Jobs and the Economy

Massachusetts was not immune to last year’s financial crisis and ensuing global recession.  The unemployment rate is now over 9% in the Commonwealth.  I am concerned that the current business environment does not do enough to attract new jobs to Massachusetts.  We are no longer competing against neighboring states – we are increasingly competing in a global economy.  A motivated and educated workforce, without strong economic policies, is simply not enough to create jobs, sustain economic growth and attract new employers to Massachusetts. 

I will fight to make the Commonwealth a better place to do business by supporting business-friendly policies that create jobs and reduce regulatory red tape.  I will advocate for lowering the corporate income tax and repealing the recent sales tax increase.  I will support growth strategies for Massachusetts that focus on every business in the state, not just on a few select industries. 

The State Budget, Fiscal Responsibility and Taxes 

Massachusetts does not have a revenue problem, we have a spending problem.  State spending is far outpacing population growth and inflation.  Instead of reacting to the recession by making tough choices and streamlining our state budget, Beacon Hill acted as if nothing was wrong, and taxpayers received tax increases and more rhetoric.  Serious changes are needed to our spending policies or the ‘Rainy Day’ fund will soon be drained.  

There is a lot of work to do.  I would act quickly to introduce legislation to lower the sales tax, repeal double taxation on alcohol and repeal the corporate tax increase of 2008.  I will advocate for policies that shrink the size and scope of government in Massachusetts.   I support pension reforms that will reduce the state’s unfunded liabilities and allow individuals to make more of their own decisions regarding retirement.       

High Ethical Standards and Good Government 

The number of Massachusetts lawmakers ending their careers in disgrace highlights a nationally- recognized culture of corruption on Beacon Hill.  State government should be held to the same high standards as a business that operates with a high fiduciary duty to its clients; it is legislators’ responsibility to act exclusively in the interest of the taxpayers they represent.  The recent ethics reform legislation was thin and disappointing.  Much more work is needed.  

I will advocate for higher ethical standards, pension reform and more transparency in every aspect of state government.  I support term limits for the legislature in order to ensure that a government for the people is run by the people, not career politicians. 

Environmental Stewardship

I am a graduate of the first undergraduate Environmental Studies program in the country and am also an avid outdoorsman.  Environmental strategy demands reliable science and stringent cost/benefit analysis to accompany sound environmental policy.  We cannot afford to let future generations clean up a mess we should have prevented.  

I support strategies that reduce our impact on the environment in a cost-effective manner.  I will advocate for reasonable and appropriate development of alternative energy sources such as wind, solar, and geothermal energy.  I believe that nuclear power is part of the solution and should be expanded in Massachusetts and throughout New England.  I support policies that preserve our open spaces, encourage recycling, promote energy efficiency and provide incentives for green buildings. 

Transportation

Transportation is critical to our regional planning, our daily commute, and the impact we have on the environment.  Our transportation assets have been mismanaged for far too long as evidenced by the continued existence of tolls on the Massachusetts Turnpike, the debt overhang from the Big Dig, and budget deficits at the MBTA.  We should be increasing affordable transportation options to lower our reliance on automobiles, reduce traffic congestion and improve the environment. 

I am a supporter of a “reform before revenue” approach to transportation policy.  The tolls on the Massachusetts Turnpike should be eliminated as soon as possible.  I believe that significant reform is needed at the MBTA to increase its efficiency and maintain high safety standards.  I oppose placing tracking chips in our vehicles in order to implement a “Vehicle Mileage Tax”.  No new taxes or tax increases should be considered until our transportation system is completely reviewed and overhauled. 

Education

Massachusetts was founded on the principle that education is a fundamental right for all citizens of the Commonwealth, and I personally feel that public schools are an invaluable asset to our communities.  I attended public elementary, middle and high schools, and benefited from a rich combination of academic, athletic and social experiences. 

The mismanagement of our state budget has resulted in local aid cuts to our school districts and the Massachusetts university system.  In a time of great need, our schools are being forced to cut back.  I will advocate for the restoration of local aid, as well as the expansion of public school options through charter, magnet and alternative schools.  I support programs that target underprivileged and at-risk students.  I believe that in-state tuition should not be made available to illegal immigrants living in Massachusetts. 

Health Care 

The Massachusetts health care reform law of 2006 signed by Governor Mitt Romney mandated health insurance for every Massachusetts resident.  Unfortunately, reform has stalled under the current administration.  The law was intended to create more options for individuals and make quality care more affordable, but instead Massachusetts now has fewer insurance plans available, more mandates and higher costs.  Our expensive health care system stifles small business growth and discourages large corporations from locating their employees within the Commonwealth. 

I support policies that would lower the cost of health insurance plans within Massachusetts by decreasing the number of mandates required of the insurers.  Alternatively, I believe in allowing consumers to purchase more affordable insurance available in other states.  Additionally, I support tort reform and caps on jury awards, which would lower malpractice costs for health care providers.  I believe that we can achieve the intent of health care reform – to provide access to quality, affordable health care to all Massachusetts residents – without escalating costs and fewer choices.