Economy

casinos, consumer issues, convention center, development strategy, housing, industry regulation, inequality, intellectual property, net neutrality, non-competition agreements, olympics, poverty and assistance, turnpike air rights development, work

Later Hours for Bars?

I’ve received questions about Senate 127, An Act Modernizing the Business Licensing Process (and the identical House companion bill, House 161). I was pleased to sponsor this bill for the Mayor, because I think it will help some of the city’s neighborhoods become more vital, while at the same time continuing to allow other neighborhoods to express their preferences for less activity.

H.3383, An Act relative to the digital right to repair

Senator Brownsberger has recently submitted the testimony in this post on H.3383, An Act relative to the digital right to repair. He supports the bill, which would require manufacturers of digital electronic products to make parts, tools, diagnostic equipment and repair information available to anyone at a fair and reasonable cost.

Boston Strong on the Olympics — No Boston Olympics

While I’m a little saddened for dashed hopes, I’m mostly relieved by the decision to cancel Boston’s Olympics bid. For me, as for many others, the risks associated with the Olympics appeared too great for the Commonwealth to backstop. We should be proud for the robust debate we’ve had and I thank all who have participated in it — it looks to me like we just dodged a bullet.

AG’s Office offers information sessions on Earned Sick Time

The Attorney General’s website has a page on Earned Sick Time that is a resource for employers and employees to learn about the new law that went into effect on July 1, 2015. The AG is also offering five web-based and three in-person public information sessions about the Earned Sick Time Law. These two-hour sessions, conducted by a staff member, will review the law’s regulations and allow time for questions from attendees. Those interested are asked to RSVP to a session, which are being held during July, August, and September.