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BOSTON – In an effort to relieve economic burdens on small businesses and encourage the creation of new jobs, State Senator Jamie Eldridge on Thursday voted to freeze the Unemployment Insurance rate, which was scheduled to increase by nearly $300 per employee. Without the freeze, the average employer would see the per-employee payment jump from $584 to $852.
“The Senate is focused on doing everything we can to help create jobs here in Massachusetts. By freezing the Unemployment Insurance rate this year, we can prevent an added cost that would have made it more difficult for small businesses to grow and add jobs,” said State Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton).
The Senate bill to freeze the Unemployment Insurance rate would hold steady the current rate schedule for Unemployment Insurance assessments on employers for calendar year 2010, while still providing unemployment insurance benefits to out of work Massachusetts citizens who are struggling in the continuing national economic crisis. In previous recessions the state has frozen the assessment schedule to relieve the burden on small businesses in tough economic times. The years 2008 and 2003 are the most recent examples.
Eldridge noted that the state may, in the future, need to revisit how the state funds the Insurance Trust. “To ensure long-term economic stability for the people of Massachusetts, both employers and employees, we need to be careful as a state to avoid putting off our obligations to our citizens and make sure everyone, including corporations, pays their fair share towards unemployment insurance,” said Eldridge. “But at a time when we are trying to encourage small businesses to add jobs in a tough economy, this temporary freeze makes sense.”
The bill now goes back to the House of Representatives for further action.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 14, 20009
LEOMINSTER - Monday, December 14, 2009 - As part of the Patrick-Murray Administration’s Massachusetts Recovery Plan, Governor Deval Patrick today joined Congressman John Olver, Senator Jamie Eldridge, and other local elected officials in Leominster to announce the groundbreaking of the first rail improvement project in Massachusetts supported by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The $10.2 million ARRA investment will fund the first stage of the Fitchburg Commuter Rail Improvement Project that will improve speed, service and reliability on this important rail line. The projects, which include an additional $39 million in ARRA funding for double-tracking and $150 million in New Starts funding, will support the installation of new switches and signals as well as two new renovated stations and the reconstruction of existing track on the state’s oldest commuter rail line. The installation of a new universal crossover at the Leominster location is part of the early work program of the overall Fitchburg Line program and will enhance both freight and commuter rail operations in the region.
“This project will reduce travel time to and from Boston, greatly enhancing service for the region’s commuters and business that depend on this vital line,” said Governor Patrick. “Thanks in large part to Congressman Olver’s advocacy, we are using federal recovery dollars to make the kind of smart investments that put people to work immediately and give the regional economy a boost today and over the long term.”
“I would like to thank Governor Patrick for investing in commuter rail improvements for the North Central Region. ARRA funds were intended to create jobs and rebuild the nation’s infrastructure. The Governor’s commitment to commuter rail will do that and will also provide long-term economic and environmental benefits,” said Congressman John Olver.
“Improving service on the Fitchburg line and reducing commuting time for constituents using the Shirley, Littleton, Ayer and South Acton train stations has been a top priority of mine since I first entered the Legislature in 2002. These improvements will foster economic development in the area, and make using the commuter rail a faster, more pleasant experience for my constituents,” said Senator Jamie Eldridge. “I want to thank Governor Patrick and our Congressional delegation for their help in securing the funding for this project.
“This project is also something that my predecessor, Senator Pam Resor, worked on for her entire career in the Legislature,” added Eldridge. “Supporting public transportation - for environmental reasons as well as for economic development - throughout the region is a legacy from Senator Resor that I am proud to continue.”
“Infrastructure improvements to the Fitchburg Commuter Rail Line will strengthen passenger rail service, create new jobs, and build more livable communities in the North Central region as we continue to focus on regional economic growth opportunities,” said Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray. “Thanks to Congressman Olver and our partners on the federal level for this stimulus award that will provide assistance to support strategic, long-term investments for the Commonwealth.”
“This customer-focused project is the first step in a larger project to increase capacity on the Fitchburg Commuter Rail Line,” said Jeffrey B. Mullan, Secretary and CEO of MassDOT. “It is a critical first step in modernizing the state’s oldest commuter rail line and improving service reliability to commuters who travel the 50-mile long corridor between Fitchburg and Boston.”
“In addition to providing critical jobs during a difficult economic time this project will better serve my constituents by providing a more efficient and reliable commute. Investing in our public transportation infrastructure aids not only in the economic vitality of a region, but also allows residents to choose an environmentally friendly alternative to driving. It is a win - win for my district and the Commonwealth,” said Representative Jennifer Benson.
Funded with ARRA funds provided through the Federal Transit Administration, the project will have immediate economic impacts and lay the groundwork for improvements to track capacity and service reliability. When complete, the Fitchburg Commuter Rail Line Improvement Project will provide modernized, state-of-the-art infrastructure allowing 80 mile-per-hour travel speeds along the line, up to 12% better on-time performance and reduced oprating and maintenance costs.
In November, Secretary Mullan and MBTA Acting General Manager Bill Mitchell announced the hiring of a diverse group of 15 employees with ARRA funds to support this project. The 15 Track Laborer jobs involve work relative to the construction of the track and right of way projects as part of the larger Fitchburg project to modernize the existing commuter rail line along the 50-mile corridor from Fitchburg to Boston. MBCR operates and maintains the commuter rail network under contract with the MBTA.
The Fitchburg Commuter Rail Line has the oldest infrastructure in the MBTA system. It also is the longest in terms of both distance and travel time and serves a region with limited commuter options.
Infrastructure investments are critical components of Governor Patrick’s Massachusetts Recovery Plan, which combines state, federal and, where possible, private efforts to provide immediate and long-term relief and position the Commonwealth for recovery in the following ways:
For transportation news and updates visit the EOT blog at www.mass.gov/blog/transportation or follow EOT on twitter at www.twitter.com/massdot.
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Letter to the Editor of the Metrowest Daily News 11/23/09
Dear Editor,
I read your editorial, “Undeserved time off for legislators,” with interest. It’s worth noting that attending formal sessions is only a small part of what legislators do in their job - which means the claim that we now have a “six week” vacation is grossly incorrect. When not in formal session, we’re attending community meetings, working on legislation with colleagues, attending hearings, and responding to constituents. Being a state legislator is more than a full-time job, whether or not we’re in session.
That being said, I agree entirely that we have work left to do — and furthermore, that the Legislature should change its rules permanently so that it does not end its formal session before Thanksgiving. Especially at a time in our state and nation’s history when so many people are hurting from being out of work, the Legislature should be passing legislation that makes an impact on people’s lives and improves public policy.
I was pleased that the Senate passed both education reform and criminal justice reform bills in the last week of formal session, but the job isn’t done. The Legislature should come back into formal session at the very least to finish this work, as well as to address the state’s budget deficit.
Sincerely,
James Eldridge State Senator Middlesex & Worcester District
BOSTON - Looking to reduce the recidivism rate, relieve overcrowded prisons and improve access to criminal history records, the Senate on Wednesday passed an omnibus crime package that has support from the law enforcement community.
“Reforming our broken Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) system and sentencing laws will reduce crime and recidivism in our neighborhoods and lower criminal justice costs. As a matter of public safety and as a matter of responsible budget management practices, this bill is sound policy, and I’m proud to have voted for it today,” said State Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton). “We often talk, on Beacon Hill, about making government more efficient. This bill we’ve passed today does exactly that.”
In a letter issued before the final vote, Public Safety Secretary Kevin M. Burke wrote: “I firmly believe [this bill] will enhance, rather than jeopardize, public safety by facilitating the appropriate re-entry of ex-offenders into the community.”
Senator Cynthia Creem (D-Newton), lead sponsor of the bill, said: “The reforms contained in this bill represent a comprehensive approach to reducing recidivism by criminal offenders and a ’smart on crime’ approach to our sentencing laws. I am pleased with the support of my colleagues.”
The legislation places a premium on unprecedented mandatory post-release supervision, as well as electronic monitoring programs, all of which are proven to reduce recidivism.
It gives sheriffs statutory authority to move eligible offenders into day reporting programs which have been operating successfully for years. It also allows inmates serving mandatory minimum sentences for drug-related crimes to qualify for work release after serving two-thirds of their sentence.
Middlesex Sheriff James V. DiPaola said: “I commend the Massachusetts Senate for taking action to balance public safety interests with criminal rehabilitation in a fiscally responsible way. This legislation maintains the appropriate level of toughness and at the same time uses an intellectual approach to rehabilitation of nonviolent offenders.”
The sentencing and supervision improvements will produce short- and long-term savings by reducing costs associated with incarceration. The annual average cost in Massachusetts to supervise a person is $2,500 while the annual average cost to incarcerate is $43,000.
This legislation also increases access to the CORI system, allowing employers and landlords to request records on felony convictions for 10 years after an inmate’s release and on misdemeanor convictions for 5 years after release, as well as all pending charges.
Also, information on all convictions for sex offenses, murder and manslaughter will be available for life. Law enforcement continues to have full access to CORI, and improved accuracy and faster response times are achieved through a new Internet-based system required by the legislation.
Other CORI reforms include:
The bill now goes to the House of Representatives for further action.
November 16, 2009
BOSTON - State Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton) was appointed the Chair of the newly-created Water Infrastructure Commission by Governor Patrick, which will examine ways that the state can help cities and towns finance their water infrastructure needs.
“Now, more than ever, it is important to think creatively about how the Commonwealth can help cities and towns pay for basic needs, like clean water and modern sewage treatment.” said Eldridge. “I’m looking forward to discussing ways we can preserve precious natural resources and reduce pressure on strained local budgets.”
The new Water Infrastructure Commission was created through an amendment to the FY2010 budget filed by Eldridge. Eldridge, who is Vice Chair of the Joint Committee on the Environment, Natural Resources & Agriculture also filed a separate bill to establish the Commission.
The miles of water and sewer pipes under the streets of Massachusetts cities and towns are aging, and can eventually become corroded, clogged, or leak. These degradations can result in the loss of fresh drinking water, and even the leakage of untreated sewage. In addition, many cities and towns have outgrown their water and wastewater treatment infrastructure overtime but are unable to update and expand those facilities due to fiscal constraints.
The cost to repair this aging infrastructure is growing each year. In 2007, $1.543 billion dollars was requested for the maintenance of water infrastructure, and the state could only allocate $364 million.
“The sooner we plan ahead to address our communities’ water infrastructure needs, the less expensive the maintenance needs will cost the state,” emphasized Eldridge.
Treatment plants for both water supplies and sewage are required by state and federal regulations to be periodically updated, often at a great cost to ratepayers in a community. These upgrades are essential to ensure that we are providing clean drinking water, and also that we are safeguarding our groundwater, our rivers, lakes, and streams.
The EPA estimates that $6.79 billion dollars will have to be spent over the 2007-2027 period to pay for the maintenance of the Massachusetts Water Infrastructure. The Water Infrastructure Commission will study ways to assist towns in reducing their debt, developing new sources of revenue, enhancing existing sources of revenue and establish new incentives for public-private partnerships.
BOSTON - The Legislature on Tuesday gave final approval to legislation to enhance and protect benefits of Massachusetts’ veterans and servicemembers. Included in that bill, An Act to Provide Benefits for Veterans and Servicemembers, are improvements in voting rights for servicemembers originally championed in the Freedom to Vote Act, filed by Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton) earlier this year.
“I’m pleased that the Veterans Bill included something I’ve been fighting for: changes to our absentee voting system to make it much easier for men and women serving in the military to vote. Too often, our cumbersome system has prevented many of our soldiers overseas from having their vote counted. This bill will help ensure that those who are protecting our democracy also have the opportunity to participate in it,” said Eldridge.
The legislation, which was signed into law by Governor Deval Patrick at a Veteran’s Day ceremony on Wednesday, also makes improvements in access to veterans’ services, employment and benefits.
The legislation:
“Our veterans and servicemembers make the selfless decision to stand between us and danger, and it is our job to recognize, remember and support their efforts,” Senate President Therese Murray (D-Plymouth) said. “This legislation will allow the Commonwealth to ensure that veterans’ and servicemembers’ rights are protected, service is acknowledged and benefits are accessible.”
Senator Kenneth Donnelly (D-Arlington), Senate chairman of the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs, said: “This legislation provides a set of new benefits to active servicemembers and veterans, and it is especially appropriate that at this time of year we acknowledge their service to our country. The bill will honor families of servicemembers killed in action, make it easier for active duty members to engage in the electoral process while serving, and add disabled veterans as a group for preference in public works projects. This bill speaks to the invaluable service of the men and women of the armed forces. We are a grateful commonwealth.”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 22, 2009
The Patrick-Murray Administration today announced that the Executive Office of Transportation has awarded $500,000 in Transportation Enhancements funding for final design of phase 2A of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail.
The Executive Office of Transportation was able to allocate this design funding shortly after the Massachusetts Highway Department completed construction of the rail-trail’s Phase 1, a 6.8 mile shared-use path that connects Lowell, Chelmsford and Westford. When completed, the 25-mile Bruce Freeman Rail Trail will span eight Massachusetts communities with more than a quarter million residents, and connect with three MBTA commuter rail lines in Lowell, West Concord, and Framingham.
“As we prepare to launch a new transportation organization November 1st, this award demonstrates our overall commitment to improving the Transportation Enhancements Program and to strengthening bicycle and pedestrian access in every corner of the Commonwealth,” said Transportation Secretary James A. Aloisi, Jr. “The transportation investments we make should promote choice, healthy recreation and support stronger communities.”
“Earlier this summer we celebrated the opening of Phase 1 of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail which is now providing a scenic and safe way to get to and from work, exercise or simply take in a beautiful day,” said Congresswoman Niki Tsongas. “Today’s exciting announcement will further extend the trail, and also further extends the federal and state partnerships with the many local volunteers, community activists and leaders who have long worked to make the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail a reality.”
The Towns of Westford, Carlisle and Acton completed the preliminary design to qualify for Transportation Enhancements funding for the final design; once that is completed, Phase 2A will be ready for construction. This segment of the trail will extend from the end of BFRT Phase 1 in Westford south through Westford, Carlisle and Acton. Phase 2A will extend approximately 4.8 miles and will entail the rehabilitation and re-use of six existing railroad bridges along the corridor.
“As a legislator for the Acton area for seven years, I have been so proud of the efforts of municipal staff, elected officials, and the Friends of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail to will this rail trail into reality. I am deeply appreciative of the Executive Office of Transportation’s support for the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, as the Patrick administration continues to show its support for alternative transportation across the Commonwealth,” said State Senator Jamie Eldridge.
“I am pleased that Phase 2 of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail is being awarded $500,000 for the second phase of this important recreational project. The Executive Office of Transportation is to be commended for recognizing the importance of this trail to bikers and pedestrians alike, who have been using the first phase of the trail all summer long. I have heard nothing but positive reviews from the citizens who have been enjoying the completed section o f the trail,” said Representative James Arciero of Westford.
“This is a wonderful project for the entire region. It provides for safe cycling for families and an environmental commuting alternative,” said State Representative Jennifer Benson. “I am thrilled this project has received the support it deserves.”
“What wonderful news it is to hear of this recent approval of funding for the next phase of the trail. I deeply thank those parties whose collaborative efforts have made this funding source possible and I look forward to using the trail,” said State Representative Cory Atkins.
The Towns of Westford, Carlisle and Action with the Friends of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, all worked collaboratively with the Executive Office of Transportation to make Phase 2A a strong contender to receive Transportation Enhancement funding.
“I am delighted that the Towns of Acton, Carlisle and Westford have received the $500,000 Transportation Enhancements funding for the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail,” said Roland Bartl, Acton’s Director of Planning. “This is a good day for bicycling and pedestrian transportation in our region. After the recent opening of Phase 1 of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail in Lowell, Chelmsford and Westford, this funding maintains the momentum and enthusiasm among the region’s residents for the trail and its eventual completion all the way into Framingham.”
Tom Michelman, President of the Friends of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, added: “The Friends are absolutely delighted that the Statewide Transportation Enhancement funds have been designated to further the design of Phase 2A of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail (BFRT). Since the opening of Phase 1 of the BFRT on August 29th, the trail has been wildly popular. We know when the next segment of the trail is built it too quickly will become a cherished public resource as a safe transportation corridor for bicyclists, walkers and other non-motorized users. We appreciate the support the BFRT has received from our local, state and federal elected officials and the local, regional, state and federal employees who worked diligently to build Phase 1 and now today to release the funds for design of the next trail phase.”
The Transportation Enhancements program is a federal program that funds community-based projects with the goal of increasing travel choice and improving the cultural and environmental character of the transportation system. Eligible TE projects fall into 12 categories that comprise bicycle and pedestrian facilities, streetscape improvements, historic transportation facilities, cultural facilities, and environmental improvements for the transportation system. Transportation Enhancement funding supports important non-traditional and innovative transportation infrastructure projects that might not otherwise obtain funding. Pedestrian and bicycling improvements are an especially high priority as the Commonwealth seeks to expand healthy travel options and sustainable transportation.
The Executive Office of Transportation manages the Transportation Enhancements program, and has been working to transform the program into a more robust and effective program based on national best practices.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 21, 2009
BOSTON - Yesterday the Massachusetts Legislature passed legislation as part of the FY09 deficiency budget that will allow the Nashoba Regional School District to use its reserve funds for operating expenses over the course of the next four fiscal years. This will help the school district to better handle budget shortfalls and prevent dramatic cuts in school services in this difficult fiscal climate.
The legislation was passed after months of concerted, coordinated effort on the part of the legislative delegation that represents the Nashoba Regional School District. Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton), Senator Jennifer L. Flanagan (D-Leominster), Representative Kate Hogan (D-Stow), and Representative Jennifer Benson (D-Lunenburg) all worked together to help the involved parties reach an agreement and convince House and Senate leaders to include the legislation in yesterday’s deficiency budget.
The legislation represents an agreement between the school district, the Department of Revenue, and the legislature that the Nashoba School District has passed its period of financial difficulty. Previously, the school district had been required to keep large reserves after financial mismanagement caused the state to appoint a financial intervener in the school’s affairs in 2002. The increase in the operating budget will allow the school district to mitigate budget shortfalls and any potential funding cuts during a difficult fiscal climate.
“As legislators, our role is to be strong advocates for the needs of our local communities. This legislation, which will help preserve the quality of education in the Nashoba schools, is an example of the sometimes-hidden work we do every day to support our local school districts, towns and cities,” said Senator Eldridge.
Representative Hogan, who represents Bolton and Stow, added, “I am proud that this practical legislation has passed. It means a great deal to the Nashoba schools, and through the schools to our communities. It makes sense that the district, after having proved itself financially capable, be allowed to use their own funds for the good of their students.”
Stated Senator Flanagan, “Especially in these trying times, it is imperative that the school district have every dollar possible to succeed. They are back on stable financial footing and certainly have learned from the past. I am happy to support this legislation, as it symbolizes Nashoba’s recovery.”
“This legislation will remove an unnecessary budgetary constraint from Nashoba Regional School District, allowing the district to better serve students in this difficult time,” said Representative Benson. “Nashoba has done a great job turning around their financial difficulties.”
The FY09 deficiency budget now heads to the Governor’s desk where it awaits his signature.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 14, 2009
BOSTON - Last Wednesday morning (October 7th), Senator Jamie Eldridge suffered an accident in his home, resulting in a fractured shoulder and several broken ribs and vertebrae. Neel Chaudhury, Eldridge’s Chief of Staff, released the following statement today regarding the news:
“Senator Eldridge is undergoing several surgeries to repair his shoulder and back. Following this, he will be in recovery, which will require him to be out for the next few weeks. In the interim, Senator Eldridge’s staff is available to help with all constituent concerns and inquiries regarding legislation. However, it will be several weeks before he will be able to attend public events or respond personally to inquiries. Senator Eldridge and his family appreciate your well wishes and patience during this difficult time, and we know he is looking forward to returning to work as soon as possible.”
“Senator Eldridge is undergoing several surgeries to repair his shoulder and back. Following this, he will be in recovery, which will require him to be out for the next few weeks.
In the interim, Senator Eldridge’s staff is available to help with all constituent concerns and inquiries regarding legislation. However, it will be several weeks before he will be able to attend public events or respond personally to inquiries.
Senator Eldridge and his family appreciate your well wishes and patience during this difficult time, and we know he is looking forward to returning to work as soon as possible.”
Senator Eldridge’s staff can be reached at 617-722-1120, or via email at James.Eldridge@state.ma.us.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 9/21/09
BOSTON - Massachusetts residents on the whole enjoy a high degree of financial stability as compared to other states, but large disparities exist for low-income families and families of color, according to a report released yesterday by the Corporation for Enterprise Development (CFED), a national economic nonprofit. The report comes at a time when the State Legislature is considering legislation sponsored by State Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton) that seeks to improve financial stability for low-to-moderate income families.
Findings from the report, the “Assets & Opportunity Scorecard,” include the following:
“Although Massachusetts is doing well overall in terms of financial stability, when you look closer it’s clear that for many families, the picture isn’t so rosy. The Scorecard shows us where we can focus our work to make all families financially secure,” says Margaret Miley, Executive Director of The Midas Collaborative, a statewide network of non-profit organizations assisting low income residents to build financial stability through savings, financial education, and asset-building.
The Scorecard report recommends the state reduce these disparities through policy changes to remove savings disincentives for very low‐income households, such as eliminating the asset test in its Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program and expanding savings incentives through Individual Development Accounts.
“Far too many families are still living just one paycheck away from poverty and even homelessness– particularly low-to-moderate income families and families of color,” said State Senator Jamie Eldridge. “Although Massachusetts has made great advances in expanding health care access and promoting job creation, we need to make sure we are helping all families gain financial stability and move up the economic ladder.”
Eldridge has sponsored legislation this session that would remove state-imposed barriers — such as the extremely restrictive asset tests for TANF programs - for low-to-moderate families in developing assets necessary to gain financial stability. The bill (S. 38) was heard by the Joint Committee on Children and Families last week.
CFED’s Assets & Opportunity Scorecard-online at scorecard.cfed.org-measures the financial security of families in the United States by looking beyond just income to the whole picture of building ownership and protecting against financial setbacks. The Scorecard ranks states on performance measures in the areas of Financial Assets & Income, Businesses & Jobs, Housing & Homeownership, Health Care and Education.
Campaign Constituent
Just got back to campaign office after fundraiser & tour at Ayer hydroelectric plant w/ Ayer, Shirley & Littleton supporters. Momentum! #
