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