The Senate will soon consider legislation regulating Uber and other ride matching companies. Although I have real sympathy for individuals who have money tied up in taxi medallions, I will not support legislation that will hamper the transition to the superior new model. I welcome feedback on every facet of this industry transition, but I am particularly interested in feedback on the issue of passenger security.
Author Archives: Will Brownsberger
Outcome on the Opioid Bill
Last week, the legislature reached agreement on legislation to control opioid drug abuse. The bill does a lot and I was pleased to support it. Compromises were reached on many of the key issues discussed on this site over the past few months.
Raising the Threshold for Felony Larceny
Once a person has paid a penalty for a crime, we should let them put their past behind them. Last week, the legislature took one small step in that direction by raising the monetary threshold that divides misdemeanor larceny from felony larceny.
Bicycle Safety Forum — Take Aways?
Last week we had a great forum on bike safety at Suffolk University. We got a lot of input that we are still digesting. Still thinking about how to put the pieces together and would welcome additional comments.
Reforming Criminal Justice Policy for Young Adults?
I spoke last week at a forum on reforming criminal justice policy for young adults. I can’t let go of the fact that we are incarcerating 5 times as many people in Massachusetts as we were 40 years ago, even though crime rates aren’t that different. We need to recognize the needs and risk factors that impel people to crime and do a better job of reducing recidivism by addressing those needs and risk factors.
Belmont/Trapelo Project Update
According to MassDOT engineers, the project to reconstruct Belmont Street/Trapelo Road is 80% complete. It is on budget, but is about 9 months behind schedule. Bring your questions and concerns about the project to a meeting on March 15 from 6:30 – 9:00 PM in the Third Floor Gallery in the Homer Building, 19 Moore Street, Belmont (across from Belmont Town Hall in Belmont Center).