July 31, 2010 - The Senate approved legislation to help spur economic growth by providing small businesses the immediate health care cost relief they need to retain and create and jobs and start hiring again. The comprehensive bill allows for small business group purchasing, requires insurers to offer affordable health plans, reduces premium fluctuations, and promotes wellness programs ffor small businesses.
Jon Hurst, President of the Retailers Association Massachusetts said in a statement, "This is the most important reform small businesses have seen in 20 years designed to give them and their employees' health insurance premium relief and equal rights under the law and in the marketplace."
Bill Promotes Business-Friendly Environment; Sales Tax Holiday Approved
July 30, 2010 – Final Senate and House agreement on economic development legislation includes a sales tax holiday and promotes a business-friendly environment that will help small businesses open, expand and create jobs. The bill filed today and ready for enactment by both branches will overhaul the state’s network of business development agencies, establishing a streamlined, cohesive model with built-in oversight and transparency to reduce redundancy and waste.
July 30, 2010 - Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) joined Representative Michael A. Costello (D-Newburyport), Public Safety Secretary Mary Beth Heffernan, State Police Col. Marian McGovern, State Fire Marshall Stephen Coan, and the brave men and women of of the Boston Police and State Police Bomb Squad units to witness Governor Patrick signing in to law Senate Bill 2468 - An Act Strengthening the Laws Related to the Regulation of Explosives.
July 28, 2010 - Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) hosted today's Forum on Massachusetts Health Care Costs and the Economy at Northern Essex Community College.
Ranging from hospital executives to small business owners, today's forum focused on strategies for mitigating health care cost growth in Massachusetts.
July 22, 2010 - As a result of the Big Dig ceiling tunnel collapse which killed Milena Del Valle in July 2006, the Attorney General filed manslaughter charges against Power Fasteners – the company that marketed and distributed the epoxy anchor bolt system that was used in portions of the I-90 Connector Tunnel.
Through the hard work of the Attorney General’s office, a settlement between Power Fasteners and the Commonwealth was reached – where Powers is required to pay $16 million in civil damages.
Had Powers been convicted of manslaughter, the company would have faced a maximum...
July 22, 2010 - Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) was proud to introduce to his colleagues Christina DelRosso of Haverhill, winner of the National American Miss Massachusetts Junior Teen Pageant 2010.
July 20, 2010 - Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) is pleased to announce the cities of Haverhill and Newburyport have received a Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) grant to fund trail projects under its Recreational Trails Grants Program. The DCR program is part of the national Recreational Trails Program funded by the Federal Highway Administration.
Haverhill - Merrimack River Trail Development Project - $15,700
The project will engage trail advocates, municipal officials, and community leaders in 15 communities in a strategic process focused on developing one of the state's most outstanding recreational assets - a 30-mile long bicycle and pedestrian trail.
July 11, 2010 - Watch Sen. Baddour's interview on Sunday with WBZ-TV's Jon Keller as they discuss casinos, slots, job creation, the negative impact of the sales tax increase, texting while driving, and transportation reform.
July 8, 2010 - TheTown of Salisbury has received an $800,000 grant and the city of Methuen has received a $668,071 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) from the state’s Department of Housing and Community Development, State Senator Steven A. Baddour announced today.
The grants will be used to make neighborhood improvements and support social service agencies. Specifically for Salisbury, the following projects will be funded by the grant:
Repair pavement, sidewalks and drainage areas on Spring Street and Lion’s Way
Prepare construction plans for improvements in the Lincoln Avenue neighborhood
New law bans texting while driving for all drivers and cell phone-use by junior operators; Massachusetts one of 29 states to prohibit Dangerous behavior behind the wheel
July 2, 2010 - Governor Deval Patrick today signed legislation that bans text-messaging for all Massachusetts drivers, prohibits junior operators from using cell phones and institutes new license renewal procedures for mature drivers, among other provisions.
"Without question, this new law will save lives on our roadways," said Governor Patrick. "Texting is one of the riskiest distractions that endangers public safety and today we are joining other states by saying it will no longer be tolerated."
"We are focused on delivering high quality public safety for all residents of the Commonwealth, and this new enforcement will make our roads safer for all drivers," said Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray.
"Texting while driving has become a serious threat to the safety of our roads and drivers," House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo said. "We have taken strong action to keep our roads safe by banning texting while driving and instituting needed measures to keep...
May 27, 2010 - During its debate on the Fiscal Year 2011 Annual Budget, the Senate voted 28-10 to crack down on state subsidies for illegal immigrants and target employers who hire them. Working closely with Senate Ways and Means Chairman Steven C. Panagiotakos (D-Lowell) and Assistant Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr (R-Gloucester), Senator Baddour said: “This is a bipartisan solution to the illegal immigration problem in Massachusetts. At a time when thousands of Massachusetts families are in desperate need of help, we need to ensure that the limited dollars that we have are spent assisting taxpaying citizens, not illegal immigrants," said Senator Baddour. He added, "We cannot and should not be spending monies from taxpayer-funded public benefit programs on those who are breaking the law. I am pleased that over 30 public programs, including MassHealth, unemployment assistance, public housing, and in-state tuition administered by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts will now be off limits to illegal immigrants."
To learn more about Senator Baddour's further amendment, click on:
May 13, 2010 – The Senate on Thursday unanimously passed a municipal relief bill that gives cities and towns new tools and local options to plan budgets, pool resources and save money, Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) announced today. The legislation also includes new pension reform provisions that will generate millions of dollars in savings for local and state retirement systems.
“This bill removes unnecessary requirements that stand in the way of regionalization and other options that can help save money, giving municipalities...
July 1, 2010 - The Senate on Thursday with a 25-15 vote passed gaming legislation authorizing three resort casinos in separate geographic locations of the state that could generate more than $350 million annually for the Commonwealth, 15,000 full-time permanent jobs and up to 9,000 immediate construction jobs.
An independent study commissioned by the Senate also indicates the Senate plan would bring additional revenues for the Commonwealth, more than $250 million annually, from onsite hotels and the full-spectrum of attractions associated with destination resort-style casinos.
July 1, 2010 - Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) was joined by Sheriff Frank G. Cousins, Jr. (R-Newburyport), Representative Michael A. Costello (D-Newburyport), Salisbury Town Manager Neil Harrington, MassDOT Secretary Jeff Mullan, and the legendary Maria Miles herself for the re-opening of the Maria Miles Visitors Center in I-95 in Salisbury.
The Maria Miles Visitors Center is the Gateway to Massachusetts with over 500,000 visitors entering the facility every year, or using the parking area as a safe place to rest from a long drive. As a Gateway, the Maria Miles Visitors Center is integral to the marketing of both Essex County and the Commonwealth for the travel and tourism industry and is equipeed to assist with roadside emergencies. The unique public-private partnership with the North of Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau will allow for the continued operation of this important transportation and toursim asset while providing significant cost savings to the taxpayers of the Commonwealth. Click on the following to read more:
June 29, 2010 - Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) was joined by his colleagues in the House of Representatives, Rep. Linda Dean Campbell (D-Methuen) and Rep. Brian S. Dempsey (D-Haverhill) in supporting the acquisition of Caritas Christi Health Care by the Steward Healthcare System LLC.
The transaction will bring financial stability to the 10th largest employers in Massachusetts - protecting over 12,000 jobs, paying off all of Caritas' debt, and fully funding the Caritas pension system protecting the retirements of Caritas' 13,000 pensioners. The transaction will also provide Caritas access to the capital necessary to modernize its six hospitals and bring state of the art medical care to our communities. To learn more, please click on the following:
June 22, 2010 - Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen), Senate Chairman of the Joint Committee on Transportation and Senate Chairman of the Safe Driving Conference Committee, was joined by his colleagues, Co-Chairman Rep. Joseph F. Wagner, Senator Stephen M. Brewer, Senator Robert L. Hedlund, and Representative Donald F. Humason, Jr. as they released the Safe Driving bill. Some of the provisions of the bill include: Banning texting while driving, Prohibiting Junior Operators from using a cell phone, whether hand-held or hands-free, Requiring drivers age 75 and older to renew their license in-person at an RMV and undergo a vision test every 5 years, and Requiring the RMV to develop regulations to help identify cognitive or functional impairments taht are likely to affect a person's ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. For more information, click on the following:
Amendments supported by broad coalition of legislators, prosecutors, law enforcement, and the Attorney General
June 22, 2010 - Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen), Vice Chairman of the Joint Committee on The Judiciary, announced today that he has sponsored two amendments to the Senate Casino Bill (SB 2495) that will strengthen law enforcement’s ability to fight economic crimes as a result of legalized gaming in the Commonwealth.
“These amendments, combined with other provisions already included in this bill, are a major step forward in cracking down on money laundering, organized criminal activities, human trafficking and many other serious crimes, said Senator Baddour.“I am proud to join...
June 18, 2010 - The Senate Ways and Means budget committee released legislation that calls for casinos in three regions of the state, eliminates an earlier provision setting aside a license for an Indian tribe, and allows no slot machines at the state’s four racetracks. The bill is scheduled to be debated before the entire Senate early next week. For more information, click on the following:
April 28, 2010 - Brain trauma in youth sports is a growing public health crisis. The CDC estimates that 16 to 38 million concussions occur in youth sports and recreational activities each year. Boston University’s Center for the Study of Traumatic Encephalopathy, which recently received a $1million gift from the National Football League, has found that repetitive brain trauma in youth sports can lead to a brain disease that causes dementia. Science shows that after a concussion, the brain needs time to recover to prevent further brain damage. By educating parents, coaches, trainers and athletes on the signs...
June 7, 2010 - Joined by Congressman John Tierney, State Rep. Mike Costello, Mayor Donna Holaday, and DEP official Rosemary Powers, Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) helped break ground for Newburyport's Waste Water Treament Facility earlier today. In the past year, the Patrick-Murray Administration has awarded hundreds of millions of dollars for critical infrastructure improvements in local cities and towns. In all, local communities are breaking ground this spring on 111 drinking water and wastewater projects, worth $770 million. Those projects are good for the environment and good for our economy.
As part of the 2009 State Revolving Fund (SRF) list, Newburyport is receiving more than $14.6 million in SRF low-interest loans and federal Recovery Act funds to upgrade this treatment plant and move toward a more energy efficient operation here.
June 14, 2010 - The 4th annual Sand & Sea Festival: A Pirating We Go! on Salisbury Beach, June 26 and 27, 2010, offers something for everyone, from children and teens, to adults and seniors! This much-anticipated summer kick-off this year features swashbuckling antics of the Pirates of the Dark Rose, “Treasure Island” created from giant sand sculptures (complete with treasure hunt!), live entertainment on a beachfront stage, kids’ performers (for kids and by kids!), fireworks, games, the ever-popular Beach Pizza Eating contest, Pet Parade and much more! On the beach, watch a youth soccer tournament, a lifeguard beach race and surfing demos!Don’t miss this fun beach weekend: meet up with your friends and bring your...
June 11, 2010 - “Today, we humbly honor one of America’s heroes”, said Senator Baddour. “A beloved son and a true and steady friend, Sgt. Jordan M. Shay will be forever remembered as a young soldier who loved life and was looking forward to his future. Naming this road in Jordan’s memory is a small tribute to honor his ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.”
April 12, 2010 - Legislation that would allow the state to access and directly manage landfills determined to be a public nuisance was approved today by the Legislature’s Joint Committee on the Environment.
The bill was filed by State Representative Michael A. Costello and State Senator Steven A. Baddour in response to conditions at Crow Lane landfill in Newburyport, which has been a threat to public health and environmental safety for years. In that time, residents have been affected by rotten egg odors and hydrogen sulfide gases emitted from Crow Lane.
Representative Costello, Senator Baddour, Newburyport Mayor Donna Holaday and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Laurie Burt all testified in...
June 8, 2010 - Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) was a guest on NECN's BroadSide with Jim Braude to discuss a measure that cracks down on benefits to illegal immigrants which was recently adopted by the state Senate.
State Sen. Steve Baddour (D), who is the lead sponsor of the budget amendment, said much of what is being done in the measure has already been enacted by the state legislature.
"At the end of the day we need to make sure that those people that are getting state benefits are state citizens or are citizens of the Commonwealth," state Sen. Baddour said.
Click here to watch the video or here to learn more about the measure sponsored by Senator Baddour.
June 3, 2010 - As a result of a recent Massachusetts Appeals Court Decision (COMMONWEALTH v CARTER), Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) filed a bill (SB2468 - An Act Strengthening the Laws Related to the Regulation of Explosives) to clarify the state's statute around bombs and bomb-making devices. Working closely with the Massachusetts State Police Bomb Squad and the Commonwealth's Department of Fire Safety, the bill provides law enforcement the tools necessary to prosecute cases in which they've uncovered large amounts of bomb-making materials by bringing the law of the Commonwealth in line with federal law. For more information, click on the following:
May 26, 2010 – The City of Newburyport has received an $8 million award from the State Revolving Loan Fund to improve the city’s water treatment facility and water distribution network, Representative Michael A. Costello and Senator Steven A. Baddour announced today.
The Spring Lane Treatment Facility was built in 1971, and much of the equipment there is in desperate need of renovation, Newburyport Mayor Donna Holaday said.
The state’s revolving fund provides cities and towns with low-interest...
Continues Commitment to Reform During Fiscal Crisis
May 19, 2010 - The Senate Committee on Ways and Means today released its recommendations for the fiscal year 2011 budget.The $27.88 billion budget proposal uses a combination of spending reductions and federal recovery act funds in order to close the $2.85 billion budget gap.The Committee also upholds its commitment to not use any new taxes or a withdrawal from the state’s Stabilization Fund in order to balance the fiscal year 2011 budget. Click on the following to learn more:
May 18, 2010 - The Senate on Tuesday approved legislation to help spur economic growth by providing small businesses the immediate health care cost relief they need to retain and create jobs and start hiring again, Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) announced today. The comprehensive bill requires insurers to offer affordable health plans, reduces premium fluctuations, allows for group purchasing, and promotes wellness programs for small businesses. Click on the following to learn more:
May 7, 2010 - Joined by Methuen Mayor William Manzi, State Representatives Linda Dean Campbell and Barbara L'Italien, Caritas Holy Family CEO Lester Schindel, and other hospital executives, Senator Steven A. Baddour joined in the grounbreaking ceremony for Caritas Holy Family Hospital's new Emergency Room. The $21 million project will double the hospital's capacity and bring state-of-the-art high-quality emergency room services to the Merrimack Valley. Click here to learn more.
NEWBURYPORT (May 10, 2010) – The launch of The Newburyport Route 1 Gateway and Clipper City Rail Trail Clean-Up Project will be announced tomorrow by State Representative Michael A. Costello, State Senator Steven A. Baddour, Newburyport Mayor Donna Holaday and Essex County Sheriff Frank G Cousins Jr.
The group will meet at 2 p.m. at Route 1 and Merrimac Street, behind Mr. India restaurant, to discuss the details of the project.
May 3, 2010 - Joined by Congresswoman Niki Tsongas, MassDOT Secretary/CEO Jeffrey Mullan and MBTA General Manager Richard Davey, Senator Steven A. Baddour and other local officials announced the groundbreaking of the $17.4 million Haverhill Commuter Rail Double Tracking Project funded by the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA). "Access to the commuter rail is one of Haverhill's strongest assets", said Senator Baddour. "Double tracking the line has been one of my highest priorities as Senate Chairman of the Joint Committee on Transportation. This enchancement will certainly improve service between Haverhill and Boston and will better serve the many familiies and commuters who rely on public transportation". For more information, click on the following:
April 29, 2010 - The Baddour Charity Fund announced that it will postpone its annual charity golf tournament to ensure full compliance with the new ethics law passed by the Legislature in 2009. A non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, The Baddour Charity Fund's mission is to benefit children directly by contributing to the costs associated with healthcare, education, shelter and vital services for children in need throughout the Merrimack Valley. Since its inception in 2003, the Baddour Charity Fund has donated over $100,000 to area hospitals, food pantries, and families with disabled children. Click on the following to learn more:
March 8, 2010 - Senator Kenneth J. Donnelly (D-Arlington) and Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) toured Terrafugia, a Woburn-based aerospace company developing the first practical flying car to the general aviation market.Founded in 2006 by MIT aeronautical engineers and MBAs, Terrafugia’s mission is to provide innovative solutions to the challenges facing personal aviation. Taking advantage of new FAA regulations in the Light Sport Aircraft category, Terrafugia developed the Transition® Roadable Aircraft to provide pilots the convenience of a dual-purpose vehicle. Its unique design allows the Transition® to fold its wings and drive on any surface road with a modern personal airplane platform. Once at the airport, the wings extend and the aircraft is ready for take-off.
The people of Massachusetts spoke, the nation watched, and now the Democrats need to listen to the voters: Business as usual is no longer acceptable. Click here to read Senator Baddour's Opinion on how Democrats can regain the voters confidence on the road ahead (Eagle Tribune, January 24, 2010).
April 20, 2010 - Read Sunday's Boston Globe artice detailing how the number of fatal accidents involving drivers under 18 has dropped 75 percent in the three years since Massachusetts, lead by Senator Steven A. Baddour, made it tougher for teenagers to earn their licenses and implemented much harsher penalties for those junior operators who speed or commit other violations.
April 8, 2010 - Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) today announced the Senate, with a 37-0 vote on Thursday, passed a major overhaul of the state’s network of agencies charged with developing business interests and economic activity in Massachusetts. The legislation creates a streamlined, cohesive model with built-in oversight and transparency measures to reduce redundancy and waste, and promote a more business-friendly environment that will ultimately help stimulate job growth in the Commonwealth. Click on the following to learn more:
As the Legislature begins to prepare the Fiscal Year 2011 Budget, the Massachusetts economy has seen its share of job losses, declining revenues, and reduced consumer spending. However, the Massachusetts economy was far outpacing the national economy, growing at an annual rate of 3.2% compared to the national economy at 0.6%. This outpacing was due in large part to our technology, science, and healthcare sectors, as well as the proportional lack of speculative construction.
Click on the following to learn more about the Massachusetts Fiscal Crisis and the FY2011 Budget:
March 31, 2010 - Senator Steven A. Baddour spent some time volunteering with Mayor Tatcher Kezer and Amesbury Police Officers at Our Neighbor's Table food pantry in Amesbury. With the help of many volunteers, over 500 Easter baskets were distributed to families in need throughout the Greater Amesbury region. Click here to learn more about how you can help.
March 29, 2010 - The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced that federal disaster aid has been made available for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms and flooding beginning on March 12, 2010, and continuing. The president's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Bristol, Essex, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, Suffolk, and Worcester counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.Federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for all counties within the state. Individuals, families, and businesses may be eligible for federal assistance if they live, own a business, or work in a county declared a Major Disaster Area, incur sufficient property damage or loss, and, depending on the types of assistance, do not have the insurance or other resources to meet their needs. Click on the following for more information:
March 16, 2010 - Senator Steven A. Baddour teamed up with Newburyport City Councilor Ari Herzog in support of Newburyport's efforts to bring Google Fiber to Newburyport. Click on the following the learn more and how you can help support this initiative:
March 9, 2010 - The Massachusetts Senate approved a bill allowing the City of Lawrence to float up to $35 million in municipal bonds to help balance its budget.
The Senate bill, like a House bill approved last week, would appoint a state overseer to monitor the city’s ability to balance its books. Under both bills, the overseer could call on the state to appoint a control board at any time if the overseer determines the city can’t get its fiscal house in order.
Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) teamed up with his colleagues, Senator Michael W. Morrissey, Senator Benjamin B. Downing, Senator Robert A. O'Leary, and Senator Bruce E. Tarr to support Massachusetts' efforts to diversify its fuel supply and help foster growth in the advanced biofuel industry. Click here to read the letter to the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources.
Bills Ban Bullying, Promote Healthy Foods in Schools
March 11, 2010 – The Senate on Thursday advanced measures to ban bullying and update nutritional standards in schools with a pair of bills aimed at promoting a safe, healthy and productive learning environment for all students.
Senate anti-bullying legislation prohibits physical, verbal and written acts that threaten or cause harm to another student, including Internet “cyber-bullying,” while a separate school nutrition bill establishes new standards for fresh food options in school cafeterias and vending machines....
Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) took strong action today to bring accountability, transparency and respect for the law to the Essex Regional Retirement Board (ERRB).Senator Baddour co-sponsored legislation with colleagues in the Northeast Legislative Caucus to address the widespread allegations of improper acts by the board through a series of reforms, including the requirement that the Public Employee Retirement Administration Commission (PERAC) appoint a receiver to oversee and direct the operations of the board.The bill was developed by state Senate Assistant Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) with the collaboration of numerous caucus members.
The bill is co-sponsored by Senator Thomas McGee ( D-Lynn), and Representative Robert Fennell (D-Lynn), who chair the caucus with Tarr, and Senators Susan Tucker (D-Andover) and Fred Berry (D-Peabody), and Representatives Brad Hill (R-Ipswich), Mary Grant (D-Beverly...
March 9, 2010 - Senator Baddour recently joined the FOX25 Morning News from their Beacon Hill studio. Watch Kim Carrigan's interview for his thoughts on Safe Driving, Nursing Home Safety, and Big Dig Guardrails.
Earlier this week, Laurie Myers, President of Community VOICES, wrote the following piece for the Lowell Sun on keeping children safe. Her column referenced Senator Baddour's work on the Massachusetts version of Jessica'a Law, which called for mandatory minimum senteces for the worst crimes against children. (Senator Baddour is pictured above with Mark Lunsford, father of Jessica Lunsford, whom Jessica's Law was named after.)
Keeping children safe from offenders
The Lowell Sun
By Laurie Myers
We hear the horror stories about children like Jessica Lunsford, abducted from her bedroom, raped and murdered by a repeat sex offender in Florida. We see the photos of kids like 12-year-old Alyssa Presti murdered in her bedroom by level 3 sex offender Michael Bizanowicz after he brutally raped her mother in the living room of their Woburn home. And Massachusetts will never, and should never forget Jeffrey...
Recently, Senator Baddour honored the service of veterans from across the Merrimack Valley at his 3rd annual Veterans Appreciation Breakfast. Over 100 veterans attended.
"I was thrilled that so many veterans from the area came out," said Baddour. "They have sacrificed to much for us, the least we can do is take a little bit of time to stop and say thanks."
Recently, Senator Baddour, along with Middlesex County District Attorney Gerry Leone testified in front of the Joint Committee on the Judiciary in support of a bill filed by Baddour to allow the state to request a jury trial in order to determine if a sex offender still presents a danger to the public.
Baddour filed the bill after a convicted sex offender allegedly attempted to rape a six year old boy in New Bedford last year.
"These are the worst of the worst and they should be behind bars, said Baddour (D-Methuen.) "If that means going before a jury, then juries should be deciding."
To read coverage of the hearing from the Lowell Sun, click here.
On Friday, April 11, 2008, the Governor signed legislation sponsored by Senator Baddour that would require the use of booster seats for children through age 7 or four-feet-nine-inches tall, whichever comes first. The law this replaces targets children up to the age of 5 and weighing less than 40 pounds.
Last week, the Joint Committee on Transportation heard testimony on a series of proposals to restrict cell phone use while operating a vehicle. A number of possibilities were discussed, including banning text messaging while driving, requiring hands-free headsets, and a full ban on cell phones while behind the wheel. During the hearing, we heard a heartbreaking testimony from Melissa Martin, whose 17 year old daughter died tragically in 2007 in an accident caused by texting while driving.
Most members of the committee were in agreement that texting while driving is not safe. At the hearing, I argued passionately that while cell phones can be dangerous behind the wheel, we need to do a better job of reminding people that when they are driving, it is their responsibility to focus on the road. Often times it is not so much the phone itself that causes accidents, but the distraction that the conversation creates.
Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) teamed up with fellow Methuenite Representative Linda Dean Campbell to petition the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to oppose New Hampshire's plans to build new toll plazas on Interstate 93. Click here to read more.
The Senate on Tuesday, March 2nd passed safe driving legislation that bans texting while driving and makes it a primary offense.
A 2009 study by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute found that teen drivers are four times more likely than adults to be involved in a crash because of texting, and truck drivers who text while driving are 23 times more likely to have an accident than someone who isn’t distracted.
The bill also requires a person between the ages of 75 and 80 to submit once during those five years an assessment form to be developed jointly by the registry and the medical advisory board, but filled out by the person’s physician or health care provider. Based on that assessment, the registrar would determine if the...
Senator Steven A. Baddour and Fox25's Doug "VB" Goudie participated in a dodgeball tournament to benefit Children's Hospital this past Saturday in Methuen. Some of you may remember Fox25's Zip Trip to Methuen back in July 2009 where "Baddour got it" from VB - consider this a grudge match. Read all about it in the Eagle Tribune story: "Team Baddour takes dodgeball title" (Eagle Tribune, 2/21/2010)
“1,000 Great Places in Massachusetts” is a new cultural tourism program that celebrates what is unique about our state, its communities, and its people, and also to stimulate...
In an effort to relieve economic burdens on small businesses and create new jobs Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) 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 bill to freeze the Unemployment Insurance rate would hold steady the current rate schedule for Unemployment Insurance assessments on employers for calendar year 2010. In previous recession, the state has frozen the assessment schedule to relieve the burden on small businesses in tough economic times, most recently in 2008 and 2003.
Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) and his colleague Representative Joseph F. Wagner (D-Chicopee), Co-Chairmen of the Joint Committee on Transportation, announced Thursday (1-28-2010) a new bill that takes a major step toward banning texting while driving. The bill, H. 3354 An Act Relative to Distracted Driving, would prohibit texting while driving by all drivers and includes harsh penalties for infractions. Junior Operators (drivers under the age of 18) would be banned not only from texting but from using a cellphone in any way while behind the wheel. The bill must now pass the House before going to the Senate for approval. Click here to read a summary of the bill, and click here to see WBZ-TV coverage.
In July 2007, the Massachusetts Legislature passed a comprehensive identity theft prevention bill which went into effect on October 31, 2007.This new law provides that Massachusetts consumers must be notified of any breach of their personal information that creates a substantial risk of identity theft or fraud as soon as practicable and without unreasonable delay after a breach occurs, except when a law enforcement agency determines that notice may impede a criminal investigation.
Bullying has severe negative consequences for both the victims and the bullies.In surveys, approximately 14% of all students in Massachusetts schools said they were afraid of being bullied on a regular basis.Additionally 33% of all mainstreamed special needs students were found to be regular victims of bullying.According to the National Education Association (NEA), approximately 160,000 children nationwide miss school each day because of fear of attack or intimidation from peers.Additionally, those who bully are significantly more likely to be involved in criminal behavior later in life and are four times more likely than their peers to be convicted of a crime by age 24. Click on the following the learn more about Senator Baddour's bill to promote safe schools and communities by helping ...
The Senate and House on passed an innovative education reform bill that establishes a new category of public schools, provides options to improve existing school districts that are underperforming, and puts the Commonwealth in better position to secure federal grant money to help all public schools in Massachusetts. Click on the following to read:
The Amesbury Transportation Center has been sent out to bid by the Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority, State Representative Michael A. Costello and State Senator Steven A. Baddour announced today. The 18-month construction period for the project is expected to begin in late spring. Click here to read more. And click here to read the Newburyport Daily News article.
Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) today announced that the City of Newburyport and the Town of North Andover have each been awarded $22,429.29 and $16,578.13, respectively, from the Massachusetts Renewable Energy Trust for projects that furthers the Commonwealth’s clean energy goals. Details on the Newburyport award can be found here; and for North Andover's award click here. Learn more about clean energy assistance available for Massachusetts towns and cities by visiting DOER’s Green Communities website: ...
As we face the prospect of further budget cuts and program elimination, we should be looking for ways to improve the value and efficiency of the state programs and services that will remain, as well as begin to lay the foundation for recovery so that we don't simply go back to restoring funds for every program that was cut or reduced. We need to have a means to evaluate existing programs as well as any that might be restored to make sure that we are giving our taxpayers the best value for their hard-earned dollars. Senator Baddour has co-sponsored a package of bills aimed at providing the mechanism for improving state government efficiency and economy. Click here for the press release.
Senator Baddour has been an outspoken supporter of legislation that would address the fitness of elderly drivers, and increase safety on the road. Below is Senator Baddour's statement on House Bill 3287, An Act Relative to Safe Driving.
"This comprehensive bill creates a new process to address concerns of driving fitness of older drivers, targets historically dangerous drivers of all ages, and considers the limited resources of the RMV", said Senator Steven A. Baddour. "This bill strikes the right balance between public safety and fairly protects the privilege of driving for many older citizens."
Click here to read the full text of the bill, and here for a summary.
Recently, Senator Baddour sent the above letter to Represenative Michael Costello and Senator James Timilty, co-chairs of the Joint Committee on Public Safety. Senate Bill 910 would establish a missing children clearing house, or centrally coordinated repository for information on missing children. This would prevent information on missing children cases from getting lost between jurisdictional systems, and streamline the process of helping them return home safely.
Please click here to read Senator Baddour's letter.
"I am deeply saddened by Senator Kennedy's passing,” said State Senator Steven Baddour. “This is a tremendous loss for the Commonwealth and for the nation as a whole. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched throughout his extraordinary career."
Recently, Senator Baddour visited senior citizens at the Methuen Senior Activity Center for a lively discussion on the issue of senior driving tests. The Legislature’s Joint Committee on Transportation, which Baddour co-chairs, has taken up this issue in recent weeks.
To read more about Baddour’s visit, click here for coverage from the Eagle Tribune.
Today, Senator Baddour joined a bipartisan coalition of Senators in urging Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Ian Bowles to implement regulations of the Clean Energy Biofuels Act of 2008.
To read the letter to Secretary Bowles, click here.
Seantor Baddour has a been a strong and consistent voice on environmental issues, and recently spoke at the opening of Bay State Bio Fuels in North Andover.
Earlier this week, Senator Baddour filed legislation on behalf of Attorney General Martha Coakley, that will help crack down on human trafficking, money laundering, and other serious crimes. To view a summary of the bill, click here.
This week, the City of Newburyport celebrates the 52nd Annual Yankee Homecoming.The week-long activities include a parade, fireworks, and many other family-friendly activities.
For more information and a full schedule of the week’s events, please visit the Yankee Homecoming website.
Last week, the Joint Committee on Transportation heard testimony on a series of proposals to restrict cell phone use while operating a vehicle. A number of possibilities were discussed, including banning text messaging while driving, requiring hands-free headsets, and a full ban on cell phones while behind the wheel. During the hearing, we heard a heartbreaking testimony from Melissa Martin, whose 17 year old daughter died tragically in 2007 in an accident caused by texting while driving. Most members of the committee were in agreement that texting while driving is not safe. At the hearing, I argued passionately that while cell phones can be dangerous behind the wheel, we need to do a better job of reminding people that when they are driving, it is their responsibility to focus on the road. Often times it is not so much the phone itself that causes accidents, but the distraction that the conversation creates.
Senator Steven A. Baddour is happy to announce that Department of Revenue Commssioner Navjeet Bal will be giving a presentation to businesses at Northern Essex Community College in Haverhill. Commissioner Bal will be speaking to business owners about how Governor Patrick's Corporate Tax Policity Initiatives will affect their business.
In a statement to the press, Sen. Baddour said, “You can imagine my surprise then when I woke up yesterday to find my image and words from the bill signing splashed across a political ad for Kerry Healey. I am simply shocked that the Lieutenant Governor would attempt to use this event for political gain. This event was a bipartisan effort to celebrate the passage of a critical bill to protect children. It was not to celebrate Kerry Healey. It wasn’t supposed to be about politicians at all. It was a day for victims and children.”
Senator Steven Baddour met with Fourth-Graders from the Timony School in Methuen on November 15, 2006. The students toured the State House, learning about the history of the Commonwealth and the importance of the democratic process. Senator Baddour frequently meets with students of all ages from the First Essex District and enjoys the chance to participate in their education.
Just one week after passing landmark pension reform, the Legislature continued its aggressive reform agenda by filing final legislation that completely overhauls the state’s transportation system. The consensus bill dissolves the Turnpike Authority and consolidates multiple agencies into a unified, independent agency, eliminating waste and producing billions of dollars in short- and long-term savings. The new agency would begin operating November 1, 2009. For a summary of the bill, please click here and for a brief presentation on the bill click here.
The Massachusetts Audubon Society recently awarded Senator Baddour a 100% voting record on environmental issues, recognizing him as one of the leading "green" voices on Beacon Hill. "It's an honor," said Baddour (D-Methuen.) "There are so many important issues that we deal with on a regular basis, but few are as important to the future of our planet and to the next generations as the environment." Mass Audubon Society, consisting of over 100,000 members, is the largest conservation organization in New England.
Last week, the Massachusetts State Senate overwhelmingly passed a comprehensive transportation reform bill, fundamentally overhauling the way in which we transportation services are delivered in the Commonwealth. The bill eliminates waste and inefficiencies, and is a testament to lessons learned from the Big Dig with built-in reporting and transparency requirements. The bill eliminates the turnpike authority, streamlines communication, and has the potential to save the Commonwealth up to 6.5 billion dollars over the next 20 years. It is the most comprehensive transportation bill the Senate has seen in generations.
Senator Baddour was pleased to annouce that the state's Renewable Energy Trust has approved $5,600 for a study to determine the feasibility of using the former Methuen Ski Hill Site and its potential for energy regeneration.
"Using this site as a source for renewable energy would be terrific for Methuen," Baddour said.
"I have consistently stated that we need reform before revenue and the current discussion to raise the gas tax - particularly to this unprecedented level - without any accompanying changes to the current system is totally unacceptable," said Senator Baddour. " We cannot throw more money into a broken system and expect things to magically improve. The transportation reform bill that I filed last week is the most comprehensive transportation reform bill filed in decades."
Citing his overall leadership in the field of transportation, the Institue of Transportation Engineers awarded Senator Baddour with their 2008 Transportation Leadership award. President Sudhir Murthy and Vice President Jeffrey Dirk presented Senator Baddour with the plaque, which read "Intitue of transportation Engineers Transportation Leadership Award 2008 Presented to Senator Steven A. Baddour, For leading the Massachusetts Legislature toward comprehensive transportation reform: Measuring system performance, streamlining project construction, and ensuring infrastructure maintanence.
In order to create an open and honest dialogue regarding the transportation situation in Massachusetts, Senator Baddour announced the creation of his new blog, Mass Trans for Tomorrow. Please feel free to visit and share your thoughts.
State Sen. Steven Baddour likes to think he and Rep. Mike Costello are running unopposed because people respect the jobs they are doing.
While balancing soccer practices and swimming meets for his two daughters, ages 6 and 5, and serving in the Senate, Baddour says his job will be even harder in the next two years in light of economic hardships, but he believes he has the energy to move forward.
"The new lifeguard command center and shade shelter provides a balanced approach to enjoying the ocean and sun for thousands of visitors to Salisbury Beach.", said Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen). "I’d like to thank DCR for their commitment and attention to preserving one of the best beaches in our state."
The new regulations strike an appropriate balance between public safety and spending, and will go a long way towards restoring public confidence in the way we spend transportation dollars.
Senator Baddour and Representative Costello announced that they have secured $1 million for air quality monitoring and odor management at the Crow Lane Landfill in the City of Newburyport.
Senator Baddour recently met with Mark Lunsford, father of Jessica Marie Lunsford, a 9-year old girl who was abducted from her home and brutally raped and murdered by a convicted sex offender. Following his young daughter’s death, Mr. Lunsford pursued new legislation to provide more stringent tracking of released sex offenders that requires tighter restrictions on sex offenders (such as wearing electronic tracking devices) and increased prison sentences for some convicted sex offenders. To date, 33 other states have enacted some form of Jessica’s Law into law. The Massachusetts Senate passed H. 4811 An Act Futher Protecting Children on July 15th - the bill will soon go before the Governor for his signature.
Jacqueline Connolly, 9, of Bradford, was named the winner of the Soap Box Derby for ages 9 through 13. She will represent Massachusetts in the National Championships, July 26, in Akron, Ohio.
Dedicates a portion of the revenue collected from beach-goers to long-term beach maintenance to help ensure that residents and business owners will not have to rely on one-time or special state funding year-to-year to repair any damages, or to preserve and maintain the beach on a regular basis.
Click here for a summary and a brief overview of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means fiscal year 2009 budget recommendations. Throughout these recommendations are commitments to the health, safety, education and overall well-being of the Commonwealth's residents.
The creation of the Salisbury Beach Preservation Trust Fund will help ensure that residents and business owners will not have to rely on one-time or special state funding year-to-year to repair any damages, or to preserve and maintain the beach on a regular basis. The new funding, combined with regular maintenance funds from the Department of Conservation and Recreation, will allow us to begin the long-overdue process of protecting this natural treasure.
Senator Baddour joined Senate President Therese Murray (D-Plymouth), Speaker of the House Sal DiMasi and Governor Deval Patrick in announcing a transportation bond bill on Thursday, March 27.
Senator Baddour is joined by Rep. Harriett Stanley (L) and Sen. Bruce Tarr (R ) as he hears testimony at an oversight hearing of the Merrimack Valley Transit Authority. Senator Baddour called the hearing as a result of multiple complaints by local residents and Councils on Aging regarding the service.
Senator Baddour speaks at a press release announcing Public Safety Committee Chair Mike Costello's support of his child booster seat bill. Senator Baddour and Rep. Costello were joined by representatives from the State Police and AAA, who are also supporting the bill.
Senator Steve Baddour joins Middlesex District Attorney Gerry Leone (center) and Senator Steve Panagiotakos (D-Lowell) (right) at a press conference announcing their intention to file new legislation reforming the sexually dangerous person statute in the Commonwealth. The new legislation would shift power regarding placement of sexually dangerous persons in communities away from judges and into the hands of jurors.
Senator Baddour joined Senator John F. Kerry, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, and Congresswoman Niki Tsongas in announcing Congressional passage of the federal appropriations bill, which includes approximately $4 million for local projects throughout the Merrimack Valley. Included in that bill is funding for the Methuen-Arlington Neighborhood Association.
Senator Baddour hosted an event for approximately 150 veterans and their family members to show his support and appreciation for their service and sacrifice. Baddour was joined by other local legislators and elected officials, as well as Robert Antell, a veteran of World War II who lives in Amesbury (pictured above).
Senator Baddour helps unveil the sign for the new Comeau Bridge in Haverhill with Governor Deval Patrick and Secretary of Transportation Bernard Cohen.
Senator Baddour speaking at a press conference held with Senator Pacheco (left) and Senator Tarr (right) where they called for the debarment of Bechtel Parsons/Brinckerhoff on July 11, 2007.
As a member of the new Senate Committee on Global Warming and Climate Change, Senator Baddour welcomed committee chair State Senator Marc R. Pacheco (D-Taunton) and State Senator Bruce E. Tarr (R-Gloucester) to Northern Essex Community College in Haverhill for a regional hearing regarding the very pressing issue of the environmental and health impacts of climate change.
Senator Baddour is please to announce that Governor Deval Patrick has made a request to President Bush to declare a Major Disaster Declaration for Public Assistance in order to expedite financial aid to the local cities and towns of Essex, Plymouth, Barnstable, Dukes, Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire and Berkshire Counties impacted by the Nor'easter, beginning on April 15, 2007. Governor Patrick also requested assistance from the Small Business Administration for Essex County.
Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) announced that the Federal Highway Administration granted preliminary approval to the state's request to move forward with the IJR for the I-93 project proposed in the Andover, Wilmington and Tewksbury area. This announcement allows the IJR to move forward to the next phase of the project, an environmental impact study. Senator Baddour met with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mary Peters (pictured top left) and urged her to support this project when he participated in a Transportation Leadership Summit at the White House in February.
Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) and Representative Michael A. Costello (D-Newburyport) were happy to welcome Brady and his family to the State House for a reception including a visit from Wally the Green Monster of the Boston Red Sox and Dr. James Mandell of Children’s Hospital in Boston.
Stating that "In the end, I realized that while any one can be a Congressman, I am the only one who can be a father to my two daughters," Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen) announced today that he will not seek election to Congress in the Fifth Congressional District.
Calling it a necessary state response to a growing global threat, Senate President Robert E. Travaglini today announced the creation of a new Senate Committee charged with studying the impact of climate change on the Commonwealth and formulating public policy to help reduce greenhouse gasses. Senator Steven A. Baddour is one of six legislators named to work on the new Senate Committee on Global Warming and Climate Change.
Senator Steven A. Baddour (D-Methuen), Representative Brian Dempsey (D-Haverhill), and Representative Harriett Stanley (D-West Newbury) have joined forces to help support the "Textbook Project" sponsored by the Haverhill School Committee to help fund the purchase of new textbooks for public school students in Haverhill. The legislators are splitting the cost of textbooks for an entire class - $1,625 in total. They presented the check to Dr. Raliegh Buchanan, Superintendent of the Haverhill School District.
Senator Baddour met with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mary Peters, and used the opportunity to discuss pressing local transportation matters including the Junction/I-93 interchange project. He also focused his time on advocating for funding for critical transportation infrastructure needs throughout the Commonwealth.
Senator Steven Baddour tours the Parlex Offices in Methuen. Senator Baddour helped Parlex win a waiver from the City to complete the relocation of more than 40 jobs to Methuen from Rhode Island. Senator Baddour has actively worked to streamline the permitting process for businesses to help bring well-paying jobs to Methuen.
Senator Steven Baddour introduced Deval Patrick at a campaign rally in Methuen on October 29. Patrick won election as the state's first African-American governor less than two weeks later, on November 7, 2006. Senator Baddour's support helped carry many towns and cities in the Merrimack Valley for Deval Patrick. In the 2002 election, the Merrimack Valley had voted heavily for Republican Mitt Romney.
Senator Steven Baddour published a newsletter announcing his most recent work and accomplishments for residents of the First Essex District. In the newsletter, available in Adobe Acrobat pdf format below, Senator Baddour announced successful work in cracking down on repeat drunk drivers, extending the statute of limitations for prosecuting sex offenders and vital increases in local aid for residents of the Merrimack Valley. For a print copy of the newsletter or to find out more information about Sen. Baddour's ongoing work, send an email to steven.baddour@state.ma.us.
Sen. Baddour sponsored legislation with Sen. Bruce Tarr, Sen. Marc Pacheco and Inspector General Greg Sullivan which would increase oversight on public construction projects. The proposal is a direct response to try and prevent another tragedy like the Big Dig Collapse from happening again.
Sen. Baddour was the primary sponsor of a new law which adds a representative from the disabled community to the Regional Transit Authority boards. One representative from the disabled community will serve on one RTA board in the Commonwealth, rotating each year throughout the state. "This legislation is a first step in recognizing the previously unmet needs of the disabled community," said Sen. Steven Baddour, D-Methuen. "Adding a representative of the disabled community to the RTA Advisory Boards was absolutely necessary."
Sen. Baddour spoke for Tom Reilly on News Night with Jim Braude. Sen. Baddour defended Tom Reilly’s promise to provide tax relief, and talked about Tom Reilly’s record of proven results as Attorney General.
On July 20th, Senator Baddour, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Transportation, became one of the first Legislators to tour the Big Dig tunnels closed following the tragic death of Milena Del Valle. Since the accident, Senator Baddour has called for the resignation of Turnpike Chairman Matt Amorello and supported legislation granting Governor Romney the power to conduct a comprehensive safety review of the entire project. Above all, Senator Baddour feels the project needs to be de-politicized as soon as possible: “We need to come up with a commission,” Baddour said. “No politicians, no elected officials, just experts in construction and engineering.”
State Sen. Steven Baddour, D-Methuen, has taken campaign donations from contractors, lawyers and lobbyists involved in the Big Dig.
But the co-chairman of the Legislature's Joint Committee on Transportation is no tool of construction companies. Quite the contrary. His record indicates he has taken a hard line on the contractors whose shoddy work has turned the Big Dig into a national laughingstock.
The Baddour example illustrates the fallacy behind much of campaign finance reform. It takes money to run political campaigns. Unions, corporations and "special interest" groups should have as much right to make political donations as individuals do. Reformers have focused on shutting off the money and limiting political speech. But it is not the money itself that is corrupting. It is the possibility that politicians can find ways to hide their sources of funding that is troubling.
On Friday, October 28, Senator Baddour stood beside the families of victims of repeat drunk drivers as Governor Romney signed Melanie’s Bill, a piece of legislation to punish and deter repeat offenders, into law. Throughout the bill’s progression, Senator Baddour fought for the strongest penalties available. Thanks in part to his efforts, Massachusetts now has what is arguably the toughest repeat offender law in the United States.
Attorney General Reilly spoke about the immenent renaissance of Salisbury's greatest resource - the beach - and the importance of securing public financing to encourage the transformation of the beach business district from its current mix of tourist attractions to a year-round commercial and residential village that would resemble downtown Portsmouth, NH and Portland, ME.
. End of Year Recognition Dinner on Wednesday, June 8, 2005
A project of community collaboration, the T.O.P.S. program provides a wonderful opportunity for early childhood providers to access professional development. T.O.P.S. is an Associate Degree program offered in collaboration with the Community Partnerships for Childrens Program, Northern Essex Community College, Community Service Block Grants, and the Building Careers Grant funded through the Department of Education.
Senator Baddour has been an outspoken supporter of legislation that would address the fitness of elderly drivers, and increase safety on the road. Below is Senator Baddour's statement on House Bill 3287, An Act Relative to Safe Driving.
