Happy 4th of July Westfield! This weekend, as we relax and celebrate, let us not forget all that this holiday symbolizes.
Beyond the independence of our nation, this is a day to remember the sacrifices made by many to preserve this independence. It is a day to celebrate the American spirit, a strong and unwavering force. Many of our nation’s finest men and women have fought, and continue to fight, to preserve the freedom we celebrate this weekend. We cannot forget the sacrifices they have made.
With just a few short weeks left of the legislative session, this is an exceptionally busy time. This week in Boston the house passed H4323, An Act Relative to the Judicial Enforcement of noncompetition agreements. This bill passed unanimously in the House. Essentially, this bill adds some restrictions on non-compete clauses. These clauses are included in contracts to prevent employees from leaving a company and taking information to competitors. This bill limits the length of time of non-compete agreements, in most cases, to 12 months. Additionally, it guarantees payment during their restricted period for individuals leaving a job.
I’d also like to take the time to discuss a letter I wrote to Governor Baker this week. Governor Baker finds himself in a uniquely influential position. With five supreme judicial court justices retiring in the span of a year, Baker will make five new appointments to the Commonwealth’s highest court. Of note for folks in Western Mass is the retirement of Justice Spina of Pittsfield. Currently, Spina is the only member of the SJC from Western Massachusetts.
With this in mind, I wrote a letter to the governor encouraging him to strongly consider a candidate from Western Mass in his next round of appointments coming in 2017. It is very important to have representation from all corners of our state. Judges will carry their personal experiences with them when dispensing justice. A judge from Western Mass will understand the differences in population, culture, crime, the economy and more here. It is of the utmost importance that this region is represented.
That’s all for this week Westfield! I hope everyone has a safe and fun holiday weekend! As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions, comments, or concerns at [email protected] or my district office phone 413-472-3920.
