PRISON LABOR (H 5125)

By Bob Katzen

It’s been five months since the House on March 19, on a voice vote without a roll call, gave initial approval to a measure that would prohibit any prisoner from being transferred to another state and being required to work on labor projects in that state. The ban does not apply if the governor determines that an emergency in another state or territory creates the need for prisoners to be transferred from the Bay State and the prisoner agrees in writing to be transferred. The House has taken no further action on the proposal.
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FOOD TRUCKS (H 5115)

By Bob Katzen

On May 26, the Committee on Public Health gave a favorable report to and recommended passage of legislation that would require food trucks to be subject to an annual health inspection by the state. The Commissioner of Public Health would establish regulations for the annual health inspection of food trucks and would prescribe rules and regulations related to inspection schedules, documentation of inspections, standards for acceptable cleanliness and the costs of these inspections. The committee then sent the measure to the House Ways and Means Committee when it still lingers, awaiting action.
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Somerville City Hall Swings Open its Doors for Civic Day on Thursday, September 10

Family-friendly event kicks off at 5 p.m. with free pizza and activities on City Hall Concourse
All invited to City Council Meeting at 7 p.m.

SOMERVILLE – Community members are invited to attend Somerville’s fourth Civic Day event on Thursday, September 10, from 5 to 7:30 p.m., with activities taking place inside City Hall (93 Highland Ave.) and on the City Hall concourse.
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Somerville Hosting “Until Help Arrives” Emergency Response and Overdose Prevention Trainings

Free workshops to train residents to recognize emergencies and take action until first responders arrive; No prior experience necessary

SOMERVILLE—You don’t need to be a medical professional to help someone in an emergency. Sometimes, knowing who to call and what to do in the first few minutes can make an important difference.
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Somerville to Celebrate Brazilian Independence with Flag Raising at City Hall

Community invited to celebration on Thursday, September 10 with free refreshments

SOMERVILLE—The Somerville Office of Immigrant Affairs (SOIA), in proud partnership with the Brazilian Women’s Group, invites community members to celebrate 204 years of Brazilian independence at the fourth annual Brazilian flag raising on Thursday, September 10, at 3 p.m. on the Somerville City Hall concourse (93 Highland Ave). The rain date is Monday, September 14.
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All invited to community celebration featuring food vendors, live cultural performances, and music

SOMERVILLE—Celebrate the rich flavors and vibrant culture of Nepal at the Somerville Nepali Street Food Festival on Saturday, September 5, from 2 to 8 p.m. at Somerville City Hall (93 Highland Ave). Rain date is Sunday, September 6.
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