Tuesday, April 30, 2019

Criminalizing Sexual Assault By Fraud by Medical Professional

Today, Representative Kate Hogan​ and I testified in support of our legislation to close a dangerous loophole that has let healthcare providers who abuse or molest their patients by way of unethical practices go unprosecuted.

The legislation will update Massachusetts sexual assault laws in order to clearly outline the crime of medical professionals claiming sexual contact for a medical purpose. We would add sections to the existing rape and indecent assault and battery statutes to criminalize this behavior.

Currently, in Massachusetts it is not illegal to obtain consent through fraud. Two rulings in Massachusetts found that if a person consents to sexual intercourse, even under false pretenses, it is still consent. This must end.

I also testified on my bill to strengthen penalties for those who commit hate crimes. Increases the prison sentences of those found guilty of assault or battery for purpose of intimidation. Currently the penalty is a fine of $5,000 and a jail sentence of not more than 2.5 years. The bill would increase the fine to $10,000 and increase the prison sentence to 5 years. Also, the penalty for a battery which results in bodily injury would increase.

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Monday, April 29, 2019

Matthew Beaton Stepping Down As Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary

I want to offer my appreciation for former state Representative and soon to be former Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs Matt Beaton. Matt, one of the first cabinet members selected by Governor Charlie Baker at the start of his administration, has announced that he will resign from his position in state government at the end of the week.

His responsibilities have been immense with six environmental, natural resource and energy regulatory agencies reporting to him - these include the Departments of Environmental Protection, Public Utilities, Energy Resources, Conservation and Recreation, Agricultural Resources, and Fish and Game. As Secretary, Matt has been instrumental in our state's climate change and renewable energy policies. I am also particularly appreciative of his efforts and partnership in supportring the fishing and agricultural industries.

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Pentucket Regional High School Girls Basketball State Champions

A hearty congratulations to the Pentucket Regional High School, Girls Basketball Team. They are our State Champions.

State Senator Diana DiZoglio and I welcomed them to the State House during our Senate session this morning for special recognition of their efforts and successes.






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Rockport Earth Day Celebration

The Rockport MA Conservation Commission organized a robust Earth Day full of hard work, good friends, and a memorial to longtime Rockport environmentalist, resident, and member of several town and regional boards and committees -Ted Tarr.

The day included beach cleanups and a Community House event with community organization presentations, local art, and a slide show and remarks about Ted Tarr.






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Gloucester Pride Stride Annual Walk

Citizens of Cape Ann joined together this weekend to support local organizations in a fundraising walk known as the “Pride Stride”. I am honored to have been able to participate yet again.

From a great spot on Stacy Boulevard, we provided hundreds of walkers with water and refreshments.

Thanks to everyone who contributed to a terrific Pride Stride 2019.







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Earth Day Boxford

This weekend, the Boxford Village Garden Club and the Boxford Recycling Committee hosted a excellent Earth Day celebration. Trash and debris were picked up and brought to the Recycling Center where community organizations shared exhibits and information to promote recycling, conservation, sustainability and a healthy environment.

















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Friday, April 26, 2019

Governor Baker, Lieutenant Governor Polito, And The Baker-Polito Cabinet in Gloucester

Essex County was the focus of attention for Governor Charlie Baker and his administration today as he convened a cabinet meeting at Gloucester City Hall. Members of Mayor Sefatia Romeo Theken's staff, Gloucester City Councilors, leaders of community organizations and the public attended.

The agenda included a report from the Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute, Inc., efforts to stem substance abuse and enhance prevention and treatment, and the swearing in of the newest member of the Seaport Economics Council.

Secretary of Education Peyser began the state visit by coming to Gloucester High School to discuss Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics or STEM and robotics programing in Gloucester.





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Ipswich River Watershed Association

A lot of enthusiasm, dedication and leadership at the Annual Meeting of Ipswich River Watershed Association last night. The evening featured a group of students who lead hands-on activities and group discussions focused on water issues. The Ipswich River Watershed Association cares deeply about the Ipswich River and works diligently to to help protect it. Visit the Ipswich River website at http://ipswichriver.org



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Wednesday, April 24, 2019

Sound The Alarm to Save Lives

Every day, 7 Americans perish in a home fire. Most occur in homes that lack working smoke alarms. You can cut the risk of being killed in home fire by half with a working detector. That’s why I'm helping to Sound the Alarm. You can have free smoke alarms installed in your Lawrence, Andover or North Andover on May Saturday the 4th. To learn more visit www.soundthealarm.org/ma

American Red Cross of Massachusetts


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Tuesday, April 23, 2019

Get Ready For The Gloucester Pride Stride Annual Walk

This two-mile walk begins and ends at Gloucester's Stage Fort Park at Noon on Sunday, April 28th. I hope to see you there.

90% of every donation goes directly to the organization designated by the walker, 10% helps fund the event and 2 annual scholarships. Last year they raised more than $42,000 for nonprofit organizations and community groups across Cape Ann!


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