An Act to Reduce the Criminalization of Poverty is designed to stop the criminal justice system from dragging people deeper in by exacting unaffordable fees and fines and by creating civil disabilities that prevent people from working.
Author Archives: Will Brownsberger
Can’t get away from my past — introduction
Many people experience long term civil disabilities as a result of having been arrested or charged with a crime. They may be unable to join the military, get a job or find housing. This post, the first in a series breaking down this complex problem, introduces some basic concepts and policy challenges.
Duckboats, Death and Life
We got a lot done in the last session, but the duck boat law stands out for me emotionally – it makes Boston safer, but more than that, gives a little bit of positive meaning to the otherwise completely wasteful death of a fine young woman in her prime.
Barbara Miranda
Barbara Miranda is retiring this week after a long career of service to people. Please take a minute to share a story or make a wish by commenting on this post.
Yesterday’s Marijuana Vote
As a public advocate of marijuana legalization, I look forward to supporting the full implementation of the people’s will. However, I was not troubled by the decision yesterday to postpone the commercial sale of marijuana by six months. The real battles to protect the people’s will lie ahead.
Urban Rail — not coming soon
Commuters and transit advocates have hoped for many years that we could create a new kind of subway-like “urban rail” service that would offer new rapid connections to and within Boston. It seems clear now that there are a host of reasons why new urban rail may be very difficult to implement.