There are multiple bills pending in this session, sponsored by Senator Brownsberger, that would improve bicycle safety. This post provides more information on all of them.
Walsh wants safer cycling city
The Boston Herald? reporting on the tragic bike fatality in the Back Bay last week, noted the legislation filed by Senator Brownsberger (S.1810?) requiring certain vehicles to be equipped with side under-ride guards and blind spot mirrors. “The city last year began requiring its trucks to have side guards to stop people from falling underneath the vehicles. Walsh is backing a bill before the Legislature to require trucks statewide to have the guards. Sen. William Brownsberger is a co-sponsor of the bill.” Visit this link on Bicycle Safety Legislation sponsored by Senator Brownsberger for more information on this topic.
Bicycle/Truck Accidents
Will, I am particularly disturbed by the accident that took the life of Anita Kurmann. How many more talented, promising people have to get killed before there is more meaningful action? I know you are a cyclist and care about this issue.
State Funding for Local Housing Authorities
In April, Senator Brownsberger presented a letter to Town Meeting regarding the Belmont Housing Authority’s application for Community Preservation Act funds to help pay for an electrical upgrade at one of its properties. The Belmont Board of Selectmen responded expressing concern that the state is providing insufficient financial support for the local housing authority. Here is Senator Brownsberger’s subsequent letter to the Selectmen, which agrees with their concern.
Say no to “sanctuary state” proposal.
Dear Senator Brownsberger: I would like to know you views on Rep. Byron Rushing’s proposal to offer “sanctuary” to all illegal immigrants…across the state. I would hope you would never support such a damaging (law). Sincerely, Nancy Oteri Belmont, MA
Top state officials seek review of criminal justice system
The Boston Globe reports that, “the top officials in Massachusetts government are asking for an independent review of the state’s criminal justice system.” The nonprofit group the Council of State Governments will conduct the analysis with the funding of the US Department of Justice and the Pew Charitable Trusts. Senator Brownsberger, who has been studying Massachusetts criminal justice statistics?, told the Globe that the request is a solid effort to get more data in an area where the state needs to make progress, “which is how do we get people safely back out onto the street in a way they can succeed and not return to being incarcerated.”