The Massachusetts State Legislature is extending its session to deal with a list of priorities it failed to complete due to delays caused by COVID-19.
State Senator Michael Rodrigues oversees guiding legislation through the Senate as chair of the Ways and Means Committee. One of the main reasons the chambers extended its session is to take up a number of bills that were not able to be completed its July 31st deadline. The senator says during this election year, it’s important to keep the focus of any bills passed during the extension narrow, and only on matters of utmost importance.
When it comes to the state budget, the legislature has passed a temporary spending plan to cover expenses through the month of October. In addition, the legislature, and Governor Charlie Baker, have made a commitment to cities and towns to keep its aid to local government and schools at, or slightly above, FY 2020 levels.
Among the items in a conference committee of the Hosue and Senate is a police reform bill. Senator Rodrigues says those who support and oppose the bill have been passionate in their opinions, but it is time to address deficiencies of how state and local police are responsible to the constituents they serve.
Another item before legislators this summer is a bond bill that could potentially provide $1 million in funding to help with capital improvements within Fall River’s Flint neighborhood.
Comments are closed.