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.
Author Archives: Will Brownsberger
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.
Stand-Up for Safety and Civility — Hands Around the Pond at Belmont’s Clay Pit Pond
In the spirit of continuing to be a welcoming community, and acknowledging the recent increase in hate crimes across the Commonwealth and nationwide, residents of Belmont and surrounding communities are invited to Stand-Up for Safety – Hands Around the Pond on Saturday, December 17th from 1-2 p.m. on the Concord Avenue side of Clay Pit Pond in Belmont.