MA Senate Bill No. 1005

From the Boston Herald:

"Lawmakers cracked down on sex offenders yesterday, expanding the pool of crimes that allow for lifetime lockup and creating new penalties for predators who fail to sign up as sex offenders."

This is good news for the people of Massachusetts and is a shining example of local politicians setting aside their partisan ways to get things done - although, the bill (Senate Bill No. 1005) had been mired in the House Rules Committee since last November (better late then never I guess). What bothers me is that of the 153 State Representatives who cast votes for this bill, NINE voted "no".

On The Blute and Scotto Show on WRKO (680 AM) this morning, Representatives Lida Harkins (D) and Scott Brown (R) discussed this bill and what it means for the people of Massachusetts. Rep. Harkins explained that some of the "no" votes came from Representatives who had their proposed amendments voted down prior to the final vote on the bill. I'm trying to get more information on these proposed amendments, but it sounds suspiciously like petty politics at its finest.

When I get the roll call votes for this bill, the names of these nine individuals, as well as their addresses, e-mails, and phone numbers will be posted here.