By Bob Katzen

The Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security will hold a virtual hearing on January 26 on a measure that would create an 11-member commission to investigate and report on what measures may be necessary and appropriate to protect the citizens of the commonwealth from the existential threat posed by nuclear weapons and to contribute towards the total elimination of these weapons from all countries.

The commission would investigate measures and make recommendations to the Legislature about many issues including the possible divestment of funds under the control of the state from companies involved in the development, production or maintenance of nuclear weapons. It would also look into the transition from nuclear weapons-related jobs and activities taking place within the state to jobs and activities that instead address the climate crisis and other pressing social needs.

“The resolution would create a special eleven-member citizen’s commission from a range of geographical and demographic backgrounds dedicated to finding out what steps the commonwealth can take to contribute to eliminating nuclear weapons worldwide,” said sponsor Rep. Lindsay Sabadosa (D-Northampton). “Its primary goals would be to take a stand against the existential threat of these catastrophic weapons while seizing the opportunity to raise civic engagement and recommit the state’s talents towards constructive, humanitarian solutions to conflict.”