Dear Friends,
Reflecting on the 2011 fiscal year budget, I joined my colleagues in passing a $27.6 billion balanced budget without any increases in taxation that was signed into law by the Governor. The budget increases state spending by 0.2 percent above projected spending this fiscal year and closes budget gaps of more than $12.5 billion.
I supported initiatives that benefit the people of my district and the Commonwealth, including comprehensive asthma care for high-risk children, health care transparency, housing, and youth and education programs.
As House Chair of the Joint Committee on Public Health, I was able to champion an amendment into the state budget that enables children on Medicaid who suffer from chronic asthma to receive better care at a lower cost to taxpayers. The budget also successfully adopted an amendment I filed that will expand health care transparency for Massachusetts consumers to access information on health care costs more easily. This ensures that for the first time in this state’s history, this true all-payer claims database will offer, a broad understanding of health care costs and medical services utilization across institutions and populations.
As a long standing proponent for the development, health, and safety of young people across the Commonwealth, I advocated for youth violence and gang prevention grants, school to career connecting activities, and summer job programs for at-risk youth. As a result of my efforts, I was able to prevent cuts to violence prevention grants to provide youth with skills to foster their success as leaders in the community. In addition, $9.1 million was allocated to summer job programs for at-risk youth, enabling nearly 5,000 youth the opportunity of employment. I was also able to secure funding to ensure that children of families receiving transitional assistance have access to high-quality early education and care to prevent chronic stress that can limit a child’s long-term success.
Along with the development, health and safety of our young people, parks are also an important issue for me. They are a natural asset to our community and a great recreational resource to the individuals in my district. I understand the issues that exist and am committed to continue working on improving our natural wonders. During the budget debate, I supported funding for the Department of Conservation and Recreation’s operation of state and urban parks and recreation, including parkways, roadways, and the division’s land and natural resources. In response to a number of constituent calls, I also supported the Park Ranger Mounted Unit that manages and enhances Boston parks. The Unit was not eliminated this fiscal year and will continue to patrol the Emerald Necklace as well as neighborhood parks and cemeteries.
I appreciate all of you who contact my office regarding your position on various legislation and community matters. Your voice truly influences what I support and I encourage you to continue advocating for issues of importance to you.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey Sánchez
State Representative