House Minority Leader Brad Jones’ Statement on Child Welfare League of America’s Recommendations

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to recommendations made by the Child Welfare League of America for the Department of Children and Families:

“I thank the Child Welfare League of America (CWLA) for its work in making recommendations for repairing and improving the embattled Department of Children and Families (DCF). With the release of this report, I look forward to the opportunity to review the CWLA’s observations and  join with my colleagues in the House to determine how best to proceed with the implementation of the recommendations. 

Contained in today’s report are a number of targeted measures and solutions needed to ensure the safety and well-being of the Commonwealth’s youngest and most vulnerable individuals and families. While the suggestions of the CWLA are an excellent starting point, I strongly believe the conversation surrounding how best to reform DCF must continue to evolve. 

In the coming days and weeks, the House of Representatives will undoubtedly address the systemic issues plaguing DCF. The debate will be passionate, and at certain times, along party lines. However, it is imperative that the Legislature be united in our resolve to protect the children and families of Massachusetts.”

Memorial Day 2014

George Orwell once said, “we sleep safely in our beds because rough men stand ready in the night to visit violence on those who would do us harm.”

As Massachusetts and the nation observe Memorial Day, we pause to honor the many brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Throughout our nation's proud history, many have answered the call to serve, and many more continue to place themselves in harm's way in nations and regions all around the world.

Today, we honor all of our veterans for their service to our country, and for the sacrifices they have made to preserve the many freedoms we all too often take for granted.

House Minority Leader Brad Jones’ Statement on Adoption of House Fiscal Year 2015 Budget

House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) issued the following statement today in response to the adoption of the House Fiscal Year 2015 budget:

“While if left to the devices of House Republicans, the budget passed by the House of Representatives would certainly have some different priorities, the fiscal plan advanced by the Legislature, and free from tax increases, represents an increased level of commitment to Massachusetts taxpayers and communities. 

Both the Fiscal Year 2015 budget that passed the House and the debate surrounding it affirms the Republican Caucus’ unwavering dedication to the Commonwealth’s cities and towns. Through thoughtful, targeted, and aggressive amendments, the spending plan reflects the necessity of providing municipalities with the appropriate amount of funding and legislative support. 

Paramount in this year’s budget debate was the taxpayer. By embracing a Republican-led amendment to offer tax amnesty to individuals and businesses that are delinquent in their payments to the Department of Revenue, not only will taxpayers have an opportunity to avoid burdensome penalties, but Massachusetts is now in a position to collect overdue tax liabilities which might otherwise have been forgone. 

Also given due attention in this year’s fiscal proposal was the ongoing and widespread drug epidemic facing the state. Initiatives offered by Republican legislators, and adopted by the House, aimed at substance abuse prevention and treatment, as well as funding for opioid overdose prevention and education demonstrate the Legislature’s eagerness to combat in smart and effective ways drug abuse and addiction within the Commonwealth. 

 I look forward to the Senate’s consideration of the Fiscal Year 2015 budget, and remain optimistic in their ability to build upon the recommendations of the House of Representatives.”