Hello Westfield! Hope everyone has been Enjoying the recent heat! This week has certainly been exciting.
The biggest day this week was Wednesday, which was both Flag Day and the 242nd birthday of the United States Army, which we celebrated at the State House with a big cake and a gathering of my fellow legislators who serve or have served in the military. I always say how blessed I am to serve as both a legislator and a soldier, and its wonderful to see my fellow public servants share those sentiments, as well.
Also on Wednesday, after several months of debate and deliberation, the Joint Committee on Marijuana Policy, which I sit on, finally released the omnibus marijuana bill that aims to fill in some of the gaps not addressed by the ballot question last year. Although I have some reservations about the bill, including its proposed 28% tax on marijuana sales, I believe it was important to move the bill from the committee to allow it to be debated on the floor. Too often, bills get stuck in committee for one reason or another, which prevents a full debate from taking place. That is why I voted to release the bill from committee on Wednesday- to allow my colleagues that do not sit on this committee to voice their opinions and potentially propose amendments. The full House vote on the bill which will take place sometime next week, after which it will be sent to the Senate.
Back in Westfield on Thursday, we recognized the twelfth annual World Elder Abuse Day with a luncheon at the Senior Center. Two of the ladies who work there, Karen Noblit and Fran Aguda, were recognized by Highland Valley Elder Services for their outstanding work in identifying and supporting elders in abusive or neglectful situtations. Elder abuse occurs when a caregiver fails to reach the needs of elderly person. This can happen through an elder not receiving their medications, right nourishment, hygiene or anything along those lines. Taking advantage of an elder where there is an expectation of trust also is considered elder abuse. 1 in 10 Americans over the age of 60 have experienced this type of abuse. Thank you to Fran, Karen, and everyone who truly does God’s work by preventing and rectifying these situations.
That is all for this week. As always, if you have any questions or concerns you can call my office at 413-572-3920 or email me at [email protected]. Have a great week!
