To which the Senate previously adjourned. This Senate will be in order. The chair would ask all members, staff, and guests to please rise and join the senator from Plymouth and Barnstable, Mr. DiMasito, in the Pledge of Allegiance.
ALL: I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic, for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
Several resolutions have been presented, which the clerk will read.
By Mr. Eldridge and others, resolutions congratulating Bay Path Elder Services Inc., on its 40th anniversary. By Miss Pilcker and Mr. Ross, resolutions congratulating Spencer Robert Jolie of the town of Franklin and his elevation to the rank of Eagle Scout. By Miss Pilcker and Mr. Ross resolutions congratulating Robert Angelo [INAUDIBLE] III of the town of Franklin on his elevation to the rank of Eagle Scout, and by Mr. [? Todd ?] resolutions commending the Ascension Memorial Church on the occasion of its 150th anniversary.
The question comes on adoption of the resolutions. All those in favor, say aye. Opposed, no. The ayes have it, and the resolutions are adopted. The senator from Worcester, Hampden, Hampshire, and Middlesex, Ms. Gobi, has presented a petition, which the clerk will read.
A petition of Anne M. Gobi and Donald R. Berthiaume, Jr., by vote of the town of New Braintree for legislation to amend Chapter 268 of the Acts of 2000.
Norfolk and Plymouth, Mr. Keenen, moves suspension of Senate Rule 20 and Joint Rule 12. The question comes on the motion. All those in favor, say aye. Opposed, no. The ayes have it and the rules are suspended. The petition will be referred to the Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight. Report of a committee.
The committees and rules-- two branches have to concurrently [INAUDIBLE] the Senate petition of Richard J. Ross and Jeffrey N. Roy for legislation relative to the accessibility and affordability of trade school education reports recommend that Joint Rule 12 be suspended with reference to Mark C. Montigny for the committee.
The senator from Norfolk, Bristol, and Middlesex, Mr. Ross moves that the Senate Rule 36 be suspended so that the matter may be taken up forthwith. All those in favor, say aye. Opposed, no. The ayes have it. And the rule is suspended. The question now comes on suspension of joint rule 12. All those in favor, say aye. Opposed, no. The ayes have it and the rule is suspended. And the petition will be referred to the Committee on revenue. Papers from the House.
Several house petitions come from the House with the endorsement that joint rule 12 has been suspended with reference there to in each instance and they have been referred to their various committees.
The question comes on suspension of joint rule 12. All those in favor, say aye. Those opposed, no. The ayes have it and the rule is suspended. The petitions will severally be referred to their various committees. Is there any objection to proceeding with the orders of the day? The chair hears none.
On page one, the first item is calendar item number 70. Senate bill number 2154-- the question comes in order to bill to a third reading-- all those in favor, say aye. Opposed, no. The ayes have it and the bill is ordered to a third reading.
Next item is calendar item number 71, house bill number 3540. The question comes on ordering the bill to a third reading. All those in favor, say aye. Opposed, no. The ayes have it and the bill is ordered to a third reading.
The next step is item 72, house bill number 3909. The question comes on ordering the bill to a third reading. All those in favor, say aye. Opposed no. The ayes have it and the bill is ordered to a third reading.
On page two, the next item is counted item number 73, house bill number 3940. The question comes on ordering the bill to a third reading. All those in favor, say aye. Opposed, no. The ayes have it and the bill is order to its third reading. The orders of the day have been completed. The Senate will be in a very brief recess.
Paper from the House.
Item 0511-0000 contained in section two relative to the Department of the Secretary of State comes from the House of the endorsement that the House has passed this item, notwithstanding the reduction of His Excellency, the Governor 121 to 34.
The question before the Senate is shall the matters stand, notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary, and the Chair recognizes the senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr.
Why, thank you, Mr. President. And good morning, and congratulations on yet another outstanding--
The Chair would respectfully ask the members to subdue their conversation as we begin formal debate this afternoon and listen to the gentleman who is at the microphone. Again, conversations may be conducted in either that little lobby area or that lobby area. It will make it easier for people in the chamber to be able to hear the proceedings. The chair recognizes the senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr.
Thank you, Mr. President and to the members. And I would congratulate you on another outstanding tie choice this morning, but Mr. President, I also want to point out that the lobby area to which you referred to on this side of the room-- many people may have confused that with the newest addition of the minority innovation chamber. But I would welcome members of both parties who want to make use of that space to join us on this side of the satellite chamber. And we may even have some bipartisan conversations back there.
I would also point out to Mr. President, we also welcome members from both parties to use this particular microphone. It seems that we've established a pattern, which seems to be partisan as to which microphone is being used. And, Mr. President, while, from your perspective, I happen to be on the microphone to the right, using a stage terminology, I believe, I would be at the microphone on the left. So again, we encourage folks to use microphones on both sides of the satellite chamber.
Mr. President, just to begin, recently on October 18th, there was a report issued by the Massachusetts Taxpayer Foundation, which has some very concerning information relative to the exercise that we are about to continue, with regard to overrides. And, Mr. President, one of the interesting comments and deeply concerning comments in that report is a quote which reads as follows: "However, if all of the governor's spending vetoes are overridden without an offsetting increase in tax collections, we are likely to see a repeat performance of the fiscal year 2017 budget balancing act the Foundation concluded."
And I think we all remember that that balancing act included some very difficult reductions in the middle of the fiscal year to be able to accomplish the constitutionally required budgetary balance. So, Mr. President, I would ask through you, by the distinguished Chair Lady of Ways and Means, who was our chief navigator as we sail these turbulent waters, whether or not, if we continue to override the Governor's vetoes, without any exception whether or not, Mr. President, that will in fact establish a very difficult condition later in the fiscal year, which is something that we have been concerned about for quite some time-- that may require the execution of some so-called 9C cuts at some point.
So number one, Mr. President, I'm hoping that she can offer us some insight relative to that. I know that she is also getting some insight on herself at the moment from the gentleman from West Roxbury, who I know always has a lot of insight into all matters budgetary, as well as having tremendous insight into those matters that affect the veterans of our Commonwealth and those who serve us in military service. So as that conversation winds down-- and I do hope they're discussing the Mass Taxpayers Foundation report on the other side of the chamber-- I'm hoping that we can get an answer as to the conclusion that that report draws, and whether or not it is accurate-- that if we continue to override budgetary vetoes without exception, that we are, in fact, creating a situation of fiscal instability for this fiscal year that will replicate the experience that we have just been through in fiscal year 2017, and as a result of that, imperils several of the accounts that we are addressing such that they may have to be reduced later in the fiscal year as a result of 9C authority in order to maintain the constitutionally required balanced budget.
So, Mr. President, I'll leave it at that for the moment and then hopefully we can begin the discussion of individualize vetoes. Thank you, Mr. President.
Senator from Middlesex and Norfolk, Ms. Spilka.
Thank you, Mr. President. I appreciate the minority leader asking these questions. To once again reiterate to the members that we are being fiscally responsible. We, right now, as a commonwealth, are $124 million above our year to date benchmark. That's 2% above what the benchmark was. Granted, this is three months in but we are above benchmark. Coupled with the fact that when we gave the budget to the Governor, it was a balanced budget. Pretty much everybody here voted for it. I think there was one member against the budget, but everybody voted in favor of it because it was thoughtful and balanced.
And I believe that it remains in balance. However, as I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, I think, the Governor vetoed $320 million from this budget. The House overrode $320 million. As of now, we are planning on overriding approximately $124 million. We are not taking up a MassHealth override of about $200 million or so.
So I think that with that, we can do these and see how it goes, but that overall, we remain balanced.
The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr.
Thank you, Mr. President. I sincerely appreciate the gentlelady's explanation, and particularly the component of it that relates to not overriding all of the Governor's vetoes, because again, I don't raise the question merely to repeated from prior exercises, but because of the recently released report from the Mass Taxpayers Foundation. And I just would like to read, once again, one quote from the report of MTF, and then a second component.
First of all, as reported by a major news service in the metropolitan Boston area, there is a quote in that report that indicates, "However, if all of the governor's spending vetoes are overridden without an offsetting increase in tax collections, we are likely to see a repeat performance of the fiscal year 2017 budget balancing act." Now, to clarify that, the report or the news account of it, goes on to say that MTF reported that underfunded spending, and overly optimistic revenue assumptions, resulted in a $922 million gap in the fiscal year 2017 budget.
One time revenues, increases in non-tax revenues, and reversions, are among the main solutions to the gap. So again, Mr. President, this is new information that it's been reported to us. And in light of that information, I particularly appreciate the explanation that the gentlelady who is the chairman of the Committee on Ways and Means just gave about trying to not conduct wholesale overrides here of what the Governor's proposed. And I also would say that not overriding some of the MassHealth line items and issues is particularly important because we have still yet to devise an appropriate plan to correct-- course correct-- what's been happening with MassHealth.
So to arbitrarily override what the Governor has proposed until we have a solution to restore the stability of MassHealth and particularly to ensure that folks who are not properly enrolled in MassHealth do not continue to be improperly enrolled in it, is particularly important. So I look forward to our continuing work on that front. I appreciate the gentlelady's explanation. And I'm hoping that we can hear about the particular matter that now pends before the Senate, which I believe is a veto of an account that affects the Secretary of State's office. And I hope we can get some clarification on what's included in this, and particularly if there are any earmarks in this particular item. Thank you, Mr. President.
The senator from Middlesex and Norfolk, Ms Spilka.
Thank you, Mr. President. This veto would cut the Secretary of State's administrative account by $74,000. The account funds the administration and operational end of the Office of the Secretary of State to ensure that the secretary acts as the principal public information officer of the Commonwealth. Of course, this is an area that's especially important to the Senate, having the public information available to the residents of the Commonwealth. And of course, it handles the elections of the state and many other areas-- the public record laws, et cetera. So I ask that you overturn this veto. Thank you.
The question before the body is should the matter stand, not withstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor the contrary. The clerk will call the roll.
11:38.
Barrett.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-diaz.
Yes.
Yes. Crane.
Here.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
No.
No. DiDomenico. Yes. Donaghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Hinds?
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee. Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
No.
No. O'Connor-Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
No.
No. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welsh.
Yes.
Yes.
Have all members been [AUDIO OUT]
Mr. Lesser.
Mr. President, have I been recorded?
You have not, sir.
I wish to be recorded yes.
Lesser votes yes.
On this matter 31, having voted in the affirmative, six in the negative, the matter stands, notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. Paper from the House.
Item 0910-0220, relative to the Bureau of Program Integrity comes from the House with the endorsement that the House has passed this time notwithstanding the reduction of its Excellency the Governor 121 to 34.
The question before the body is shall the matters stand. The Chair recognizes the senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr.
[INAUDIBLE] to the members, why, Mr. President, one of our favorite things is maintaining the integrity of programs. So when we see an item called program integrity, of course, we would like to understand what's happening with this particular veto. It is getting loud, Mr. President. I think too many people are talking about program integrity all at once.
Does the senator from Middlesex and Norfolk, Ms. Spilka. Mr. President, this veto would decrease the Bureau of Program Integrity in the Inspector General's office by $50,000. The Inspector General would be using this money to help, doing his mission, prevent and detect and correct fraud in public funds for the benefit programs across the state. This would deter his ability to fill positions and do his mission so I ask that you vote yes on this override. The clerk will call the roll.
Barrett.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
Yes.
Yes. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo
No.
No. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes Fattman. No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Freedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
Humason?
Yes.
Yes. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Lewis?
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor-Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
No.
No. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
Yes.
Yes. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welch.
Welch?
Yes.
Yes.
[AUDIO OUT]
Senator from Norfolk, Bristol, Middlesex, Mr. Ross.
Thank you, Mr. President. Have I been recorded on this at all?
He has in the negative.
I'd like to cast my vote in the affirmative.
Ross votes yes.
On this matter 35, having voted in the affirmative, two in the negative, the matter passes notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. Paper from the House.
Item 0910-0300 contained in section two relative to the Inspector General Mass Office comes from the House with the endorsement that the House has passed this item not notwithstanding the reduction of his Excellency the Governor 121 to 34.
The question for the Senate is shall the matter passed notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr.
Mr. President, I know how much enthusiasm there is in the chamber for overriding the Governor and spending more taxpayer funding, but I would hope that the noise level in the chamber could be quieted just a bit so that we can actually hear the explanation that is being offered for overriding the governor and spending more taxpayer money. Again, I know there's tremendous enthusiasm in the room and excitement at the prospect of doing that, but I would hope that we could be able to hear particularly the distinguished Chairlady, the Committee on Ways and Means, who this morning, has been offering some extremely valuable information about balancing the budget.
And I know, Mr. President, and I have been interested in that and appreciate it. And I hope others would pay attention to it as well as we continue to go through this budget exercise. I'm hoping that we can hear about the current veto that is presented before us for override, which is titled Internal Special Audit Unit. Thank you, Mr. President.
Senator for Middlesex and Norfolk, Ms. Spilka. This veto would decrease the Internal Special Audit Unit in the IG's Office by $13,000. This special unit the account funds an independent IGO operated audit unit tasked with examining the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. So this is a critical unit. They've been there for many years and it's necessary to carry out-- this funding is necessary to carry out their responsibilities, especially in light of the responsibilities and the transportation issues that we have. So I ask that you vote Yes.
The clerk will call the roll.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
Yes.
Yes. Creen.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Senator Cyr?
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
No.
No. DiDomenico. Yes. Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Forey.
Yes.
Yes. Freedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobey.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
Yes.
Yes. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
Yes.
Yes. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welch.
Can Welch--
Yes.
Have all members been recorded?
On this matter of 34, having voted in the affirmative, three in the negative, the matter stands notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. Paper from the House.
Item 1102-3199 contained in section two relative to Office of Facilities Management comes from the endorsement that the House has passed this time notwithstanding the objection of His Excellency the Governor 120 to 35.
Senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr.
Thank you, Mr. President, and through to the members, I believe that this particular item affects the so-called DCAMM, the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance. And I'm hoping that we can get an explanation of it.
From Middlesex or Norfolk, Ms. Spilka.
Thank you, Mr. President. This veto would eliminate a clause in the DCAMM administrative line-item requiring the division to provide the same level of janitorial services for state-owned buildings as it did in 2017. The clause provides for insurances for tenants of DCAMM buildings that they will receive adequate services to maintain clean and healthy offices. So I ask that you vote Yes on this amendment.
Clerk will call the role.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
Yes.
Yes. Creem.
yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
No.
No. Didomineco.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Freedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes. Humason.
Humason?
No, thank you.
No. Jehlen.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely. Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore. Yes. O'Connor.
No.
No. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
No.
No. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
On this matter 31 having voted in the affirmative, six in the negative, the matter stands notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. Paper from the House.
Item 1595-6368, contained in section 2E, the CTF transfer to the Mass Transportation Trust Fund comes from the House with the endorsement that the House has passed decided not withstanding the reduction and objections of His Excellency the Governor by a vote of 124 to 30.
Senator From Essex, Mr. Todd.
Thank you, Mr. President, and to the members, this is a big one. It appears to be over a million dollars and Mr. President, obviously we would like to have an explanation of this particular item, and if we're being asked to override the reason therefore. Thank you, Mr. President.
The Senator from Middlesex and Norfolk-- the Chair is in error. The senator from Middlesex and Suffolk, Mr. DiDomenico.
Thank you, Mr. President. This veto would eliminate $1.2 million of 14 local transportation initiatives funded throughout the Commonwealth Transportation Fund and transfer it to MassDOT. Investments like these will result in new jobs and economic activity, increased mobility as well as resilient and safe infrastructure improvements. Therefore I ask that you overturn this veto.
The clerk will call the roll.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Bancore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Chandler?
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
No.
No. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. DiMacedo.
DiMacedo?
No.
No. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donaghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Freedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Lesser.?
Yes.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Senator Moore?
O'Connor.
No.
No. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
No.
No. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
Have all members been recorded [INAUDIBLE] the Senators [INAUDIBLE].
Has Moore been recorded?
He has not. Moore votes yes.
On this matter, 30 having voted in the affirmative, seven in the negative, the matter passes notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. Paper from the House.
Item 1595-6370 contained in section 2E relative to the CTF transfer to the RTA comes from the House to the endorsement that this item has passed not withstanding the reduction of His Excellency the Governor, 139 to 13.
Senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr.
Thank you, Mr. President. Lo and behold, at the microphone across the satellite chamber, I see the second half of the dynamic duo adorned with a bedazzling purple tie and I want to compliment him on that choice of haberdashery. Mr. President, I am hoping that he can give us an equally luminous explanation of this particular veto, and if we are being asked to override it, the reason that we're being asked to override it. Thank you, Mr. President.
The senator from Middlesex and Suffolk, Mr. [AUDIO OUT]
Thank you, Mr. President. This veto would cut $400,000 in baseline funding for the regional transportation authorities across the Commonwealth. Support for the RTAs has been one of our main priorities in this chamber. This veto reduces spending on RTAs to $80 million, which is a $2 million decrease in spending from FY 2017. The RTF provide a critical service for our constituents in all parts of our commonwealth. For many, the RTAs is the only way they can access senior services, doctors appointments, and educational opportunities, among others. Therefore I ask that you'll return this veto.
The clerk will call the the role.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
Yes.
Yes. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. DiMacedo. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donaghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Freedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
Yes.
Yes. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Senator Lewis?
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
Ross?
Yes.
Yes. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
Yes.
Yes. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welch.
yes.
Yes.
Mr. President, have I been recorded?
He has not.
No.
DiMacedo votes no.
On this matter 35 having voted in the affirmative, two in the negative, the matter stands notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. Paper from the House.
Item 1599-0026 contained in section two, relative to regionalization incentive grants come from the House with the endorsement the House has passed this action notwithstanding the reduction and objections of His Excellency the Governor 121 to 34.
The question comes from shall the Senate approve this notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr.
Thank you, Mr. President. And [INAUDIBLE] the members, the gentleman from Everett is doing an outstanding job today of helping us to understand the vetoes that pend before us or the overrides thereof. I'm hoping he can give us an explanation of this particular item. Thank you, Mr. President.
Should have because we're getting blamed.
The senator from Middlesex, no, Suffolk and yeah-- the Middlesex and Suffolk.
[LAUGHING]
Thank you, Mr President. This veto would eliminate funding for ten regional projects within the municipal regional incentive grants account for a total reduction of $1.3 million. As a goal to increase regionalization and connectivity is a worthwhile investment for our Commonwealth. This allows us to spur economic growth by better connecting towns through shared road improvements, public safety initiatives, and technology efficiencies. All these improvement grants and program supports included in this line item have lifted our communities up, therefore I ask that you overturn this veto.
The clerk will call the roll.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Bancore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Chandler?
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
Chang-Diaz?
No.
No. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes. DiMacedo.
No.
No. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donaghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No Jehlen.
Jehlen?
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Senator Lovely?
Yes. McGee.
Yes. Montigny.
yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
No.
No. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
Ross?
Yes.
Yes. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
On this matter 31 having voted in the affirmative, six in the negative, the matter passes notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. The chair would ask the senator from Worcester, our majority leader, to introduce some very special guests.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today, in honor of National Conflict Resolution Day. We give special thanks and recognition to 12 local community mediation centers from across the state who are present here today in the Senate chamber. And I would like them to rise. Please rise.
[APPLAUSE]
I should also reveal to you that, like them, I'm a trained mediator as well. So--
[APPLAUSE]
And what is it that makes community mediation special in these centers? And I think that the fact that they provide quality, accessible services-- free or at low cost to all members of the community regardless of their ability to pay. Mediation services are delivered through 500 plus trained community volunteers who donate their time to resolve wide ranging conflicts, including those within families, neighborhoods, schools, businesses courts, and government agencies.
Massachusetts is very proud to have a state-sponsored system that supports community mediation at a cost effective public service that increases access to justice and and builds capacity for conflict resolution within the Commonwealth. We salute Community Resolution Day.
[APPLAUSE]
Paper from the House.
Item 1599-6903 contained in section two relative to chapter 257 reserve comes from the House with the endorsement that the House has passed this item notwithstanding the reduction of his Excellency the Governor 121 to 31.
The senator from Plymouth and Barnstable, Mr. deMacedo.
Thank you, Mr. President. It's so nice to be here today. And I was hoping that we might be able to get an explanation in regard to this particular line chapter, and what exactly does this line item account for and what is the overwritten amount.
The senator from Middlesex and Suffolk, Mr. DiDomenico.
Thank you, Mr. President. This veto would reduce Chapter 257 account by $4 million for a total funding level of $35.7 million dollars. The Commonwealth pays for essential social services for our most vulnerable residents through this account. As outlined through Chapter 257 Acts of 2008. Chapter 257 establishes a transparent, uniform, and evidence-based process for the fair and adequate establishment of rates including those that are in need of their biannual review. This funding will allow us to maintain our commitment to implement and review rates in a timely manner with appropriate input through public hearings and assist agencies throughout this process. Therefore I ask that you overturn this veto.
The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr.
Mr. President, I move that the Senate be in a brief recess.
The Senate will be in a brief recess.
The clerk will call the role.
Barrett.
Barrett?
[INAUDIBLE].
Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
Yes.
Yes. Crane.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
No.
No. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donohue.
Yes.
Yes. Edridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
Yes.
Yes. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
No.
No. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
No.
No. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Spilka?
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welch.
Yes. Yes.
Have all members been recorded-- the Senator from Middlesex, Mr. Barrett.
Mr. President, have I been recorded in the affirmative?
Barrett votes yes.
On this matter 32 having voted in the affirmative, five in the negative, the matter passes notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. Paper from the House.
Item 2000-0100 contained in section two relative to the operation of Environmental Affairs Administration comes from the House for the endorsement that this item is passed not withstanding the reduction and objections of his Excellency the Governor 123 to 32.
The question before the body is shall the matters stand notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. The Chair recognizes the senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr.
Thank you, Mr. President, and [INAUDIBLE] to the members, I'm hoping that we can get an explanation of this particular veto and the reasoning for which we're being asked to override it, if we are being asked to override it. Thank you, Mr. President.
The senator from Middlesex and Suffolk, Mr. DiDomenico.
Thank you, Mr. President. This veto would eliminate $250,000 of several local projects in the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs account. One project would focus on energy saving projects in Beaumont's public buildings and the other provides for the revitalization of Swansy Beach. These local projects are vital to the maintenance of our natural communities as well as our municipal efforts to go green, therefore I ask that you overturn this veto.
The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr.
I move the Senate be in a brief recess.
The Senate will be in a brief recess.
The clerk will call the roll.
Barrett.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Bancore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz. No. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMaceo. No. DiDomenico.
DiDomenico.
Yes.
yes. Donaghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. LItalien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
No.
No. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues. Yes.
Yes. Ross.
No.
No. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
On this matter, 30 having voted in the affirmative, seven in the negative, the matter passes notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. Paper from the House.
Item 2200-0100 contained in section two relative to environmental compliance comes from the House with the endorsement that the House has passed this item notwithstanding the reduction and objections to the governor of 123 to 32.
The question is shall the matter stand notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. The Chair recognizes the senator from Plymouth and Barnstable, Mr. deMacedo.
Mr. President, good afternoon and thank you for the opportunity to come here before the microphone and ask my good friend from Everett, if he might be able to give us an explanation in regards to the account number 2200-0100. This is DP administration-- and if you can give a justification for why we might be overriding the governor's veto.
The senator from Middlesex and Suffolk, Mr. DiDemineco.
Thank you, Mr. President. This video would reduce the DEP administration account by $161,000 including the elimination of a funding for a local project to support water services and rent them. Environmental protection is one of the most important issues faced by us today and our legislature. We must be responsible protectors of our environment. Therefore I ask that you overturn this veto.
The clerk-- the senator from Plymouth and Barnstable, Mr. DiMacedo returns to the microphone. Sorry? The gentleman asks for a brief recess.
Be in order. And now the clerk will call the roll.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Bancore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
No. Yes? Chang-Diaz votes yes. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
No.
No. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes.
Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
No.
No. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
Yes.
Yes. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilke.
Yes. Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes.
Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
On this matter, 32 having voted in the affirmative, five in the negative, the matter passes, notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor. To the contrary. Paper from the House.
Item 2300-0100 containing Section 2 relative to the Office of the Commissioner of Fish and Game comes from the House with the endorsement that the House has passed this item notwithstanding the reduction and objections of His Excellency the Governor 122 to 33.
Question before the body saw the matter pass notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor. To the contrary. The chair recognizes the senator from Essex Mr. Tarr.
Why, thank you, Mr. President. This item apparently relates to the Department of Fish and Game. Hopefully it will not reduce funding for the Senate codfish. But I'm hoping that we can understand exactly what it does do. And Mr. President, what is being sought by the Committee on Ways and Means in this regard? Thank you, Mr. President.
The senator from Middlesex and Suffolk, Mr. DiDomenico.
Thank you, Mr. President. This veto will reduce the Department of Agriculture resources account by $280,000, including the elimination of several local projects. One of these projects eliminated would be the Initiative for the Greater New Bedford Food Initiative, a local product aimed at reassuring available food is available for all individuals regardless of economic status. [INAUDIBLE] are undeniably valuable to our communities, and deserve our support. Therefore, I ask that you overturn this veto.
The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr.
President, move the Senate be in a brief recess.
The Senate will be in a brief recess.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger. Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
No.
No. Creem Yes.
Yes. Cyr. Yes.
Yes. deMacedo. No
No. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Eldridge?
Yes.
Yes. Fattman. No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis. Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yeah.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
No.
No. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
No.
No. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka. Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. And Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
On this matter 30, having voted in the affirmative seven, in the negative, the matter stands notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor. To the contrary. Paper from the House.
Item 2511-0100 containing Section 2 relative to the Department of Agricultural Resources Administration come from the House with the endorsement that it has passed this action notwithstanding the reduction, objections of His Excellence the Governor 132 to 22.
The question before the body saw the matter stand not notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor. To the contrary, senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr.
Thank you, Mr. President, and through to the members. I know there's some paper going back and forth over at what appears to be the majority microphone, although I hope in a while we'll switch, Mr. President, so that we can have balance. But I'm hoping we can get an explanation of this particular veto; and if we are being asked to override, the reason why.
Section Suffolk, Mr. DiDomenico.
Thank you, Mr. President. I will repeat what I just said earlier, because we got mixed up in the line items here. But this is for the New Bedford Food Initiative, a local project aimed at assuring food available for individuals regardless of economic status. $281,000 was cut out of this line item from agricultural administration account. And this will go back to refund this program.
The clerk. The clerk will call the roll.
Barrett.
Yeah.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yeah.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes.
Chang-Diaz. No. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
No.
No. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yeah.
Yes. Lewis.
Yeah
Yes.
L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes
Yes. McGee. Yes. Montigny.
Yeah.
Yes. Moore.
Yes
Yes. O'Connor.
No
No. O'Connor Ives.
Yes
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
No
No. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes
Yes. Tarr.
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. And Welch.
Yes
Yes.
Have all members been recorded?
On this matter, 30 having voted in the affirmative, seven in the negative, the matter passes notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. Paper from the House.
Item 2800-0100 containing section 2 relative to the administration of the conservation and recreation authority comes from the House with the endorsement that this item was passed notwithstanding the reduction and objections of His Excellency the Governor 128 to 27.
The question before the body is should the matter pass notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. The chair recognizes the senator from Plymouth and Barnstable, Mr. DiDomenico, who is standing to my left.
And thank you, Mr. President, that's not usual that I would stand to your left. However I just wanted to see how it would be to ask a question from the majority microphone. So my hope is that my good friend from Everett might be able to give us an explanation in regards to item number 2800-0100 on the DCR line items.
Because we have been taught to share from the same microphone, the chair recognizes the senator from Middlesex and Suffolk, Mr. DiDomenico.
And now that you come here, I have to bring the mic down every time you come to this podium. But thank you, Mr. President. This veto would reduce [INAUDIBLE] administration line them by $545,000 for the elimination of funding for five local projects, including, from the great city of Plymouth, the central Plymouth water district's efforts to revitalize county lakes and ponds as well as water purification in Wampatuck Pond and Hansen. Maintaining these and restoring these natural elements is important for our Commonwealth, and therefore I ask that you overturn this veto.
The clerk will call the roll.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger. Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
No.
No. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yeah.
Yes. deMacedo.
Yes.
Yes. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman. No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yeah.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes. Montigny.
Yeah.
Yes. Moore.
Yeah.
Yes. O'Connor.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor Ives.
O'Connor Ives?
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
Yes.
Yes. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. And Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
On this matter 33 having voted in the affirmative, four in the negative, the matter passes notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. Paper from the House.
Item 2800-0101 containing section 2 relative to watershed management comes from the House with the endorsement that the House has passed this item notwithstanding the reduction and objections of His Excellency the Governor 121 to 33.
The question before the body is should the matter stand notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor. To the contrary. The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'm hoping we can get an explanation of the item that currently pends before the Senate.
The senator from Middlesex and Suffolk, Mr. DiDomenico.
Thank you, Mr. President. This veto would eliminate $30,000 for weed control in Lake Singletary and Millbury and Sutton in the watershed management account. This is a very popular recreational area for our region, and such invasive growth-- over growth-- impacts the ability of locals to fish, boat, and swim. Therefore, I ask that you overturn this veto.
So the clerk will call the roll.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
No.
No. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
No.
No. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
Yes.
Yes. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No. Jehlen. Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
Senator O'Connor?
No.
No. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
No.
No. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
Yes.
Yes. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. And Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
All the members stand--
Mr. Tarr.
President, if I can record it.
In the affirmative. Mr. President, I wish to be reported in the negative.
Tarr votes No.
Mr. President.
On this matter, 31 having voted in the affirmative, six in the negative, the matter passes notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. For what purpose does the gentleman rise?
Well, well, well, Mr. President, we have been traveling at breakneck speed on override roulette. And we'd like to have a little bit of time to think about that which has occurred and that which lies ahead. And so as a result, Mr. President I move, pursuant to Rule 13-B, that there be a Republican caucus until the hour of 1:30 PM. And I further move, Mr. President, that anyone who wishes to have a bipartisan conversation can join us in my office.
A caucus has been requested. And we will reconvene promptly at 1:30 PM to resume debate and roll calls.
Paper from the House.
Item 2800-0700 containing Section 2 relative to Dam Regulatory Office comes from the House for the endoresement. The House has passed this item notwithstanding the reduction in objections of His Excellency the Governor 123 to 31.
The question before the Senate is shall the matter pass notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. The senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr.
Well thank you, Mr. President, and through to the members. Mr. President, it appears that we're going to the Ways and Means bench, and we're bringing in a new and very qualified player to step up to the plate and discuss budget overrides. And we look forward to that effort, Mr. President, and hoping that we can get an explanation of this item relative to the Office of Dam Safety from the gentlelady lady from Salem. Thank you, Mr. President.
Also from Essex-- the senator from Essex, Ms. Lovely. Thank you,
Mr. President. This veto would eliminate $175,000 for two local projects out of the Office of Dam Safety. These projects provide important support for municipalities efforts to avoid flooding. These particular dam projects would impact the City Mills Dam in Norfolk for $150,000 and the Breed and Walden Dams in the city of Lynn for $25,000. Therefore I ask that you overturn this veto. Thank you.
The clerk will call the roll.
Number 46.
Sorry.
Thank you. Barrett. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler. Chang-Diaz.
Yes.
Yes. Creem. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
No.
No. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue. Eldridge. Fattman.
No.
No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Heinz.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely. McGee. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
No.
No. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
Yes.
Yes. Rush. Spilka. Tarr.
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
Mr. President, have I been recorded in the affirmative.
You have.
Mr. President, I wish to be recorded in the negative.
Chang-Diaz votes No.
The senator from Middlesex, Mr. Barrett.
Mr. President, I would be recorded in the affirmative.
Barrett votes yes.
The senator from Middlesex and [INAUDIBLE].
Mr. President, I would like to be recorded in the affirmative.
Friedman votes yes.
The senator from Middlesex in Westminster, Eldridge.
Mr. President, I wish to be recorded.
Eldridge. Yes.
The senator from Plymouth and Bristol Mr. Brady.
Thank you, Mr. President. Have I been recorded?
You have not.
I would like to be recorded in the affirmative.
Brady votes yes.
And the senator from Essex, Ms. Lovely.
I would like to be recorded in the affirmative.
Lovely votes Yes.
The senator from Worcester, Ms. Chandler.
Mr. President, I'd like to be recorded in the affirmative.
Chandler votes Yes.
The senator from Middlesex and Norfolk, Ms. Creem
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to [INAUDIBLE]
Creem. Yes.
The senator from Norfolk and Suffolk, Mr. Rush.
Mr. President, I wish to be recorded in the affirmative.
Mr. Rush votes Yes.
Senator from Mr. McGee.
Mr. President, I wish to be recorded in the affirmative.
McGee votes Yes.
The senator from Hampden and Hampshire, Mr. Lesser
Mr. President, I wish to be recorded in the affirmative.
Lesser votes Yes.
The senator from Middlesex, Ms. Donoghue.
We need you. Nope, we need you.
Yeah, I didn't get you.
Lesser, um, Donoghue votes yes.
It's 30.
The Senator from Middlesex and Norfolk, Ms. Spilka.
Mr. President, I would like to be recorded in the affirmative.
Spilka votes Yes.
On this matter, 31 having voted in the affirmative, 6 in a negative, the matter passes notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. Paper from the House.
Item 2810-0100 containing Section 2 relative to state parks and recreations comes from the House with the endorsement to be decided, and was passed notwithstanding the reduction in objections of His Excellency the Governor 129 to 26.
Senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr. Thank you, Mr. President. Again, it's nice to see the gentlelady from Salem at the majority microphone. And I know that this particular item appears to be multi-dimensional, including a lot of earmark language. And I'm hoping that we can get an explanation of what this represents. And if we are being asked to override, the reason that we're being asked to override this particular veto. Thank you, Mr. President.
The senator from Essex, Ms. Lovely.
Thank you, Mr. President. This veto would eliminate funding for 32 local priorities totaling $1.7 million in the DCR state parks account. These priorities fund crucial projects for the maintenance and revitalization of our parks, beaches, waterways, recreational activities, and promoting safe, open spaces in our communities. From support for Explore Natural Plymouth, to renovations from Magazine Beach, these small projects make a difference for our communities. Therefore, I ask that the veto is overturned. Thank you.
The clerk will call the roll.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Chandler?
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
No.
No. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
No.
No. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Years Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes?
She said yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Heinz.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No. Jehlen. Senator Jehlen?
Jehlen? Jehlen?
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
No.
No. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
Yes.
Yes. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. And Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
In the negative.
[INAUDIBLE]
deMacedo votes yes.
Did Senator Lovely vote?
On this matter, 33 having voted in the affirmative, four in the negative, the matter passes notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor to the contrary. Paper from the House.
Item 3000-2050 containing Section 2 relative to the Children's Trust Fund Administration comes from the House with the endorsement that the House has passed this item notwithstanding the reduction of His Excellency the Governor 136 to 19.
The question, the senator from Essex, Mr. Tarr.
Thank you, Mr. President, and then through to the members. What a wonderful job the gentlelady from Salem is doing. And it's really no surprise. So Mr. President, I'm hoping that we can get an explanation of this particular item, which is item number 3000-2050 relative to the Children's Trust Fund. Thank you, Mr. President.
The senator from Essex, Ms Lovely.
Thank you, Mr. President. This veto would decrease funding to the administration of the Children's Trust Fund by $28,400, which was funded at $1.1 million in the conference budget. The Children's Trust Healthy Families Program is a nationally accredited, statewide home visiting program that provides neonatal and postnatal education to first-time parents under the age of 21. Using the state appropriation, the Children's Trust Administration leverages additional funding. This additional funding, which includes federal dollars, is then used for programmatic costs. Therefore, I ask that you overturn this veto. Thank you.
The clerk will call the roll.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
Yes.
Yes. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
No.
No. DiDomenico.
DiDomenico?
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
Yes.
Yes. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. And Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
[INAUDIBLE] the affirmative before the negative.
On this matter, 33 members having voted in the affirmative, four in the negative, the item passes notwithstanding the objections of the Governor, 2/3 of the members having voted in the affirmative. OK. Paper from the House.
Item 3000-7050, containing Section 2, relative to the Mass Family Networks Program comes from the House with the endorsement that the House has passed this item notwithstanding the reduction in objections of His Excellency the Governor 123 to 31.
The question before the Senate is, shall this item pass notwithstanding the objections of the Governor to the contrary? Senator-- the gentleman from 1st Essex and Middlesex.
Why, good afternoon, Madam President. How wonderful it is to see that you have ascended to the rostrum, and it is wonderful to have you presiding this afternoon. And it's equally wonderful to have the gentlelady from Salem armed with information about vetoes and potential overrides. And I'm hoping that she will help us to understand item number 3000-7050. Thank you, Mr. President-- Madam President.
The gentlelady from Essex.
Thank you, Madam President. This veto would cut earmark funding to the Parent-Child Home Program by $100,000. The program utilizes an evidence-based model that builds school readiness for children from 16 months to four years old. It does the important work of teaching parents how to interact with their children in an engaging way. In particular, PCHP focuses on families challenged by poverty, limited education, and language and literacy barriers. Therefore, I ask that you overturn this veto. Thank you.
The clerk will call the roll.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
No.
No. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
No.
No. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Louis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Senator Lovely? Lovely?
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Rodrigues?
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
No.
No. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. And Welch. Yes.
On this matter, 31 members having voted in the affirmative, six members having voted in the negative, the item passes notwithstanding the objections of the Governor, 2/3 of the members having voted in the affirmative. Paper from the House.
Item 4000-0300 containing Section 2 relative to the administration of the Medicaid program, comes from the House with the endorsement that this item is passed not withstanding the action of His Excellency the Governor 120 to 34.
The gentleman from Middlesex and Suffolk.
Hello, Madam President. Thank you for the opportunity to allow me to ask a few questions here. I'm hoping that the gentlelady from Salem might be able to shed some light in regards to line item 4000-0300, if I'm correct, and explain to us why we would be overriding this particular governor's veto.
Uh, excuse me. The gentlelady from 2nd Middlesex-- excuse me-- 2nd Essex.
Thank you Madam President. This veto reduces $70,000 in funding to EHS and MassHealth Administration that would fund three earmarks from mental health services to increasing health care access. It would eliminate $250,000 for the Healthy Lives program, providing mental health services in the Brookline area. It also includes elimination of $100,000 for Martha's Vineyard community services, which provides health care for hard to access areas of the island. It also eliminates $75,000 for the MetroWest Free medical program providing access to underserved populations in the MetroWest area. Therefore, I ask that you overturn this veto. Thank you.
The clerk will call the roll.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
No.
No. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Cyr?
deMacedo. No.
No. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Forry.
Senator Forry? Forry?
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
Humason?
No.
No. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
L'Italien?
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
No.
No. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodriguez.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
No.
No. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes. Yes.
Yes. Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
The senator from the Cape & Islands.
Madam President, I wish to be recorded in the affirmative.
Cyr votes yes.
On this matter, 30 members having voted in the affirmative, seven members having voted in the negative, the item passes notwithstanding the objections of the Governor, 2/3 of the members having voted in the affirmative.
The senator from Essex, Ms O'Connor Ives, moves that when the Senate adjourns today, it adjourns in memory of Charles Halliday "Bud" Dolan.
Thank you, Madam President. Charles Halliday "Bud" Dolan passed away on August 14th 2017, and was predeceased by his beloved wife of 64 years, Mary Doyle Dolan, in 2014. Bud and Mary were proud to call Massachusetts home throughout their lifetimes.
As a young boy, Bud's first job was selling newspapers on a street corner in Arlington during the Great Depression. He often shared his story about the special gift he received one Christmas. After buying a newspaper, a customer handed him a small box and wished him a Merry Christmas. Inside, Bud found a paper scroll tied in ribbon, a gift certificate for a new pair of shoes. Like many at the time, Bud's shoes were worn out and patched with cardboard. Someone noticed, and reached out to help.
Decades later the story still moved Bud to tears. He never forgot the kindness, and paid it forward throughout his life. He treated friends and customers like family, and always offered a helping hand.
A highly decorated veteran of World War II, Bud served in the infantry in the Battle of the Bulge. He enlisted in the army in the earliest days of America's entry into the war-- just a few days after graduating from Arlington High School. A disabled veteran, Bud was proud of his service, but he did not consider himself a hero. He felt he was simply lucky.
In 2009 Bud Dolan was honored at Newburyport City Hall for a photo taken of him as part of the Dear World Project. And his message was halt war. He was quoted as saying, "No war has ever been started by a serviceman or a servicewoman. They simply fight the wars." He had the utmost respect for all of those who served on the front lines, and concern for all those whose lives were put in harm's way.
Known simply as Papa to many, Bud treasured time with family and friends. He spent countless hours with his children and grandchildren at playgrounds, the beach, Canobie Lake, museums, libraries, and zoos. His thirst for knowledge was endless, and he inspired others to question and learn.
He surrounded himself with books on politics, religion, history, Ireland, and the New England region. Over time he expanded his library, making it a point to learn about other topics of interest to family members and friends. Visitors always left with a gift-- a special book he selected just for them.
Bud's appreciation for life continued into his final years while living at the Elizabeth Calsey House in Amesbury. He cherished his friendships with other residents and the devoted staff. He lovingly referred to them as his other family.
Bud's daughter Charlene is here today with her husband John McDonald. May we reflect on Mr. Dolan's contributions to his family, his community, and his country?
All those in favor, say aye.
Aye.
Opposed, no. The ayes have it, and the motion prevails. A moment of silence.
[GAVEL]
Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you. You're a beautiful child.
Paper from the House.
Item 4200-0200 contained in Section 2 relative to residential services for detained people has been returned by His Excellency the Governor, and has come from the House, passed notwithstanding the reduction and objections of His Excellency the Governor by a vote of 121 of 34.
The question before the Senate is shall the item pass notwithstanding the objections of the governor to the contrary. Sorry. The senator from 1st Essex and Norfolk-- excuse me-- and Middlesex. I'll get this.
A rose by any other name, Madam President. Thank you. And through to the members. Madam President, I am hoping that the gentlelady from Salem can give us an explanation of item number 4200-0200 relative to pretrial and detention residential services. Thank you, Madam President.
[INAUDIBLE]
The senator from Essex-- 2nd Essex-- Ms. Lovely.
Thank you, Madam President, this veto would eliminate the Department of Youth Services Detention Diversion Advocacy Program, totaling $500,000. The Detention Diversion Advocacy Program ensures that youth involved in the juvenile court system appear in court on schedule, and are not re-arrested.
Detention is often not the answer for children in the juvenile court system, and we must work towards innovative programs to keep children out of institutions and reduce recidivism. The program targets repeat offenders who are at high risk to re-offend, and have highly specialized needs, such as substance abuse, educational difficulties, or gang involvement. It is the Department of Youth Services' responsibility to keep the public safe while promoting positive change in the lives of the youth that they serve. Therefore, I ask that you overturn this veto. Thank you.
The clerk will call the roll.
Barret.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes. Yes. Chang-Diaz.
No.
No. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr. deMacedo.
No.
No. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason. No.
No. Jehlen. Senator Jehlen?
Jehlen? Jehlen!
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
No.
No. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
No.
No. Rush
Yes.
Yes. Spika.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
No.
No. Timility.
Yes.
Yes. And Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
[INAUDIBLE] Yep.
The senator from the Cape & Islands.
Cyr votes yes.
On this matter, 30 members having voted in the affirmative, seven members having voted in the negative, the item passes notwithstanding the objections of the Governor, 2/3 of the members having voted in the affirmative. Paper from the House.
Item 4400-1020 containing Section 2 relative to Secure Jobs Connect comes from the House with the endorsement that this item has passed notwithstanding the objections of His Excellency the Governor 121 to 34.
The question before the Senate is, shall this item pass notwithstanding the objections of the Governor to the contrary? The senator from Plymouth and Barnstable, Mr. deMacedo.
Thank you, Madam President, and through you to my colleagues. I'm hoping that we might be able to get an explanation in regards to line item 4400-1020, Secure Jobs Connect. This particular line item looks like it's reduced by $0. So I assume that there's language in here that is objectionable to the members. And so I was hopeful that we might get an explanation of what this particular language does. Thank you.
The senator from 2nd Essex, Ms Lovely.
Thank you, Madam President. That is correct. This override amount is for $0. But the veto would eliminate a departmental directive in the Secure Jobs line item.
The Secure Jobs program is an innovative and incredibly successful housing stabilization program that pairs housing support with workforce training. Stable housing and stable jobs often go hand in hand, and lift individuals out of poverty.
The veto I hope we will override today would strike important language directing DHCD to utilize the Massachusetts rental voucher program-- MRVP-- where possible with this program in order to meet the housing stability of this program. This is an as applicable situation, whereby a participant in this program would not gain preference over any family on the MRVP wait list simply because they are enrolled in Secure Jobs.
Simply, this language seeks to ensure cooperation between two of the Commonwealth's most successful stabilization and poverty reduction programs. Therefore, I ask that you overturn this veto. Thank you, Madam President. The clerk will call the roll.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Brady?
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler. Yes. Chang-Diaz.
Yes.
Yes. Creem.
Creem? Creem?
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
No.
No. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Donoghue?
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Florry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
No.
No. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
No.
No. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
Have all members been recorded?
Yes they have. [INAUDIBLE]
[GAVEL]
On this matter, 31 members having voted in the affirmative, six members having voted in the negative, the item passes notwithstanding the objections of the Governor, 2/3 of the members having voted in the affirmative. Paper from the House.
Item 7004-0101 containing Section 2 relative to Emergency System Assistance Family Shelters and Services comes from the House with the endorsement that this item was passed notwithstanding the reduction and objections of His Excellence the Governor 127 to 28.
The question before the Senate is, shall this item pass not withstanding the objections of the governor to the contrary? The senator from Plymouth and from Barnstable, Mr. deMacedo.
Hello, Madam President. Thank you very much. And again, I want to make clear that this is item 7004-0101. It's called "Emergency Assistance Family Shelters." And again we are seeking to override the governor's veto on this. So I was hoping that we might be able to get an explanation of exactly what we're doing in regards to that line item. Thank you very much.
The Senator from the 2nd Essex, Ms. Lovely.
Thank you, Madam President. This veto would eliminate three local and regional earmarks, and strikes an important language provision from the EA's shelters program. The total amount of spending vetoed by the governor is $995,000. This funding reduction, and subsequent striking of language, would eliminate funding for the Homeworks program, the Housing Assistance Corporation serving the Cape and the Islands, and the Portal to Hope.
As you all know, the Homeworks program has been an important priority for the Senate in recent fiscal years. The program would help provide critical afterschool and summer youth programs for children within the EA shelter system. It would actually allow children who actually are in the shelter system to go to afterschool programs that they currently cannot go to because they have no transportation. That's the whole point of the Homeworks program.
It breaks my heart, personally, to see little children have to go back to the shelter where their peers are going off to afterschool programs, and homework help, and playing in the school yards. And these little gals and girls don't have that advantage and ability. And it really puts them behind.
Similarly, regional programs provided by Housing Assistance Corp. and Portal to Hope work to provide vital services to families in need. Whether it be access to housing programs, employment assistance, emergency services, or educational opportunities, this veto override will make a significant impact on the lives of most of the vulnerable families amongst us. Therefore I ask that you overturn this veto. Thank you.
The clerk will call the roll.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
Chang-Diaz. Chang-Diaz.
Creem.
Creem?
Yes. Yes. Cyr. Yes. deMacedo. Yes. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge. Yes. Fattman. Yes. Forry.
Forry?
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds. Yes. Humason.
Humason?
Yes.
Yes. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
Yes.
Yes. Rush. Yes. Spilka. Yes. Tarr.
Yes.
Yes. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welch. Yes.
[INAUDIBLE]
Chang-Diaz votes Yes.
[GAVEL]
OK. On this matter, 37 members having voted in the affirmative, zero members having voted in the negative, the item passes notwithstanding the objections of the Governor, 2/3 of the members having voted in the affirmative. Paper from the House.
Item 4510-0110, Community and Other Health Centers, comes from the House with the endorsement that this item has passed notwithstanding the reduction in objections of His Excellency the Governor 122 to 33.
The question before the Senate is, shall this item pass notwithstanding the objections of the Governor to the contrary? Wait, wait, he's not there yet. The senator from Plymouth and Barnstable, Mr. deMacedo.
Thank you so much, Madam President. And I rise to bring to the attention of our colleagues, and get an explanation in regards line item 4510-0110, titled "Community Health Centers." And again, this seems to be reducing this by $125,000. And I was hoping that we might get an explanation of why we would be doing this, and overriding the governor's veto. Thank you.
Senator from 2nd Essex, Ms. Lovely.
Thank you, Madam President. This veto would eliminate one earmark in the DPH Community Health Centers account, reducing it by $50,000. The Mattapan Integrative Partnership will offer integrated behavioral health services to Mattapan residents through unique partnerships with the Mattapan Community Health Center, Wheelock College, Mattahunt Community Center, and Mattahunt Elementary School.
Community health centers care for roughly 951,000 patients in the Commonwealth, and represents a major source of care, particularly for medically underserved women and children in high-need neighborhoods. Therefore, I ask that you overturn this veto. Thank you.
The clerk will call the roll.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
Yes.
Yes. Creem. Creem
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
No.
No. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
No.
No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser. Yes. Lewis. Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes. Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
No.
No. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
[GAVEL]
On this matter, 32 members having voted in the affirmative, five members having voted in the negative, the item passes notwithstanding the objections of the Governor, 2/3 of the members having voted in the affirmative. Paper from the House.
Item 4510-0600 containing Section 2 relative to environmental health services comes from the House with the endorsement that the House has passed this item not withstanding the reduction in objections of His Excellency the Governor by a vote of 125 to 29.
The question before the Senate is, shall this item pass notwithstanding the objections of the Governor to the contrary? The senator from 1st Essex and Middlesex, you are back.
Why thank you, Madam President. That was perfect. Madam President, I'm hoping we can get an explanation of this particular item and the override of it-- or the veto of it, and the potential override of it. This is item 4510-0600. Thank you, Madam President.
And here from 2nd Essex, Ms. Lovely.
Thank you, Madam President. This veto would reduce the environmental health program account by $100,000, eliminating two earmarks-- Silent Spring Institute, one of the organization's funded partners, with physicians public health and community advocates and other scientists to identify and break the links between environmental chemicals and women's health-- particularly breast cancer. Funding was also devoted to the regular testing of contaminants in Monponsett Pond in Halifax.
It is imperative that we provide sufficient resources for protecting the public from a variety of environmental exposures, responding to any environmental health concerns, supporting innovation and keeping our communities informed. Therefore I ask that you overturn this veto. Thank you.
We'll call the roll.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
Chang-Diaz?
Yes.
Yes. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
Yes.
Yes. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Donoghue?
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman. No. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Gobi?
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
No.
No. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Lesser?
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore. Yes. Yes. O'Connor.
No.
No. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
No.
No. Rush.
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
Tarr?
No.
No. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
The senator from 2nd Suffolk.
In the affirmative. Chang-Diaz votes No.
--has been recorded on this matter.
[GAVEL]
On this matter 31, members having voted in the affirmative, six members having voted in the negative, the item passes notwithstanding the objections of the Governor, 2/3 of the members having voted in the affirmative. Paper from the House.
Item 4510-3010 containing Section 2, Down Syndrome Clinic, comes from the House with the endorsement that this item has passed, notwithstanding the disapproval of the Governor, 143 to 9.
Down syndrome?
Thank you, Madam President. And I appreciate the opportunity to ask the question again. This is line item 4510-3010, "Down Syndrome Clinic." And we hope to get an explanation in regards to what this veto was, and explain why we are overriding it. Thank you.
Senator from 2nd Essex, Ms. Lovely.
Thank you, Madam President. This veto would eliminate funding for the UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center Down Syndrome program in DPH, included in the conference budget for $100,000. This account provides integrated, high-quality medical care for children diagnosed with Down syndrome, particularly in underserved areas such as Western Massachusetts. This account funds a care coordinator who assesses health care needs, and coordinates appointments with pediatric subspecialty providers serving as a personalized resource for families who must do all we can to promote a coordinated, holistic, and comprehensive approach towards caring for children with Down syndrome. Therefore I ask that you overturn this veto. Thank you.
The clerk will call the roll.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
Yes.
Yes. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
Yes.
Yes. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
Yes.
Yes. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
Yes.
Yes. Jehlen.
Jehlen?
Yes. Keenan. Yes. Lesser. Yes, Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes. Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes. Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes. Yes. O'Connor.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes. Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
Yes.
Yes. Rush.
Yes. Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
Yes.
Yes. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
On this matter, 37 members having voted in the affirmative, no members having voted in the negative, the item passes notwithstanding the objections of the Governor, 2/3 the members having voted in the affirmative. Paper from the House.
Item 4512-0103 contained in Section 2 relative to HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention comes from the House with the endorsement that this item is passed not withstanding the reduction and objections of His Excellency the Governor 126 to 25.
The question before the Senate is, shall this item pass notwithstanding the objections of the governor to the contrary? The senator from first Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr.
Why thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I know that there are three members conferring about this in the close proximity to the majority microphone. So I think we're going to get a consensus explanation-- and I hope we do-- of item 4512-0103. Thank you, Madam President.
-- from 2nd Essex, Ms. Lovely.
Thank you, Madam President. This veto would reduce the HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention account by two point--
--noise down. We cannot hear the speaker. Ms Lovely, I'm sorry to interrupt you.
Thank you, Madam President. This veto would reduce the HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention account by $2.5 million in DPH. This account funds HIV/AIDS prevention, education, counseling, testing, and clinical services to help reduce the number of new HIV infections, and maintain and improve the health status of those living with HIV and AIDS. It also provides funding to viral hepatitis and sexually transmitted infection programs.
Massachusetts has the potential to reach zero new infections. However, this can only be achieved through the commitment of adequate funding to programs to treat our most vulnerable populations living with this disease. Therefore, I ask that you overturn this veto. Thank you.
Call the roll.
Barrett.
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Mr. Brady?
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
Chang-Diaz?
Yes.
Yes. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
Yes.
Yes. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
Yes.
Yes. Forry.
Forry?
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
Yes.
Yes. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes. Yes. Lewis.
Lewis?
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco. Yes. Yes Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
Yes.
Yes. Rush
Yes. Yes. Spilka. Yes. Tarr.
Yes.
Yes. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
Have all members been recorded?
On this matter, 37 members having voted in the affirmative, no members having voted in the negative, the item passes notwithstanding the objections of the governor, 2/3 of the members having voted in the affirmative. Paper from the House.
Item 4512-0211 contained in Section 2, Recovery High Schools, comes from the House with the endorsement that this time was passed notwithstanding the reduction and objections of His Excellence the Governor 138 to 15.
The question before the Senate is, shall this item pass notwithstanding the objections of the Governor to the contrary? The senator from first Essex and Middlesex, Mr. Tarr.
Well, thank you, Madam President, and through the members of Madam President, I see presently no one at the majority microphone. So I'm hoping that someone will come off the bench and into the game, and thus it has happened. And I'm hoping that we can get an explanation of this item, which I understand to be 4512-0211. Thank you, Madam President.
The senator from 2nd Essex, Ms Lovely.
Thank you, Madam President. This veto would reduce recovery high school account by $1.1 million for a total funding level of $2.5 million. This account supports the operation of six recovery high schools. These schools provide students with substance use disorders and academic support and recovery services, including peer-to-peer recovery support and recovery counselors.
We must commit to ensure adequate funding for programs that have proven to be lifesaving in combating the opioid crisis. These high schools are designed specifically with students for students with substance use disorder.
And I will tell you that there is a recovery high school in my district. I visit it often. It's doing phenomenal work for these students. They're graduating, and they're going on to lead productive lives. Therefore I ask that you overturn this veto. Thank you.
The clerk will call the roll.
Barrett. Barret?
Yes.
Yes. Boncore.
Yes.
Yes. Brady.
Yes.
Yes. Brownsberger.
Yes.
Yes. Chandler.
Yes.
Yes. Chang-Diaz.
Yes.
Yes. Creem.
Yes.
Yes. Cyr.
Yes.
Yes. deMacedo.
Yes.
Yes. DiDomenico.
Yes.
Yes. Donoghue.
Yes.
Yes. Eldridge.
Yes.
Yes. Fattman.
Yes.
Yes. Forry.
Yes.
Yes. Friedman.
Yes.
Yes. Gobi.
Yes.
Yes. Hinds.
Yes.
Yes. Humason.
Yes.
Yes. Jehlen.
Yes.
Yes. Keenan.
Yes.
Yes. Lesser.
Yes.
Yes. Lewis.
Yes.
Yes. L'Italien.
Yes.
Yes. Lovely.
Yes.
Yes. McGee.
Yes.
Yes. Montigny.
Yes.
Yes. Moore. Moore? O'Connor.
Yes.
Yes. O'Connor Ives.
Yes.
Yes. Pacheco.
Yes.
Yes. Rodrigues.
Yes.
Yes. Ross.
Yes.
Yes. Rush
Yes.
Yes. Spilka.
Yes.
Yes. Tarr.
Yes.
Yes. Timilty.
Yes.
Yes. Welch.
Yes.
Yes.
Have all members been recorded? --from Worcester, Mr. Moore.
Madam President, have I been recorded?
You have not.
[INAUDIBLE]
Moore votes Yes.
On this matter, 37 members having voted in the affirmative, no members having voted in the negative, the item passes notwithstanding the objections of the governor, 2/3 the members having voted in the affirmative.
[GAVEL]
Brief recess.
