Archive
2003
LEGISLATURE SENDS CLEAR MESSAGE WITH ECONOMIC STIMULUS
BILL:
STATE WILL PARTNER WITH BUSINESS TO CREATE JOBS
SENATOR JOYCE TO HOST PUBLIC MEETING IN MILTON ON
ROUTE 28 CONSTRUCTION PROJECT
THE BLUE BALLOON
Senate Kicks off Fall Agenda with Consumer and Safety
Legislation
SENATOR JOYCE SPEAKS TO THE DISTRICT THROUGH THE
BRIAN A. JOYCE REPORT
SENATOR JOYCE TO MAINTAIN FULL SERVICES FOR DISTRICT
DESPITE PAINFUL SENATE BUDGET CUTS
SENATOR JOYCE Warns of Unnecessary
Senator Joyce Issues Brief Touting Record of Reform
Public Safety Committee Passes Cell Phone Driving Ban
LEGISLATORS FILE ADD-A-LANE LEGISLATION
NEW GIFT CERTIFICATE LAW ELIMINATES HIDDEN FEES
Public safety committee passes cell phone driving ban
LEGISLATORS FILE ADD-A-LANE LEGISLATION
Senator Joyce announces Low cost college loans
CONFERENCE COMMITTEE DELIVERS BALANCED BUDGET DURING
FISCAL CRISIS
FINAL STATE BUDGET RESTORES SCHOOL BUILDING PROJECT
U.S. CENSUS BUREAU OFFERS LOCAL RESIDENTS A CHANCE
TO WORK FOR THEIR COMMUNITY
JOYCE AND FINEGOLD SPONSOR LEGISLATION TO ABOLISH THE
GOVERNORS COUNCIL
NEW ENGLAND PENSION ASSISTANCE PROJECT AVAILABLE
"State
Budget '03 - The Perfect Storm Unleashed"
School Building project clears another hurdle
Consumers Warned to Stay Away from High Cost Tax Refund
Anticipation Loans
SENATOR JOYCE CONGRATULATES CLASS OF 2003 ON HIGH MCAS
PASSING RATE
JOYCE FILES BILL TO IMPROVE SKATING RINKS
FINANCIAL SAFETY CONSUMER TIPS AVAILABLE
SENATOR JOYCE ANNOUNCES STATE HOUSE HOLIDAY CARD CONTEST
JOYCE SCORES ANOTHER A FOR ENVIRONMENTAL
VOTES
COMPUTER TAKE-BACK BILL MAKES
FINANCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SENSE
SENATOR JOYCE AND SPONSORS SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION LEGISLATION
SENATOR JOYCE ANNOUNCES Do Not Call REGISTRY
IMPLEMENTATION
"CIRCUIT BREAKER" TAX CREDIT
At the State House By Senator
Brian A. Joyce
STATE MCAS RESULTS DATE: NOVEMBER 26, 2002
SENATOR JOYCE NAMED LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR
RIBBON CUTTING FOR NEW I-95 CANTON SLIP-RAMP
IMMEDIATE OPENINGS FOR SENIOR COMMUNITY SERVICE POSITIONS
IN WEST BRIDGEWATER, EAST BRIDGEWATER, EASTON, STOUGHTON AND AVON
SENATOR JOYCE SPONSORS LEGISLATION IN SUPPORT OF SPECIAL
EDUCATION AND DISABLED STUDENTS
Senator joyce files tax relief BILL FOR SENIORS
$2 MILLION AWARDED TO ASSIST FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS
BRUGMAN BILL SENT TO GOVERNOR
EMERGING U.S. LEADERS AWARDED PRESTIGIOUS MARSHALL
MEMORIAL FELLOWSHIPS
SENATOR JOYCE CALLS CUTS TO HOME CARE SERVICES
DEVASTATING
SENATOR JOYCE OFFERS NEW INFORMATION ON THE OFFICE
OF PATIENT PROTECTION
AMNESTY PROGRAM WILL WAIVE PENALTIES
TO GENERATE MILLIONS IN OWED FUNDS
LEGISLATURE APPROVES ANTITERROR BILL
MEASURE SENT TO GOVERNOR SWIFTS DESK
UNITED WE STAND LICENSE PLATES APPROVED
COMMEMORATIVE MEASURE SENT TO SWIFTS DESK
JOYCE SWEEPS DISTRICT
STUDY FUNDED IN BOND BILL
Bill TO SECURE AREA WATER STORAGE PASSES
$20,000 AWARDED TO CANTON HIGH SCHOOL
FOR GREEN FEASIBILITY STUDY
SENATOR JOYCE ANNOUNCES FUNDING FOR NEPONSET POLICE
PATROL
LONGER JAIL TIME and STIFFER FINES for CORPORATE
CRIMINALS:
Senator Joyce Votes for Anti-Fraud Bill
SENATOR JOYCES BILL WILL CHANNEL INCREASED
FUNDS DIRECTLY INTO THE BLUE HILLS RESERVATION
FUNDS SECURED FOR THE DECONTAMINATION OF OLD CANTON
AIRPORT
STUDY FUNDED IN BOND BILL
JOYCE SECURES $43,500 for RECONSTRUCTION
RATTLESNAKE HILL FUNDED IN FINAL BOND BILL
$2.13 MILLION TO FUND
14 PROJECTS TARGETING NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION
$472,152 SECURED FOR NEPONSET RIVER PROJECT
ADDITIONAL FUNDING SECURED
FOR CLEARING OF PINE TREE BROOK
An Act to End Child Hunger
SENATOR JOYCES BILL WILL CHANNEL INCREASED FUNDS
DIRECTLY INTO THE BLUE HILLS RESERVATION
$2.13 MILLION TO FUND
14 PROJECTS TARGETING NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION
$472,152 SECURED FOR NEPONSET RIVER PROJECT
SENATOR JOYCE ANNOUNCES FUNDING FOR
NEPONSET POLICE PATROL
ADDITIONAL FUNDING SECURED
FOR CLEARING OF PINE TREE BROOK
ENVIRONMENTAL BOND BILL INCLUDES
ULIN RINK FUNDING
Highlights from the 2001-2002
Legislative Session
Major Laws in Order of Passage
For Immediate Release: November 26, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
LEGISLATURE SENDS CLEAR MESSAGE WITH ECONOMIC STIMULUS
BILL:
STATE WILL PARTNER WITH BUSINESS TO CREATE JOBS
The Legislature this week passed a broad-based $100 million legislative
package aimed at maximizing limited resources with creative to tools for
expanding a stable and competitive business friendly climate.
An Act to Promote Job Creation, Economic Stability and Competitiveness
in The Massachusetts Economy also known as the Economic Stimulus
Package melds initiatives that capitalize a number of funds to leverage
public and private sector investments in innovative technologies; offer
business incentives such as research and development credits, tax rebates,
and a sales-tax holiday and restore the viability of programs to promote
work force training and tourism.
This Stimulus Package represents a fair and balanced approach that
lets business know the Commonwealth will be a partner, not an obstacle
as we work to keep Massachusetts competitive, stem job losses and create
new opportunities for employers and workers, said Senator Brian
A. Joyce. With such scarce funding, we carefully examined where
to invest public dollars to yield the greatest returns.
The proposal would receive one-third of its funding from the state's tobacco
settlement revenues, one third from the Commonwealth's Stabilization Fund,
and one third from funds that were received from the federal government
in the fiscal relief legislation for states earlier this year.
Despite a slow and jobless recovery and limited state resources, the legislature's
economic stimulus package combines creative ways and proven incentives
to foster a better business climate, boost the state's competitive advantages
and help restore trust that Massachusetts can be a stable partner.
SUMMARY
CAPITAL FORMATION FOR EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES, REGIONAL
DEVELOPMENT, AND UNIVERSITY ACADEMIC RESEARCH
* Re-capitalization of the Emerging Technology Fund ($25 million): Administered
by MassDevelopment, the majority of this $25 million proposal will be
used for "bricks and mortar" investments specifically targeted
toward technology-based physical infrastructure, assuring a permanent
development and manufacturing presence in Massachusetts.
* Capitalization of the John Adams Innovation Institute ($15 million):
Administered by the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, this $15 million
Institute will leverage long-term, public and private sector investment
in innovation technologies to provide dedicated infrastructure support
for emerging technology and regional industry clusters in the Commonwealth.
* Capitalization of the Matching Fund for Collaborative Academic Research
Centers ($20 million): Administered through the Massachusetts Technology
Collaborative, this $20 million fund will attract federal research support
and private sector investment for industry-university academic research
centers. The Matching Fund will improve the competitiveness of our academic
community in the pursuit of federal research support and private sector
investment.
* Capitalization of the Massachusetts, Mathematics, Science, Technology
& Engineering Grant Fund ($2.5 million): This $2.5 million fund, also
known as the pipeline fund, will increase the number of Massachusetts
students who participate in educational programs that support careers
in fields related to math, science, technology, and engineering. The Council
on Economic Advisors, also created in this proposal, will make recommendations
to the Legislature and the chancellor of higher education on the deployment
of the grants to be funded by this program.
* Re-capitalization of the Brownfields Redevelopment Access to Capital
Fund ($6 million): The section provides $6 million to recapitalize the
first state-sponsored program to promote private financing for the remediation
and redevelopment of Brownfields. By subsidizing environmental insurance,
this proposal will continue to make Brownfield redevelopment a financially
sound position that will enhance the Commonwealth's economy.
* Re-capitalization of the Massachusetts Technology Development Corporation
($5 million): This $5 million commitment bolsters the state's quasi-public
development agency as it provides long term capital investment in 15-20
emerging technology companies.
* Creation of the Massachusetts Technology Transfer Center ($2.4 million):
This expanded center, to be affiliated with and housed at one of the UMass
campuses, will accelerate and improve the efficiency of technology transfer
from research institution to industry. A transfer center will facilitate
the introduction of new products or services, which will create jobs.
BUSINESS INCENTIVES
* Makes the Investment Tax Credit Permanent: This section will provide
a stable business climate allowing companies to retain revenues and invest
them in jobs and increase capital reserves that are critical to economic
growth.
* Research & Development Tax Credit Update ($8 million): Significant
change to R&D tax credit to allow more companies to qualify for the
R & D tax credit to include those companies who spend more than 2/3
of expenditures (not just receipts) on Research & Development. Updates
the current state tax code to mirror federal research credit by including
intangible expenses to be includes as R & D. R & D is critical
to Massachusetts economy as Commonwealth's per capita R & D is 2.2
times the national average. To date, competing states, RI and Connecticut,
provide more generous R& D credits. Furthermore, the Commonwealth
is world-renowned for its biotech, telecomm, medical device, and pharmaceutical
companies that are incubators of new technology and products and are reliant
on such credits to create new jobs, products, and life-saving medicines.
* One-Day Sales Tax Holiday ($5 million): Scheduled for August 14, 2004,
this holiday will provide parents and children who are doing "Back-to
School" shopping relief from the sales tax, boosting economic activity
and consumer buying power.
* Targeted tax rebate for new manufacturing jobs. Of the 160,000 jobs
lost in this recession, over 50 percent (82,000) were in the manufacturing
sector. This program will reduce the cost to relocate or expand manufacturing
in Massachusetts by providing a rebate of 50 percent of the state income
tax withheld for new jobs created. This rebate will be piloted for biotechnology,
life sciences and medical device manufacturing.
* Medical Device User Fee ($1 million): First state in the nation, to
allow a 50% tax credit for amount spent on FDA pre-approval application
fees. This ground-breaking initiative leverages the Commonwealth's traditional
strength in health care and research to support a burgeoning medical device
industry in the Commonwealth. Tax incentive supports current Massachusetts
companies and lures new medical device manufacturers to the Commonwealth.
The credit also aids the development process for new products.
* Research & Development Tax Credit Transfer ($2 million): Administered
by the Department of Revenue, this $2 million program will allow mid-
sized companies with high growth potential to raise cash by selling tax
losses and unused research and development credits. Companies must demonstrate
high rates of job growth in previous years and must continue to grow every
year that they are in the program.
* Historic Development Tax Credit: This proposal will provide a 20% tax
credit for redevelopment of historic commercial and residential real estate
that is at least 50 years old, encouraging the redevelopment of older
properties in urban areas and promoting smart growth rather than suburban
sprawl. It is modeled upon a federal credit and has been implemented in
24 other states.
* Brownfields Tax Credit Extension: This section extends the Brownfields
Tax Credit Program for two years. Through this revision, net response
and removal costs for waste site cleanups that are incurred by a taxpayer
between August 1, 1998 and January 1, 2007 will be eligible for the credit
provided that the taxpayer commences and diligently pursues an environmental
response action before August 5, 2005, rather than 2003.
* Liability Protections for Cleaned Up Brownfields Site Owners or Operators:
This section amends the current Brownfields Law which provides liability
relief for any owner or operator of real property who has achieved and
maintained either a permanent solution or a remedy operation status and
has employed the use of an activity and use limitation (AUL) to do so.
The changes proposed herein would strike language that requires that the
owner or operator that receives liability relief must never have conducted,
or been required to conduct, a cleanup of hazardous substances pursuant
to the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) or the federal
Comprehensive, Environmental, Response, Compensation and Liability Act
(CERCLA, aka the Superfund law), in order to be afforded the liability
relief. Without this legislation, an owner or operator of real property
would still be liable to parties other than the state if the owner or
operator has conducted or been required to conduct a cleanup of hazardous
substances pursuant to RCRA or Superfund anywhere.
* Covenants Not to Sue: The Covenant Not to Sue program which allows a
current or prospective owner or operator of a contaminated property to
enter into a covenant not to sue subject to certain conditions. Current
law delineates that the proposed redevelopment or reuse of the property
must contribute to the economic or physical revitalization of the community
in which it is located, and provides one of the following public benefits:
(a) new permanent jobs; (b) affordable housing; (c) historic preservation;
(d) creates or revitalizes open space; (e) other public benefits as determined
by the Attorney General. Under the current law, redevelopment such as
market rate housing on a brownfields site would not be considered a "public
benefit.", although it may have provide significant benefits to a
community. This proposal would provide that the public benefits to qualify
a site for a covenant not to use may include but are not limited to those
specified previously so long as the project is contributing to the economic
and physical revitalization of the property. This legislation will encourage
and enable a wider range of brownfields redevelopment projects to receive
critical liability relief benefits.
STREAMLINED PERMITTING
* Creation of a Massachusetts Permit Regulatory Office, MassPRO: The establishment
of MassPRO and a Permitting Ombudsman will serve to streamline the state
permitting process. The office will serve as the initial point of contact
for businesses looking to locate or expand within Massachusetts and will
act as a liaison between business and government on permitting issues.
* Regulatory Impact Statement: This initiative will require that any new
regulation proposed by a state agency be accompanied by a "Regulatory
Impact Statement," identifying all costs to the state and to the
private sector related to its implementation and enforcement.
Other Initiatives
* Sunday Liquor Sales: These section lift the prohibition on the Sunday
sale of alcohol. Local communities will have the option to opt out of
this requirement.
Massachusetts International Tourism Initiative ($2 million): This $2 million
initiative will establish an international tourism program to attract
international visitors and dollars to the state by leveraging both public
and private dollars to increase tourism. The tourism industry generated
more than $11 billion in revenue in 2001 and provided 147,000 jobs.
* Recapitalization of the Massachusetts Community Development Finance
Corporation ($1 million): This $1 million proposal will provide funding
for economic development projects in urban and minority communities.
* Workforce Training Grants ($6 million): This section will invest $6
million for workforce training and development. Dollars will target training
in specific sectors, help workers develop new skills, and provide re-training
for older and dislocated workers.
* Reforms to the Worker Training Fund: These changes give the fund greater
flexibility by allowing companies that are moving in-state to access the
fund, raising the cap on awards to $1 million and allows for rolling applications.
* Funding for Existing Workforce Training Grants: This change will allow
the Department of Workforce Development to keep the state's commitments
for grants issued in prior years.
* HMO Solvency - Establishes minimum net worth and financial solvency
standards for health maintenance organizations doing business in the Commonwealth.
The legislation is based on standards developed and adopted by the National
Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) and/or existing standards
contained in Chapter 175 of the General Laws. The standards are also consistent
with the recommendations of the January 2002 Blue Ribbon Health Care Task
Force.
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For Immediate Release: October 20, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
SENATOR JOYCE TO HOST PUBLIC MEETING IN MILTON ON
ROUTE 28 CONSTRUCTION PROJECT
Senator Brian A. Joyce announced this week that he has scheduled a public
meeting to discuss the progress of the Route 28 (Randolph Ave.) construction
project. The project involves the reconstruction of nearly two miles of
Route 28 from Quincy to the intersection of Reedsdale Road.
After over fifteen years of discussion, work finally began on the project
this summer. There have been numerous complaints from motorists and residents
about traffic congestion, safety concerns and dust problems associated
with the project.
The meeting will be held on October 27th at 7:00 p.m. at the Milton Town
Hall. Senator Joyce will be joined by MassHighway Commissioner John Cogliano
and District Director Stephen ODonnell.
Senator Joyce explained that he scheduled the meeting to give Milton residents
both an update and the opportunity to voice their concerns.
For more information about the meeting or the Route 28 project, please
call Senator Joyce at 617-722-1643.
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For Immediate Release: October 17, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
THE BLUE BALLOON
At first glance, 11-year-old Nova Scotian Jessica Goreham and Senator
Brian A. Joyce dont have a lot in common. Separated by hundreds
of miles, the two had never heard of each other until this September when
Senator Joyce received a phone call from the Goreham family of Oak Park,
Nova Scotia.
It seems that in early September, Jessica and her father were checking
the bear tracks at their hunting camp when the little girl came across
the half-inflated helium balloon. The sparkling curiosity of the girl
pushed her to call her mother immediately and her mother Michelle, and
grandmother, Shirley Hopkins, went to work trying to discern the history
of the mystery balloon.
The search was on, but the case was challenging. The Gorehams were informed
that there were no senators named Joyce in Canada, so they proceeded to
contact the United States Embassy. Through this office they were informed
of Senator Joyces phone number. Senator Joyces office staff
was thrown back by the unbelievable news. They were eager to hear how
such an unusual event took place.
The reality is that it was pure coincidence that the balloon not only
made it so far away, but that it was ever found. Jessica and her father
were in the middle of the woods making a tree stand near the campsite
when Jessica spotted the unusual balloon. It was a little muddy;
obviously scars incurred from the cross border journey, said Hopkins.
Senator Joyce believes the balloon must have come from either the Stoughton
or Randolph Fourth of July parades, where hundreds of bright blue balloons
with white letters spelling out Senator Brian A. Joyce were
handed out to children along the parade route.
What a wonderful story, said Senator Joyce. I was very
impressed at Jessica and her familys perseverance in tracking down
the balloons source. Jessica has already framed the Joyce
balloon and plans on saving it for a long time.
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For Immediate Release: September 25, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
Senate Kicks off Fall Agenda with Consumer and Safety
Legislation
Statehouse, Boston In its first formal session of the fall, the
Massachusetts State Senate voted Thursday to support legislation that
protects consumers against unwanted and often misleading e-mail spam messages
and safeguards students who ride school busses.This legislation sets the
tone for the Senates fall priorities-eliminating practices that
end up hurting our citizens or costing them time and money in inefficiencies.
Senator Jarrett T. Barrios introduced the anti-spam bill earlier this
year, which was developed in concert with Senator David Magnani (D-Framingham),
Senator Linda Melconian (D-Springfield) and Senator Steven Tolman (D-Watertown).
It implements a series of requirements that alert consumers to the millions
of deceptive commercial e-mail messages that flood internet in
boxes and allows consumers to sue violators for monetary damages.
"Workers and families deserve the right to internet access without
being deluged by misleading and annoying e-mail messages," said Senator
Barrios. "Slowing the spam tidal wave will save us all a lot of time
-- and lost productivity."
While the Constitution prohibits an outright prohibition on spam, the
bill passed by the Senate provides the following important protections
from spam emails sent and received in Massachusetts: Require e-mail marketers
to make a prominent disclosure in the subject line of the e-mail message
indicating that the message is an advertisement. (ADV:) Require
senders to make a prominent disclosure in the subject line that the message
contains or refers to adult content. (ADLT) Prohibit misleading
information such as false sender address, forged routing information and
deceptive text in the subject line or text of the message. Prohibit the
sale of software used to falsify sending or routing information in electronic
messages.
Consumers and businesses have been flooded by these unsolicited
e-mails. Mandating clear labeling and truthful information will help consumers
regain control over their e-mail boxes, said Senator Melconian,
Chair of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology. Two separate
enforcement tools would add teeth to the bill. Any individual or e-mail
provider would be able to bring a lawsuit for money damages against someone
who violates any of the requirements described above and a fine of $500
per message ($750 if the recipient is 65 years of age or older), in addition
to reasonable Attorney's fees and costs, could be levied to any commercial
electronic provider violating the law.
The Senate also unanimously passed a bill that sets a maximum highway
driving speed for school busses at 55 miles per hour. Senator Michael
Knapik (R-Westfield) and Senator Brian Joyce (D-Milton) sponsored the
legislation to address parents safety concerns about their children. When
parents send their children to school, they should feel confident that
the utmost precautions are taken to ensure their childs safety,
whether on a ten minute ride to school or a two hour field trip,
said Senator Joyce. Setting a standard speed limit for school busses
is a logical step in protecting our most precious assets.
The Senate has been actively engaged in community forums, hearings and
business roundtables across the Commonwealth in an effort to craft additional
initiatives that will be heard this fall. The Senates agenda will include
legislation designed to improve consumer and business confidence, stimulate
the economy and create jobs.
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For Immediate Release: September 10, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
SENATOR JOYCE SPEAKS TO THE DISTRICT THROUGH THE
BRIAN A. JOYCE REPORT
Senator Brian A. Joyce is proud to announce his new community television
show entitled The Brian A. Joyce Report, a show that puts
a face to some of the key players in Massachusetts government as well
as business and community leaders. Cable stations throughout the Norfolk,
Bristol, and Plymouth district will air the series continuously on each
towns community television channel.
The thirty-minute episodes are aimed at educating residents across the
Commonwealth on the current issues that affect the district and the state
as a whole. The first episode introduces Michael Widmer, President of
the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation, and focuses on the economy of
the Commonwealth. The Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation is a non-partisan
organization that focuses on state spending, tax policies, and the Massachusetts
economy. His views on these issues are discussed in the premiere episode.
This is an opportunity to take Beacon Hill to the people of my district.
Id love to hear what they think of the show and to get feedback
as to whom they would like to see as a guest in the future, says
Joyce.
The second episode of The Brian A. Joyce Report, due to air
in October, will include an interview with Secretary of Transportation
Daniel Grabauskas. For more information on The Brian A. Joyce Report
or to find out when the first episode will air in your town, please call
the office of Senator Joyce at (617) 722-1643.
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For Immediate Release: September 10, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
SENATOR JOYCE TO MAINTAIN FULL SERVICES FOR DISTRICT
DESPITE PAINFUL SENATE BUDGET CUTS
In the face of painful employee layoffs announced last week at the Massachusetts
Senate, Senator Joyce assured his constituents that he would continue
to provide full services for the entire district. The present circumstances
require painful reductions and cuts across the state and in the Senate
budget alike. My staff and I will work harder to make sure that we continue
to answer every call and fight for the needs of my district, Joyce
said.
Since January, the Massachusetts Senate has significantly reduced its
own spending by hundreds of thousands of dollars to address a budget deficit.
These cost-cutting measures include freezes in hiring, renegotiation of
lease and contracts, the use of less costly office stationary, and the
elimination of office newspaper subscriptions, long-distance telephone
service, and webcasting of legislative sessions. Unfortunately, layoffs
of Senate employees were also necessary to address the deficit.
In facing these cuts, senators have experienced first-hand the effects
of the national recession that has swept businesses and non-profit organizations
throughout the state. "This is a painful decision, but given the
current circumstances, we've had to take drastic steps to close this shortfall,
stated Senate President Travaglini.
In fact, this year, many members of the Massachusetts Senate including
Senator Joyce turned down automatic pay increases mandated by the state
Constitution while increasing the cost of health care premiums for themselves.
Despite the cuts to Senate administration and staff, Senator Joyce stated
that all district needs will continue to be met and added that the Senate
will continue to enact reforms and programs that improve the efficiency
of government and preserve core services. This spring, we enacted
more than a dozen major reforms to streamline bureaucracy, improve agencies,
and save precious taxpayer dollars. This fall, we will continue to enact
laws that improve our government, foster economic recovery and create
jobs, Joyce said.
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For Immediate Release: September 5, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
SENATOR JOYCE Warns of Unnecessary
Do Not Call Registration Fee
Senator Brian A. Joyce and The Office of Consumer Affairs and Business
Regulation (OCABR) would like to notify the public that the National Do
Not Call Program, a program that limits the number of telemarketing calls
to your home, is a FREE program with quick, easy, and FREE registration.
Recent advertisements urge consumers to call 1-800-DONOTCALL and pay a
$2.95 fee in order to sign up for the National Do Not Call Registry. Consumers
calling this number are connected to the National Do Not Call Registry
for a $2.95 fee.
The National Do Not Call Registrys toll free number 1-888-382-1222
is the direct connection to registration. The choice of online registration
is available on the National Do Not Call website, www.donotcall.gov. Massachusetts
residents may also register for the Massachusetts Do Not Call Registry
for free by calling 1-866-231-CALL (2255), by vesting their website at
www.mass.gov/donotcall, or by mailing their name, address, and phone number
to: Massachusetts Do Not Call Program, P.O. Box 1348, Boston, MA 02117
Questions about the National Do Not Call program can be directed to the
Federal Trade Commission using their toll-free number 1-877-FTC-HELP,
or visit www.ftc.gov/donotcall.
For questions about the Massachusetts Do Not Call program, contact the
Office of Consumer Affairs toll free at 1-888-283-3757 or visit the Do
Not Call website.
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For Immediate Release: August 27, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
Senator Joyce Issues Brief Touting Record of Reform
As the Legislature prepares to return to formal session, Senator Brian
A. Joyce and Senate President Travaglini have issued a policy brief, entitled
Reforming State Government, which details the compilation
of responsible reforms that have been initiated by the Massachusetts Senate
this year.
The policy brief highlights the Senates role in advancing new ideas
to restructure government, while addressing the budget crisis and protecting
core services. Items include the Senates initiative on reorganizing
state police crime labs, health and human services, the states economic
development agencies, the MDC, and public higher education. It also highlights
many reforms the Governor failed to embrace, such as to the Quinn bill
programs and the creation of a state bulk purchasing of prescription drugs.
The prescription drug program would have been the first of its kind, and
a step forward in the effort to provide affordable medication to those
in need.
In addition, the policy brief details important core services that were
preserved by the Senate, despite dwindling revenues, including the restoration
of Prescription Advantage and MassHealth Basic. It also summarizes non-budgetary
bills, including the municipal relief bill and other bills to improve
public safety and spur economic growth and recovery.
Special attention was paid to the protection of the states most
vulnerable residents, its children and elderly. Taking on its traditional
role as advocate for these groups, the Senate came to the rescue, preserving
essential services that would have been cut by then Governors vetoes.
Local aid, vital to cities and towns in the faltering economy, was also
preserved.
We were at risk of having our economic downturn turn back the progress
weve made, said Senator Joyce. Our challenge was to
craft a budget that combined reform and fiscal responsibility with our
mission to protect our citizens. With fewer dollars to spend on services
and programs, the Senate seized the opportunity to initiate common sense
reforms.
For more information on Reforming State Government contact
Senator Brian A. Joyce, (617) 722-1643 Room 413-A, State House, Boston,
MA 02133-1053, or by email at [email protected].
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For Immediate Release: June 23, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
Public Safety Committee Passes Cell Phone Driving Ban
Senator Brian A. Joyce is pleased to announce that the Public Safety Committee
has favorably released legislation to restrict the use of cellular phones
while driving.
Co-sponsored by Senator Joyce, the bill aims to create safer streets for
all drivers in Massachusetts, by reducing driving distraction. Under the
new bill, junior operators (under the age of 18) are banned from all cell
phone use while behind the wheel. All other drivers are required to use
hands-free devices with their cell phones while driving. Only New York
and a small number of other states require motorists to use hands-free
devices.
The rate of cell phone-related accidents and fatalities is growing
just as fast as the popularity of cell phones themselves, said Senator
Joyce. The issue needed to be addressed sooner rather than later.
The Bill states that a first violation will result in a $100 fine and
all subsequent violations will be punished by a fine of $250.
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For Immediate Release: June 23, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
LEGISLATORS FILE ADD-A-LANE LEGISLATION
Bill aims to fast-track lane construction on Route 128
In a move aimed at addressing growing traffic congestion south of Boston,
Senator Brian A. Joyce has filed legislation to fast track the widening
of Rte. 128 in each direction from Randolph to Wellesley.
To date, over 15 legislators have signed on to the bill which will exempt
the Route 128 add-a-lane project from the current lengthy
design-bid-build requirement in favor of a more efficient and cost effective
method cutting the estimated completion date in half to 5-7 years.
The project is designed to widen Route 128 from three to four lanes in
each direction to alleviate traffic congestion from Randolph to Wellesley.
As a legislator I find that the worthiest of projects often meet
some sort of resistance from affected interest groups, said Senator
Joyce. However, in the case of the add-a-lane project, we have amassed
wide-spread support from residents, businesses, environmentalists, safety
officials and elected officials.
While large-scale transportation projects have recently suffered from
significant cost overruns and unforeseen delays due to a disjointed bidding
process and disincentive of individual contractors to employ cost-saving
measures, under Joyces bill the risk is transferred to the designbuild
team by holding it accountable to the initial timeframe and bid on the
final product.
The legislation is modeled on the Route 3 North project that stretches
from Burlington to the New Hampshire border. Although nearly double in
size and cost compared to the Route 128 add-a-lane proposal, the Route
3 project is scheduled for completion after only 42 months (as opposed
to 10-12 years) and is currently $11 million under budget.
The project has been in the works since the mid-80s, when 120,000 vehicles
traveled on Rte. 128 daily, according to Massachusetts Highway Department
figures. Today, more than 200,000 cars use the highway.
The use of the breakdown lane as a fourth travel lane during peak hours
was extended as an interim measure by the Federal Highway
Administration in the mid-1980s and currently represents 20 percent of
all traffic during these hours. The project would restore the breakdown
lane to its original purpose of harboring broken down cars and increase
safety along the highway.
The project will also have positive effects on the environment as average
weekday use along Route 128 has increased by an estimated 60,000 vehicles
per day, volumes surpassed by only the Central Artery and Southeast Expressway.
Because of the congestion and high air polluting emission of idling cars,
the Route 128 Corridor has the worst air quality conditions in the state.
Completion of Route 128 also presents the opportunity to increase cleanup
of contaminated sites throughout the Corridor by upgrading of storm water
managements systems to current-day standards.
We, in government, have to do all that we can both to retain existing
businesses along the 128 corridor and to attract new business, said
Senator Joyce. The benefits of this legislation, if passed, are
positive and far reaching for our state and the residents along Route
128.
The project is estimated to cost $150 million with an additional $50 million
to redo the Interstate 95/Rte. 128 interchange from a combination of federal
and state funding sources.
# # #Back to Top
For Immediate Release: July 7, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
U.S. CENSUS BUREAU OFFERS LOCAL RESIDENTS A CHANCE
TO WORK FOR THEIR COMMUNITY
Senator Brian A. Joyce announces an exciting employment opportunity with
the U.S. Census Bureau. Unknown to many people, the population census
is not the only research done by the U.S. Census Bureau. Surveys investigating
unemployment, crime, housing, and health are also given.
At this time, the Census Bureau is looking to hire hard working, flexible,
and responsible individuals to help conduct household surveys. The Bureau
offers competitive wages, paid training, and equips each worker with a
laptop and all equipment needed for gathering data. In order to be eligible
for this position, applicants must be a U.S. citizen; be able to work
days, evenings, and weekends; have a car and valid drivers license;
have a private, non-cellular, phone line; and pass a written test. To
learn more about this job opportunity, call the Census Bureau toll-free
at 1-888-638-8310 or visit their website at
www.census.gov/robos/www/
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: July 7, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
CONFERENCE COMMITTEE DELIVERS BALANCED BUDGET DURING
FISCAL CRISIS
Senator Brian A. Joyce and the entire state legislature are proud to announce
that the Conference Committee presented its Fiscal Year 2004 Conference
Report in mid-June. After much debate and compromise, the final budget
plans to deliver five key components: responsible reform within the
state government, no tax increases, a balanced budget, an honest and transparent
proposal, and an on time completion.
Due to the current fiscal crisis, the conference committee had to make
several difficult decisions including which state-funded programs needed
to be cut in order to achieve a balanced budget. Ultimately, the legislature
and the Governor are left to close the $3 billion budget gapprimarily
through spending cutbacks.
Because the state government cannot function on a budget of this size,
several changes were made in order to make the system operate more efficiently
and be more cost effective. While many departments were condensed to save
funds, others were created to take control of several different issues.
One such division is the Commonwealth Development Coordinating Council,
which will handle concerns involving the economy, housing, transportation,
capital development and the preservation of
environmental resources.
Although many cuts were made, the committee was able to hold onto a number
of important programs such as Prescription Advantage. Despite the cuts,
education is still ensured at the foundation level in every district in
FY 04. Also, a section of the budget will make changes to the MCAS appeals
process to provide special education students with every opportunity to
prove that they have met the standards for graduation.
For the legislature, the creation of the FY 04 budget was a complicated
task filled with hard decisions and disappointing cutbacks. Thankfully,
in the end, the budget could be balanced with as few reductions as possible.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: July 1, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
FINAL STATE BUDGET RESTORES SCHOOL BUILDING PROJECT
Both Easton projects now eligible to receive state funding Senators Brian
A. Joyce and Robert S. Creedon, and Representatives Christine Canavan,
Geraldine Creedon, and David Flynn are pleased to announce the final FY04
budget will include language providing that the renovations and
additions of both the Easton Junior High School and the Oliver Ames High
School be placed on the states School Building Assistance priority
list.
Under the terms of the FY04 budget passed by the legislature and governor,
both school renovation projects will be eligible for SBA funding, estimated
at over $45 million.
The Oliver Ames High School and the Easton Junior High School had individually
received approval from the Department of Education and both at one time
had been placed on the most recent preliminary approval School Building
Assistance list. Unfortunately, under changes in the SBA program made
by Governor Romney, only one project was to receive state reimbursement,
jeopardizing the entire
project.
The two projects must be counted as one as they are a comprehensive solution
to a growing problem, according to Easton officials.
Easton first received preliminary approval for its Junior High School
project but the DOE agreed to switch approval to the High School project
at the towns request. Both projects have been ranked high priorities
by the Department of Education based on the urgent need to alleviate severe
overcrowding.
Eastons overcrowding is expected to compound as the school-age population
gets older. Currently, all the schools in the district function above
capacity except for the new Middle School. Easton was one of 28 out of
the 63 applications to receive preliminary approval for funding from the
DOE.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: June 27, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
Senator Joyce announces Low cost college loans
Families facing college tuition bills can benefit from the lowest rate
loans ever available from the Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority,
Senator Brian A. Joyce announced today. The 2003-2004 interest rates for
the MEFA Loan Program have reached record-low levels, meaning there has
never been a better time to finance a college education.
The MEFA Loan Program has broken last years record lows with a fixed
rate of 6.25 percent and a variable rate of 3.55 percent on college loans
for the next school year.
Parents facing college tuition payments owe it to themselves to
consider a low-cost loan from MEFA, which is a trusted authority with
two decades of experience assisting Massachusetts families. The Legislature
created MEFA because we believe every student should have the opportunity
to attend
college, said Senator Joyce.
Interest rates are already at incredibly low levels, and as a not-for-profit
state authority, we utilize tax-exempt bond financing and pass the savings
on to families in the form of low interest rates, said
Thomas Graf, Executive Director of MEFA.
The MEFA Loan offers parents a choice between fixed and variable rates.
The fixed rate of 6.25 percent (APR 6.86 percent) translates into monthly
payments of $8.91 per $1,000 borrowed. The variable rate of 3.55 percent
(APR 4.11 percent) is reset annually, and current monthly payments are
$7.45
per $1,000 borrowed.
Massachusetts parents are eligible to apply for the MEFA Loan to send
their children to any colleges in the nation. The MEFA Loan is designed
to help families who do not receive enough financial aid and need additional
assistance financing college costs.
In addition to parent loans, MEFA offers students the Federal Stafford
Loan at an interest rate 1 percent below rates available from banks. The
MEFA Stafford Loan rate is 2.42 percent, and incentives for on-time payments
could reduce the rate by an additional 2 percent.
Further information about MEFAs low-cost college financing options
is available by calling 1-800-449-MEFA or visiting www.mefa.org
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: June 23, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
LEGISLATORS FILE ADD-A-LANE LEGISLATION
Bill aims to fast-track lane construction on Route 128
In a move aimed at addressing growing traffic congestion south of Boston,
Senator Brian A. Joyce has filed legislation to fast track the widening
of
Rte. 128 in each direction from Randolph to Wellesley.
To date, over 15 legislators have signed on to the bill which will exempt
the Route 128 add-a-lane project from the current lengthy
design-bid-build requirement in favor of a more efficient and cost effective
method cutting the estimated completion date in half to 5-7 years.
The project is designed to widen Route 128 from three to four lanes in
each direction to alleviate traffic congestion from Randolph to Wellesley.
As a legislator I find that the worthiest of projects often meet
some sort of resistance from affected interest groups, said Senator
Joyce. However, in the case of the add-a-lane project, we have amassed
wide-spread support from residents, businesses, environmentalists, safety
officials and elected officials.
While large-scale transportation projects have recently suffered from
significant cost overruns and unforeseen delays due to a disjointed bidding
process and disincentive of individual contractors to employ cost-saving
measures, under Joyces bill the risk is transferred to the designbuild
team by holding it accountable to the initial timeframe and bid on the
final product.
The legislation is modeled on the Route 3 North project that stretches
from Burlington to the New Hampshire border. Although nearly double in
size and cost compared to the Route 128 add-a-lane proposal, the Route
3 project is scheduled for completion after only 42 months (as opposed
to 10-12 years) and is currently $11 million under budget.
The project has been in the works since the mid-80s, when 120,000 vehicles
traveled on Rte. 128 daily, according to Massachusetts Highway Department
figures. Today, more than 200,000 cars use the highway.
The use of the breakdown lane as a fourth travel lane during peak hours
was extended as an interim measure by the Federal Highway
Administration in the mid-1980s and currently represents 20 percent of
all traffic during these hours. The project would restore the breakdown
lane to its original purpose of harboring broken down cars and increase
safety along the highway. The project will also have positive effects
on the environment as average weekday use along Route 128 has increased
by an estimated 60,000 vehicles per day, volumes surpassed by only the
Central Artery and Southeast
Expressway. Because of the congestion and high air polluting emission
of idling cars, the Route 128 Corridor has the worst air quality conditions
in the state. Completion of Route 128 also presents the opportunity to
increase cleanup of contaminated sites throughout the Corridor by upgrading
of storm
water managements systems to current-day standards.
We, in government, have to do all that we can both to retain existing
businesses along the 128 corridor and to attract new business, said
Senator Joyce. The benefits of this legislation, if passed, are
positive and far reaching for our state and the residents along Route
128.
The project is estimated to cost $150 million with an additional $50 million
to redo the Interstate 95/Rte. 128 interchange from a combination of federal
and state funding sources.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: June 23, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
Public safety committee passes cell phone driving ban
Senator Brian A. Joyce is pleased to announce that the Public Safety Committee
has favorably released legislation to restrict the use of cellular
phones while driving.
Co-sponsored by Senator Joyce, the bill aims to create safer streets for
all drivers in Massachusetts, by reducing driving distraction. Under the
new bill, junior operators (under the age of 18) are banned from
all cell phone use while behind the wheel. All other drivers are required
to use hands-free devices with their cell phones while driving. Only New
York and a small number of other states require motorists to use hands-free
devices.
The rate of cell phone-related accidents and fatalities is growing
just as fast as the popularity of cell phones themselves, said Senator
Joyce. The issue needed to be addressed sooner rather than later.
The Bill states that a first violation will result in a $100 fine and
all subsequent violations will be punished by a fine of $250.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: June 16, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
NEW GIFT CERTIFICATE LAW ELIMINATES HIDDEN FEES
Over 60 Percent of Gift Cards Examined Mention Possible Dormancy Fees
Senator Brian A. Joyce and the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business
Regulation (OCABR) are pleased to announce that the new Massachusetts
Gift Certificate Law has been implemented to help protect the citizens
of
Massachusetts from hidden dormancy fees and abrupt termination of gift
certificates.
The new law changes the definition of gift certificates to include electronic
gift cards and extends the longevity of the gift certificate from two
to seven years. The new law also states that if the issuance or
expiration date is illegible or missing then the gift certificate is valid
forever. Furthermore, once 90 percent or more of the gift certificate
is redeemed, the consumer has the right to ask for the remaining dollar
amount in cash or to continue using it through the gift certificate.
Many large companies attach hidden fees to their gift certificates. This
dormancy or inactivity fee can average $2.00 per month and is deducted
from the certificates total amount after a consecutive twelve months
of non-use. Because companies were not be able to physically change the
amount on a
paper gift certificate, these hidden charges were only applicable to electronic
gift cards.
Too many companies were taking advantage of the consumer with these
hidden fees and it needed to stop, says Senator Joyce. The
new law ensures that all gift certificates and electronic gift cards are
valid for the full purchased dollar amount for seven years, regardless
of usage.
Further information on this new Massachusetts Gift Certificate Law can
be found on the Consumer Affairs website: http://www.state.ma.us/consumer
or by calling the office of Senator Brian A. Joyce at (617) 722-1643.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: May, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
NEW ENGLAND PENSION ASSISTANCE PROJECT AVAILABLE
Informative leaflets on the New England are now available in the Office
of Senator Brian A. Joyce. Published by the University of Massachusetts
Gerontology Institute, the leaflets offer tips on how to get free counseling,
in both the private and public sector, on their pension.
The Pension Assistance Project at the University of Massachusetts is funded
by the Administration on Aging, the Massachusetts Bar Foundation, and
the Boston Bar Foundation. It is the only program of its kind in the Commonwealth
and provides information on comprehensive assistance options. The brochure
is available in English and Spanish.
For a copy of either of the leaflets or for more information, please call
the Office of Senator Joyce at (617) 722-1643.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: April 16, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
JOYCE AND FINEGOLD SPONSOR LEGISLATION TO ABOLISH
THE GOVERNORS COUNCIL
Bill aims to eliminate outdated pre-colonial era body
In a move aimed at streamlining government and reducing unnecessary state
expenditures, Senator Brian A. Joyce and Representative Barry R. Finegold
filed a bill today to abolish the Governors Council, calling it
an outdated vestige of the pre-colonial era.
The Council has long since outlived its original function of serving
as a check on the Royal Governors actions, said Senator Joyce.
During these fiscally difficult times, we need to eliminate unnecessary
bureaucracy and the Council is a logical place to start.
The bill would be the final step in a three decade long process to phase
out the archaic government body that dates back to 1628 and was formally
established in the state constitution in 1780.
Massachusetts is one of only two states in the nation with a Governors
Council, with New Hampshire the only other state to retain this pre-colonial
relic. Vermont abolished its 15-member Council in 1836 and created the
Vermont Senate in its place. Maine was the last state to abolish its Council
and did so by Constitutional Amendment in 1975.
The 1962 Democratic and Republican Party platforms both called for the
abolition of the Council, which had been under attack for years from governors
of both parties and former members of the Council itself, but legislators
did not pursue the matter. Two years later, following a scandal involving
councillors and the selling of pardons and paroles, the voters removed
a majority of the Councils substantive powers through initiative
petition.
In 1975, Governor Michael Dukakis filed a Constitutional Amendment to
abolish the Council entirely. In his letter of support to the Legislature
he said, This legislation will abolish the Executive Council and
complete the process now nearly two centuries old, which has seen the
elimination of any useful function for the Council in the Commonwealths
organization of its government. Efforts to be rid of the Council, a vestige
of colonial days, began even as our constitution was being framed.
However, politically connected councillors and their legislative allies
blocked the measure and the bill received an unfavorable report in committee.
The Council may have been necessary to regulate the actions of a
Governor appointed by the English monarchy, but its purpose is clearly
outdated. The few remaining substantive responsibilities of the Council
can be easily absorbed elsewhere, as they are in 48 other states and in
the federal government, said Senator Joyce.
Today, the eight members of the Council meet once a week and enjoy $25,000
salaries with significantly reduced powers including the approval of judicial
appointments, pardons and commutations, and the largely symbolic review
of all expenditures from the state treasury.
This bill is not about cutting the Governors Council but about
making difficult choices in difficult times, said Representative
Finegold. Before we talk about cutting peoples health care, we need
to tighten our belts and reduce unnecessary state bureaucracies whose
responsibilities could be managed more effectively through already existing
institutions. This is about streamlining government.
The bill filed would build on Governor Romneys initiative to neutralize
the judicial appointment process under Executive Order 445 and would eliminate
the approval of judges by the Governors Council, instead requiring
a majority vote in the Senate for all judicial nominations, the process
followed by the federal government and most states.
The appointment of judicial officers is the foundation on which
justice rests in the Commonwealth. We must ensure that judges and officers
serving in our court system, from the trial courts on up to the Supreme
Judicial Court, are of the highest quality and caliber, said Senator
Joyce.
In addition, the bill would give the General Court the power to establish
the terms and conditions of felony pardons and commutations. On an annual
basis, the Governor will report the name of each person pardoned, the
crime and date of conviction and the date pardoned to the General Court.
Under the rules, the legislation must be called for consideration and
pass by a majority in a Joint Session of both the 03-04 and 05-06 Legislative
Sessions and then would need to receive a majority vote in the November
2006 election.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: March 18, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
SENATOR JOYCE ANNOUNCES STATE HOUSE HOLIDAY CARD
CONTEST
Senator Brian A. Joyce is pleased to announce the 7th Annual Senior Citizens
Artistic Interpretation of the State House Holiday Card Contest.
Each year, the Secretary of States office sponsors a Holiday Card
contest for citizens age 62 and over. The winning entry will be reproduced
and sold at the State House Gift Cart. This years theme is Celebrating
the Winter Holiday at the State House. Entries will be accepted from both
amateur and professional artists. All entries will be exhibited at the
Commonwealth Museum beginning July 15, 2003. Professional artists will
judge the entries.
All medium of art is acceptable (oil, watercolor, ink, pastels, etc.).
The size requirements are a minimum of 5 x 7 and a maximum
of 18 x 24. If an artist is unable to mat and frame their
entry, the Secretary of States office will provide matting using
basic materials. Please print name, address, and telephone number on the
back of the artwork.
The deadline for entries is June 30, 2003. Entries must be mailed or delivered
to the attention of Dolores McCray, Commonwealth Museum, Archives Building,
220 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, MA 02125. In order for artwork to be
displayed on the Secretary of States website, each entry must include
a signed authorization form. An Affirmation of Award will be presented
to the winning artist at a date to be announced in August 2003.
To receive a copy of the website authorization form or for more information,
please call the Commonwealth Museum at 617-727-2816 or the office of Senator
Brian A. Joyce at 617-722-1643.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: March 14, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
FINANCIAL SAFETY CONSUMER TIPS AVAILABLE
Informative leaflets on various financial security issues are now available
in the office of Senator Brian A. Joyce. Published by the Massachusetts
Bankers Association, the five leaflets give consumers tips on how to protect
their assets.
The first leaflet Identity Fraud It Can Happen to You
gives consumers advice on how to protect themselves from becoming victims
of identity fraud and includes the phone numbers of the appropriate agencies
for those who may be victims.
The second leaflet Consumers Guide to Lower-Cost ATM/Cash
Access teaches consumers methods of accessing their funds at the
lowest possible cost.
A leaflet entitled Homeowners Guide to Addressing Financial
Problems is designed to give individuals tips on how to address
financial problems and provides information on non-profit agencies that
can help.
Other leaflets include Financial Exploitation
is More Common
which provides safety tips for seniors and Beware of Easy Credit,
which warns consumers of the risks associated with credit debt and what
to do if they end up with more credit than they can afford.
For a copy of any of the leaflets or for more information please call
the Office of Senator Joyce at (617) 722-1643.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: March 14, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
JOYCE FILES BILL TO IMPROVE SKATING RINKS
Senator Brian A. Joyce today introduced legislation to improve the quality
of ice rinks and public skating programs by authorizing the Commonwealth
to enter into 10-year leases for the management of its 21 Metropolitan
District Commission rinks.
Under the Joyce bill, the Commonwealth will continue to retain full ownership
and oversight of the skating rinks. The bill also protects access to ice
times for public skating, youth groups and school hockey teams. Furthermore,
the legislation provides equal opportunity for youths of each gender to
access the facilities.
In addition, the legislation will attract much-needed private sector capital
investment for the rinks. Contracting entities will be required to undertake
all rink repairs and capital improvements.
Schools, municipalities, and youth hockey groups would be able to join
the bidding process for their local rinks by responding to a Request for
Proposals.
Many of the MDC skating rinks have outlived their useful design
life and are in major need of repair, while those that have been repaired
in recent years are already showing signs of neglect, said Senator
Joyce.
This bill provides a win-win situation for the state and the taxpayer
-- it is a sensible way to improve the condition and management of the
rinks, to create long-term stability of skating programs and to improve
working conditions for seasonal staff who currently do not receive benefits,
he said.
The Joyce proposal closely mirrors a Department of Environmental Management
ice rink lease program for the private management of its 18 skating rinks
that was launched in 1992 and was expanded to a 25-year lease term last
year.
Although I do not agree with a 25-year lease for any taxpayer held
asset, it is hard to deny the success of the DEM leasing program,
said Senator Joyce. The ice rinks formerly operated by the DEM are
universally regarded as better run and cleaner now than when run by the
state.
Under the Joyce legislation, lease agreements would be provided for periods
of not more than 10 years. Specifically, the leases would provide for
structural improvements to the DEM rinks such as slab and roof replacements
and improved operating systems, better parking lots, safe lighting and
the purchase of essential new equipment.
It is particularly important to consider ways to guarantee an injection
of private financing into our ice rinks during these difficult fiscal
times. The MDC ice rinks are falling apart and they are ending the skating
season early again this year creating problems with tournament and play-off
schedules. My hope is that this bill will improve the rinks and restore
the full skating season, said Senator Joyce.
The legislation is particularly timely as the MDC rinks close this
weekend as a result of budget cutbacks. Closing rinks that should be making
money for the taxpayers in an effort to save money makes no sense,
said Joyce. The closures are having a negative effect on youth hockey
programs causing interruptions of playoff and tryouts.
The following MDC ice rinks are included in the Joyce proposal: Allied
Veterans Memorial Rink, Everett; Bajko Memorial Rink, Hyde Park; Bryan
Memorial Rink, West Roxbury; Connell Memorial Rink, Weymouth; Connery
Memorial Rink, Lynn; Cronin Memorial Rink, Revere; Daly Memorial Rink,
Brighton; Devine Memorial Rink, Dorchester; Emmons Horrigan ONeill
Memorial Rink, Charlestown; Flynn Memorial Rink, Medford; Kelly Outdoor
Skating Rink, Jamaica Plain; LoConte Memorial Rink, Medford; Murphy Memorial
Rink, South Boston; Porazzo Memorial Rink, East Boston; Reilly Memorial
Rink, Brighton; Shea Memorial Rink, Quincy; Simoni Memorial Rink, Cambridge;
Steriti Memorial Rink, Boston; Ulin Memorial Rink, Milton: Veterans Memorial
Rink, Somerville; and Veterans Memorial Rink, Waltham.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: March 13, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
SENATOR JOYCE CONGRATULATES CLASS OF 2003 ON HIGH
MCAS PASSING RATE But work is not finished, he cautions
Senator Brian A. Joyce is pleased to announce an impressive MCAS passage
rate for the graduating seniors in his district.
Over 95 percent of the class of 2003 in Senator Joyces ten towns
have now passed both the English and Math portions of the standardized
test making them eligible to graduate in the spring.
When the state passed Education Reform in 1993, the primary goal
was to raise student achievement in our public schools, said Senator
Joyce. This high passing rate means that our students are learning
what they need to earn a high school degree.
While Senator Joyces district performed better than the state average,
he noted that we must continue to work to improve the system. He cited
a high failure rate among special education students as one area with
room for improvement.
Senator Joyce has filed a bill to return autonomy to change the impact
of the MCAS on special education and disabled students. If passed, the
law would allow school districts to decide the requirements that certain
high school students would need to obtain a diploma. I do not believe
that we can penalize special needs students who work hard and attend class,
but simply do not pass one test, said Senator Joyce.
I believe in the MCAS as a diagnostic tool and as a way to measure
accountability. We have made great progress in improving our schools,
as evidenced by the recent test scores. However, there is still a long
road ahead and I will ensure that each and every student in my district
will have the opportunity to earn a diploma and graduate with their peers.
I remain committed to providing the best education possible for all students.
Those who have not yet passed the test have the opportunity to take the
MCAS again in May and will be eligible for a local certificate of attainment
if they have met their local graduation requirements. This summer, extra
help programs will be available at high schools around the state, concluding
with a fifth retest opportunity.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: March 12, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
Consumers Warned to Stay Away from High Cost Tax
Refund Anticipation Loans
Division of Banks Puts Refund Anticipation Loan Providers on Notice
With tax season around the corner, Senator Brian A. Joyce and Consumer
Affairs Director Beth Lindstrom are warning consumers to steer clear of
Refund Anticipation Loans (RAL) and have directed the Division of Banks
to curb any unlicensed RAL activities in the Commonwealth.
RALs are short-term loans based on a consumers anticipated tax refund
that are usually offered with extremely high interest rates.
Taxpayers should not pay unreasonable rates and fees to obtain the
refund they are legally entitled to receive, said Lindstrom. Further,
many of the consumers who obtain a RAL are eligible for the federal and
state Earned Income Tax Credit. The very purpose of the tax credit is
to give a helping hand to those who need it most, not to benefit tax firms.
In Massachusetts, it is illegal for a tax preparer to offer or broker
a RAL without a license from the Division of Banks. Lindstrom is working
closely with the Commissioner of Banks to cease unlicensed RAL activity.
The Small Loan Act allows non-banks to offer interest rates of no more
than 23 percent APR. The Division of Banks has found that tax preparers
are charging consumers 100 percent APR or more for RALs.
I understand that some taxpayers need their money right away and
often turn to a RAL provider because they think it is the fastest way
to obtain a refund, said Joyce. What consumers need to know
is that there are no-cost options for getting a quick tax refund and tax
preparation assistance.
The Commonwealths electronic filing system administered by the Department
of Revenue will issue refunds to consumers in as little as three days,
without a fee or interest charges. The quickest way to receive a state
refund is to file electronically by telephone or computer.
In order to receive a federal tax refund quickly, consumers should use
E-File, a service offered by many tax preparation companies. Consumers
who E-File their federal tax return can obtain their refund in as little
as 10 days.
In addition, through the IRS Free File Alliance, consumers who meet
certain income eligibility will receive free online tax preparation and
E-Filing.
Consumers interested in more information on filing both state and federal
taxes or receiving free tax preparation assistance should contact the
following agencies:
To file your state tax returns electronically, go to www.mass.gov/dor
or call Telefile at (617) 660-2002 or (413) 827-7100.
To receive your federal tax refund in as little as ten days, eligible
consumers should consider the IRS E-File program at www.irs.gov.
For free tax preparation assistance:
-Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD) at (617) 357-6000
-Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Help Hotline at (617) 918-5275
-Call the IRS toll-free at (800) 829-1040 or visit the website
at www.irs.gov.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: March 13, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
School Building project clears another hurdle
Senator Brian A. Joyce is pleased to announce that the governor has signed
legislation lifting a moratorium on the School Building Assistance Program.
The amendment, which was sponsored by Senator Joyce and Senator Robert
S. Creedon, allows the Town of Easton as well as over a dozen other communities
across the Commonwealth to be eligible for state funding for school building
assistance under current state reimbursement levels.
I am delighted the governor recognized the importance of investing
in safe and modern schools, said Senator Joyce. This is a
victory for children across the Commonwealth in cities and towns who have
spent countless hours of time, energy and money getting school construction
projects approved at the municipal level before heading to the state for
reimbursement under the school building assistance program.
Senators Joyce filed the amendment several weeks ago following a Department
of Education decision to place a moratorium on additions to the School
Building Assistance priority list effectively ending all chances for the
Easton school construction project. Given virtually no notice of the moratorium,
the legislature felt that to deny the cities and towns the reimbursement
that they deserved at such a late hour would have been patently unfair.
In signing the legislation, Governor Romney directed Education Commissioner
David Driscoll to consider the urgency of the projects and the number
of projects within each community.
The classification of the Easton school project by the DOE last year appears
to indicate that the Department considers the Easton project a priority
due to severe overcrowding.
Senator Joyce added that because the DOE may seek to limit each community
to one project, he and Senator Creedon will continue working towards reimbursement
for both projects to relieve systematic overcrowding in the Easton schools.
The Senate approved the amendment soon after it was filed, and with the
support of Easton Representatives Christine Canavan, Geraldine Creedon,
and David Flynn, the House passed similar legislation. The priority waiting
list will now remain open until July 1, 2003.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: January 27, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
JOYCE SCORES ANOTHER A FOR ENVIRONMENTAL
VOTES
For the third year in a row, Senator Brian A. Joyce has received an A
grade from the Audubon Society for his pro-environmental votes for the
year 2002.
Senator Joyce has 11 pro-environment Senate roll-call votes last year
including legislation to prohibit the sale of retail mercury thermometers,
a bill he co-sponsored, and a bill to protect Upper Cape Cods drinking
water supply and wildlife habitat at the Massachusetts Military Reservation.
I am delighted that the Audubon Society recognizes my commitment
to preserving the environment and our Commonwealths natural resources
for generations to come, said Senator Joyce.
In 1985, the Massachusetts Audubon began reporting the environmental record
of Massachusetts legislators in order to inform citizens of their state
legislators performances in protecting the environment.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: January14, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
COMPUTER TAKE-BACK BILL MAKES
FINANCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SENSE
Senator Brian A. Joyce and Representative Mark Carron along with local
officials and citizen activists recently announced the re-filing of the
Computer Take Back Bill, which if passed will help relieve the state budget
crisis.
The state legislation ties into the work of the national Computer Take
Back Campaign (CTBC), a coordinated effort of state and national groups
that has developed model legislation and will be organizing broad public
support in 10 states nationally this year. The 4th annual Report Card
showed that US computer manufacturers are still lagging behind their European
counterparts, who are reducing the toxicity of this waste and taking financial
responsibility for its collection and recycling.
Recycling has always been a priority and used computers are a costly
problem for towns across the state, said Senator Brian Joyce, who
co-sponsored the bill. This legislation will save money during the
budget crisis while providing a financial incentive for companies to make
these products less toxic.
Local governments are subsidizing the inefficient design practices
of computer manufacturers, whose products are toxic and are costly to
recycle, said John McNabb of Clean Water Action. Massachusetts
cities & towns pay $6 - $21 million per year to collect and recycled
used CRTs and computers. The state spends about $400,000 a year
on programs to help the cities and towns with this waste, said McNabb.
Computer manufacturers in Massachusetts should be required to pay
for the collection and recycling of their products, to take this unfunded
mandate off the backs of local government.
This years Computer Report Card echoes last years findings
of substantial double standards within the computer industry. Companies
that actively resist take back requirements and hazardous materials phase-outs
in the U.S. operate in the European Union under rules requiring life cycle
responsibility. U.S. customers still get second-class treatment from global
computer manufacturers.
To date, 104 Massachusetts municipalities have endorsed the bill.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: January14, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
SENATOR JOYCE AND SPONSORS SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION LEGISLATION
State Senator Brian A. Joyce along with other legislators, has sponsored
legislation to assist cities and towns that are planning or have begun
a school construction project. Across the Commonwealth, school construction
projects face an uncertain future because of the current fiscal situation;
the Department of Education anticipates spending only $21 million to reimburse
communities whose projects come off the waiting list in fiscal year 2003,
compared with the $51 million spent in fiscal year 2002. The state School
Building Assistance Bureau pays for as much as 70 percent of the total
costs of the school construction projects that are approved.
The reduction in funding may force some districts to postpone school building
projects or seek alterative ways to cover costs as they await state money.
This legislation is a safeguard for cities and towns across the Commonwealth,
to protect them financially until the state is able to begin reimbursement.
Currently, a city or town may be approved for a short-term loan for a
period of seven years, pursuant to state law for a school building project.
Municipalities initially pay for these projects with borrowed money in
anticipation of state reimbursement. During that waiting period, the communities
pay the interest on the loan. The problem is if the waiting period for
reimbursement exceeds seven years, the community will have to pay the
interest and the principal on the loan, which could create a serious financial
problem for the city or town. Consequently, local taxpayers could have
to pay hefty payments on construction projects while the community waits
for state money.
Until now, school districts have been able to anticipate state money arriving
within five years from the start of a project. However, with the state
facing an estimated $3 billion deficit for Fiscal Year 2004, state education
officials are predicting that the length of time between commencement
of the project and reimbursement by the state will be longer.
This legislation is beneficial to all cities and towns across the
Commonwealth that are planning, renovating, and/or constructing a school
building. It is essential to protect local taxpayers, said Senator
Joyce.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: January2, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
SENATOR JOYCE ANNOUNCES Do Not Call REGISTRY
IMPLEMENTATION
Senator Brian A. Joyce and The Office of Consumer Affairs and Business
Regulation (OCABR) are pleased to announce that telemarketing registration
and the "Do Not Call" Registry has been implemented. This new
program will help consumers avoid telemarketing calls in their homes.
The Do Not Call registration hotline is 1-866-231-2255.
The list will take effect in April and be updated quarterly bringing an
end to most cold calling telephone solicitation for residential
consumers who sign-up. The Massachusetts Do Not Call program
will have no fee and consumers will not be asked to provide personal information
like a social security number.
The State website www.Mass.gov will host information about the law, as
well as information on how to sign up, for both consumers and telemarketers.
The website will also provide regular updates on how to participate in
the program. The consumer can also visit the link directly at www.Mass.Gov/DoNotCall.
Please visit the website or call the office of Senator Brian A. Joyce
at 617-722-1643 for information on how to sign-up.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: January, 2003
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
"CIRCUIT BREAKER" TAX CREDIT
Dear Friend:
The states persistent fiscal crisis will probably compel many communities
across the state to take up Proposition 2 1/2 overrides in the coming
months to support local services. And where these overrides occur, many
of our senior citizens will face a dilemma: they can choose to support
an override for something they find worthwhile, and risk losing their
homes and their standard of living to do so; or they can side with those
seeking to block the override and risk being portrayed in their communities
as turning their backs on the social contract, the idea that older generations
provide the same or better opportunities to the younger generation.
Neither option is desirable. Growing older, the property tax and Proposition
2 1/2 should not be the stuff of intergenerational conflict in Massachusetts.
To help alleviate some of the stress property taxes and override questions
often create for senior citizens, the state is continuing to make available
a tax credit called The Circuit Breaker.
Its called the Circuit Breaker because its triggered,
like an electrical circuit breaker, when property tax payments exceed
10 percent of a senior citizens annual income. Those who qualify
will still be required to pay property taxes to their local communities.
But they will receive a dollar credit for every dollar their property
tax, and certain water and sewer bills, exceed 10 percent of their annual
income, up to the $790 maximum.
Senior citizens who rent their homes can also take advantage of the same
dollar for dollar credit, up to the same $790 maximum, if 25 percent of
their annual rent exceeds 10 percent of their annual income. This tax
credit is in addition to the rental deduction already provided under current
state income tax law.
Here are the basic requirements for eligibility:
Must be a Massachusetts resident, age 65 or older;
Must own or rent residential property in Massachusetts as your primary
residence;
Must have an annual income of $42,000 or less for a single filer; $53,000
or less for a head of household; and $63,000 or less for joint filers;
Must file a joint return if married;
Must not be a dependent of another tax filer;
Must not receive a federal or state rent subsidy directly, or live in
a property tax exempt facility;
Must not own property assessed at $425,000 or more.
No special application is required, but even seniors who do not owe any
income tax must file a 2002 state income tax form before the end of April
2003 deadline to receive the credit. Official information packets from
the state Department of Revenue for 2002 state income tax returns will
include Circuit Breaker schedules and will be available in local libraries
and post offices beginning in January, 2003.
This is the second year of this program, so there are bound to be questions.
If you need more information, please dont hesitate to contact my
office at 617-722-1643, or the state Department of Revenue Customer Service
Bureau at 617-887-MDOR, or toll-free at 800-392-6089, or visit their website,
www.massdor.com.
Last year, the Circuit Breaker Tax Credit helped 24,000 senior citizens
across the Commonwealth save roughly $8.1 million on their property taxes.
Combined with the already available property tax exemptions for senior
citizens, the Circuit Breaker will go a long way toward addressing the
intergenerational conflicts Proposition 2 1/2 overrides and other local
spending proposals often create.
Our senior citizens have contributed much to our communities and have
made innumerable sacrifices for their children and grandchildren. For
all that, and more, they have earned our respect. This tax credit will
enable seniors to continue lending a hand to the younger generation by
allowing them to judge the merits of local spending proposals with much
less concern over how the property tax increase will affect their own
quality of life. Our senior citizens have earned this opportunity.
Sincerely,
BRIAN A. JOYCE
State Senator
BAJ/jb
### Back to Top
From: Blanchard, Marie December 23, 2002
At the State House
By Senator Brian A. Joyce
As we approach the new year, I am busy working with my colleagues at the
State House to analyze projections of our state's finances and author
effective solutions-effective not only in terms of successfully balancing
the budget, but in refusing to do so on the backs of our already-burdened
taxpayers or our vulnerable, sick, and disabled populations.
As you may know, tax collections in Fiscal Year 2002 were $2.44 billion
less than the previous year, reflecting a 15% decline and an abrupt reversal
of the previous six years' annual double-digit growth. In the fourth quarter
alone, we saw a 25% drop in revenues, the largest in the nation. To balance
the books, the Legislature drew upon most of the $2.3 billion rainy day
fund, instituted a $1 billion tax increase, and cut almost $1 billion
in state services. Despite this blended approach, October revenue numbers
came in $37 million lower than October of last year, while November tax
revenues were $29 million short of last year's numbers. Acting Governor
Swift has slashed $260 million in funding to state programs to address
the additional deficit, making cuts to health care, higher education and
public safety programs to close the gap. She proposed a round of cuts
which I find unacceptable, including devastating cuts to home care for
seniors, community policing, and care for the disabled. There are better
ways to balance the budget.
We in the Legislature passed An Act Making Certain Amendments to the General
Appropriation Act for Fiscal Year 2003 to immediately generate $23 million
in maximized federal grants for human service agencies, even as our tax
amnesty program brought in over $90 million, double original estimates.
But we may need twenty times that amount in savings and new revenue to
close a projected budget gap of $2 billion next year, this time without
the benefit of large cash reserves. We will be examining many more revenue
solutions in the coming months, a long list of what may be modest money-savers
and controversial programs. Many human service programs will face cuts,
and even local and education aid will feel the impact. My job will be
to minimize that impact, while protecting taxpayers and critical core
services. The coming year will present striking obstacles and force painful
decisions, but I believe innovation and creativity will surface in its
midst. As the year comes to a close, we are working to confront our current
fiscal crisis and plan for the future. Casino gambling, lottery payouts,
school building assistance and chapter 70 aid reform as well as my own
advertising pilot proposal will be among many budget options up for what
promises to be heated debate in the coming months. Should you have thoughts
on proposed revenue solutions, or if you have original ideas of your own,
please do not hesitate to contact my office. We all have concerns about
the future - providing for our families, our parents and ourselves. I
am confident that together, we can solve the problems we collectively
face.
Enjoy the holidays, spend time with your family and friends, and know
that your legislators are working hard to achieve the best outcome for
our districts in an otherwise bleak fiscal time. Feel free to call me
at my office (617) 722-1643 or home (617) 696-0200, with
comments, questions or suggestions, or e-mail me at [email protected]
Thank you for allowing me to work for you.
### Back to Top
STATE MCAS RESULTS DATE: NOVEMBER 26, 2002
The Department of Education released performance and improvement ratings
for the Massachusetts public schools. The ratings are based on student
performance on the MCAS and used to track schools' progress toward meeting
the goal of all students achieving proficiency in Math and English by
2014 (in accordance with President Bush's No Child Left Behind Act). The
Department of Education compared a school district's baseline passing
rate, based on its 1999 and 2000 MCAS results, with its Cycle II results,
derived from its 2002 MCAS results, to determine the rate of improvement
achieved by each district. The DOE calculated annual improvement targets,
the level of improvement that each district must achieve on a yearly basis
to meet the 100% target by 2014, and has given
each district a rating.
Performance Ratings
Very High = 90-100
High = 80-89.9
Moderate = 70-79.9
Low = 60-69.9
Very Low = 40-59.9
Improvement Ratings
A = Above Target
O = On Target
I = Improved Below Target
N = No Change
D = Declined
Here's how our schools fared:
ENGLISH MATH
TOWN: Baseline / Cycle II Rating Baseline / CycleII Rating
Avon 72.7 / 81.6-A 52.3 / 64.6-A
Braintree 87.8 / 92-A 72.5 / 80-A
Canton 86.7 / 91.5-A 73 / 80.1-A
E. Bridgewater 77.3 / 86-A 64.7 / 71.7-A
Easton 85.6 / 89.3-A 71 / 78.4-A
Milton 86 / 90.2-A 72.3 / 78.2-A
Randolph 73.1 / 75-I 56.5 / 60-I
Sharon 89 / 93.3-A 80.4 / 85.9-A
Stoughton 80.1 / 86.4-A 66.8 / 73.5-A
W. Bridgewater 81.6 / 85.8-O 70 / 73-O
All of our school districts are "Above Target" in the improvement
ratings, with the exception of West Bridgewater which is "On Target"
and Randolph, which has "Improved Below Target".
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: December 6, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
RIBBON CUTTING FOR NEW I-95 CANTON SLIP-RAMP
Transportation Secretary James Scanlan, MassHighway Commissioner John
Cogliano and Senator Brian A. Joyce recently took part in a ribbon cutting
ceremony for the opening of the new slip-ramp from Dedham Street in Canton
to I-95 South.
The $1.3 million includes widening a section of Dedham Street for creation
of a deceleration lane, and widening a section of I-95 south for an acceleration
lane. The length of the new ramp is approximately 2000-feet. The ramp
will help alleviate traffic congestion in Canton, Westwood and Norwood
in the area of the University Ave. commuter rail/AMTRAK station by providing
easier access to I-95 south.
Motorists heading eastbound on Dedham Streets can turn right from Dedham
Street to the new ramp, but because of the geometry of the intersection,
motorists heading westbound on Dedham Street cannot turn left to the new
ramp. Left- turning vehicles would have backed up traffic. A "No
Left Turn Sign" has been installed at the top of the ramp facing
westbound traffic on Dedham Street.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: December 6, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
IMMEDIATE OPENINGS FOR SENIOR COMMUNITY SERVICE POSITIONS
IN WEST BRIDGEWATER, EAST BRIDGEWATER, EASTON, STOUGHTON AND AVON
Senator Brian A. Joyce announces that positions are available in a training
program for seniors interested in earning a supplemental income while
developing job skills and participating in community service.
The Senior AIDES (Able Industrious Dedicated Energetic Service) Program,
administered by Old Colony Elderly Services, is a federally funded program
that places seniors in positions such as teachers aides, office workers,
computer operators, child and adult care workers and custodians.
The program is designed to promote independence, self-assurance and revitalize
job skills so seniors can transition back to unsubsidized employment.
To be eligible, applicants mush be 55 years or older, meet income guidelines,
live in a service area and have the long-term goal of integrating into
the workplace.
If interested, contact the Senior AIDES Coordinator at (508) 584-1561
or 1-800-242-0246.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: December 5, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
SENATOR JOYCE NAMED LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR
Senator Brian A. Joyce was recently named the 2002 Senate Legislator of
the Year by the Massachusetts Silver Haired Legislature for his long history
of commitment to senior issues.
The award - which is given annually to legislators with "exceptional
leadership qualities" - was presented to the senator in November.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: November 18, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
SENATOR JOYCE SPONSORS LEGISLATION IN SUPPORT OF SPECIAL
EDUCATION AND DISABLED STUDENTS
Senator Brian A. Joyce has filed a bill to return autonomy to local school
districts and protect the interests of special education and learning
disabled students throughout the Commonwealth. If passed, the law would
allow school districts to decide the requirements that certain high school
students would need to fulfill in order to receive a diploma.
Under the current Massachusetts law, a high school diploma hinges on a
single statewide factora students ability to pass the MCAS
exam and individual consideration is not given to students who may
not have the ability to perform well on the test.
I can understand concerns regarding the MCAS and ensuring that our
high school students achieve a standard of competency before graduation.
However, I do not believe that we can penalize special needs students
who work hard and attend class, but simply cannot pass one test,
said Senator Joyce.
Using the MCAS as an evaluation tool was mandated under the Education
Reform Act of 1993, as a way of ensuring accountability in the school
system. This is the first year it will be used to determine whether a
student is given a high school diploma.
Senator Joyce filed the bill after being approached by several constituents
whose learning disabled children may not receive a high school diploma
this year because they have fallen just a few points shy of passing the
MCAS.
While Senator Joyce understands the importance of providing students with
the necessary tools to succeed after high school, he also knows that each
student should be evaluated on more than just a test score. In 2001, Joyce
co-sponsored legislation that would evaluate vocational students in their
vocation as well as their academic performance. Under the bill, if vocational
students fail the MCAS they can still receive a high school diploma if
they pass the certificate of occupational proficiency.
I believe in the MCAS as a diagnostic tool and as a way to measure
accountability. We have made great progress in improving our schools,
as evidenced by rising scores. However, we cannot ignore the unique plight
of these special education and disabled children, said Senator Joyce.
Under Joyces bill, school officials will be given the power to decide
the requirements for students with special needs and will be able to assess
students knowledge by considering alternative factors that may more
accurately reflect the students actual competency. The standard
of competency would be defined by each school district and likely would
take in to account factors other than performance on a standardized test.
At this point, I do not believe the MCAS should be the sole measurement
of academic achievement. I do not propose eliminating the MCAS as a factor
used to evaluate student performance, but I do support considering a host
of factors when determining whether these particular students deserve
a diploma.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: November 12, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
Senator joyce files tax relief BILL FOR SENIORS
joyce bill will ease living expenses
Seniors on fixed incomes and faced with mounting local property tax payments
will receive some much-needed financial relief under a bill introduced
today by Senator Brian A. Joyce.
The Joyce bill, An Act Relative to Property Tax Rebates for Senior Citizens,
will provide cities and towns with the option to rebate up to $750 in
property tax payments for all eligible seniors.
This legislation is designed to provide property tax relief for
seniors who may otherwise be forced out of their homes, and to avoid intergenerational
disputes over funding local government, particularly our public schools,
Senator Joyce said.
In participating municipalities, seniors over the age of 65 years may
claim Senator Joyces tax rebate if they have an income below the
level that is required for filing Massachusetts income taxes or if they
qualify for the states circuit breaker tax credit.
The circuit breaker tax credit, an initiative that Senator Joyce co-sponsored,
was launched last year to alleviate some of the stress property taxes
create for seniors. Under that program, qualified seniors receive a tax
credit when they file their state income tax return. The credit is called
the Circuit Breaker because its triggered, like an electrical
circuit breaker, when property tax payments exceed 10 percent of a seniors
annual income.
To be eligible for Senator Joyces tax rebate and for the circuit
breaker tax credit seniors must own a property assessed at less than $412,000
and must have an annual income of $41,000 or less for a single filer;
$51,000 or less for a head of household; and $61,000 or less for joint
filers.
In these difficult economic times, it is vital that we be creative
in our efforts to offer financial relief for seniors who need help with
increasingly higher water, sewer and utility bills, said Senator
Joyce. This bill is one way to give seniors some special relief.
The Joyce bill is the first piece of legislation introduced by Senator
Joyce for the 03-04 legislative session that begins in January 2003.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: November 15, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
$2 MILLION AWARDED TO ASSIST FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS
The state Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) and the
Massachusetts Housing Partnership Fund (MHP) have awarded $2 million from
the states Soft Second Loan program to 20 communities and nine regional
organizations across the Commonwealth to assist more than 315 low- and
moderate-income families in purchasing their first home.
Without the states investment in this valuable program, owning
a home would be far out of reach for many low- and moderate-income families,
said Senator Brian A. Joyce.
The two agencies, along with participating private lenders makes purchasing
a home easier by combining a conventional first mortgage with a subsidized
second mortgage. The loans lower homeowner-borrowing costs by dividing
a mortgage into two amounts.
Buyers are qualified based on the first mortgage which is 75% of the purchase
price. The soft-second mortgage is 20%; the remaining 5% is
the buyers downpayment. The state subsidizes the interest payments
on the second mortgage for the first nine years, with the borrower making
principal and interest payments after the tenth year.
Depending on location, price limits on eligible properties are from $150,000
to $180,000 for condominiums and single-family homes, $180,000 to $225,000
for a two-family property and $200,000 to $270,000 for a three-family
property. The program is open to first-time homebuyers who meet income
guidelines. Typically, the income limit for a family of four in the metropolitan
Boston area is $58,300.
Prospective first-time homebuyers should contact the MHP Fund at 617-338-7868,
DHCD at 617-727-7824 or their town hall.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: October 24, 2002
Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
BRUGMAN BILL SENT TO GOVERNOR
Senator Joyces legislation will compensate Dorchester widow
for Troopers accidental death
The Legislature has passed a bill granting accidental death benefits to
a Dorchester widow whose husband was severely injured while on duty as
a state trooper.
On July 13, 1984, Michael Brugman of Tolman Street, was severely injured
while performing his regular duties as a motorcycle State Trooper.
The leg injuries he sustained were numerous. He underwent over 15 operations
before his leg was eventually amputated below the knee.
Senator Brian A. Joyce first heard of the Brugmans plight shortly
after taking office in the spring of 1999. On the very day he was scheduled
to meet with the family, Trooper Brugman passed away as a result of complications
from his injuries. Moved by the familys story, Senator Joyce immediately
filed the accidental death benefit legislation on behalf of his widow
-- Diane Brugman.
The bill specifically authorizes and directs the State Board of Retirement
to pay Diane Brugman accidental death benefits approximately 72
percent of her husbands salary at the time he was injured.
The Brugman bill is both just and fair and its passage will finally
give Diane Brugman and her family the financial support to which they
are entitled, said Senator Joyce. Trooper Brugman never recovered
from his terrible accident and this legislation will hopefully bring some
closure to the Brugman family.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: October 15, 2002
Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
Emerging U.S. Leaders Awarded Prestigious Marshall
Memorial Fellowships
Senator Joyce Selected for European Fellowship
The German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF) announced this week
that 38 emerging American leaders from 16 states including Senator Brian
A. Joyce of Massachusetts have been awarded a Marshall Memorial Fellowships
for intensive study tours of Europe in 2002. The 2002 American Marshall
Memorial Fellows will spend three weeks in Europe to gain a greater understanding
of European institutions and societies, and to explore in-depth a host
of European and transatlantic economic, political and social issues.
Senator Joyce left Thursday, October 10th to travel from Washington, DC
to Brussels, Belgium for briefings on the European Union, NATO, and transatlantic
issues before continuing on to Amsterdam, Turin, and Budapest. He will
then travel to Berlin at the end of the three weeks for final briefings
and an evaluation session. This unique program combines one-on-one meetings,
site visits, hands-on experiences, and formal briefings to provide a variety
of perspectives on key issues affecting Europe and the transatlantic relationship.
The German Marshall Fund is an American institution promoting the exchange
of ideas and cooperation between the United States and Europe in the spirit
of the postwar Marshall Plan. Through its work in the U.S. and Europe
since 1972, GMF has pursued its founding mission to create a closer understanding
between partners on both sides of the Atlantic and to advance the study
of international and domestic policies, and to support comparative research
and debate on key issues.
A new Europe is taking shape, and with the formation of the European
Union, the United States relationship with Europe is fundamentally
changing, said Senator Joyce. I am looking forward to observing
firsthand the economic, foreign and political policies abroad particularly
in these turbulent times.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: October 11, 2002
Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
SENATOR JOYCE CALLS CUTS TO HOME CARE SERVICES
DEVASTATING
Under Elder Affairs Proposal, Thousands of Seniors will be
Left Without Care
Responding to Acting Governor Jane Swifts consideration to cut millions
in home care service for seniors, Senator Brian A. Joyce today called
the proposal shortsighted and devastating.
The proposed $6.5 million cut would eliminate services for over 5,000
seniors across the Commonwealth who rely on meals, transportation and
part-time care to live independently in their own homes, and would force
thousands of seniors into institutional care.
While I recognize the need for restraint while coping with the states
budget woes, home care services must be sustained in order to protect
our most vulnerable population, said Senator Joyce. While
the number of seniors in Massachusetts continues to rise, we should be
expanding home care options for seniors and people with disabilities,
not forcing more people unnecessarily into nursing homes.
The current structure of Medicaid reimbursement leaves many seniors with
no real choice other than institutionalization. More than 80 percent of
the states long-term care spending goes towards institutionalized
care, and Massachusetts has one of the highest rates of seniors living
in nursing homes.
Senator Joyce is the author of the Equal Choice bill, An Act Regarding
Equal Choice of Long Term Care Settings, aimed at reducing the gross disparity
in Medicaid aid for individuals who choose to receive care at home, and
those who seek care in an institution.
Senator Joyce also sponsored a pilot program in the 2003 budget which
would save the Commonwealth $4 million in health care costs while enhancing
community based services for seniors and providing consumers with a compassionate
choice of where they receive their medical care.
The reality is that giving seniors a choice between home care services
and nursing homes is not only the fiscally responsible thing to do, but
it also provides a fair and compassionate solution to those who find themselves
no longer able to care for themselves, said Senator Joyce. At
the very least, I urge the governor to protect home care from any further
cuts.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: October 21, 2002
Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
SENATOR JOYCE OFFERS NEW INFORMATION ON THE OFFICE
OF PATIENT PROTECTION
Senator Brian A. Joyce is pleased to announce the release of new information
from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Office of Patient
Protection (OPP), established by the Legislature on January 1, 2002.
The OPP is designed to protect the rights of patients in fully insured
managed care programs by assisting health plan members with inquiries
and concerns regarding managed care, grievances, appeals, denials of care,
continuity of care and independent external reviews.
The OPP offers patients assistance through its two programs, the Managed
Care Ombudsman Program and the External Review Program.
The Managed Care Ombudsman Program, staffed with an Ombudsman and two
registered nurses with experience in dispute resolution and managed care,
provides information on health plan coverage and procedures. It may investigate
individual health plans, guide patients in appeals in obtaining benefits
and recommend alternatives methods for resolving the matter.
The External Review Program advises patients on their eligibility for
an independent external review if their health plan denies medically necessary
care covered in the patients plan and facilitates the external review
process.
The Office of Patient Protection has provided much needed assistance
to a number of patients and their families and helped to resolve disputes
and misunderstandings regarding health care plans, said Senator
Joyce.
The new information recently made available is an updated version of Your
Guide to Managed Care in Massachusetts to assist in the evaluation
of Massachusetts health plans as well as the clarification of consumer
rights. Additionally, the OPP has released a fact sheet with a description
of services and contact information.
For more information or to obtain a brochure, please contact the Office
of Senator Brian Joyce at 617.722.1643.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: October 7, 2002
Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
AMNESTY PROGRAM WILL WAIVE PENALTIES
TO GENERATE MILLIONS IN OWED FUNDS
Senator Brian A. Joyce is pleased to announce the Department of Revenue
has launched a 60-day tax amnesty period that is expected to recoup $43
million in unpaid funds to the Commonwealth.
The tax amnesty program gives delinquent and underpaid individuals and
businesses the chance to pay-up owed tax liabilities and interest payments
over the next two months without penalty.
It will inject millions of dollars into the state coffers at a time
of great fiscal need, said Senator Joyce, who co-sponsored legislation
calling for a tax amnesty program earlier this year.
The Department of Revenue is also using new technology to find tax scofflaws.
The department has so far identified approximately 65,000 tax delinquents
and under-payers who owe various state taxes.
Massachusetts recovered $86 million from 52,000 delinquent taxpayers when
it last offered a full tax amnesty in 1983.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: September 4, 2002
Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
LEGISLATURE APPROVES ANTITERROR BILL
MEASURE SENT TO GOVERNOR SWIFTS DESK
Senator Brian A. Joyce this week lauded the passage of a sweeping antiterrorism
crime bill that will help Massachusetts prevent terrorist attacks. The
legislation, now awaiting Governor Jane Swifts signature, makes
it a state crime to issue a terrorist threat over the Internet, possess
material that could be used as a weapon of mass destruction, or carry
a weapon in secure areas of an airport.
The bill gives law enforcement the tools it needs to effectively fight
against terrorism and provides local and state police with jurisdiction
to work alongside federal agencies to tackle terrorism.
I am pleased that this critical piece of legislation has passed,
said Senator Joyce. It is important for us to do all that we can
to prevent another tragedy.
In particular, Senator Joyce hailed a measure contained in the bill that
he co-sponsored, which toughens the penalties against individuals who
make terrorist threats. Under the provision, individuals that force the
evacuation or serious disruption of a school, transportation center, or
other place of assembly face up to 20 years in state prison, fines of
up to $450,000, and payment of restitution to public safety agencies who
incurred costs responding to the threat. Current law makes threatening
to commit a crime a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months of incarceration.
The legislation also restricts public access to certain building blueprints
and other records related to security and creates stricter standards for
drivers licenses and official state identification cards.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: September 19, 2002
Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
UNITED WE STAND LICENSE PLATES APPROVED
COMMEMORATIVE MEASURE SENT TO SWIFTS DESK
Senator Brian A. Joyce this week announced the passage of legislation
that creates a Massachusetts United We Stand license plate
commemorating September 11, 2001.
This legislation will generate funds to be used to commemorate the
tragedy, to help us fight future terrorist threats and to provide support
to the families of victims, said Senator Joyce.
The new red, white and blue license plates will be available within four
to eight weeks. Proceeds from the $40 plates will be directed to the Massachusetts
Office of Commonwealth Security to enhance the statewide anti-terrorism
unified response network and to the Rewards for Justice Fund, a nonprofit
organization created in the wake of the attack.
On the recommendation of a panel made up of victims family members
and health and public safety officers, funds will also be distributed
for local police and firefighter equipment, the construction of a memorial
to the Massachusetts victims of the attacks, a memorial to police officers
killed in the line of duty, a memorial to firefighters killed in the line
of duty and to the victims families.
### Back to Top
Brian A. Joyce Committee Date: September 23, 2002
From: Senator Brian A. Joyce Contact: (617) 696 0200
JOYCE SWEEPS DISTRICT
Senator Brian A. Joyce swept to an overwhelming primary day victory winning
all 46 precincts in the Norfolk, Bristol and Plymouth District.
"The result exceeded my wildest expectation and I was thrilled,
said Senator Joyce.
My priorities have always been to return to my constituents their
fair share of state tax dollars so we can continue to improve our schools,
public safety, and health care for seniors while keeping pressure off
local property taxpayers and working families. Clearly that message resonated
in every community across the district.
Senator Joyce won every precinct in the ten towns that comprise the newly
created Massachusetts senate district. The seat was restructured following
a population boom in the southeast section of the state and now includes
all or portions of Avon, Braintree, East Bridgewater, Easton, Canton,
Milton, Randolph, Sharon, Stoughton and West Bridgewater.
I will continue to develop creative solutions to the state's fiscal
woes, such as the money-saving initiatives I authored in this year's budget,
including home care as an alternative to nursing home care. I am thankful
for the opportunity to serve in the Senate and I thank each and every
person who participated in the democratic process. It is truly an honor
to receive such strong support in every precinct in the district.
Senator Joyce is currently serving his third term in the Massachusetts
State Senate where he is the Assistant Vice Chair of the Senate Committee
on Ways and Means the Committee that shapes the state budget and
the Commonwealths finances. Senator Joyce and his wife Mary have
five children between the ages of 5 and 13-years-old.
For more information about Senator Joyce, please call his office at 617-722-1643
or visit his website at www.brianajoyce.com. Senator Joyce is running
unopposed in the November general election.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release Further Infomation: July 2002
Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
STUDY FUNDED IN BOND BILL
JOYCE Secures $43,500 for Reconstruction
Senator Brian A. Joyce announced today that $43,500 has been secured in
the Transportation Bond Bill for historical and environmental improvements
to Bay Road, a former stagecoach route to Narragansett Bay.
Community preservation is important to Sharon, and I have worked
to preserve not only environmental aspects of Bay Road, but the history
there as well, said Senator Joyce.
While the Massachusetts Department of Highways approved funding for reconstruction
of the historic site, the agency agreed only to fund safety and operational
improvements. Senator Joyce, at the request of Sharon residents and Town
officials, secured the additional $43,500 in the Bond Bill to preserve
and reconstruct historical and environmental aspects of Bay Road, which
he believes are key to maintaining the scenic, historical and environmental
integrity of the community.
Residents of Sharon came to me and told me this was important to
them, explained Senator Joyce. They had approached MassHighway
and others, so I am happy that I was able to make headway so quickly.
The funds will likely be used for benches, signage, greenery and stonewall
reconstruction along the former Bay Colony Road.
### Back to Top
For Immediate Release: August 30, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
BILL TO SECURE AREA WATER STORAGE PASSES
Senator Brian A. Joyce this week lauded the passage of a bill by the Legislature
that will help ensure the safety of the Metropolitan Boston area's drinking
water from possible chemical and biological attacks. As part of its journey
from the MWRA's reservoirs to customers' homes, drinking water requires
protected, short-term storage in the metro area after treatment.
Senator Joyce, who along with fellow MWRA Legislative Caucus members filed
the bill to allow for the acceleration of the critical water storage tank
projects, said the bill authorizes the MWRA to expedite the construction
of two covered storage facilities at the Blue Hills and Spot Pond reservoirs.
"I am delighted that we are protecting our water systems from contamination,"
said Senator Joyce.
MWRA plans to build a 25 million gallon storage tank underground near
Blue Hills Reservoir in Quincy that will serve Quincy, Milton, Dorchester,
West Roxbury and Hyde Park. The second project is a 20 million gallon
underground tank near Spot Pond in Stoneham. The Blue Hills and Spot Pond
Reservoirs were removed from active service to the MWRA system in 1981
and 1997 respectively. The MWRA has successfully used the design-build
process for the 115 million gallon Norumbega water storage tank now under
construction along the Mass Pike in Weston.
The MWRA Legislative Caucus is composed of Representatives and Senators
who represent MWRA serviced communities. The Caucus has worked diligently
through the years to control water and sewer rates and to ensure the quality
and safety of MWRA services.
# # # Back to Top
For Immediate Release: August 15, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
$20,000 AWARDED TO CANTON HIGH SCHOOL
FOR GREEN FEASIBILITY STUDY
Senator Brian A. Joyce announced this week that the Massachusetts Technology
Collaborative has awarded $20,000 to Canton High School to study the feasibility
of high performance and renewable design features for their school building
construction project.
The grant will be used to put all the options on the table
for the Canton High School Building Committee and School Department to
consider in order to make the high school a high-performance green
school. Priorities will include the investigation of renewable technologies
such as solar power, changes to improve air quality, and energy modeling.
The Massachusetts Technology Collaborative awarded $797,137 in new grants
from the states Renewable Energy Trust. The funds will help 16 Commonwealth
communities to develop new and renovate energy efficient schools and buildings.
# # # Back to Top
For Immediate Release: August 9, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
SENATOR JOYCE ANNOUNCES FUNDING FOR NEPONSET POLICE PATROL
Senator Brian A. Joyce is pleased to announce that the Legislature has
overridden the governors veto of $130,000 for state police patrols
along the Neponset River in the state budget.
The funding will allow the state police to provide additional security
along the Neponset River bike path between Milton and Dorchester and will
address the safety needs of the growing number of people who take advantage
of the MDCs multi-use trail along the river.
This is great news for the growing number of residents who make
use of the riverside trail along the Neponset, said Senator Joyce.
# # # Back to Top
For Immediate Release: July 31, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
LONGER JAIL TIME and STIFFER FINES for CORPORATE CRIMINALS:
Senator Joyce Votes for Anti-Fraud Bill
Senator Brian A. Joyce was proud to vote for a Worker and Small Investor Protection
Act this week. The legislation will strengthen the states ability to
protect the dreams and bank accounts of the people of Massachusetts from corporate
misrepresentation and securities fraud.
Citing the recent business scandals associated with Enron, Global Crossing
and WorldCom, Senator Joyce said, These transgressions are blatant and
outrageous, and this bill is a sure and clear response.
He explained that this legislation would increase the penalties for those
convicted of securities fraud, with the increased fines supporting expanding
oversight and investigations.
It would:
Increase maximum jail sentence from 3 years to 10 years
Increase civil fines for securities fraud from $10,000 to $25,000
Increase criminal penalties for securities fraud from $5,000 to up to $100,000
Institute whistleblower protections for private sector employees
Institute responsible investor policies for the states pension system
The anxiety people are experiencing is real and understandable. Older
people are losing their pensions, families are losing their college savings
and hard-working people are losing their jobs. The state must do more to stop
fraud and start being a more responsible investor, said Senate President
Birmingham, chief sponsor of the bill.
Senator Joyce agreed. We need to punish those who perpetrate fraud,
protect those who can come forward with information about it and promote good
corporate governance through our state pension system.
# # # Back to Top
For Immediate Release: July 31, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722 1643
SENATOR JOYCES BILL WILL CHANNEL INCREASED FUNDS DIRECTLY INTO THE
BLUE HILLS RESERVATION
In a maneuver that has significant potential to increase funding for the Blue
Hills Reservation, Senator Brian A. Joyce has secured language in the final
Environmental Bond Bill of the fiscal year 2003 budget that would create a
Trust Fund for the Blue Hills Reservation.
This is great for the Blue Hills Reservation and the Towns of Canton,
Milton and Randolph, as well as for all of the tens of thousands of visitors
to the Blue Hills each year, said Senator Joyce. I am delighted
that current and future revenues generated within the Reservation will be
placed into this Trust Fund and not transferred to the states General
Fund.
The Blue Hills Reservation is one of our most cherished natural resources
and the creation of this Trust Fund would only serve to protect and improve
the area in years to come, said Senator Joyce.
Under the bill, all the non-tax revenues generated by permits, licenses, leases
and other agreements relating to the use of the Reservation that are currently
directed to the states General Fund would instead be directed to the
Trust Fund for improvements and maintenance. The Metropolitan District Commission
would oversee the new fund.
The state currently receives very little revenue from the Reservation. However,
Senator Joyce believes that hundreds of thousands of dollars could be generated
each year by effectively managing existing resources in the Reservation.
The Environmental Bond Bill appropriates millions to the state for farmland
and open space conservation and acquisition, watershed protection, maintenance
of state parks, and grants to communities.
# # # Back to Top
For Immediate Release: July 26, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
FUNDS SECURED FOR THE DECONTAMINATION OF OLD CANTON AIRPORT
$5M appropriated in Environmental Bond Bill
The Environmental Bond Bill passed by the legislature this week includes $5
million for the decontamination of PCBs at the old Canton Airport site on
Neponset Street.
While the potentially lethal polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) found at the
now abandoned site are non migratory and thus pose no immediate health risks,
the airport is in close proximity to the towns water well and has been
of great concern for town officials.
This area has been a safety hazard for far too long, said Senator
Brian A. Joyce. I am grateful to Representative William Galvin for securing
this funding in the House.
The Environmental Bond Bill appropriates millions to the state for farmland
and open space conservation and acquisition, watershed protection, maintenance
of state parks, and grants to communities.
# # # Back to Top
For Immediate Release: July 24, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
STUDY FUNDED IN BOND BILL
JOYCE SECURES $43,500 for RECONSTRUCTION
Senator Brian A. Joyce announced today that $43,500 has been secured in the
Transportation Bond Bill for historical and environmental improvements to
Bay Road, a former stagecoach route to Narragansett Bay.
Community preservation is important to Sharon, and I have worked to
preserve not only environmental aspects of Bay Road, but the history there
as well, said Senator Joyce.
While the Massachusetts Department of Highways approved funding for reconstruction
of the historic site, the agency agreed only to fund safety and operational
improvements. Senator Joyce, at the request of Sharon residents and Town officials,
secured the additional $43,500 in the Bond Bill to preserve and reconstruct
historical and environmental aspects of Bay Road, which he believes are key
to maintaining the scenic, historical and environmental integrity of the community.
Residents of Sharon came to me and told me this was important to them,
explained Senator Joyce. They had approached MassHighway and others,
so I am happy that I was able to make headway so quickly. The funds
will likely be used for benches, signage, greenery and stonewall reconstruction
along the former Bay Colony Road.
# # # Back to Top
For Immediate Release: July 24, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
RATTLESNAKE HILL FUNDED IN FINAL BOND BILL
$12 million secured in Environmental Bond Bill
Senator Brian A. Joyce is pleased to announce that the Environmental Bond
Bill includes $12 million for the purchase, preservation and protection of
Rattlesnake Hill.
Over the past five months, Senators Joyce worked with Sharon officials, the
Sharon Conservation Commission, and members of the House and Senate to secure
funding for the purchase and conservation of the undeveloped 337-acre land
adjacent to the Borderland State Park. As early as 1974, Rattlesnake Hill
was rated in a Massachusetts Landscape and Natural Areas Survey as an area
of local, state and regional ecological significance. Nearly 20 percent of
the parcel consists of varied wetland communities and nine of its expansive
vernal pools have received certification from the Natural Heritage and Endangered
Species Program.
In April, Senator Joyce and Senator Jo Anne Sprague were able to secure $12
million for Rattlesnake Hill in the Senate version of the Bond Bill. The House
passed similar legislation in June, with funding for Rattlesnake Hill secured
by Representative Louis Kafka.
Once land is gone, its gone forever, explained Senator Joyce
of his decision to push for the funding. Without immediate action, we
would lose a critical opportunity to purchase this invaluable piece of land
and to preserve this space for generations to come.
While the owners of the privately owned parcel offered to sell the land to
the Town of Sharon two years ago, the town came one percentage point short
of passing the override necessary to buy the $12 million parcel. A developer
has recently shown interest in purchasing the property to build 250-unit single-family
condominiums.
With the help and hard work of Rep. Kafka and Senator Sprague we were
able to secure this funding that will allow the fundamental character of the
community to remain intact and make a strong statement regarding the Commonwealths
commitment to preserving open space, said Senator Joyce.
The Environmental Bond Bill will supply $707,372,514 for farmland and open
space conservation and acquisition, watershed protection, maintenance of state
parks, and grants to communities.
# # # Back to Top
For Immediate Release: July 24, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
$2.13 MILLION TO FUND
14 PROJECTS TARGETING NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION
$472,152 SECURED FOR NEPONSET RIVER PROJECT
Bob Durand, Secretary of Environmental Affairs, Commissioner of the Department
of Environmental Protection Lauren A. Liss, and Senator Brian A. Joyce announced
that 14 projects totaling $2.13 million have been recommended for funding
in the Nonpoint Source Competitive Grant Program, including $472,152 for the
Neponset River Watershed Bacteria TMDL Implementation Project.
The projects will help to protect Massachusetts water resources by restoring
and preserving watershed areas, constructing storm-water treatment systems,
and demonstrating innovative technologies.
The program focuses on implementation of measures to control nonpoint sources
(NPS) of water pollution. NPS pollution is caused by diffuse sources that
are not regulated and are normally associated with precipitation and runoff
from the land or infiltration into the soil.
The Neponset River Watershed Bacteria TMDL Implementation Project will focus
on four major strategies in abating sources of NPS bacterial pollution. These
include managing storm-water runoff, ensuring proper maintenance of septic
systems, detailing sources of NPS bacteria as called for in the TMDL, and
a strong outreach and technology transfer component. Project success will
be gauged through water quality monitoring, and ultimately by the number of
stream segments restored to their designated uses.
Eliminating nonpoint source pollution represents one of our greatest
challenges to water quality improvements, said Secretary Durand.
It is critical for the health of our lakes and streams to eliminate
pollution from nonpoint sources, added Senator Joyce.
# # # Back to Top
For Immediate Release: July 25, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722 1643
ADDITIONAL FUNDING SECURED
FOR CLEARING OF PINE TREE BROOK
Senator Brian A. Joyce announced this week that he has secured an additional
appropriation of $80,000 in the final version of the Environmental Bond Bill
for the next phase of the Pine Tree Brook project.
This is good news for the town of Milton and the Pine Tree Brook Neighborhood
in particular, said Senator Joyce. Pine Tree Brook is one of Miltons
most cherished natural resources. The preservation of its pristine beauty
is a service to all members of the community, and protecting area homes from
flooding is important.
The funding will cover Phase 3 of the project which includes a hydrology survey
that will examine the amount of sediment that has built up in the Brook over
the past three decades and will determine the amount of dredging necessary
to help the water flow faster thus reducing the threat of flooding in the
area. Additionally, brush, surface debris and trash along the 2 ? miles of
Pine Tree Brook have already been removed.
Milton will be reimbursed for 75 percent of the cost of clearing the Brook
as well as the cost of surveys and design work to remove sediment and stabilize
the riverbank.
The Environmental Bond Bill appropriates millions to the state for farmland
and open space conservation and acquisition, watershed protection, maintenance
of state parks, and grants to communities.
# # # Back to Top
For Immediate Release: July 31, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722 1643
An Act to End Child Hunger
The Senate has passed a bill Co-sponsored by Senator Brian A. Joyce, the legislation
Programs that provide a safety net for our most vulnerable residents are crucially
important when the economy weakens. This bill would protect our children,
the most vulnerable of all.
With the economic slowdown and increased unemployment, there are signs that
more families in Massachusetts are struggling to put food on the table. Many
people who lose their jobs find that unemployment benefits are not adequate
to pay monthly bills and provide food for their families. Since the Massachusetts
unemployment rate has nearly doubled in the last year, the number of children
disproportionately affected is overwhelming.
Unemployment numbers dont count children, but for every parent who is
unemployed, at least two children are affected. Its more important than
ever to construct a safety net for hungry children. At the best of times,
one in five children under the age of 12 lives in a family that struggles
to put food on the table. Now, with the recent economic downturn, this number
will grow. Eighty nine percent of the emergency food providers surveyed by
Project Bread reported seeing more hungry people in October, 2001 than in
October, 2000. And 61 percent of these clients were children. On December
6, 2000, Project Bread filed An Act to End Child Hunger in MA (S722/H2183)
to insure that every child has the opportunity to eat where they live, learn
and play.
Right now, Massachusetts has an unprecedented opportunity to end child hunger
in the Commonwealth. An Act to End Child Hunger in Massachusetts will guarantee
that all at-risk children eat at home, in school and after-school programs
and in summer recreation programs. Not in soup kitchens. This safety net for
children is seamless and invisible, removing stigma and allowing parents to
focus on regaining control of their economic lives. We have until July 31,
2002 to pass the bill before it expires.
In addition to filing legislation, Project Bread has also launched its annual
state budget campaign to ask legislators for adequate funding in fiscal year
2003 to strengthen and expand existing child nutrition programs. At a time
when state resources are in decline, An Act to End Child Hunger in MA makes
sense economically. A state investment of $28.5 million garners up to $117
million in federal funds. In other words, it adds $4 of federal funds for
every $1 of state funds spent to eliminate child hunger, and it bolsters the
states investment in education and health care.
The key is to make better use of a wide range of federal resources that are
already available. These resources can provide healthy meals throughout the
day where kids live, learn and play, through school meals, WIC, summer meals
and food stamps.
An Act to End Child Hunger in Massachusetts will guarantee that all at-risk
children eat at home, in school and after-school programs and in summer recreation
programs. Not in soup kitchens. The bill proposes innovative approaches to
ending child hunger by increasing participation in these important programs.
This safety net for children is seamless and invisible, removing stigma and
allowing parents to focus on regaining control of their economic lives. We
have until July 31, 2002 to pass the bill before it expires.
SIX STEPS TO END CHILD HUNGER IN MASSACHUSETTS
These six steps in the bill guarantee children the opportunity to eat wherever
they live, learn and play while bringing in millions of federal dollars to
a cash-strapped economy enabling Massachusetts to become a leader in
ending child hunger.
-Expand the universal school breakfast program.
-Improve access to food stamps.
-Expand WIC to age six.
-Boost the summer food program.
-Bolster after-school meals.
-Establish a unified application system.
Senator Robert Travaglini is the bill's lead sponsor in the Massachusetts
Senate, and Representative Kevin Fitzgerald is the bill's lead sponsor in
the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
The Commonwealth is at a critical juncture in its mission to ensure that all
children have the food they need to learn and thrive. Identical versions of
our bill, An Act to End Child Hunger in Massachusetts, are in the Committees
on Ways and Means in both the House and the Senate. Your letters, postcards,
faxes, and phone calls make a huge difference in determining which bills pass.
# # # Back to Top
For Immediate Release: July 31, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722 1643
SENATOR JOYCES BILL WILL CHANNEL INCREASED FUNDS DIRECTLY INTO THE
BLUE HILLS RESERVATION
In a maneuver that has significant potential to increase funding for the Blue
Hills Reservation, Senator Brian A. Joyce has secured language in the final
Environmental Bond Bill of the fiscal year 2003 budget that would create a
Trust Fund for the Blue Hills Reservation.
This is great for the Blue Hills Reservation and the Towns of Canton,
Milton and Randolph, as well as for all of the tens of thousands of visitors
to the Blue Hills each year, said Senator Joyce. I am delighted
that current and future revenues generated within the Reservation will be
placed into this Trust Fund and not transferred to the states General
Fund.
The Blue Hills Reservation is one of our most cherished natural resources
and the creation of this Trust Fund would only serve to protect and improve
the area in years to come, said Senator Joyce.
Under the bill, all the non-tax revenues generated by permits, licenses, leases
and other agreements relating to the use of the Reservation that are currently
directed to the states General Fund would instead be directed to the
Trust Fund for improvements and maintenance. The Metropolitan District Commission
would oversee the new fund.
The state currently receives very little revenue from the Reservation. However,
Senator Joyce believes that hundreds of thousands of dollars could be generated
each year by effectively managing existing resources in the Reservation.
The Environmental Bond Bill appropriates millions to the state for farmland
and open space conservation and acquisition, watershed protection, maintenance
of state parks, and grants to communities.
# # # Back to Top
$2.13 MILLION TO FUND
14 PROJECTS TARGETING NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION
$472,152 SECURED FOR NEPONSET RIVER PROJECT
Bob Durand, Secretary of Environmental Affairs, Commissioner of the Department
of Environmental Protection Lauren A. Liss, and Senator Brian A. Joyce announced
that 14 projects totaling $2.13 million have been recommended for funding
in the Nonpoint Source Competitive Grant Program, including $472,152 for the
Neponset River Watershed Bacteria TMDL Implementation Project.
The projects will help to protect Massachusetts water resources by restoring
and preserving watershed areas, constructing storm-water treatment systems,
and demonstrating innovative technologies.
The program focuses on implementation of measures to control nonpoint sources
(NPS) of water pollution. NPS pollution is caused by diffuse sources that
are not regulated and are normally associated with precipitation and runoff
from the land or infiltration into the soil.
The Neponset River Watershed Bacteria TMDL Implementation Project will focus
on four major strategies in abating sources of NPS bacterial pollution. These
include managing storm-water runoff, ensuring proper maintenance of septic
systems, detailing sources of NPS bacteria as called for in the TMDL, and
a strong outreach and technology transfer component. Project success will
be gauged through water quality monitoring, and ultimately by the number of
stream segments restored to their designated uses.
Eliminating nonpoint source pollution represents one of our greatest
challenges to water quality improvements, said Secretary Durand.
It is critical for the health of our lakes and streams to eliminate
pollution from nonpoint sources, added Senator Joyce.
# # # Back to Top
For Immediate Release: August 9, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
SENATOR JOYCE ANNOUNCES FUNDING FOR
NEPONSET POLICE PATROL
Senator Brian A. Joyce is pleased to announce that the Legislature has overridden
the governors veto of $130,000 for state police patrols along the Neponset
River in the state budget.
The funding will allow the state police to provide additional security along
the Neponset River bike path between Milton and Dorchester and will address
the safety needs of the growing number of people who take advantage of the
MDCs multi-use trail along the river.
This is great news for the growing number of residents who make use
of the riverside trail along the Neponset, said Senator Joyce.
# # # Back to Top
For Immediate Release: July 25, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722 1643
ADDITIONAL FUNDING SECURED
FOR CLEARING OF PINE TREE BROOK
Senator Brian A. Joyce announced this week that he has secured an additional
appropriation of $80,000 in the final version of the Environmental Bond Bill
for the next phase of the Pine Tree Brook project.
This is good news for the town of Milton and the Pine Tree Brook Neighborhood
in particular, said Senator Joyce. Pine Tree Brook is one of Miltons
most cherished natural resources. The preservation of its pristine beauty
is a service to all members of the community, and protecting area homes from
flooding is important.
The funding will cover Phase 3 of the project which includes a hydrology survey
that will examine the amount of sediment that has built up in the Brook over
the past three decades and will determine the amount of dredging necessary
to help the water flow faster thus reducing the threat of flooding in the
area. Additionally, brush, surface debris and trash along the 2 ? miles of
Pine Tree Brook have already been removed.
Milton will be reimbursed for 75 percent of the cost of clearing the Brook
as well as the cost of surveys and design work to remove sediment and stabilize
the riverbank.
The Environmental Bond Bill appropriates millions to the state for farmland
and open space conservation and acquisition, watershed protection, maintenance
of state parks, and grants to communities.
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For Immediate Release: July 24, 2002
Further Information: Marie Blanchard (617) 722-1643
ENVIRONMENTAL BOND BILL INCLUDES
ULIN RINK FUNDING
Citing the importance of providing functioning recreational facilities for
public use, State Senator Brian A. Joyce announced this week that $70,000
has been secured for further improvements to Max Ulin Ice Rink.
The capital facility funds were secured in the final version of the Environmental
Bond Bill and will be used to upgrade the facility. A new bathroom will be
of particular benefit during the busiest periods of the skating season. Currently,
when the main locker room is full, teams must use a second locker room that
does not have showers.
I am very pleased that these funds will be available to upgrade this
valuable community asset, said Senator Joyce. The current facilities
are inadequate and after a game, players must get dressed to walk from the
locker room to the only showers located at the other end of the building.
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