What is the net environmental impact of a deep energy retrofit (DER)? We know that adding insulation, a more efficient furnace, modern windows and leak sealing foam to an older house will reduce the energy required to maintain a given temperature. We can calculate the cost savings and GHG reductions. But what of the environmental …
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Are There Significant Healthcare Savings To Be Found In Reforming The Malpractice System?
Summary Massachusetts already has several levels of limits on malpractice suits and damages Pretrial tribunals Caps on non-economic damages Caps on attorney’s fees Malpractice rates set by the Insurance Commissioner Pretrial tribunals are not a significant barrier to pursuing a suit The amount of bond necessary to move forward is too low and has …
A “contrary” view on the pension fund problems
Via Brad Delong‘s blog: http://www.cepr.net/index.php/publications/reports/the-origins-and-severity-of-the-public-pension-crisis It argues, roughly, that the current shortfall is attributable to the recent stock market plunge, that pension funds, because of their size and long-term outlook, need not and should not invest like individuals, and that the size of the shortfalls, as a share of future state receipts, is not that alarming. …
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Legislative Stats for the 2009-2010 Session
An overview of bill flow in the past session.
Move probation to the executive branch?
While the problem of patronage in probation may have been substantially addressed by changing leadership, it still may make sense to reorganize the system.
Special Education Costs and the Circuit Breaker
The special education circuit breaker is a possible source of additional funds for local school budgets in Fiscal 2012 budget cycle.