Issues & Articles

REPRESENTATIVE STEPHEN STAT SMITH
28th Middlesex District

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 20, 2010

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Guy W. Bzibziak

SENATOR SAL DiDOMENICO AND REPRESENTATIVE STEPHEN STAT SMITH ANNOUNCE AWARD OF $1 MILLION COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT TO EVERETT

State Senator Sal DiDomenico and State Representative Stephen Stat Smith announce the awarding of a $1 Million Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to the City of Everett for sidewalk and road reconstruction on County and Evelyn Roads, Malden Street and Reynolds Avenue, as well as several social service programs covering after-school programs, home-based services for the elderly, the literacy program, food pantry and legal aid.

“This grant provides monies for programs that benefit the people of our city,” said Representative Smith. “Besides road repair, this Community Development Block Grant also provides funding for several social service programs in our city, from after-school programs, to programs run by Human Services,” he added.

“During these difficult economic times, this grant provides much-needed funding that will help revitalize Everett’s neighborhoods and deliver critical services to our city’s youth and seniors,” said Senator Sal DiDomenico.

Everett was one of sixty-eight cities and towns in Massachusetts that received $33.6 million in federal CDBG to fund infrastructure improvement projects, boost social services and increase housing and business development opportunities.

The CDBG program is the Commonwealth's largest available resource providing municipalities with funding to support neighborhood revitalization projects, meet the housing and public service needs of low- and moderate-income populations and build and repair infrastructure vital to the health and safety of all residents. The program is administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), with eligible communities with populations greater than 50,000 receive program funding directly from HUD. Communities may apply for CDBG funding for activities including: housing rehabilitation projects, infrastructure repair or replacement, construction or rehabilitation of public facilities, neighborhood improvement projects, economic development loans and other business assistance programs, social service upgrades, downtown improvement projects, architectural barrier removal and planning.

REPRESENTATIVE STEPHEN STAT SMITH ANNOUNCES MYSTIC RIVER RESERVATION IS ON LIST OF MASSACHUSETTS 1,000 GREAT PLACES

Representative Stephen Stat Smith announced today that the Mystic River Reservation, which consists in part of the shores and waters of the Mystic River flowing through Everett, Somerville and Medford, is on the list of 1,000 Great Places in Massachusetts.

The official list of 1,000 Great Places was announced on July 12 at the Massachusetts State House. The list was compiled by the 1,000 Great Places Commission which was created by the Legislature and signed into law by Governor Deval Patrick in 2009. Its mission is to identify and recognize the 1,000 most truly special places in the Commonwealth, in order to celebrate pride in our history and culture, increase knowledge of our natural surroundings, and encourage regional and international tourism.

The Great Places initiative celebrates what is unique about the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, its communities, and its people. It aims to boost visitation to Massachusetts as well as give local residents the opportunity to visit known and unknown historic sites, cultural venues, and natural landscapes.

 “I’m proud to support and represent these local treasures that enrich our lives and contribute to the vitality of our communities” Representative Smith said.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH PRAISES THE ENACTMENT OF ANTI-BULLYING LAW
Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2010 Makes Bullying & Cyber-Bullying a Crime

Representative Stephen Stat Smith, who voted with his colleagues in favor of the Anti-Bullying bill, was pleased with the quick action by both Houses of the Legislature and Governor to make this bill law. “With this law, we are trying to protect the vulnerable from the effects of not only physical bullying, but also “cyber-bullying”, which can occur both over the internet and on cell phones,” said Representative Smith. “With the near-universal use of cell phones and access to the internet, our children are exposed to outside influences for more hours in a day than many of us were when we were school-age. Unfortunately, some children use these technologies to harass others. Now there is a law in place to help protect our children from the effects of bullying,” he added.

Schools are required to include bullying prevention in their curriculum and to develop and implement plans to address bullying. To stop bullying when it happens, the law requires school staff to report incidents of bullying to the principal, who must then investigate and take appropriate disciplinary action.

The law prohibits bullying on school grounds, school busses, at school-sponsored activities, and through the use of electronic communications. 

In an effort to control costs for schools, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is required to identify low cost and free options for professional development for school staff. The Department is also required to develop a model bullying prevention and intervention plan schools can use in developing their own plans. 

In recognition of the role that parents have in preventing and stopping bullying, the law requires principals to notify parents of both the victim and perpetrator when bullying has occurred. The law also involves parents by requiring that schools consult parents in the development of their anti-bullying plans and that schools offer information to parents on bullying prevention.
In addition, children on the Autism spectrum and children who are vulnerable to bullying because of a disability must have provisions in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to ensure they obtain the skills to avoid and respond to bullying. The law prohibits retaliation against a person who reports bullying provides information during an investigation of bullying, or who is a witness to or has reliable information about bullying.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH VOTES TO PASS GAMING BILL

Representative Stephen Stat Smith voted with his colleagues in the House to pass a compromise gambling bill by a vote of 115–36, legislation allowing three casinos and two racinos in the Commonwealth. “This bill is the result of hard work done by both the House and Senate conferees, sorting through complex issues, taking parts of both the House and Senate bills and coming up with legislation that is acceptable to both chambers,” said Representative Smith. “This bill would provide both short and long-term jobs for our state, not only in constructing these various venues, but in maintaining and staffing the casinos and racinos once built, plus the fees and revenues from the gambling that will flow into the state for local aid and other programs,” he added.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH PRESENTS CHARTER COMMISSION WITH LEGISLATION SIGNED BY GOVERNOR DEVAL PATRICK

Representative Stephen Stat Smith presented the Everett Charter Commission members with the pen that Governor Deval Patrick used to sign Chapter 157 of the Acts of 2010 into law, as well as a copy of the signed bill. Charter Commission members are: Michael J. Bono, John F. Hanlon, Joseph F. Hickey, Alfred J.F. Lattanzi, Jason Marcus, Dorothy Martin Long, Robert E. Sansone, Bennie P. Schiavo and Paul Schlosberg.

“I am pleased that this legislation, ‘An Act Validating The Election Of A Charter Commission In The City Of Everett’, has been passed by my colleagues in the General Court and signed by the Governor. This law should dispel any uncertainty over the formation of the Charter Commission, and allow its members to concentrate on presenting proposals to reform our city government’s structure,” said Representative Stephen Stat Smith.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH ANNOUNCES FORMULA GRANT AWARD FOR THE EVERETT COUNCIL ON AGING

Representative Stephen Stat Smith announces the award of $48,804.00 Formula Grant to the Everett Council on Aging. “This grant will help our Council on Aging to continue providing services to our senior citizens. The Formula Grant amount is based on Everett’s 60 and older population according to the 2000 census,” Representative Smith said. “Among the services covered by this grant are transportation costs for medical, shopping and meals,” he added.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH FILES BILL TO REGULATE DCR POOL CLOSINGS

Representative Stephen Stat Smith (D-Everett) filed legislation today that would regulate the Department of Conservation and Recreation’s schedule for its pools, most of which closed last Sunday, August 16th, in spite of the record temperatures being felt across most of the region. “The Allied Veterans Pool in Everett is one of twenty-one pools that were closed on the 16th, leaving residents with fewer places to cool off during this heat wave,” said Representative Smith. “I have filed legislation that requires the DCR to open all their public swimming pools on the same day in the last week of June and close all their pools on the same day in the last week of August each year,” he added. “This would also make budgeting and staffing more uniform for these facilities, as well as provide a more consistent level of service to our citizens.”

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH ANNOUNCES "DIAL-A-LAWYER" FOR VETERANS
ON APRIL 29, 2010

Representative Stephen Stat Smith announces that free legal advice for veterans and their families will be available from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 29th , by dialing (617) 338-0610. This program is sponsored by the Massachusetts Bar Association, and is designed specific to the needs of veterans. Volunteer attorneys offer free legal advice and information to veterans experiencing legal problems such as access to benefits, family related issues, employment concerns and landlord/tenant matters.

“This program can be of enormous benefit to our veterans and their families by making legal advice available to those who have served our country,” said Representative Smith.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PASSES LANDMARK EDUCATION LEGISLATION
Targets achievement gap; strengthens Commonwealth’s application for Race to the Top Funds

State Representative Stat Smith joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing crucial legislation focused on eliminating the achievement gap in schools across the Commonwealth. The bill - entitled An Act Relative to the Achievement Gap - strengthens the state’s application for $250 million in federal “Race to the Top” funding, allows stronger intervention authority for the state in underperforming districts,  lifts the cap on charter schools in the lowest performing school districts and helps to facilitate innovation and excellence in schools throughout Massachusetts.

“With this bill, the House is taking strong action to eliminate our unacceptable achievement gap and ensure that every child in Massachusetts receives a world class education,” House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo said. “For years, the children of Massachusetts have been recognized among the highest achieving students in the country despite a troubling gap in achievement. This bill will promote accountability and innovation in our schools and position our Commonwealth to capitalize on the significant federal dollars that are at stake.”

“Education is the key to our children's future,” said Representative Stat Smith “and while Massachusetts achievement gap is amongst the highest in the nation, this legislation should go a long way towards closing that gap.”

The bill will now go before a House and Senate Conference Committee. By passing the bill in the first session of 2010, the state is on track to submit a competitive application for “Race to the Top” funds by the January 19th, 2010 deadline.

REPRESENTATIVE STEPHEN STAT SMITH ANNOUNCES CAPITAL BOND FUNDING FOR EVERETT HOUSING AUTHORITY

Representative Stephen Stat Smith announced the awarding of capital bond funding under the American Recovery and Investment Act (ARRA) Weatherization Assistance Program Funding to the Everett Housing Authority for replacing the heating systems at EHA’s 200-1 and 200-2 developments. The award is from the Mass. Department of Housing and Community Development. The amount of the award is $180,400.00. “This project will result in energy savings for the tenants at these developments,” said Representative Smith. “By modernizing the heating systems with current heating technology, their heating fuel bills should be reduced,” he added.

GOVERNOR PATRICK AND REPRESENTATIVE SMITH ANNOUNCE OVER $2 MILLION IN RECOVERY FUNDS FOR PUBLIC HOUSING ENERGY UPGRADES IN EVERETT

Everett Housing Authority to Receive Boost from Weatherization Program

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and State Representative Stephen Stat Smith, along with Mayor Carlo DiMaria and other elected officials made the announcement at the Whittier Drive Community Center.

In total, the Everett Housing Authority (EHA) will receive $2,060,470 in federal stimulus funds to replace out-dated heating systems at its Russell Street and Duncan Road family developments.

This announcement is part of $25 million set aside for public housing energy upgrades out of $122 million in stimulus funds allotted to Massachusetts last fall for weatherization services to low-income homes. Those American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds come to the state Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) from the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Weatherization Assistance Program and are administered for DHCD by a statewide network of local non-profit agencies.

"This investment will help us to strengthen communities, save money and put people back to work. Most importantly, it will allow us to improve the quality of life for residents across the Commonwealth by giving them a cleaner and healthier environment," said Governor Patrick.

“I’d like to thank Governor Patrick for his continued commitment to Everett, and Executive Director John Coddington and his staff for the excellent work they administer day in and day out for the Everett Housing Authority. These improvements should reduce energy costs for our constituents and come at a very opportune time for Everett,” Representative Smith.

REP. SMITH HEARS ELECTION LAWS TESTIMONY

As a member of the Joint Committee on Election Laws, State Representative Stephen Stat Smith (D) Everett, heard testimony Wednesday from Senator John Kerry, Congressman William Delahunt, numerous private interest groups, and constituents concerning House Bill 656, An Act Relative to Filling a Temporary Vacancy in the United States Senate. The hearing lasted 6 hours and was expedited to September because of the untimely passing of Senator Edward M Kennedy. The importance and urgency of the hearing dictated it be heard in the Gardner Auditorium.

“Once again I feel privileged to be a member of such an important committee in these trying times and I thank Speaker DeLeo and Chairman Moran for this assignment” stated Smith. “The information Senator Kerry and Congressman Delahunt delivered to the members should prove critical to the persuasion of members as to whether or not this legislation goes forward.”

The national delegation testified for close to an hour and shed light on many issues concerning the vacancy, but the important message to get out to constituents was “there is no issue where 2 Senators would not be better than one in the next 5 months” according to Senator Kerry.

Representative Smith feels there needs to be more clarity to the issue and he hopes the general public becomes more informed of exactly what is being proposed.

“One issue that certainly needs to be made absolutely clear to the Massachusetts voters is that appointing an interim senator will have no effect on their opportunity to elect the next U.S. Senator this coming January” stated Smith.

SENATOR GALLUCCIO AND REPRESENTATIVE SMITH ANNOUNCE EVERETT TO RECEIVE FEDERAL STIMULUS FUNDS FOR EVERETT SCHOOLS

Everett could receive as much as $3,795,080 to ensure foundation budget for FY2010

Senator Anthony D. Galluccio, along with State Representative Stephen Stat Smith, confirmed today that Everett will be receiving $ 3,795,080 in federal stimulus funding for education under the state’s Chapter 70 program.

The news follows Governor Deval Patrick’s announcement that he will set aside $168 million in federal money Massachusetts is receiving under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for distribution to local school districts.  The money will be used to help 166 school districts preserve programs and avoid teacher layoffs in Fiscal Year 2010, which begins on July 1st, and will also ensure that all school districts are brought up to their foundation spending levels for the 2009-2010 academic year.

“Once again I want to thank Governor Deval Patrick and his staff for fulfilling his commitment to public education on behalf of the entire city of Everett,” said Representative Stephen Stat Smith.  “This funding is of great assistance to our city in this time of economic stress,” he added.

“While this number is preliminary, it is certainly a good start to the goal of getting Everett schools significant assistance in next year’s budget with the use of stimulus money,” said Senator Galluccio.

Although final details are still being worked out, the federal stimulus money earmarked for Chapter 70 will be distributed through the traditional state budget process.  The House is due to release its version of the Fiscal Year 2010 budget in April, and the Senate will offer its own spending plan in May.  A final budget should be in place on or around July 1st.

GOVERNOR DEVAL PATRICK SIGNS CHARTER COMMISSION LEGISLATION

Governor Deval Patrick signed House Bill 4739 into law in the presence of Senator Sal DiDomenico and Representative Stephen Stat Smith.  It is now Chapter 157 of the Acts of 2010.

“I am pleased that this legislation, ‘An Act Validating The Election Of A Charter Commission In The City Of Everett’, has been passed by my colleagues in the General Court and signed by the Governor. This law should dispel any uncertainty over the formation of the Charter Commission, and allow its members to concentrate on presenting proposals to reform our city government’s structure,” said Representative Stephen Stat Smith.

“With the passage of this bill, the Charter Commission can now move forward with the principal task of recommending various reforms to make our municipal government run more effectively,” said Senator Sal DiDomenico.  “I thank my colleagues in the legislature and Governor Patrick for giving this matter such quick attention.”

Charter Commission members are: Michael J. Bono, John F. Hanlon, Joseph F. Hickey, Alfred J.F. Lattanzi, Jason Marcus, Dorothy Martin Long, Robert E. Sansone, Bennie P. Schiavo and Paul Schlosberg.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH PUSHES CHARTER COMMISSION IN HOUSE

Representative Stephen Stat Smith has expedited to process of validating the election of a charter commission in the City of Everett as it has been passed favorably by the Joint Committee on Election Laws. The House Bill proposed by Representative Smith, number 4739 “An Act Validating the Election of a Charter Commission in the City of Everett”, will now go to the House Committee of Steering, Policy, and Scheduling. This bill ratifies, validates, and confirms the election of the Charter Commission and all actions taken by the commission. Representative Smith is working closely with the Chairman of the House Committee of Steering, Policy, and Scheduling and has expressed the necessity of expediting the bill as quickly as possible in regards to the importance of the bill with respect to the City of Everett.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH VOTES WITH COLLEAGUES FOR EXPANDED GAMING

Representative Stephen Stat Smith has voted with his fellow representatives to expand gaming in Massachusetts by passing House Bill 4591. The bill provides for two resort casinos. Each casino will be required to invest a minimum of $500 million into the gaming establishment. There would also be a one-time licensing fee of $100 million for each casino.

In addition, the four existing racetracks would be able to apply for a “racino” license, permitting 750 slot machines at each facility. Each licensee would pay a one-time licensing fee of $15 million for each racino, as well as being required to invest at least $75 million in each facility.

Besides these fees, the casinos will be taxed at 25% of the gross gaming revenue, while the racinos would be taxed at 40% of their gross gaming revenue. This could mean that the net tax revenue from these facilities would be $300-500 million annually. Until the casinos open, 100% of the tax revenues from the slot machines would go to local aid.

This bill could create over 15,000 jobs over the next five years, generating over 7,000 direct jobs, over 6,000 construction jobs and approximately 3,000 indirect and induced jobs.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH VOTES TO OVERRIDE GOVERNOR’S VETO OF DEPARTMENT OF FIRE SERVICES BUDGET

Representative Stephen Stat Smith voted to override the Governor’s line-item veto of the Department of Fire Services budget. This vote helped restore $2,344,500 back to the Fire Service budget. This reduction would have dramatically affected mutual aid and training for the cities of Everett, Boston and Cambridge. Also affected were the hazardous material response teams for those cities.

“My colleagues and I recognize the need for adequate funding for fire services, not only for Hazmat Response Teams, but training and mutual aid,” said Representative Smith. “As a case in point, the fire at Sweetser Circle in December 2007 could have been more disastrous were it not put down by firefighters of Everett, with the assistance of firefighters from neighboring communities. Hazardous materials were involved in this fire, which called for the skills that these firefighters have learned in training for these situations,” he added.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH ANNOUNCES ENTRY-LEVEL CIVIL SERVICE EXAMS
FOR FIREFIGHTER MUNICIPAL SERVICE

Application Deadline is March 16th, with the exam being held April 24th

Representative Stephen Stat Smith announced the upcoming entry-level Civil Service Examination for Firefighter, Municipal Service, which is scheduled for Saturday, April 24, 2010. “This is an opportunity for people 19 and older to serve their community through public service,” said Representative Smith.

Applicants must be between 19 and 32 as of April 1st, 2010, and a non-smoker. Applications must be filed or postmarked no later than March 16, 2010.

Applications and information about eligibility requirements are available at the Human Resources Division, One Ashburton Place, Room 301, Boston, MA 02108 or by calling the Examination Hot-Line at 617-878-9895 or 800-392-6178. To apply online, point your web browser to www.mass.gov/civilservice.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH ANNOUNCES STIMULUS FUNDING AWARD TO EVERETT FIRE DEPARTMENT

Representative Stephen Stat Smith announces that the Everett Fire Department is receiving $234,342 from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), through discretionary stimulus funds Governor Patrick set aside specifically to help fire departments address staffing reductions caused by the current recession.

“Our firefighters put their lives on the line to protect the lives and property of the people of Everett. Because of the effects of the recession, all cities and towns are feeling the pinch of declining revenues to operate with. This money will save at least two firefighters from being laid off,” said Representative Smith.

In total, $71 million in federal recovery funds are being directed to local public safety officials across the Commonwealth.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH VOTES TO PASS FORECLOSURE LEGISLATION
Protects Tenants; Seeks to Prevent Foreclosures

State Representative Stephen Stat Smith joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing legislation aimed at protecting tenants in foreclosed properties and helping lenders and homeowners avoid foreclosure.

“As folks across the Commonwealth continue to struggle to make ends meet, this bill will institute measures to help keep our residents in their homes,” House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo said. “In these uncertain fiscal times, this bill aims to provide a degree of stability to the families of Massachusetts.”

“This legislation will help keep families in their homes and take reasonable steps to hold accountable those persons that committed fraudulent acts that led to much of the turmoil homeowners are now facing,” said Representative Stephen Stat Smith.

“This bill is a significant step toward stabilizing communities adversely impacted by the foreclosure crisis,” he added. “By protecting tenants and promoting negotiation between homeowners and lenders, economic hardships for many families will be avoided.”

The bill establishes protections for tenants living in properties that have been taken over by a lender after foreclosure. Under this legislation, lenders must post contact information for the lender – including an address where tenants can mail their rent – within 30 days of foreclosure. A lender cannot evict a tenant for failure to pay rent unless it has provided this notice.

In the event that a property is taken over by a lender after foreclosure, this bill stipulates that tenants can only be evicted for just cause or if the building is purchased by a third party.

The bill extends the right to cure period to 150 days from 90 days in some circumstances. This period, which allows lenders and homeowners a window to work out a new payment plan to avoid foreclosure, gives homeowners time to come up with past due payments on their mortgage before the lender can require full payment of the unpaid balance.

The bill institutes new provisions to govern interaction between a lender and homeowner during the right to cure period. Additionally, the bill allows the 150-day right to cure period to be granted once every 3 years. Currently, the 90-day right to cure period is available once every 5 years.

The legislation also adds new requirements to the right to cure notice that lenders must provide to homeowners.

The bill also establishes a new local property tax exemption for charitable organizations that acquire a foreclosed property with plans to create low and moderate income affordable housing on the property. This provision would exempt the organization from property taxes until it sells or rents the property, but not for more than 7 years after the purchase.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH VOTES FOR BALANCED FY11 BUDGET

Representative Stephen Stat Smith voted with his colleagues in the House of Representatives in passing a balanced FY11 budget without any increases in taxation or a draw from the from stabilization fund reserves (“Rainy Day Fund”). The budget closes a projected $3.2 billion budget gap through cuts to state spending totaling over $1.4 billion.

The House budget does not adopt taxation proposals from the Governor’s budget recommendations – including a tax on candy and soda – nor does the House budget implement a limit on the film tax credit as proposed by the Governor.

“Our state’s economy is still slowly recovering from the Great Recession that started in late 2008. This has affected not only your family’s budget, but the state’s as well. Everyone has had to make cuts,” said Representative Smith. “There are no new taxes in this budget, and the House has produced a balanced budget preserving essential services without increasing the burden on the taxpayers of the Commonwealth.”

The proposed budget, which is approximately $386 million lower than the budget offered by Governor Patrick, will result in close to 1,500 anticipated layoffs of state workers.

The budget fully funds the Workforce Training Fund at $21 million to provide employers with grants aimed at education and training existing members of the workforce and new hires. Through the beginning of this year, more than $175 million in grants have been awarded to train almost a quarter-million workers through the Workforce Training Fund.

The budget also provides nearly $5 million to the One Stop Career Centers which support the growth of the Commonwealth’s workforce.

Grants to Head Start programs and universal pre-kindergarten grants are both level funded in the House budget. Additionally, the budget level funds school-to-work connecting activities to give students job-training and promote workforce development while level funding the MCAS Low-Scoring Student Support line item to provide educational support to students in need of additional help to pass the MCAS.

The budget also fully funds cash benefit programs for veterans in need of temporary financial assistance and outreach programs to engage veterans in need of social services. Additionally, the budget appropriates $838 million for Commonwealth Care to cover 170,000 members through the upcoming fiscal year.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH ANNOUNCES “GATEWAY CITY PARKS” AWARD TO THE CITY OF EVERETT

Representative Stephen Stat Smith announced today that the City of Everett has received $30,000 to produce an Open Space and Recreation Plan through the Patrick-Murray administration’s new “Gateway City Parks” initiative. “Parks provide character and improve the quality of life in our city, by providing open spaces for the enjoyment of families and children,” said Representative Smith. “This grant will enable Everett to improve and preserve our park lands,” he added.

Created in recognition of the fact that public parks are essential to the health and economic well-being of urban areas, the Gateway City Parks program is a hallmark of Governor Patrick’s unprecedented commitment of state support for urban parks, habitat protection, and preservation of working landscapes.

The administration’s new Gateway City Parks program, with grants totaling $8.9 million in the program’s initial phase, will have additional Gateway City Parks grants announced in the months ahead, funded through the Environmental Bond bill signed by Governor Patrick last year. Twenty-two Massachusetts cities are eligible for the program, which targets communities with population greater than 35,000 and median household incomes, per capita incomes, and educational attainment levels below the state average.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH JOINS FELLOW LEGISLATORS IN VOLUNTARY FURLOUGH

Representative Stephen Stat Smith has joined other legislators in the House member’s voluntarily pay furlough program. Mirroring the five day pay furlough being required of all staff and aides of the House of Representatives, Representative Smith and other representatives are joining them in this cost-cutting measure. “The furloughs being taken by the employees of the House should save approximately $620,000,” said Representative Smith. “My colleagues and I are also taking five unpaid furlough days, as we are all in this together,” he added. All furlough time is to be used by the end of the fiscal year.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH MEETS WITH MEMBERS OF
TEENS IN EVERETT AGAINST SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Representative Stephen Stat Smith met with members of Teens in Everett Against Substance Abuse (TEASA), a community initiative of Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA), on “Kick Butts Day 2010” at the State House. Kick Butts Day is an annual celebration of youth leadership and activism in the fight against tobacco use. Teens in Everett Against Substance Abuse , along with the 84 Movement, were presenting legislators with information regarding the influence of Big Tobacco in marketing their products to young people. “These young men and women came to the State House arguing for stricter controls on tobacco marketing and sales. Not only are they advocating better public health measures for their contemporaries,” said Representative Smith, “but they are learning about their government.”

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH ANNOUNCES MASSACHUSETTS CULTURAL COUNCIL AWARDS

Representative Stephen Stat Smith announced today that the Massachusetts Cultural Council has awarded the Everett Cultural Council $8,680.00. The councils support community-based projects that explore local arts and history, expand education and accessibility, and celebrate diversity.

“I’m proud to support these cultural organizations and community groups in their work to enrich our lives and improve our communities through arts and culture,” Representative Smith said.

The Massachusetts Cultural Council is a state agency that promotes excellence, access,
education and diversity in the arts, humanities and sciences, in order to improve the quality of
life for all Massachusetts residents and contribute to the economic vitality of our communities.

The MCC is committed to creating a central place for the arts, sciences and humanities in the
everyday lives of communities across the Commonwealth. The Council pursues this mission
through a combination of grants, services, and advocacy for nonprofit cultural organizations, schools, communities, and artists.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH ANNOUNCES GRANT AWARD

Representative Stephen Stat Smith announced that the state's Office of Medicaid has awarded the Joint Committee for Children's Health Care in Everett a $41,000.00 grant. This grant supports ongoing initiatives to expand access to health care, by supporting efforts to identify, educate and enroll individuals who are eligible for health insurance programs now available through health care reform. The grant will also support education to individuals on how to receive health care, assist new enrollees with provider enrollment, help individuals retain their health insurance benefits and help individuals transition to other qualifying health insurance programs if their circumstances change.

“This grant, which is one of many awarded in the state, will help individuals by making it possible to provide tools that help people to understand their health insurance plan, as well as  the importance of preventative care and wellness,” stated Representative Smith. “Community-based organizations, such as the Joint Committee for Children's Health Care, help people make sense of the complexities involved in health care.”

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH ENDORSES MUNICIPAL POLICE TRAINING RESTRUCTURING

Representative Stephen Stat Smith lends his support to the restructuring of municipal police training. As it presently structured, there is inadequate funding for the training of police officers. The proposal being brought forward by the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security would enhance police training by providing dedicated funding for both the operating expenses of the Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC) and the expenses of hiring, equipping and training recruits of the Massachusetts State Police via surcharges on automobile insurance.

If enacted, in the first year the MPTC will receive at least $3.1 million, and the Department of State Police will receive $3.2 million from these surcharges. As there are approximately 3.1 million private passenger automobile policies in Massachusetts, each policyholder will pay approximately $2 for the two surcharges. The rate of the policy surcharges may be adjusted annually to a rate sufficient to fund the expenses of the MPTC and the State Police maintenance class. The amount of the surcharges will be separately stated on either a billing or policy declaration sent to the individual policyholder.

Representative Smith met with Everett Police Chief Mazzie, who is a supporter of this legislation. “I am in agreement with the Chief in that there has to be a consistent method of funding police training. This measure does that and also provides the best means of funding enhanced training over current efforts in order to bring the skills of our law enforcement personnel into the twenty-first century,” Smith stated. “A dedicated funding stream is critical for not only our current needs, but also our ability to plan for and implement training programs in the future.”

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH MEETS WITH STUDENTS AND STAFF FROM THE PIONEER CHARTER SCHOOL OF SCIENCE

Representative Stephen Stat Smith met with Executive Director Ugur Kocak, Dean of Students Sanela Jonuz and students from the Pioneer Charter School of Science at the State House. They were at the State Hous e to present Representative Smith with an award in appreciation of his support for the Pioneer Charter School of Science. “I am honored to receive this award from the Pioneer School,” said Representative Smith. “The Pioneer Charter School of Science has provided an excellent and challenging educational environment for its students for over four years, and I am confident that they shall continue to do so for many more years. I am honored to receive this award. Thank you,” he added.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH ANNOUNCES FUNDS RESTORATION FOR PORTAL TO HOPE

State Representative Stephen Stat Smith announced that Portal to Hope, a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive services to people whose lives have been impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking crimes, has had $105,000 in funding restored. “Portal to Hope is an important part of our city, with the Everett Victim Advocacy Project (“EVAP”) as one example, at the Everett Police Station, as well as services provided in Malden, Medford Winthrop and adjoining communities,” said Representative Smith. “Through the efforts of Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo, Chairman Paul Donato, Representatives Christopher Fallon, Charles Murphy, myself and State Senators Anthony Galluccio, Thomas McGee and Richard Tisei, the centers in Lynn, Medford and Winthrop will re-open after being temporarily shut.” He added.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH VOTES FOR SCHOOL NUTRITION BILL
Legislation Improves Food Choices at Massachusetts Schools to Help Fight Childhood Obesity

Representative Stephen Stat Smith voted with other members of the House to pass “An Act Relative to School Nutrition”, which bans the sale of unhealthy competitive foods and drinks in Massachusetts public schools. “It is time for us to step up to the plate, as it were, and help our children by providing healthier prepared foods in our school lunches,” said Representative Smith. “By teaching better nutrition skills to them now, we may prevent our children from suffering the ailments and diseases that accompany obesity: diabetes, heart disease, among others,” he added.

The bill – modeled after the recommendations of a 2007 Institute of Medicine (IOM) report – calls for a ban on unhealthy competitive foods and beverages that do not meet scientifically based nutritional standards and are not part of federal meal programs. It would also require schools to sell non-fried foods and vegetables at any location where foods are sold.

The bill’s provisions will apply to public elementary schools, middle schools and high schools. The legislation does not prohibit high school students from purchasing food sold off school ground during breaks. Additionally, parents will still be allowed to give their children any type of food to bring to school.

Other provisions of the bill include: continuing education of school nurses, nutrition and exercise instruction in schools, collection and reporting of obesity trends and the establishment of a farm to school program developed by the Departments of Elementary and Secondary Education and Agricultural Resources.

The American Heart Association has confirmed that childhood obesity is one of the most critical public health issues facing our nation today, threatening to reverse the last half century’s gains in reducing cardiovascular disease and related deaths. One-third of children aged two to five years are either at risk for being overweight or are already overweight. In Massachusetts, 29% of middle school students are overweight or obese. Studies show that these children are more likely than their peers to be absent from school, experience low self esteem and become obese adults.

Obesity-related diseases such as Type II diabetes and heart disease will ultimately require life-long chronic disease management that can significantly reduce quality of life while increasing health care costs. In fact, from 1979 to 1999, obesity-associated hospital costs tripled for children and youth.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH VOTES WITH HOUSE TO PASS BILL FOR SILVER ALERT PROGRAM

Coordinates Approach to Find Missing Persons with Alzheimer’s or Other Forms of Dementia

Representative Stephen Stat Smith joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing legislation to establish a Silver Alert program to assist in locating seniors with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia who have gone missing.

“With the establishment of the Silver Alert program, we hope to give the families of those with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia peace of mind while facilitating an efficient, effective method for finding their loved ones,” House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo said.

“This bill provides for an alert system similar in function to the Amber Alert program for children,” said Representative Smith. “People suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other form of dementia often wander away. The bill sets up a community system by trained first responders – EMTs, police, firefighters – to find wanderers quickly and thus keep them from harm. The Silver Alert will give comfort to families of a loved one suffering from these diseases. There are now twenty-eight states with Silver Alert programs, and Massachusetts will soon join them,” he added.

The Silver Alert program would provide for a coordinated approach to locating an individual with dementia. The bill directs law enforcement and other key response resources to focus in a geographic area consistent with the missing person’s last known location.

The legislation requires training for law enforcement and key responders. This training will be incorporated into emergency personnel training that is currently in practice.

Some 120,000 people in Massachusetts have Alzheimer’s disease with the number expected to increase by 17 percent by the year 2025.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH VOTES TO PASS SMALL BUSINESS HEALTH CARE BILL

State Representative Stephen Stat Smith joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing legislation designed to control health care costs for small businesses.

“With health care premiums continuing to rise, the House has taken a step in the right direction towards controlling costs for the small businesses of Massachusetts,” House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo said. “As we strive to stimulate economic growth in the Commonwealth, this bill will help the bottom line of the small businesses that help drive our state’s economy.”

"My colleagues and I support the small businesses and working families of this state,” said Representative Smith. “This legislation will bring immediate cost savings to the individuals being burdened by drastic increases in health care premiums. I thank the Speaker for his leadership and my colleagues in the House for casting this important vote."

The legislation requires carriers to submit rate filings to the Department of Insurance (DOI) at least ninety days before the effective date with sufficient detail so that the DOI may approve of the rates or disapprove if the rates are found inadequate, excessive or unreasonable in relation to the benefits provided.

Furthermore, the bill authorizes the Division of Health Care Finance and Policy (DHCFP) to review contracts for medical services between insurers and hospitals, physician group practices and imaging service providers to determine if payment increases are appropriate.

The bill also allows the Commissioner of Insurance to address instances of rate fluctuation. The Commissioner is permitted to annually smooth rate adjustments to prevent drastic increases in rates for individuals and employers.

In an effort to control costs by preventing consumers from adding or dropping health coverage for isolated cases, the bill limits open enrollment for health plans to twice annually in 2011, once in 2012 and once per year thereafter. In certain cases, however, the measure permits the Office of Patient Protection to grant open enrollment waivers to allow individuals to purchase insurance outside the open enrollment periods.

To help lower costs for consumers, the legislation allows patients access to prescription drug discounts.

The bill also establishes a Disproportionate Share Hospital Trust Fund to aid hospitals that serve a significant number of patients who are uninsured or insured through Medicaid. The legislation authorizes the DHCFP to assess fifty percent of the savings in provider rates of reimbursement for deposit in the Trust Fund. The remaining fifty percent of the savings in provider rates of reimbursement will be incorporated in premium savings to employers.

In order to maintain a focus on health care issues facing small businesses going forward, the bill increases small business representation on the Health Care Quality and Cost Council by adding a representative from a business with fewer than 50 employees. The Council is required to develop annual cost containment goals to promote affordable, high quality, patient-centered health care.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH HAS NEW COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS

Representative Stephen Stat Smith announced his committee assignments for the 186th Session today. He will again be serving on on the House Post Audit and Oversight Committee, chaired by Representative David P. Linsky of Natick, and will be on the House Personnel and Administration, chaired by Representative William C. Galvin of Canton, as well as the Joint Committee on Election Laws, which is being chaired by Representative Michael J. Moran of Boston.

MALDEN STATE REPRESENTATIVE STEPHEN STAT SMITH SWORN IN FOR SECOND TERM

Representative Stephen Stat Smith was sworn in for his second term on January 7th, along with his fellow legislators, by Governor Deval Patrick. This event marked the start of the 186th session of the General Court, in a ceremony that has traditions going back over 370 years.

Watching the General Court's inauguration were his wife Judy Locke, a former resident of Malden as well as friends and well-wishers.

 “I am glad to be able to serve the citizens of Malden in this new session of the Massachusetts House of Representatives. These are difficult economic times and I will be working hard to look after Malden’s interests in the coming months.” stated Representative Stephen Stat Smith, as he spoke with family and constituents after the ceremony.

REPRESENTATIVE STEPHEN STAT SMITH URGES CONSTITUENTS TO APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID TO HELP PAY FOR COLLEGE

Paying for college is a daunting challenge, but Representative Stephen Stat Smith wants students and their families to know help is available, particularly through free assistance from TERI (The Education Resources Institute).

Last year, Massachusetts students secured more than $1 billion in grants and low-interest loans  from federal and state governments, as well as millions of dollars in scholarships from colleges and universities. Students and their families need to know these resources exist, and may need assistance navigating the complex process of seeking out and applying for financial aid. Fortunately, free guidance is available to help applicants through this process.

“Time is of the essence, and students planning to attend college next fall should begin the financial aid application process now,” said Representative Smith. “Students should apply early – as soon as possible – and investigate all possible sources of aid.”

Federal and state governments, along with colleges and universities, are the major sources of financial aid. Students begin the process of applying for both federal and state aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This document is available online at www.fafsa.gov. Many private colleges and universities also require a second form, the CSS PROFILE ®, which is available at the College Board's website: www.collegeboard.com.

To receive free guidance on identifying sources of financial aid and completing applications, students and families throughout Massachusetts may call TERI's toll-free information hotline at 1-877-332-4348, or visit one of TERI's nine College Planning Centers in Chelsea, Boston and Brockton.

For hours of operation of TERI's College Centers, visit www.tericollegeplanning.org. TERI's hotline is made available through a partnership among the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education, the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission and TERI.

“Students and their families need to be aware that funds exists to help ease the financial burden of attending college,”said Representative Stephen Stat Smith. “It takes time and patience to uncover these sources, and to get through the application process. For those looking for financial help, I urge you to get started now.”

TERI College Planning Centers provide free, one-on-one information and advice on applying for financial aid and other concerns related to college planning. All TERI College Planning Center and Educational Opportunity Center Services are free. For guidance over the phone or for information on the Center closest to you, please call 1-877-ED-AID-4U (1-877-332-4348).

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH AND SENATOR GALLUCCIO PUSHING MASSHIGHWAY ON PEDESTRIAN SAFETY FOR LOWER BROADWAY (ROUTE 99)

Representative Stephen Stat Smith announced today that MassHighway will be conducting analysis of traffic patterns at the intersection of Thorndike Street and Broadway to determine the impact of a pedestrian-actuated signal at this intersection, as well as the coordination of signals throughout the lower Broadway corridor. “Presently, there is only a painted crosswalk across Broadway at that point,” stated Representative Smith. “What is needed is a pedestrian controlled crossing – with lights. This crosswalk leads to a bus stop on the southbound side of Broadway, which is serviced by Route 104, 105 and 109 busses bound for Sullivan Station,” he added. “Pedestrian-controlled lights would make this a safer intersection for both pedestrians and vehicular traffic.”

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH VOTES FOR WORKFORCE TRADING FUNDING

Representative Stephen Stat Smith voted with his colleagues to pass legislation that provides full funding for workforce training grants. The bill provides $9.5 million to the Workforce Training Fund. The funding would be used to provide employers with grants aimed at educating and training existing members of the workforce and new hires. Through the beginning of this year, more than $175 million in grants have been awarded to train almost a quarter-million workers through the Workforce Training Fund.

The legislation also directs $2.1 million to the Department of Veterans’ Services to reimburse towns for payments made to veterans.

 “The workforce training program will help companies all across Massachusetts increase productivity and expand their businesses,” said Representative Smith. “This legislation will help create good paying jobs in our community,” he added.

REPRESENTATIVE SMITH VOTES TO RESTORE WORKFORCE TRAINING FUND MONIES

House Overrides Gubernatorial Veto

Representative Stephen Stat Smith joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in restoring $12.5 million to the Workforce Training Fund which provides employers with grants aimed at educating and training existing members of the workforce and new hires.

The Workforce Training Fund is a state fund enacted into law in July 1998 and financed entirely by Massachusetts employers. Its purpose is to provide resources to Massachusetts businesses and workers to train current and newly hired employees.

“Our economy is driven by and depends on skilled workers. The grants from this fund help employees of local businesses to acquire and maintain the necessary skills to compete in an increasingly global economy,” said Representative Smith.

“Providing full funding to the Workforce Training Fund will help Massachusetts businesses thrive and keep people employed across the Commonwealth,” House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo said. “In these challenging economic times, it is imperative that we provide our workforce with the skills needed to succeed in today’s economy.”

In order to reinstate the $12.5 million in funding, the House overrode a gubernatorial veto. The legislature’s conference committee budget which passed last month provided $24 million for the Workforce Training Fund. The House’s veto override restored the funding for Workforce Training grants to the level of $24 million.

Through the beginning of this year, more than $175 million in grants have been awarded to train almost a quarter-million workers through the Workforce Training Fund.