House Minority Leader Brad Jones’ Statement on Massachusetts Surpassing National Unemployment Rate

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to Massachusetts’ unemployment rate of 7.1% - higher than the national jobless rate:

“I join the hardworking taxpayers of Massachusetts in being extremely troubled and discouraged by the Commonwealth’s unemployment rate being higher than the national average.

Democrats on Beacon Hill should not be surprised that their decision to raise taxes and promote job-killing practices, like the State Senate’s extreme measure to raise the state’s minimum wage, has had a detrimental effect on our state’s workforce.

As I said in January, the Legislature’s first-priority this session should have been a concerted effort to promote pro-business legislation aimed at delivering jobs to Massachusetts. A focus on reforming the current paradigm of unemployment insurance would be a great catalyst to once again make Massachusetts the business-friendly state that it has the potential to be.”

House Minority Leader Brad Jones: Questioning Department of Children and Families Top-Brass Not Sufficient

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to the recent media reports surrounding the shortcomings of the Department of Children and Families:

“Before we focus on how best to approach and permanently correct the continued shortcomings of the Department of Children and Families (DCF), our state resources need to be focused on locating young Jeremiah.

With that being said, it is hard to ignore the recent inadequacies of DCF. The cases brought to light through numerous media accounts are not only cause for extreme concern, but seem to highlight systemic issues within an agency charged with the protection of some of the Commonwealth’s youngest and most vulnerable individuals and families.

While asking the agency’s top brass to perform a top-down review of practices and policies is a necessary first step, the only way to correct DCF’s shortfalls are to ask questions of, and elicit answers from the employees working in the field. A large majority of these employees are dedicated public servants and our efforts will benefit from their accounts from the front lines.

Upon the return of Jeremiah to his loved ones, I will request that DCF management and select caseworkers appear before a House panel and put forth the agency’s current procedures and operating model. Furthermore, it is my intention to ask that Governor Patrick and DCF produce an immediate plan of action to both rectify the current problem within the agency, as well as solutions to work to avoid future detrimental situations.”

House Minority Leader Brad Jones’ Statement on Fiscal Year 2015 Consensus Revenue Estimates

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to Massachusetts’ financial outlook for Fiscal Year 2015:

“Testimony presented at today’s Consensus Revenue Hearing has proven – yet again – the Commonwealth doesn’t have a revenue problem. Economists and think tanks alike all agree that Fiscal Year 2015 will feature a stronger economy, and an even healthier tax revenue intake.

This most recent revenue forecast calls into question whether the tax increases rubber-stamped by legislative Democrats earlier this year were ever needed. As opposed to utilizing a tax-first approach to financing state government, the majority party must begin to exercise true fiscal prudence.

While Democrats cried financial foul when the House Republican Caucus proposed a tax-free transportation proposal, today’s estimates prove that had our alternative financing plan been implemented, the Commonwealth would still have had sufficient means to fund the budget while increasing funding for transportation – all without raising taxes.”

Special Elections – 5th Congressional and 9th Norfolk Districts

In case you forgot, today marks the special election in the 5th Congressional District, and the primary in the 9th Norfolk District.

In the race Congress, Republican Frank Addivinola is facing off against Democrat, and current State Senator, Katherine Clark. This race is for the seat left vacant when Congressman Ed Markey of Malden resigned after winning a special election for United State Senate.

The second special election contest being held today is in the 9th Norfolk District for the seat vacated by Representative Dan Winslow. On the Republican side, Shawn Dooley is running unopposed. On the other side of the ticket, Democrat Edward McCormick is also running unopposed. The victors of the Republican and Democratic primary will face off in the general election against Independent Chris Timson.

To find out where you vote, please click here.

Pearl Harbor Rememberance Day

Seventy-two years ago today, the American Army and Navy base in Pearl Harbor was attacked by the Imperial Japanese Navy. More than 2,000 Americans were killed and another 1,000 were injured.

Today, on December 7th, we remember and honor those military men and women who lost their lives on that Sunday morning many years ago.

On this Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, all of us here at The Capitol View Live want to offer our sincere gratitude and appreciation to the service men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice. We thank you and we continue to honor you.

Small Business Saturday

Free shipping, early bird specials, 50% off! By now everyone has seen the advertisements promoting Black Friday and Cyber Monday (and in some cases, Thanksgiving Day sales!), but not everyone is aware of a lesser known event – Small Business Saturday.

Now in its fourth year, Small Business Saturday takes place the Saturday after Thanksgiving and was created to encourage holiday shoppers to patronize small and local brick and mortar businesses. This year, Small Business Saturday is Saturday, November 30.

The small businesses in our communities create jobs and stimulate the local and national economies, yet often have to compete with online stores and chains for business. When we shop small, we not only get great service and products, but we are supporting the fabric of our communities and building relationships.

This weekend, avoid the crowds and lines at the mall and big-box stores and head to “Main Street” in your community and shop small!

Happy Thanksgiving

From all of us here at The Capitol View, we hope you and your loved ones have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

We also ask that you please remember to keep the men and women of our Armed Forces in your thoughts and prayers this Thanksgiving, as many of them will not have the opportunity to celebrate this holiday with their families and friends.

John Fitzgerald Kennedy: 50 Years Later

Today, we pause and reflect on the life and contributions of one of Massachusetts’ hometown heroes – John Fitzgerald Kennedy.

President Kennedy was a man of great integrity, political passion, and above all else, compassion. While today is focused on the 50th anniversary of his tragic and untimely death, let today also be about remembering and rekindling the spirit and drive of a man who’s life mission is best summed up in the following quote from his inaugural address in January of 1961: “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.”

House Republican Legislators Instrumental in Wide Sweeping Welfare Reform Legislation

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) and the House Republican Caucus were joined by the entire House of Representatives in unanimously approving a welfare reform package aimed at increasing oversight of the taxpayer-funded Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program.

"I am pleased that the House of Representatives has taken yet another step toward achieving a taxpayer-funded EBT program which serves those citizens who are in need of assistance, and who have taken the necessary and lawful steps to secure those benefits,” said Representative Jones. “The reform package approved by the House demonstrates the majority party’s recognition that by including Republican-led amendments aimed at eliminating all levels and degrees of waste, fraud, and abuse within the EBT program, we as a legislature can play a pivotal role in facilitating a path to self-sufficiency for people currently receiving assistance.”

Although House Bill 3737 – An Act Encouraging Low-Income Savings and Economic Opportunity, initially included many provisions for which Republicans had long lobbied – tax return disclosure for income verification, increased penalties for food stamp trafficking, and increased oversight of work requirements – the legislation, as proposed, did not go far enough in addressing the root of the perpetual fraud and mismanagement within the EBT system.

With a core goal of ensuring that benefits are obtained, distributed, and expended in a manner that is both lawful and beneficial to the recipient of the assistance, the Republican Caucus was successful in offering amendments which rectify current problems within the system while safeguarding the long-term integrity of the welfare program. Some of the proposals offered by Republicans, and adopted by the House, which protect taxpayers and benefit recipients alike include:

• Requiring a valid social security number to be provided upon application for benefits, while establishing an exemption for victims of domestic violence and a three-month grace period for expectant mothers and children under four months of age.

• Adding a minority party appointment to the Poverty Reduction Commission to ensure that the Commission is bipartisan and reflects a range of viewpoints. • Instructing the Department of Transitional Assistance and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to implement a school attendance verification system for the Commonwealth’s students.

• Creating a special commission to study the feasibility of establishing a tax credit for small businesses that hire Massachusetts residents who are recipients of DTA benefits, thereby simultaneously aiding both the business and the recipient.

• Directing the Secretary of Administration & Finance to study the efficacy of the current benefit systems in Massachusetts, to examine whether the system is successfully moving individuals out of poverty and toward self-sufficiency.

Having passed the House of Representatives and the State Senate, the legislation will now be sent to a Conference Committee to resolve the differences between the two bills.

House Republicans Aim to Improve EBT Legislation

In case you missed it, today the House of Representatives will debate House Bill 3737 – An Act Encouraging Low-Income Savings and Economic Opportunity.

The legislation being considered today has many of the same provisions included in Senate Bill 1806, An Act to Foster Economic Independence, as well as components of the FY14 House Engrossed Budget (H. 3401) and the House version of the FY13 June Supplemental Budget (H. 3522) including: tax return disclosure information; increased penalties for food stamp trafficking; increased oversight of work requirements; and the establishment of the Poverty Reduction Commission.

As such, the Republican Caucus has filed 45 amendments to the bill which seek to improve the oversight, delivery, and enforcement of the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program as well as initiatives to facilitate a path to independence for people currently receiving assistance.

Below, you will find the amendments offered by House Republicans to House Bill 3737, along with a brief description of the amendment.

Amendment #2 (Vieira, David) - Directs all funds recovered through DTA investigations to be appropriated to hire additional DTA investigators (4400-1000), up to a maximum of $2M. Any remaining funds are to be sent to the General Fund.

Amendment #13 (Lyons, Jim) - Prohibits, without exception, self-declarations of residency for individuals seeking taxpayer-funded benefits.

Amendment #14 (Lyons, Jim) - Requires applicants or recipients of cash benefits to provide a valid social security number upon application for benefits.

Amendment #16 (Cole, Leah) - Mandates that case workers directly contact the signer of the work participation forms to verify all information.

Amendment #17 (Cole, Leah) - Requires the Executive Office of Health and Human Services to share information regarding cases of fraud committed by recipients collected by the Integrated Eligibility System.

Amendment #20 (Durant, Peter) - Directs DTA to create a personal finance literacy curriculum, which must be completed by all TAFDC and EAEDC recipients within 270 days of receiving benefits.

Amendment #22 (Diehl, Geoff) - Grants every House and Senate member access, upon request, to each of the four reports created by SECTION 4. No fee shall be charged to the member for the compiling of the reports and all fees already charged for such requests shall be retroactively refunded.

Amendment #25 (Diehl, Geoff) - Adds a requirement that information about the penalties for fraud or abuse of public benefits be part of the education program to be implemented at each DTA office.

Amendment #26 (O’Connell, Shaunna) - Reduces from 1 year to 90 days, and from 270 days to 90 days the amount of time that TAFDC and SNAP benefits, respectively, can go untouched by recipients prior to DTA expunging and recouping the balances.

Amendment #27 (Diehl, Geoff) - Prohibits, in any instance, self-declarations from being used as the sole verification of eligibility. As currently worded, self-declarations shall not be used “if possible.” (SECTION 8)

Amendment #28 (O’Connell, Shaunna) - Requires disclosure of the number of SNAP and TAFDC recipients with lawful permanent resident status less than 5 years in the report to be filed by DTA regarding non-citizen benefits recipients.

Amendment #29 (Lyons, Jim) - Strikes the additional $3M appropriation for DTA caseworkers (4400-1100). Strikes $11M appropriation for the Department of Career Services and the operation of the Pathways to Self-Sufficiency Program.

Amendment #30 (Diehl, Geoff) - Expands the scope of the high demand scholarship program to include students of vocational school districts.

Amendment #31 (Lyons, Jim) - Requires DTA to annually report the number of recipients exempt from having a photo ID on their EBT card and the reason for such exemption.

Amendment #34 (Diehl, Geoff) - Adds an appointee to the Poverty Reduction Commission, as established by SECTION 29, to be chosen by the Workforce Investment Board.

Amendment #35 (O’Connell, Shaunna) - Requires the Fraud Detection Program, as established by SECTION 10, to include any reports by caseworkers of potential cases of fraud. Requires DTA fraud reports to be completed on a monthly basis, rather than as needed.

Amendment #37 (Diehl, Geoff) - Strikes the language establishing the Pathways to Self-Sufficiency Program (SECTION 11) and accordingly strikes the $11M appropriation for the program (7003-0810).

Amendment #38 (O’Connell, Shaunna) - Requires DTA caseworkers to directly contact the employers on the list provided by the applicant during the initial job search; requires the recipient to provide the job posting if available; removes an exemption allowing recipients to only provide a contact of a prospective employer when feasible.

Amendment #40 (D’Emilia, Angelo) - Exempts pregnant women in the third trimester, children under the age of one, an asylee, or a domestic violence victim from the provision that requires cash benefit applicants to provide their social security number within three months of being assigned a place holder.

Amendment #41 (Fattman, Ryan) - Directs the General Court to commission a study, to be completed by April 20, 2014 to determine whether the state welfare system and associated resources are successfully moving individuals out of poverty and into a position of economic independence.

Amendment #42 (O’Connell, Shaunna) - Prohibits the access and use of cash assistance in states other than Massachusetts and border states. Directs DTA to track out-of-state card usage on a monthly basis, and contact recipients whose cards have been used in a state other than Massachusetts or a border state.

Amendment #43 (Republican Leadership) - Directs the Commonwealth Corporation to monitor the participation of applicants in the educational or training programs, and requires the applicant to provide documentation to DTA of such participation in order to receive cash assistance.

Amendment #44 (Republican Leadership) - Requires DTA to conduct an identity authentication and national asset check on a sponsor of an applicant prior to awarding cash or SNAP benefits to such applicant. The sponsor’s assets are to be used in determining income eligibility of said applicant.

Amendment #45 (Lyons, Jim) - Requires self-declarations from EAEDC and SNAP recipients, in addition to TAFDC recipients, to be signed under the penalty of perjury; prohibits, without exception, self-declarations from being accepted as the sole verification for eligibility for benefits.

Amendment #46 (Diehl, Geoff) - Requires DTA to facilitate naturalization papers to the Trial Court.

Amendment #47 (O’Connell, Shaunna) - Requires all recipients of DTA-managed benefits to have immigration statuses verified for lawful permanent residency. Further, lawful permanent residents residing in the state for less than 5 years will be ineligible for benefits, although waivers and exceptions can be rendered.

Amendment #48 (Republican Leadership) - Requires DTA to develop a cashless benefit system for recipients who are more apt to committing fraud, including program violations, and failing to pay rent or utilities with cash benefits.

Amendment #49 (Republican Leadership) - Allows qualified recipients of TAFDC to receive job training through the Precision Manufacturing Training Program in Hampden County under the Pathways to Self-Sufficiency Program.

Amendment #50 (Republican Leadership) - Limits access to cash benefits for convicted substance abusers. Amendment #52 (Republican Leadership) - Prohibits DTA from hiring outside consultants to research data already made available by DOR.

Amendment #53 (Republican Leadership) - Directs DTA to use all reasonable means to determine the address of a recipient who has moved and failed to report a change in address prior to suspending benefits. The current language requires the potentially too- broadly defined “all available means.”

Amendment #54 (O’Connell, Shaunna) - Requires DTA and the Division of Medical Assistance to establish an electronic verification system for income, assets, and identity. The application must be checked against 20 federal and state databases to ensure stringent asset and identity verification for recipients of public benefits. (Same as House Bill 133.)

Amendment #55 (Republican Leadership) - Amends the qualifications for presumption of abandonment of Massachusetts residency from not only 30 consecutive days, but also an aggregate of 90 days over the course of one calendar year.

Amendment #56 (Republican Leadership) - Prohibits individuals who are ineligible for federal public housing benefits from displacing an applicant for state public housing who is so eligible.

Amendment #58 (O’Connell, Shaunna) - Eliminates the three-month grace period for providing a valid social security number prior to receiving benefits. Applicants who are currently exempt from the SSN requirement (i.e., recipients eligible under a noncitizen status, victims of domestic violence, asylees, children under four months old, or children adopted within the past year) would then be given the three-month grace period.

Amendment #59 (Republican Leadership) - Establishes a minimum punishment of not less than 30 days imprisonment in a state prison or a fine of $250 for an individual convicted of trafficking food stamp benefits on two prior occasions.

Amendment #60 (Fattman, Ryan) - Suspends benefits to a recipient who fails to report a change in address until said recipient reports to DTA in person and provides proof of address. Self-declarations shall not be accepted as proof of address.

Amendment #61 (deMacedo, Vinny) - Expands punishment for food stamp trafficking to a suspension of benefits for a period of six months for the first offense, and a one year suspension for the second offense. Individuals may re-apply for benefits following the first and second offense. A third offense will result in complete termination of benefits indefinitely.

Amendment #63 (Republican Leadership) - Adds House and Senate Minority Leader appointments to the Poverty Reduction Commission, as established by SECTION 29.

Amendment #64 (Republican Leadership) - Instructs DTA and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to implement a system to verify student attendance in the Commonwealth.

Amendment #65 (Kuros, Kevin) - Instructs DTA to file a report detailing the reasons for expenditures from the economic independence accounts of public benefits recipients.

Amendment #68 (D’Emilia, Angelo) - Requires that a minimum of five potential employers be contacted by benefit applicants during the initial job search required prior to receiving benefits.

Amendment #71 (deMacedo, Vinny) - Instructs the Poverty Reduction Commission to study the feasibility of instituting a cap on the total amount of benefits individuals and households may receive in the aggregate.

Amendment #77 (Republican Leadership) - Requires DTA to establish a cashless system by January 1, 2019.

Amendment #79 (Mirra, Lenny) - Creates a tax credit beginning January 1, 2014 for businesses hiring a recipient of DTA aid who remains employed for 185 days or more; in the first year, the credit shall be up to $5K; the second year, up to $10K; and the third year, up to $15K.

Get Out and Vote!

Regardless of your political affiliation, today is a very important day for the Commonwealth as thousands of voters are expected to turn out to vote in local elections.

Most polls around the state will open at 7 a.m. this morning and will remain open until 8 p.m. this evening.

To find out where to vote, or who will be appearing on your ballot, click here.

Be sure to do your civic duty today - get out and vote!

Daylight Savings - Fall 2013

It’s that time of the year again – time to fall back that is! The Capitol View wanted to take this opportunity to remind you to set your clocks back one hour this Saturday night before you go to bed!

The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services (DFS) is also asking that you change your batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms this weekend as well. The DFS says that working smoke alarms can double a family’s chance of surviving a fire.

Happy Halloween

As costumes are receiving their final touch ups and candy buckets are stocked for trick-or-treaters, it’s easy to get carried away with the excitement of this upcoming Halloween. We here at The Capitol View Live wanted to take a moment to share with you some Halloween related information and resources that we have compiled. Below are some common sense tips compiled from the various organizations including AAA. We encourage all members of the Commonwealth to follow these safety tips to ensure a fun filled Halloween.

See and Be Seen

Be bright on Halloween night! A few additional costume accessories could help provide for a safe and fun Halloween.

1. Use reflective tape or stickers on your costume of treat bags.

2. Masks can block your vision. Instead, use non-toxic face paint.

3. To prevent trips and falls, make sure costumes and shoes are well-fitted.

4. Costume accessories should be soft and flexible, not sharp and pointy.

5. Carry a flashlight!

Road Rules

The roads and streets throughout the Commonwealth will not only be cluttered with trick-or-treaters, but eager party goers driving to their spooky holiday celebrations. Abiding by these road rules, drivers and pedestrians alike can safely enjoy their Halloween festivities.

1. Look all ways and listen for traffic before crossing.

2. Cross at corners, not between parked cars.

3. If there are no sidewalks, walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic.

4. Walk, don’t run.

5. Use caution when crossing, entering and exiting driveways.

6. Obey traffic signals.

7. Trick or treat with a group and bring a trusted adult.

Candy Caution

Everyone likes to indulge in their favorite sweet treats during Halloween. Following these few tips will ensure your health and safety!

1. Eat candy in moderation. Eating all of your Halloween candy at one time could lead to stomach aches and cavities. Make the Halloween spirit last and save some treats for later.

2. Check for tampered wrappings. Have an adult go through trick-or-treaters goody bags to make sure the candy is safe to eat.

We hope you find these tips helpful, and we wish everyone a happy and safe Halloween!

Republican Legislators Successfully Advocate for Repeal of Technology Tax

Yesterday, Republican legislators from the House of Representatives were successful in their quest to repeal the Democrat-approved job killing computer services tax, all while refraining from implementing any new revenue measure.

“The repeal of the tax on the technology industry is the direct result of the hard-work, dedication and resilience of Beacon Hill Republicans, as well as our partnership with industry professionals,” said House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading). “Today’s vote to eliminate the technology tax further illustrates the ill-effects of the Democrats’ tax-then-ask approach to revenue. House Republicans will continue to vehemently oppose any attempt to suppress economic growth, and we will remain steadfast in our support of the taxpayers and small businesses of the Commonwealth.”

The repeal of the tax, widely regarded as the largest and broadest tax on computer and software services in the nation, marks the culmination of a six-month long endeavor by legislative Republicans to eliminate the unprecedented revenue measure.

Having recognized the deleterious effect of a tax on the technology industry, contained within a $500 million transportation plan, House Republicans not only formally requested a public hearing for the massive tax hike, but also went as far as to offer an alternative transportation finance plan – free from any statewide tax increase. While both initiatives were defeated at the hands of House Democrats, the Republican Caucus refused to be cast aside in their tenacious opposition to a tax on the high-tech industry.

Knowing the importance of engaging those individuals adversely affected by this ill-conceived approach to revenue, the House Republican Caucus embarked on a statewide, weeklong series of roundtable discussions with technology industry professionals, and Chambers of Commerce. The 2013 GOP Technology Tax Business Roundtables gave local businesses and Chambers of Commerce, which would have been severely impacted by this reckless tax, the chance to discuss the detrimental effects and ways to reverse what would surely have suppressed future economic growth within the technology industry and the Commonwealth.

As the majority party continued to defend their careless vote to increase taxes on one of the state’s most vital economic forces, and in some cases alter their stances, Republicans returned to the drawing board and unveiled legislation to repeal the Democrat-approved job-killing computer services tax. The legislative measure, which contained the same language as a ballot question approved by Attorney General Martha Coakley, was just the latest effort the minority party put forth to eliminate this unprecedented tax.

Having passed the House of Representatives, the legislation will now move to the State Senate for consideration.

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House Minority Leader Brad Jones’ Statement on Repeal of Technology Tax by House of Representatives

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to the House of Representatives’ vote to repeal the technology tax:

“I am proud of my Republican colleagues in the House of Representatives for their hard work, dedication and resilience in leading the charge to repeal the largest and broadest tax on computer and software services in the nation.

Additionally, I would like to thank the technology community for their proactive opposition to the disastrous tax on their livelihood. Their voices were loud, adamant, and unrelenting. Their partnership assisted Beacon Hill Republicans in successfully repealing the devastating tax on the innovation economy.

A tax on one of the Commonwealth’s most vital and vibrant sectors should have never seen the light of day, and Beacon Hill Democrats should be ashamed that they green-lighted such a crippling revenue measure. Almost as alarming is their attempt to backtrack and distance themselves from their affirmative vote on a tax which Republicans opposed from the onset.

Today’s vote to eliminate the technology tax further illustrates the ill-effects of the Democrats’ tax-then-ask approach to revenue. House Republicans will continue to vehemently oppose any attempt to suppress economic growth, and we will remain steadfast in our support of the taxpayers and small businesses of the Commonwealth.”

House and Senate Minority Leaders’ Statement on Democrats’ Technology Tax About-Face

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) and Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr (R-Gloucester) issued the following statement today in response to Democratic Leadership’s support of repealing the technology tax:

“For close to six months, House and Senate Republicans have been warning the technology industry, general public, and our colleagues across the aisle of the disastrous effects of a tax on the computer software industry. Our warnings were not heeded, and the Democratic-majority green lighted the largest and broadest tax on computer and software services in the nation.

Today’s about-face is a clear indication that our Democratic colleagues finally understand how reckless and destructive it is to tax one of our state’s most profitable sectors.

We urge the Speaker and Senate President to immediately consider legislation filed by the House and Senate Republican caucus which would repeal the misguided and destructive revenue measure – without replacing it with a new revenue source.”

We Remember...

Today, we gather as families, communities, and more importantly as Americans to remember those individuals who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.

Let us never forget.

Special Elections – 6th Bristol, 16th Worcester, and 12th Suffolk Districts

In case you forgot, today is the special election for three seats in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.

In the race for the 6th Bristol District, Republican David Steinhof is facing off against Democrat, and former Governor’s Council member, Carole Fiola. This race is for the seat left vacant when Representative David Sillivan of Fall River resigned to lead the Fall River Housing Authority.

The second special election contest being held today is in the 16th Worcester District for the seat vacated by John Fresolo. The race for this seat finds Republican Carol Claros facing off against Democrat Daniel Donohue.

Finally, the 12th Suffolk District finds Democrat Dan Cullinane facing off against Independent Lincoln Larmond, and Edmond Romulus. The seat the three cadidates are vying for was vacated when Linda Dorcena Forry was elected to the Massachusetts State Senate.

To find out where you vote, please click here.

Republican Legislators Unleash New Effort to Repeal Technology Tax

Today, Republican legislators from both the House and Senate Caucuses unveiled legislation to repeal the Democrat-approved job killing computer services tax. The legislative measure, which contains the same language as the ballot question recently approved by Attorney General Martha Coakley, is just the latest effort the minority party has put forth in eliminating this unprecedented tax.

Announced during a press conference at Genuine Interactive, a leading interactive agency, the proposed bill puts forth a targeted approach to repealing the largest and broadest tax on computer and software services in the nation.

“We can’t afford to penalize innovation and job creation in one of the state’s most promising sectors if we hope to have the kind of robust economic recovery that creates the jobs people need and the tax revenue state government depends on,” said Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester). “The time is now to change course from increasing taxes on productivity and focus on creating a climate for job growth and reform and efficiency in our state’s operations.”

The filing of legislation comes on the heels of the Massachusetts House and Senate Republican Caucus’ statewide 2013 Technology Tax Business Roundtables. The weeklong series of roundtable discussions conducted by Republican lawmakers included conversations with technology industry professionals and representatives from area chambers of commerce about the negative effects of the technology tax. The roundtable discussions were initiated due to the fact that Democratic leadership did not provide a public hearing to solicit public testimony from those affected by the tax on software and computer services.

“Since this reckless tax on the technology industry was approved, we have seen a steady decline in business confidence within Massachusetts,” said House Minority Leader Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “There remains absolutely no appetite for this tax, and it continues to hurt the economic prospects for one of our state’s most vibrant and prosperous trades, as well as other industries who are suffering from the trickle-down effect of this careless revenue mechanism. The way to encourage growth and development within the Commonwealth is not through ill-conceived taxes, but through business-friendly directives and initiatives.”

Republican lawmakers highlighted the fact that the Commonwealth does not collect taxes on any other service, and expressed fear that the computer services tax sets a dangerous precedent for future efforts to tax other vital services. Furthermore, House and Senate Republicans had each offered revenue-neutral proposals, which if passed, would have avoided the implementation of the technology tax. Industry leaders such as the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation and the Massachusetts High Technology Council have repeatedly warned of the destructive nature of the new tax which is slated to stifle the high-tech industry by close to $500 million a year.

"Genuine Interactive started off as a four person agency in 2005 and since then, it's grown to a 100 person company," said John Grayson, Chief Executive Officer of Genuine. "This tax on technology services is negatively impacting the business and is threatening the future of the entire technology and innovation industry. Out-of-state vendors are seeing this as an opportunity to attract businesses away from Massachusetts and that is going to affect the overall economy of the Commonwealth. In a market where work is already being outsourced to other countries, this puts yet another burden on the technology economy in Massachusetts."

Having been filed in both the House and Senate, the joint legislation awaits assignment to a legislative committee.

MEDIA ADVISORY - Republican Lawmakers to Unveil Legislation Repealing Technology Tax

Republican lawmakers, led by House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones (R–North Reading) and Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr (R-Gloucester), will hold a press conference Monday afternoon to unveil legislation aimed at repealing the technology tax.

The filing of legislation comes on the heels of the Massachusetts House and Senate Republican Caucus’ statewide 2013 Technology Tax Business Roundtables. The weeklong series of roundtable discussions conducted by Republican lawmakers included conversations with technology industry professionals and representatives from area chambers of commerce.

The Republican lawmakers will be joined by John Grayson, Chief Executive Officer of Genuine Interactive, a Boston-based interactive agency.

The press conference will be held Monday afternoon (September 9th) at 2:30 p.m. at Genuine Interactive – 500 Harrison Avenue, 5R, Boston, MA 02118.

House Minority Leader Brad Jones’ Statement on Attorney General’s Certification of Ballot Initiative to Repeal Technology Tax

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to Attorney General Martha Coakley’s certification of the ballot initiative to repeal the technology tax:

“I am pleased to hear that Attorney General Martha Coakley has certified language aimed at repealing the crippling technology tax. By clearing this hurdle, activists and proponents can now turn their attention to collecting the necessary amount of signatures to place this initiative on the ballot next November.

  During the recent 2013 GOP Technology Tax Business Roundtables, Republican legislators heard from computer software businesses and Chambers of Commerce about the devastating effect of this reckless tax on the computer services industry.

While I remain extremely supportive of the ballot effort, House and Senate Republicans will continue our quest to ensure that this tax is eliminated at the legislative level.”

March on Washington - 50th Anniversary

As many of you know, today marks the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington, and the “I Have A Dream” speech.

On August 28, 1963 large groups of civil rights, labor, and religious activists descended upon our nation’s capital to rally for job and education equality for all, regardless of race. At that rally, a clergyman and activist by the name of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. addressed a crowd of thousands with a speech calling for the end of racism in America. To this day, the march is widely credited with helping to pass the Civil Rights Act (1964) and the Voting Rights Act (1965).

While America continues to make great strides towards equality for men, women, and children - regardless of race or gender - we pause to remember the framework laid 50 years ago today by Dr. King and the hundreds of thousands of activists who stood in front of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C.

2013 GOP Technology Tax Business Roundtables Announced

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) and Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr (R-Gloucester), along with the entire House and Senate Republican Caucus, today announced the launch of the 2013 GOP Technology Tax Business Roundtables.

Announced as part of a concerted effort by the Massachusetts House and Senate Republican Caucus to repeal the crippling technology tax at the legislative level, the weeklong series of roundtable discussions will include conversations with technology industry professionals and representatives from area Chambers of Commerce.

“The Massachusetts economy has long relied upon, and benefited from, the services rendered by the high-tech industry,” said House Minority Leader Brad Jones. “Since the Democratic-led legislature approved the crippling technology tax, one of the Commonwealth’s most vital sectors is just beginning to deal with the adverse effects of the tax. The 2013 GOP Technology Tax Business Roundtables will serve as an opportunity for businesses and Chambers of Commerce, which have been severely impacted by this reckless tax, to have the opportunity to discuss the detrimental effects and ways to reverse what is sure to suppress future economic growth within the technology industry and the Commonwealth.”

As the largest and broadest tax on computer and software services in the nation, no business, regardless of size or sector, is immune from the wide-ranging tax. House and Senate Republicans had each offered revenue-neutral proposals, which if passed, would have avoided the implementation of the technology tax all together, but the common-sense solution was defeated at the hands of legislative Democrats.

“We have seen clearly what happens when you tax first and ask questions later,” said Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr. “In the face of a job killing new computer services tax, we are choosing a different path, one that first seeks information and then leads to action to prevent the economic damage the tax will bring.”

The technology tax, first billed with a fiscal impact of $161 million per year, will exceed that estimate, and stifle the innovative industry by close to $500 million a year.

“Supporting the Commonwealth’s technology economy should never be a partisan decision and we value any legislative support in defense of this critically important sector,” said Christopher Anderson, president of the Massachusetts High Technology Council. “The tech tax is aimed squarely at the heart of our innovation economy and will cause considerable harm if not repealed. We applaud those lawmakers who have spoken out against the tech tax and encourage more of them to join us in showing their clear support for the state’s tech economy and the hundreds of thousands of people who are part of it.”

Details for the Technology Tax Business Roundtables are as follows:

August 26, 2013

ShotgunFlat Creative Agency
12 South Main Street Middleboro, MA 02346
1:00-2:00pm

August 28, 2013

Nashoba Valley Chamber of Commerce
100 Sherman Avenue Devens, MA 01434
9:00-10:00am

Quinsigamond Community College
Southbridge Campus – Room 305
5 Optical Drive Southbridge, MA 01550
9:00-10:00am

Mansfield Town Hall
6 Park Row Mansfield, MA 02048
1:00-2:00pm

Plymouth Area Community Television
4 Collins Avenue Plymouth, MA 02360
1:00-2:00pm

August 29, 2013

The Training Associates
287 Turnpike Road – 3rd Floor
Westborough, MA 01581
9:00-10:00am

The Savings Bank
351 Main Street Wakefield, MA 01880
3:00-4:00pm

Westfield Athenaeum
Lang Auditorium
6 Elm Street Westfield, MA 01085
3:00-4:00pm

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House Minority Leader Brad Jones’ Statement on Ballot Initiative to Repeal Crippling Technology Tax

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to the recently announced ballot initiative to repeal the technology tax:

“I am pleased to lend my full support to the recently announced initiative to repeal the crippling technology tax, and I look forward to my continued communications and involvement with the proponents of the effort to place this question on the ballot next November.

In a state which thrives on the services rendered by the high-tech industry, this ill-conceived and ill-timed tax on certain software services will not only stifle the Commonwealth’s entrepreneurs, but will have a detrimental trickle-down effect on residents and customers alike.

Should this reckless tax on the computer services industry be allowed to stand, it sets a dangerous precedent for future efforts to tax other vital services – thus suppressing future economic growth.

The opposition to this tax transcends party lines, and represents a broad demographic. Our voices will be heard, and our efforts will be relentless.”

House Minority Leader Brad Jones’ Statement on Transportation Finance Veto Override

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to the House of Representatives’ rejection of Governor Patrick’s veto to the tax-riddled transportation finance bill:

“Today’s vote in the House of Representatives is about one thing, and one thing only – a crippling tax increase. Massachusetts’ taxpayers should not be lulled into a false sense of hope that the $500 million tax increase approved by House Democrats is better than the nearly $2 billion increase being pushed by Governor Patrick.

In voting to sustain Governor Patrick’s veto, House Republicans were eager for the opportunity to get back to the transportation finance drawing board where we would have once again offered to the Legislature and taxpayers our transportation finance proposal – free of any statewide tax increases.

Unfortunately, there is now only one number that needs to be on the mind of residents across the state – seven. In seven days the taxpayers and small businesses within the Commonwealth will begin to pay for the tax and spend approach approved by House Democrats.”

Republican Legislators’ Statement on Democrats’ Rejection of Infrastructure Money for Cities and Towns

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) and House Minority Whip Brad Hill (R-Ipswich) issued the following statement today in response to the House of Representatives’ rejection of a Republican-led amendment which would have delivered Chapter 90 money to cities and towns statewide:

“In the Governor’s ongoing quest to fund his legacy project, he has chosen to hold hostage Chapter 90 money which is relied upon by cities and towns. Unfortunately, by failing to adopt this amendment, the Democratic-led legislature has stooped to the Governor’s level.

By rejecting an amendment with the sole purpose of delivering Chapter 90 money to municipalities statewide, House Democrats have chosen to let their quarrel with Governor Patrick interfere with a good-faith effort to infuse desperately needed money into infrastructure projects across the Commonwealth. It is unfortunate the only thing Beacon Hill Democrats seem to agree on is that cities and towns are not a top priority.”

House Minority Leader Brad Jones’ Statement on House’s Rejection of Governor Patrick’s Amendment to Transportation Finance Bill

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to the House of Representatives’ rejection of Governor Patrick’s amendment to the tax-riddled transportation finance bill:

“While the price-tag of the tax increase advanced today by House Democrats may be lower than that of the plan continually pushed by Governor Patrick, today’s vote in the House of Representatives represents an extremely costly day for Massachusetts’ taxpayers and small businesses.

Despite the efforts of the Republican caucus to once again introduce our tax-free transportation finance proposal, the Democratic majority instead elected to favor procedural gamesmanship over legislative discourse – thus illustrating the perils of one-party rule on Beacon Hill.

As Democratic leaders continue to quarrel over by how much to raise taxes on the Commonwealth’s hardworking families and entrepreneurs, House Republicans will continue to advocate for a fiscally responsible, tax-free approach to solving the issue of transportation finance.”

Representative Brad Hill Appears on FOX-25 News

In case you missed it, Representative Brad Hill (R-Ipswich) made an appearance on the FOX-25 Evening News to react to an injunction recently filed by the Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) to prevent the online publication of information about Level 2 sex offenders.

As many of you may know, language which would require information about Level 2 sex offenders, some of whom have committed crimes against children, to be posted online was adopted by the House and Senate during the Fiscal Year 2014 budget debate. CPCS, who is arguing that moderate risk Level 2 sex offenders have privacy and liberty interests, filed a similar motion when information pertaining to Level 3 sex offenders was initially published on the internet.

To view the entire segment play the video posted below.

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House Minority Leader Brad Jones’ Statement on Governor Patrick’s Fiscal Year 2014 Budget Vetoes

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to Governor Patrick’s vetoes of sections within the Fiscal Year 2014 budget:

“I am extremely disappointed that Governor Patrick has not only continued his tax-and-spend assault on taxpayers, but has now extended his fiscal wrath to municipalities across the Commonwealth.

House Republicans have long said that the FY14 state budget is predicated on massive tax increases that have yet to be finalized. Furthermore, my Republican colleagues also join me in vehemently opposing the devastating and reckless reductions to unrestricted local aid. Cities and towns across Massachusetts should not be used as a pawn in the Governor’s quest to fund his legacy project.

The House Republican caucus continues to stand by our comprehensive transportation finance plan which is free from any statewide tax increases. Governor Patrick and Democratic leaders must choose a more responsible and fiscally sound path to financing the state’s transportation system, while recognizing that the Commonwealth’s families, businesses, and municipalities continue to grapple with economic uncertainty.”

Happy Birthday, America!

On this day, July 4, 2013, we hope you and your family have a safe and happy holiday.

It was on July 4, 1776, during the American Revolution, when the Thirteen Colonies legally separated from Great Britain, thus granting the United States its freedom.

We at the Capitol View Live encourage you to please keep our servicemen and women in your thoughts and prayers while celebrating our nation’s independence. Thousands of Americans continue to fight for the very freedoms that our forefathers once envisioned for our country.

House Minority Leader Brad Jones’ Statement on Governor’s Amendment to Transportation Finance Bill

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response Governor Patrick’s amendment to the tax-riddled transportation finance bill:

“The House Republican Caucus has long said that increasing taxes on Massachusetts’ hardworking families and small businesses is a grave mistake.

While the Speaker and Senate President finally agree with Republicans that the Governor’s most recent plan to raise taxes even higher is a recipe for disaster, it was their respective Democratically-controlled legislative bodies that recently signed off on raising taxes on the Commonwealth’s residents by well over $500 million.

House Republicans continue to stand by our comprehensive transportation finance plan which is free from any statewide tax increases. Democratic leaders must choose a more responsible and fiscally sound path to financing the state’s transportation system while recognizing that the Commonwealth’s families and businesses continue to grapple with economic uncertainty. Until that happens, the Republican Caucus will continue to vehemently oppose any sort of tax increase.”

House Republicans Comment on Enactment of the State Budget for Fiscal Year 2014

In case you missed it, the Democratic-led Legislature recently OK’d a $34 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2014. House Republicans have long said that the FY14 budget is an unsupportable proposal that is predicated on massive tax increases that have yet to be finalized.

Over the course of the past few days, members of the Republican caucus have once again taken to the airwaves to relay our message to the hardworking taxpayers across Massachusetts.

Click below the see the various interviews with Republican lawmakers.

Representative Matt Beaton (R-Shrewsbury)

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Click here to see Representative George Peterson's (R-Grafton) interview with Jon Keller of WBZ News.

Click here to see Representative Donald Humason's (R-Westfield) interview with Christine Lee of WWLP-22 News.

House Minority Leader Brad Jones’ Statement on Enactment of Fiscal Year 2014 Budget

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to the enactment of the Fiscal Year 2014 budget by the House of Representatives:

“The Fiscal Year 2014 budget, as enacted by my Democratic colleagues in the House of Representatives, is an unsupportable proposal that is predicated on massive tax increases that have yet to be finalized.

Listening to today’s brief debate on the House floor, I fail to see a plausible reason for the need to raise taxes on Massachusetts’ hardworking taxpayers when the Democratic majority continually touts the increased amount of resources within the state’s Rainy Day Fund.

I am equally as disappointed that the House of Representatives has squandered yet another opportunity to reform the taxpayer-funded welfare benefits system. While two important provisions were included in the recently enacted spending plan, the budget passed by the House does not go nearly far enough in ensuring that Electronic Transfer Benefits are reserved for those who truly need them. As such, the House Republican caucus looks forward to continuing our advocacy for meaningful welfare reform.”

Republican Legislators’ Statement on House of Representatives’ Approval of Hundreds of Millions in Tax Increases

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) and Representative Steven S. Howitt (R-Seekonk), House Republican conferee on the six-member transportation finance conference committee, issued the following statement in response to the House of Representatives’ vote to approve hundreds of millions in tax increases:

“This afternoon’s vote to increase taxes in Massachusetts will have devastating impacts on taxpayers and businesses across the state - immediately. By increasing revenues, the legislative majority has chosen to stifle business growth and further financially burden our hardworking residents for the foreseeable future.

Unfortunately, despite the House Republican Caucus’ proposal of an alternative transportation finance plan – free from any statewide tax increases – the residents of Massachusetts are on the verge of having to pay for the third major tax increase since Governor Patrick was sworn into office.

Taxpayers should find no solace in the fact that House Democrats approved a plan that is not nearly as costly as the Governor’s initial $1.9 billion proposal or the Senate’s $800 million plan. This tax increase is the by-product of one-party rule in the Commonwealth, and the taxpayers have the ability to reverse this crippling tax at the ballot in November of 2014.”

Get Out and Vote!

Regardless of your political affiliation, today is a very important day for the Commonwealth as thousands of voters are expected to turn out to vote in the special election for United States Senate. The race to fill the Senate seat vacated by John Kerry is between Cohasset businessman Gabriel Gomez and Congressman Ed Markey.

Most polls around the state will open at 7 a.m. this morning and will remain open until 8 p.m. this evening.

Click here to vote out where to vote.

Be sure to do your civic duty today - get out and vote!

House Minority Leader Brad Jones’ Statement on Implementation of Affordable Care Act

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to the adoption of House Bill 3452, An Act Implementing the Affordable Care Act and Providing Further Access to Affordable Health Care:

“By allowing Massachusetts’ historic healthcare law, passed in 2006, to be co-opted by a federal law, we are taking a step backwards. The legislation passed today will have detrimental impacts on small business and residents alike. Entrepreneurs in this state will see crippling tax increases, and taxpayers will pay significantly more for their health coverage.

Furthermore, I am astonished by the about-face of the Democratic majority over the course of seven months. Just last fall, while campaigning on behalf of President Obama, many of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle sought to link the federal healthcare law to the law passed by Governor Romney. They claimed that the state’s plan was the model for the federal law. Contrary to these claims, today’s debate and this legislation provide a stark reminder of the difference between the state and federal law.

There is no disputing the fact that the Commonwealth has experienced growing pains with our own healthcare law, and we continue to work to address those issues. However, Governor Patrick and our Congressional delegation have done our state a great disservice by not advocating for enough flexibility in the federal plan to allow Massachusetts to continue in our ‘great experiment.’”

Representative Matt Beaton Appears on FOX-25 News

In case you missed it, Representative Matt Beaton (R-Shrewsbury) made an appearance on the FOX-25 Morning Show to discuss the soon-to-be-debated Supplemental Budget which contains many House Republican initiatives aimed at rooting out waste, fraud and abuse within the taxpayer-funded transitional assistance program.

Representative Beaton was on hand to offer perspective on the released Fiscal Year 2013 House Supplemental Budget. The budget includes a majority of the previously inoculated welfare reform provisions offered by members of the Republican Caucus, through two comprehensive amendments, during the Fiscal Year 2014 Budget debate.

The Shrewsbury Republican also reacted to Senate President Therese Murray’s recently released comprehensive EBT reform legislation.

To view the entire segment play the video posted below.

Boston News, Weather, Sports | FOX 25 | MyFoxBoston

House Minority Leader Brad Jones’ Statement on Electronic Benefits Transfer Reforms Contained in Supplemental Budget

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to reforms, contained in a mid-year supplemental budget, to the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program:

"I am pleased that the recently released Fiscal Year 2013 House Supplemental Budget includes a majority of the previously inoculated welfare reform provisions offered by members of the Republican Caucus, through two comprehensive amendments, during the Fiscal Year 2014 Budget debate.

By joining House Republicans in our ongoing attempt to overhaul and reform the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program, Democratic leadership has finally heeded the call of the residents of the Commonwealth in ensuring that taxpayer-funded benefits are reserved for those who truly need them.

As a result, this mid-year budget makes great strides at reforming Massachusetts’ public assistance programs and includes the following Republican-led reforms:

• Immediate phase-in of photo ID on EBT cards;

• Expedited implementation of an Integrated Eligibility System that cross-checks recipient Social Security numbers with nine specific state and federal databases and 20 additional databases - to the extent that they are available;

• Establishment and use of an automated fingerprinting system for recipient identity verification;

• Termination of benefits when mail communications are returned to the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) as undeliverable;

• Mandate that DTA consider the assets and income of a welfare applicant's immigration sponsors; and

• Three year phase-in of an online payment system for, at minimum, rent and utilities.

I urge the House of Representative to pass these innovative measures, and I hope the majority in the Senate will be equally as committed to realizing the resounding effect of meaningful EBT reform."

Flag Day 2013

Today we take a moment to pay tribute to something that we might otherwise take for granted on a daily basis. On this day in 1777, the Continental Congress approved the design of a national flag, thus the celebration of Flag Day.

According to reports, in 1776, George Washington commissioned Philadelphia seamstress Betsy Ross to create a flag for the newly formed nation. At present, there have been twenty-seven official versions of the flag, but the arrangement of the stars varied according to the flag-makers' preferences until 1912 when President Taft standardized the then-new flag's forty-eight stars into six rows of eight. The current version of the flag dates to July 4, 1960, after Hawaii became the 50th state.

The Commonwealth also happens to be home to one of the longest-running Flag Day parades. Since its inception in 1952, the Flag Day parade is held annually in Quincy, Massachusetts. This year the parade celebrates its 62nd anniversary.

House Minority Leader Brad Jones’ Statement on Potential Increase to Massachusetts’ Minimum Wage

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to the Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development’s hearing which included consideration of legislation to raise the Commonwealth’s minimum wage:

“As drafted, I am not supportive of the three bills before the Committee on Labor and Workforce Development which attempt to address the state’s minimum wage.

Any discussion pertaining to increasing the minimum wage at which employees in Massachusetts are paid must include, in part, serious consideration of substantial reforms to our unemployment insurance system, as well as due attention to the elimination of the outdated practice of paying retail employees time and a half for work on Sundays.

Until this conversation takes place, I cannot in good faith endorse any of the current proposals.”

House Minority Leader’s Statement on Passing of Former Governor Paul Cellucci

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to the passing of Former Governor Paul Cellucci:

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my former colleague and close friend Paul Cellucci. Paul was the epitome of a dedicated and honorable public servant and will be greatly missed by the residents of the Commonwealth upon whose lives he had such a great and lasting impact.

From his time as an elected official in his hometown of Hudson, to his tenure on Beacon Hill, and later as ambassador to Canada, Paul was an extremely humble and hardworking individual.

When diagnosed with ALS, Paul wasted no time transitioning from patient to staunch advocate. His continued dedication to helping find a cure will have an impact on the medical community for years to come.

I join with Governor Cellucci’s former colleagues on Beacon Hill, friends and constituents in offering my deepest condolences to his entire family during this difficult time.”

Representative Keiko Orrall Appears on FOX-25 News

In case you missed it, Representative Keiko Orrall (R-Lakeville) made an appearance on the FOX-25 Morning Show to discuss the waste, fraud and abuse within the taxpayer-funded transitional assistance program.

Representative Orrall was on hand to give an impassioned plea for common-sense, substantive EBT reform. The interview comes on the heels of a bi-partisan letter which was sent to the Fiscal Year 2014 Budget Conference Committee. In the letter, 39 State Representatives and Senators urged the Committee to strike out the five letter word in the House engrossed budget which stands between the Commonwealth and meaningful welfare reforms: STUDY.

To view the entire segment play the video posted below.

Boston News, Weather, Sports | FOX 25 | MyFoxBoston

69th Anniversary of D-Day

On this, the 69th anniversary of the Allied forces storming the beaches of Normandy, we wish to remember all of the brave soldiers who lost their lives fighting to ensure the freedoms of others.

June 6, 1944 is a day that will not soon be forgotten. The military engagement that occurred on this day has long been considered the turning point of World War II in the European theater. Soon after the landing in Normandy, troops left France and continued on through Europe and into Germany. The United States military liberated millions while toppling the Nazi regime. Currently, there are more veterans of the historic D-Day invasion than any other engagement in WWII.

Today, and every other day, we wish to remember the sacrifices and the commitment of the men and women who have served, and continue to serve in the United States Armed Forces.

House Minority Leader’s Statement on Public Housing Restrictions for Undocumented Aliens

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to the House of Representatives’ placement of restrictions on public housing for undocumented aliens:

“By prohibiting individuals who do not qualify for federally subsidized housing from displacing duly qualified persons on Massachusetts housing waiting lists, the Legislature has taken a necessary step in the prioritization of taxpayer-funded benefits.

The amendment passed today by the House of Representative recognizes that there continues to be a limited amount of public housing in the Commonwealth, and ensures that those vital resources will be available for those who have played by the rules and have demonstrated a need for public assistance.”

House and Senate Legislators Issue Letter Regarding Welfare Reform

Led by House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) and Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr (R-Gloucester), a bi-partisan group of House and Senate legislators submitted a letter Monday to the Fiscal Year 2014 Budget Conference Committee, asking them to strike out the five letter word in the House engrossed budget which stands between the Commonwealth and meaningful welfare reforms: STUDY.

The letter to the Conference Committee comes on the heels of an explosive report by State Auditor Suzanne Bump, in which it was revealed that millions of dollars was spent on the distribution of taxpayer funded welfare benefits to deceased recipients and duplicate dependents.

“Members of the Fiscal Year Budget Conference Committee have two options,” said Representative Brad Jones. “They can either choose to remove two unnecessary welfare reform studies from the state budget, thus protecting the Commonwealth’s hardworking taxpayers and ensuring welfare benefits are reserved for the state’s neediest residents, or they can further delay substantive and comprehensive reform to the state’s EBT system by choosing to further study this issue. The ball is in their court.”

Garnering the support of legislators from both Chambers, the letter respectfully requests that “that the Conference Committee cast aside political gamesmanship in exchange for the progress needed to ensure, once and for all, that Massachusetts’ welfare benefits are reserved for those who are truly eligible and in need of our assistance.”

The letter goes on to say that Senate Republicans, as well as several Senate Democrats, argued for the inclusion substantial and reasonable eligibility reforms and public assistance abuse prevention provisions of in their version of the state budget, but were defeated.

“In the face of ever increasing evidence that welfare dollars are consumed through waste and fraud rather than going to people who truly need them, the conferees should waste no time in approving practical measures that will help to rebuild and restore the integrity of a multi-billion dollar welfare system,” said Senator Tarr. “The option to act in defense of taxpayers and legitimate recipients is on the table, and they should take it.”

  Some of the other targeted reforms that the legislators would like to see included in the final version of the state budget, which will be sent to Governor Patrick for his approval, include:

(1) the expedited establishment and integration of EOHHS’ Integrated Eligibility System (IES) with the Department of Transitional Assistance;

(2) the requirement that the IES cross-check Social Security Numbers (SSNs), at the point of application, with a minimum of 9 specific state and federal databases and 20 additional optional databases, to the extent that they are available;

(3) the prohibition of the use of numerical identifiers as placeholders for SSNs for periods in excess of 3 months;

(4) the immediate phase-in of photo ID on EBT cards for cardholders over the age of 18, beginning 6 months following the passage of the bill;

(5) the prohibition of out of state EBT card use except in states contiguous to Massachusetts;

(6) the increase of the potential fines on retailers who violate EBT prohibitions, as recommended by the most recent Cashless Commission;

(7) the prohibition of the use of self-declarations as verification of applicant eligibility; and

(8) the phase-in of the implementation of an online payment system for rent and utility payments that would provide recipients with more flexibility to pay bills and an added resource to budget benefits, while providing the Commonwealth with greater oversight over the use of cash assistance.

The Conference Committee will begin their deliberations on the Fiscal Year 2014 state budget later this week.

EBTLetter to CC

House Minority Leader’s Statement on State Auditor’s Report Revealing 1,000 Dead People Collecting Welfare Benefits

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to State Auditor Suzanne Bump’s audit which found countless examples of misuse of taxpayer funded welfare benefits:

“After a cursory glance at the report furnished by State Auditor Suzanne Bump, I continue to be extremely frustrated with the glaring inefficiencies and abuses within the welfare program managed by the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA). Contrary to previous assertions by Governor Patrick, 1,000 deceased individuals collecting taxpayer funded benefits is more than anecdotal.

The current changes being implemented to reform the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program will not suffice. The Auditor’s recent findings should again serve as a catalyst to institute meaningful reforms within the program.

At a time when taxpayers are being asked to pay billions of dollars more a year in increased taxes, they are faced with the reality that tens of millions of dollars of their hard earned money is being paid out to individuals who are fraudulently obtaining government assistance. The sound bites and empty promises from the Patrick Administration have to stop – the taxpayers deserve better.”