TOXIC CHEMICALS IN CHILDREN’S TOYS (S 2564)

By Bob Katzen

The Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee has recommended passage of a bill that would direct the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), in consultation with the Toxics Use Reduction Institute, to create and publish a list of toxic chemicals in children’s products; a list of high priority chemicals in children’s toys and other products; and a list of safer alternative chemicals that can replace chemicals on the high priority chemical list. Continue reading TOXIC CHEMICALS IN CHILDREN’S TOYS (S 2564)

REGULATE RIDES ON MOBILE AMUSEMENT CARNIVALS (H 3896)

By Bob Katzen

Another measure heard by the Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee would require that mobile carnival rides which use enclosed pods, cabins, compartments or other enclosed passenger areas as part of a ride have a safety restraint system that includes seat belts. Violators would be subject to up to a $1,000 fine and/or 1-year prison sentence.
Continue reading REGULATE RIDES ON MOBILE AMUSEMENT CARNIVALS (H 3896)

ILLEGAL FIREWORKS (H 3634)

By Bob Katzen

The Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee held a hearing on a bill that would amend current law which imposes a fine between $10 and $100 on anyone convicted of illegal possession or use of fireworks. The bill would increase the penalty, in areas with a population density of 1,000 or more persons per square mile, to a fine of between $200 and $500 and/or a prison sentence or up to six months. Continue reading ILLEGAL FIREWORKS (H 3634)

BAN EMPLOYERS FROM ASKING FOR CREDIT REPORTS (H 2372)

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a proposal that would prohibit employers from obtaining the credit reports of existing or potential employees except in certain circumstances including hiring for a position that requires national security clearance; a position for which a person is required by federal or state law to obtain a consumer report; and some executive or managerial positions at a financial institution.
Continue reading BAN EMPLOYERS FROM ASKING FOR CREDIT REPORTS (H 2372)

Somerville Early Voting and Voting by Mail Information for Massachusetts Presidential Primary Election

SOMERVILLE – The Presidential Primary election for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is Tuesday, March 5. The primary election is open to all registered voters in Somerville. Somerville voters can vote early in person or by mail.

Register to Vote by February 24
You can register one of three ways: Continue reading Somerville Early Voting and Voting by Mail Information for Massachusetts Presidential Primary Election