From: Debby Blumer, State Representative
Subject: News and Notes
Date: December 20, 2002
Hi,
Topics for this issue:
Water Rate Program Cuts
“No Call list” to begin in January
Health Care: Uninsured Care Pool
Giving & Volunteering in the MW region
SWIFT CUTS TO WATER RATE PROGRAM PROTESTED
This week, Swift cut $39 million in the water and sewer program. These funds had helped keep annual rate hikes to reasonable levels in our region. When Swift first threatened to cut the water and sewer rate program, I joined a letter written by Rep. DeLeo and urged Swift to reconsider the threat. After the cuts were made, we drafted a letter to the Ways & Means Committee to request the restoration of funding in the form of a deficiency/supplemental budget. In addition, the Metropolitan Water Resource Authority petitioned the Supreme Judicial Court to determine whether or not this is a constitutional use of Swifts 9C-budget balancing powers. I will keep you posted on efforts to keep water & sewer rate hikes down.
“DO NOT CALL” REGISTRY STARTS ON JANUARY FIRST
The Telemarketing Act, passed in 2002, allows Massachusetts residents to sign on to a list instructing telemarketers not to call them. Registration begins on January 1st of next year. The list will take effect in April and be updated quarterly thereafter. Consumers will be able to sign-up on the Internet (www.mass.gov), by phone, or through the mail. The Massachusetts "Do Not Call" program will have no fee and consumers will not be asked to provide personal information like a social security number.
COMMISSION EXAMINING UNINSURED PAY POOL ADJOURNS
The commission examining the pool that reimburses providers for their coverage of the uninsured adjourned this week without coming to a consensus on recommendations. The commission will publish a report, including testimony, subcommittee recommendations and research. If you are interested in reading the final report, please let me know.
GIVING AND VOLUNTEERING IN THE METROWEST REGION
If you are looking for a place to give or volunteer this holiday season, here is a list of local organizations. There are – of course – some wonderful ones which are left of the list, but it is a good start: http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/local_regional/nonprofits12192002.htm
Have a wonderful and safe New Year,
Debby
