I’ve been getting passionate feedback from both sides, but the tilt among has been against expansion. As this conversation continues, I hope we can keep ourselves focused on our own direct perceptions and Massachusetts-specific facts.
Author Archives: Will Brownsberger
The conversation about charter schools
The Senate is considering legislation to expand charter schools in Massachusetts. I am deeply interested to know how parents feel about the proposed changes — I give great weight to parents’ perceptions about what approach will best serve their children.
Rehoming of Adopted Children
I’m seeking input on legislation pending before the Senate. What should the penalties be for people who bypass the legal adoption process and permanently place or receive children through online forums? The question comes up in the context of legislation to address the phenomenon of “rehoming” of adopted children. I’d really appreciate hearing reactions to this.
The conversation about GMOs
Most of my colleagues in the legislature have endorsed a pending bill that would require labeling of foods produced from genetically modified farm crops. I’ve been a skeptic of the bill. The threshold question we have to ask is: can we successfully force a new Massachusetts food labeling system on the rest of the country?
The obligation to upgrade the Waverley Station
How is it that a $400,000 maintenance investment by the MBTA in the Waverley station could trigger an obligation to spend tens of millions to make the station fully accessible, or in the alternative, to close the station? This post provides background on the Architectural Access Board, and how it has followed the law (and its own rules) in making this determination.
Belmont Street and Trapelo Road Construction Update
Here’s what to expect over the next few weeks on the Belmont Street/Trapelo Road project, including the latest about traffic signals.