Is it possible to get six-pack abs from coughing? The reason I ask is that I'm on day three in bed with the flu (highest temperature so far was this morning) and getting incredibly bored to go along with the pain. Apologies if not everything below makes sense.
Today, the Massachusetts General Court met in its first session of the 2005-6 legislative session. Generally, the first day is symbolic--swearing in of members, electing of leadership, that sort of thing. Robert Travaglini (D-Boston) and Salvatore DiMasi (D-Boston) were both re-elected to their leadership positions.
Tom Finneran's absence as speaker was immediately noticeable when the leaders laid out their legislative agendas:
Travaglini renewed a call for a stem cell bill, saying it could help boost the state's economy by attracting business. The Senate backed similar stem cell legislation last year, but it was blocked by the House.
"In the eyes of many, we have lost ground in our competition with states such as California and New Jersey," he said. "With swift action during this legislative session, we can regain a competitive edge in this area."
[snip]
DiMasi, a 26-year House veteran, said he agreed with Travaglini "100 percent" on the stem cell research initiative.
"I think stem cell research is one of the most important things we can do to generate biotech, to generate an atmosphere where businesses and people can invest their money in Massachusetts and create jobs," he said.
Finneran is the reason we didn't get a stem cell research bill last session. It is so nice to have that asshole out of office. This is one type of research Massachusetts should be seriously involved with. We've got some of the best research institutions and hospitals in the world. We've got an a strong biotechnology sector. For the Commonwealth to not engage in such research, to not pursue it aggressively with the amazing resources we do have, is ridiculous.
One of the big problems facing the legislature this year is the budget. Of course, many states are finding themselves with budget problems. We've got a governor who is continually trying to lower the state income tax, even while he recently introduced a new health care program. Apparently, the borrow and spend philosophy is alive and well in Republican circles.
Finally, I'm sure many people here are interested in the issue of same-sex marriage. After all, we've got a constitutional amendment pending with the General Court. This is typical of how the media covered the issue while dealing with today's session opening:
Travaglini pledged to allow a vote on gay marriage as well as to pass a stem cell research bill.
That's all we have coming out of today's session. I'm fairly optimistic about beating it this year, but we can't be sure. Updates as they happen.
Now, off for some more drugs and sleep.