 7 the department withdrew the language that would have restricted raw milk sales. The department plans to conduct a further review of their policy in the coming months.

Unsung Heroines of Massachusetts

On behalf of our communities, thank you Denise for all your time and energy. In the picture are Denise and myself.

On May 19, the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women hosted its 7th Annual Unsung Heroine Celebration to recognize 100 women who make their communities a better place to live and work without fanfare or compensation. Denise Haartz of Concord was nominated for her extraordinary efforts. She is a Director of the Board at the Louisa May Alcott Orchard House and a member of the Household Goods of Massachusetts “Fun” Committee. Denise also serves on the Executive Board of the Emerson Hospital Auxiliary, the Emerson Hospital Health Care Foundation, and the Emerson Hospital Corporation. In addition, she is the president of a private family foundation that helps nonprofits in Concord and Acton.

I am pleased to present my first email newsletter. I intend to send out periodic updates so you know what is happening at the State House and in Acton, Carlisle, Chelmsford, and Concord. I also recently launched a new website, www.coryatkins.com, which I hope you will visit often. If you know anyone who would like to receive my newsletter, please forward it to them and ask them to subscribe on my website. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office at 617-722-2692 or Rep.CoryAtkins@state.ma.us.

Sincerely,

Cory Atkins

14th Middlesex District

Flooding

If your property was damaged or you have been unable to work as a result of the flooding in March, you may be eligible for assistance. Five Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) opened on Wednesday, April 8 in central and eastern Massachusetts. If you have suffered damages or incurred losses as a result of the March floods, I encourage you to apply to FEMA for disaster assistance. You can apply by telephone, on-line, or in person at a DRC. Information on how to apply for disaster assistance, including phone numbers, web address and locations of the DRCs, can be found at www.mass.gov/mema or from the Federal Emergency Management Agency at 1-800-621-FEMA. If you would like help with the process, please feel free to contact my office.

Stalking

Gov. Deval Patrick receives the signing pen from Sen. Harriette Chandler. Rep. Cory Atkins looks on (far right).

I have been working on legislation to broaden restraining order protections, and I am proud to report that in January my colleagues in the legislature joined me in passing this law unanimously. Previously a person who was being stalked could only obtain a restraining order if the stalker was a family member, roommate, or romantic partner. Many stalkers are mere acquaintances of their victims, and these victims could not seek legal protection. Under the new law, victims can obtain criminally enforceable restraining orders against stalkers regardless of their relationship to the victim. A large number of people from both sides of the aisle and from all different sectors came together to refine this sensitive and complex legislation. I am proud of our collaborative efforts to expand restraining order law and provide much needed protection for victims I thank everyone who made this possible, including former Senator Pam Resor of Acton, and I am delighted that Governor Patrick signed this bill into law on February 9, 2010.

Reacting to Citizens United v. Federal Elections Commission

In January the United States Supreme Court ruled that corporations may spend unlimited amounts of money in order to influence elections. I fear that this decision may jeopardize our democracy by allowing corporations to buy elections. My colleagues and I are currently working on a resolution to ask Congress to address this issue and a bill that would clarify Massachusetts campaign finance law to restrict corporate influence on state elections. If you have thoughts on this issue, please contact my office.

Planning a new train station in South Acton

As part of an ongoing effort to improve the Fitchburg commuter rail line, the MBTA has proposed rebuilding South Acton station. The MBTA originally proposed a system of ramps over the tracks, but residents of South Acton objected to the plan on the grounds that it was unnecessary and inconsistent with the architecture of the neighborhood. A group of residents worked with Representative Jen Benson, Senator Jamie Eldridge, local officials, and myself to convince MBTA officials to rewrite the plan to reflect neighbors’ concerns. I was happy to see so many people engaging in an important local issue, and I am glad that the new station will be built with the input of local residents.

Events in the district

Monday, April 12, 7:00pm: Parent forum on adolescent depression and anxiety, R. J. Grey Junior High School, Acton

Tuesday, April 13: special election in Carlisle to approve expenditures for an addition and renovation to the Carlisle School.

Monday, April 19, 9:00 to 11:00am: Patriots’ Day Parade, Concord Center.

Saturday, April 24: Chelmsford Town-Wide cleanup day

Monday, April 26, 7:00pm: Concord Town Meeting, Concord-Carlisle High School.

Monday, April 26, 7:30pm: Chelmsford Town Meeting, Senior Center, 75 Groton Rd.

Saturday, May 1, 9:00 to 11:30am: Acton household hazardous waste day, DPW garage, 14 Forest Rd.

Monday, May 10: Carlisle Town Meeting