Senate Passes Bill to Protect Public Safety and Support Access to Care

From the Senate President’s office: The Senate on Wednesday passed legislation to enhance public safety and remove barriers to access reproductive health care facilities in Massachusetts in the wake of the recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling striking down buffer zones across the nation, including the existing 35-foot buffer zone that was passed by the State Legislature in 2007.

Senate bill reduces barriers limiting opportunity in Mass.

The Boston Globe reports, “Any Economic development legislation worthy of the name should help clear away barriers that keep workers from seeking better opportunities and discourage the emergence of new businesses. Unlike the economic development bill that came out of the House, the Senate’s stronger legislation tackles both the noncompete clauses that hamper the state’s …

Deal reached on parole for juvenile killers

The Taunton Gazette reports that, “House and Senate negotiators reached a deal Tuesday on sentencing reforms for juvenile murderers to establish a three-tiered system for parole eligibility after state and federal courts struck down life sentences without parole as unconstitutional. A six-member panel filed a compromise bill (H 4307) on Tuesday afternoon that would make …

Lawmakers reach deal on parole for juvenile killers

The Boston Globe reports that, “State lawmakers reached agreement Tuesday on compromise legislation that would establish parole eligibility for juveniles convicted of first-degree murder. Juveniles convicted of premeditated murder could be granted parole after 25 to 30 years, while those found guilty of murder with extreme atrocity or cruelty would be eligible after 30 years, …