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.
Economy
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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.
Bills banning non-compete agreements make news
A hearing held by the Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development on June 23 included five bills related to noncompetition agreements, including S957 sponsored by Senator Brownsberger. The Senator and his legislative colleague Representative Lori Ehrlich (H1701) testified together in support of prohibiting non-compete agreements.
Small businesses can apply for economic injury disaster loans due to snow
The Small Business Administration has informed us that due to the snow and severe weather received in Massachusetts between January 27 and February 22 of this year, small businesses in particular counties, including Middlesex and Suffolk, may apply for disaster assistance in the form of direct working capital loans.
Protecting the State from Olympic Liability
In the budget debate this week, the Senate adopted an amendment offered by Senator Tarr which sets in place a clear boundary on state liability for the Olympics. The Boston 2024 group has said all along that they don’t want to use taxpayer funds or put the taxpayers at risk. However, many of us feel it is critical that we put in place clear legal protections so that we are not surprised.