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<h2>Amy's Response to the Environmental Forum</h2><h3>What experience, values and skills will you bring to the responsibility of combatting the climate crisis as a state legislator? Where do you feel you would be most effective?</h3>I will bring my● extensive experience in environmental advocacy; ● demonstrated effectiveness in the getting things done through the legislative process; ● my years of experience in delivering excellent constituent services, ● demonstrated commitment to working inclusively with stakeholders,and ● Will continue to provide good communication and transparency as your next state representative.As an advocate:Sierra Club: endangered species act and water law Container Recycling Institute:tracked bottle bill legislation throughout the country National Wildlife Federation: lobbied the Senate for successful passage of Senator Kerry’s Flood Insurance Reform ActAs a City Councilor I co-sponsored the Tree Preservation Ordinance with Mike Lipof to protect our trees from development, was an early supporter of the Community Preservation Act, advocated to preserve and acquire open space, supported the plastic bag ban and leaf blower ordinances.As a private citizen, I created a foundation that has provided grant funding to environmental and cultural organizations in and around Newton - projects including Newton Conservators - Ordway Park Project, Newton Conservation Commission and the Charles River Watershed Association - Marty Sender Path, Green Decade’s Solar Energy Project, the Newton Conservation Commission’s Environmental Science Program, funded a study to improve water circulation at Purgatory Cove and a cost estimate for creating bike and pedestrian paths along the Charles River. I’ve advocated with NPS to participate in food rescue programs and I am currently working with tree advocates to continue to protect Newton’s Trees and public health care advocates on banning PFAS products.It is clear that we need to take bold and aggressive action to combat the climate crisis and we’ll need a fierce, passionate, and effective advocate at the Statehouse with a proven record of commitment to the environment,I pledge to be a leader on all things Green.<h3>What should be done about the gas distribution system?</h3>Safely stop wasteful spending on the old system. Facilitate transition off of gas.Gas companies are replacing and installing new gas lines - spending millions of rate payer dollars on infrastructure that will become obsolete in the near future resulting in stranded assets that ratepayers and taxpayers will be paying for over many decades.Newton Energy Commissioners reviewed National Grid’s Gas System Enhancement program - which is intended to replace leak-prone pipes and reduce significant gas leak but what they found was nearly all of the expenditures from the program in Newton are for replacing pipes. They found that gas leak repair is much more cost-effective short term for reducing gas leaks than replacing leak-prone pipesDPU issued an order on the Future of Gas at the end of last year, recognizing the harmful effects of methane,and affirming that the Commonwealth must and will transition the building sector off of gas and that the dominant strategy is through electrification.<ol><li>Rejected renewable natural gas and hydrogen - too risky</li><li>Called for minimizing additional investments in pipeline and distribution mains</li><li>Said no need for sprawling gas system for back up heat</li><li>&nbsp;Called on utilities to minimize stranded assets</li></ol>Gas utilities would have to demonstrate that non gas pipeline assets were adequately considered and found to be non-viable or cost prohibitive in order to receive full cost recovery<h4>1. Safely stop wasteful spending on the old system.</h4><ul><li>Give DPU the authority to prohibit expansion of the system into new territories and prohibit the Siting Board from permitting large expansions of existing gas systems.</li><li>Require gas companies to develop, implement and update annually plans to decommission their system safely, quickly, and equitably. Ratepayers must not be forced to pay for both an expanded electric grid and an expansion of a polluting gas pipeline system that will soon be obsolete.</li><li>Prevent gas companies from charging rate payers for depreciation on the gas system after 2050.</li><li>Require gas companies during the transition to repair where feasible leaky gas pipes rather than replace them and save ratepayers billions of dollars.</li></ul><h4>2. Facilitate the Transition off of Gas</h4><ul><li>Change gas companies legal obligation to serve gas customers within their existing territories by adding the option to provide customers with heat via renewable non-polluting energy and expediting neighborhood transition.</li><li>Incentivize networked geothermal infrastructure - the most efficient heating and cooling system known - as one way to end dependence on volatile and polluting fossil fuels. Geothermal energy minimizes stress on the electric power grid, which will save money for both ratepayers and taxpayers as demand for electricity soars. Framingham is piloting a project with Eversource and Lowell is partnering with National Grid.</li><li>Expand Mass Save’s services to help customers of all income levels upgrade wiring, insulate their homes, and switch to efficient electric heat pumps of all types which will save ratepayers money while reducing emissions.</li><li>Apply the state’s prevailing wage law to energy construction and infrastructure projects and establish a Just Transition Office and Advisory Commission.</li></ul><h3>As a State Representative, what can you do to help communities meet the Commonwealth's emissions reduction goals in the building and transportation sectors?</h3>Sustainable Development:30% of greenhouse gas emissions come from existing buildings.<ol><li>Encourage retrofits through incentives and through the support of a green bank to provide funding for energy efficiency improvements for underserved communities.</li><li>Ban new fossil fuel hookups in all new construction, and increase incentives for clean energy upgrades in existing buildings. - The Electrification Ordinance just passed the City Council on Monday. I will support a statewide Electrification Ordinance.</li><li>Require emission reporting from existing buildings and set targets for reduction of their greenhouse gas emissions. I spoke in support of a Newton BERDO a few weeks ago and asked that it include residential properties. I will support a statewide BERDO program.</li></ol>Sustainable Transportation40% comes from the transportation sector.<ol><li>Increase investments to upgrade and expand our public transportation system, and electrify our rail and buses including school buses.</li><li>Create safe and accessible alternative means of travel - including bike lanes, pedestrian paths, and trails.</li><li>Assist communities with electric car charging stations.</li></ol>Lack of transparency in the House makes it very hard for advocates to hold their legislators accountable. Do you support the bills proposing changes such as posting committee votes on the legislature’s website within 48 hours of a vote, and that hearings be scheduled two weeks in advance so advocates can plan for meaningful participation in the legislative hearings? Why or why not?I support bills proposing changes such as posting committee votes on the legislature’s website within 48 hours of a vote and that hearings be scheduled two weeks in advance so advocates can plan for meaningful participation in legislative hearings.As many of you know, transparency, accountability, and good communication is important to me. I believe it is essential for government, particularly elected officials, to provide information related to their work and votes that is easily accessible. In 2015 I began an e-newsletter to keep residents informed about what our city council, boards and commissions and school department were discussing and voting on and providing links to their committee reports. My colleagues believed it was a waste of my time because all of the information was on the city’s website. But have any of you tried to navigate the city’s website? I’m a data nerd with years of experience with city government, I can’t always easily find the information.That information has now been incorporated into Fig City News which I co-founded with Bruce Henderson and that continues to provide information on your local government and provides committee reports.That being said, posting of the committee votes alone should not be the only information to hold your electeds accountable. It is so important that there be committee reports so voters can understand why their electeds took whatever positions they did. Voting in committee is not the end all be all. Like with everything, their decisions to support or vote against or even abstained may be nuanced.By scheduling hearings in advance, it gives advocates enough time to assemble data and information necessary to present and puts everyone on an equal footing.That being said, there will be exceptions - emergency hearings when it may not be logistically possible to give that advance notice.It is clear that we need to take bold and aggressive action to combat the climate crisis. I will bring my extensive experience in environmental advocacy, proven effectiveness in getting things done through the legislative process, my years of experience in delivering excellent constituent services, demonstrated commitment to working inclusively with stakeholders, and continue to provide good communication and transparency as your next state representative. Most of all, I pledge to be your partner and champion on all things green.I ask for your vote on September 3 and again on November 5th.<a href="/files/b260b02b-f427-4e9c-80c1-96d4a925070d/RESPONSES_to_Environmental_Forum-f8ab-c1f5.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Download Amy's Responses</a>

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It is clear that we need to take bold and aggressive action to combat the climate crisis.

Amy's background, experience, values, and record make her the ideal candidate on climate and environment.

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June 6, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://mailchi.mp/09134b7089aa/your-support-matters?e=[UNIQID]">Your Support Matters</a>

May 17, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://us22.campaign-archive.com/?u=a9d8f91f14a74d822caccfc71&amp;id=f35051f059">Building Connections</a>

May 7: <a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="wixui-rich-text__text" href="https://mailchi.mp/cf923428254f/campaign-update-new-endorsements-new-opponent?e=[UNIQID]">Endorsements</a>

April 17, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://us22.campaign-archive.com/?u=a9d8f91f14a74d822caccfc71&amp;id=5ef1f28878">Amy is on NewtonTV</a>

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April 2, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://us22.campaign-archive.com/?u=a9d8f91f14a74d822caccfc71&amp;id=80e133c419">Support Amy</a>

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<h3>11th Middlesex seat district debate: Amy Sangiolo and Alex Jablon</h3>On July 31st, the Charles River Regional Chamber held a virtual debate between the two candidates competing in the Sept. 3 Democratic primary for the open state representative seat currently held by Rep. Kay Khan.

<h3>Cultural Connections with Amy Mah Sangiolo</h3>On this episode of the Cultural Connections podcast, Brian is joined by Amy Sangiolo. Together they discuss the race for MA State Representative 11th District. They talk about the election, why Amy believes she is uniquely qualified for the position, and the issues that matter most.

<h3>Amy Sangiolo Runs for State Rep. for the 11th Middlesex District</h3>

<h3>Common Ground with Ken Parker</h3>Who does Ken Parker think will become the next Middlesex 11th State Rep? “I think that’s Amy’s seat.”&nbsp;

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As your city councilor for 20 years, I led on issues that matter to YOU: affordable housing, protecting our environment, investing in our schools, and providing excellent constituent services. We need a partner in the State House who will advocate for the issues that matter to Newton residents.

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"I am excited to announce my candidacy for re-election as your State Representative from the 11th Middlesex District, which comprises Newton’s Ward 1 Precincts 2, 3; Ward 2; Ward 3 Precincts 1, 2, 3; Ward 4; and Ward 7 Precincts 2, 3, 4. I have a long track record of accomplishment from 20 years serving you on the Newton City Council on everything from environmental protection to affordable housing to transparency in government to constituent services. I ask for your vote this fall so that I may continue to serve you!"

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<h2>My Background</h2><img src="https://run.imgix.net/b260b02b-f427-4e9c-80c1-96d4a925070d/6f7c32ba-eecb-4c01-a675-7914e2390375/6f7c32ba-eecb-4c01-a675-7914e2390375.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=18%2C30%2C1139%2C853&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="right" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="right" variant="framed"><h4>I was born and raised in northern New Jersey just outside of New York City. My mother, Yuriko, was a Japanese immigrant, and my father, George, was a Chinese-American US Air Force veteran who, despite not having a college degree, became a Corporate Controller at Chase Manhattan Bank.​</h4>I attended public high school while also earning a pre-college degree from the Juilliard School of Music. I graduated from Barnard College, majoring in Political Science, worked as a legal assistant, and then went on to Rutgers Law School. I developed a passion and interest in environmental law after participating in an externship program with the Sierra Club in San Francisco.After graduation, I worked at the Container Recycling Institute, tracking statewide Bottle Bill efforts, and the National Wildlife Federation, successfully lobbying for a Flood Insurance Reform Bill championed by U.S. Senator John Kerry.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/b260b02b-f427-4e9c-80c1-96d4a925070d/22cafd4b-bea7-42d2-a73e-6c1d7d2ca53f/22cafd4b-bea7-42d2-a73e-6c1d7d2ca53f.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1047%2C735&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">In 1995, my husband John and I moved to Newton, where we raised our three children: George, Midori, and Joseph. Like many people, we were attracted by Newton’s excellent school system and close proximity to Boston.<h4>I ran for the then-called Board of Aldermen in 1997 against a longtime incumbent (and won on a recount by 12 votes) on a platform of transparency, accountability, and constituent service, and served for ten terms (20 years).</h4>I am proud to have played a leading role in environmental protection, affordable housing, and other progressive issues.​In addition,&nbsp; I volunteered with immigration advocates, representing disabled individuals seeking waivers on their citizenship applications and monitoring children held in a detention center at the California border. I have been active with many local community organizations, and currently serve on the Dow Fund (which provides assistance for legal service providers in the Asian community) and OCA-APAA-NE (which provides mentorship and scholarships for Asian American Youth).In 2015, as part of my service as a Councilor, I began a weekly email newsletter to keep Newton residents informed about government meetings. This continued until April 2022, when I co-founded <a href="https://figcitynews.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="wixui-rich-text__text">Fig City News</a>, which has rapidly become Newton residents' go-to news source.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/b260b02b-f427-4e9c-80c1-96d4a925070d/485b54e1-1ccb-4f11-9291-5d4bf21842be/623a48d0-4fe5-4274-8bf0-61809d7ee5b3.webp?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=15&amp;con=40&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=-29&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C4096%2C3072&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="right" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="right" variant="framed"><h4>I am currently working at the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office, providing assistance to individuals and families facing eviction and foreclosure and directing them to resources to help keep them housed.</h4>I share my background with you so that you can see I have spent my career serving the public interest and advocating for a healthier environment, for individuals with disabilities, for immigrant children, for access to safe and affordable housing, and on behalf of the residents of Newton. I ask for your vote so that I can continue to be your advocate in the Massachusetts State House as the next State Representative from the 11th Middlesex District!

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Amy Mah Sangiolo answers questions at the environmental forum. 

Amy Mah on the environment

<h3>Keeping Massachusetts strong and competitive requires the following: </h3><ul><li>Strategic investments in sectors that will make Massachusetts a global leader, such as life sciences and climate tech</li><li>Supporting arts and culture as an economic driver</li><li>Creating a business-friendly climate so businesses will want to locate and expand&nbsp;</li><li>Creating more housing opportunities and workforce development to attract and retain talent </li></ul>Strategic Investments Life Sciences -&nbsp; I support building on both Massachusetts' reputation as a global leader in life sciences and the Administration’s proposal for a 10-year investment of $1 billion to support Massachusetts life sciences companies, the expansion of the tax credit program, and the reauthorization of programs supported by the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center. In Newton, we are home to biotech and life science companies, and these further investments at the state level, can help support these businesses. Climate Tech - I support building on Massachusetts' reputation as a climate leader and the Administration’s proposal for a 10-year investment of $1 billion in the climate tech sector by investing in the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, funding capital projects, and developing tax incentive and tax credit programs for clean energy production.Supporting Arts and Culture Arts and Culture are an economic driver for the state. The Creative Collective reports that in 2021, the arts and culture sector accounted for 4.2% of the state’s economy, comprising 135,181 jobs and $27.2 billion. It is clear that investing in our creative and cultural sectors not only brings in revenue for the state, but also adds to the vibrancy of our cities and towns.&nbsp; I support efforts to create a cultural district along Washington Street. Cultural districts enable cities and towns to expand their tax base and support the growth of their cultural sector. Communities can apply to the Mass Cultural Council for designation and if approved, these cultural districts would be eligible for grant funding. Creating a Business Friendly Climate Creating conditions for businesses to thrive is essential to building a strong MA economy. Businesses are often faced with high costs and regulations that make it difficult to succeed. In recognizing these challenges, we need to be mindful of the regulations and policies we impart on businesses, particularly as we move forward to address the climate crisis. The State must partner with our business community to ensure they have access to support - both technical and financial assistance. The State must also continue to review its tax policy as well as address the high cost of living.Attracting and Retaining Residents Several recent studies indicate that Massachusetts is seeing a decline in population. The studies identified two age groups that are leaving: those between age 25-44 and those between age 55-64. They also identified that these groups were mostly white and middle to high-income earners. The <a href="https://www.bostonindicators.org/article-pages/2024/april/domestic-migration" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Boston Indicator’s report</a> in particular suggests that the biggest decline in population leaving MA are those between age 25-44, and that the majority who have left between 2006 and 2022 were white and middle- and high-income earners. While no one reason was attributed to the decline, high cost of housing and work in specialized fields were considered. In addition, the <a href="https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:US:52a83fb3-5e21-408d-8113-3d3c2da5d79d?viewer%21megaVerb=group-discover" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Questrom School of Business Outmigration Study</a> also indicates that the largest age group leaving Massachusetts is in the 26-35 age range. Recently released IRS data confirms the findings of these studies and indicates that Massachusetts is in fifth place behind California, New York, Illinois, and New Jersey in terms of residents leaving their respective states and taking their talent and wealth with them to Florida, Texas, South Carolina, Tennessee and North Carolina. The Questrom Study also indicates that most of the lost Adjusted Gross Income comes from those aged 55-64, and that more than half the people who leave earn close to double the state average per year. According to the study, income tax, health care costs, and housing costs are the largest drivers of outmigration. This outmigration significantly impacts both our tax revenue and our economic growth. Loss of young talent decreases our ability to attract and retain businesses. Loss of middle and high income earners and retirees leads to less tax revenue and spending for our local economy. Stemming the tide of out migration of our potential workforce should include: <ul><li>Partnering with higher education institutions and vocational/technical schools to create internship programs and a pipeline for job opportunities for their graduates</li><li>Workforce development programs, particularly in the sectors of life sciences and climate tech </li></ul>Stemming the tide of out migration of both our young people and middle-high income earners and retirees should include: <ul><li>Continued review of our tax structure - states like Florida and Texas do not have estate taxes or capital gains taxes</li><li>Creating more mixed income housing opportunities</li><li>Controlling rising healthcare costs</li></ul>

Keeping Massachusetts strong and competitive requires the following: strategic investments in sectors that will make Massachusetts a global leader, such as life sciences and climate tech; supporting arts and culture as an economic driver; creating a business-friendly climate so businesses will want to locate and expand; and creating more housing opportunities and workforce development to attract and retain talent.

Write a short blurb about an issue your campaign is highlighting. Try to keep the text a similar size between the various issue blurbs.

BUILDING A STRONG ECONOMY

<h3>Housing is one of the most important issues facing our City and the Commonwealth.</h3>Many homeowners, especially those who purchased their homes many years ago, have benefited from a steep increase in the value of their homes. But for those who are looking to buy in Newton or many communities around Boston, home prices are out of reach for all but the wealthy. Housing costs have led to an exodus of young people fromMassachusetts, which harms our economy when employers cannot find skilled people to hire, and is a negative impact on those who would like their children and grandchildren to be able to live nearby. For those who want to downsize, finding an affordable apartment or condo is difficult even after selling their home. And for those on limited income, access to safe, habitable, and truly affordable housing has become impossible.The MBTA Communities Law requires 177 cities and towns near train and commuter rail stops to rezone for more density - specifically establish at least one district, within a half mile from public transportation, of a reasonable size where multi-family housing is permitted by right. Newton submitted its MBTA-compliant zoning by the December 31, 2023 deadline. The law was designed to increase housing supply but not designed to specifically address the affordable housing crisis. More intentional action is needed to create truly affordable housing.As your State Representative, I will:● Support efforts to direct resources to upgrade and preserve existing affordable housing, ensure safe and livable housing conditions, and that housing is accessible for all.● Support legislation to authorize cities and towns to levy real estate transfer fees to fund affordable housing preservation and production.● Support reform of the Housing Development Incentive Program - a tax credit program that currently subsidizes market-rate housing so that it can support affordable housing as well.● Legalize Accessory Dwelling Units on a statewide basis but allow communities to decide how best to run those programs. (Newton took this step several years ago and it has led to dozens of new housing units).● Support investment and subsidies to create more truly affordable housing opportunities● Support funding to ensure new housing meets our climate action goals and is not fossil fuel reliant.Tenant and Homeowner Protections:My day job informs me of the struggles tenants and homeowners face every day to stay housed. Large corporations and private equity firms are buying up properties, and driving existing tenants out by either allowing the properties to decline or raising rents so they are no longer affordable. These entities don’t care about the tenants or the communities where these properties are located but are driven by corporate greed. On the homeownership front, lenders are often quick to foreclose and homeowners left without guidance or options.As your State Representative, I will support the following:● Increase funding for wrap-around programs and services to help tenants stay housed.● Give cities and towns the ability to adopt rent control or other measures to stabilize rents in their communities.● Allow cities and towns to implement locally-needed eviction protections to ban no-fault evictions and clarify for tenants and landlords what qualifies as a legal reason to evict.● Support eviction sealing for dismissed cases where tenants prevail and no-fault evictions.● Support the right to counsel and funding legal programs to provide that legal counsel.● Support requiring mediation prior to foreclosures.

It is the responsibility of the Commonwealth to ensure that everyone has access to safe, habitable, and inclusive housing. I will work collaboratively with federal, state, and local agencies and organizations to support programs that preserve existing housing and provide incentives to create new affordable housing opportunities.

HOUSING

In 2018, reforms were enacted in our criminal justice system; since then, Massachusetts has seen a number of notable improvements. <a href="https://www.tbf.org/news-and-insights/reports/2024/january/criminal-justice-reform-in-ma-report" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">A Boston Foundation report</a> indicates that the reforms have led to a decline in crime and incarceration rates. However, the report also suggests that there is still more to be done to address racial disparities and to divert young adults from entering the criminal justice system. Reforms are needed regarding the care and treatment of those incarcerated, such as limiting the use of solitary confinement, improving the overall conditions of jails, refining provisions for medical release, and increasing access to education and mental health services. I agree with the results of the report; accordingly, here are some of the policies/reforms I will advocate for:<h4>Keeping people out of the criminal justice system:</h4><ul><li>Increase the age of criminal majority and raise the age of incarceration to 21 for certain offenses to keep young adults out of the system.&nbsp;</li><li>Increase the emphasis on restorative justice.&nbsp;</li><li>Decriminalize minor offenses.&nbsp;</li><li>Support funding for municipalities to increase non-law-enforcement, unarmed, community-based emergency response options. When I was on the City Council, I proposed adding a social worker to the police force because I understood that so many in our community in Newton are in need of mental health support, not police intervention. I was pleased that the then Police Chief Howard Mintz agreed and a social worker was added.&nbsp;</li></ul><h4>Care for people incarcerated: </h4><ul><li>Enact a moratorium on jail and prison construction.&nbsp;</li><li>Improve prison living conditions. I am aware of the living conditions and the anguish prisoners have reported regarding treatment within the facilities, and I strongly believe baseline conditions must be established to ensure the humane treatment of those incarcerated.</li><li>Ensure access to reproductive healthcare, mental health resources, and addiction treatment.</li><li>Strengthen visitation rights to allow for those incarcerated to maintain connections between their families and community.&nbsp;</li><li>Limit the use of solitary confinement.</li><li>Revise the medical parole statute by separating the public safety assessment from the definition of medical eligibility, provide access to cognitively incapacitated individuals, clarify the timeline for the process and create an emergency process for considering petitions for those whose life expectancy is 6 months or less.</li><li>Increase support for reintegration through education and vocational training.&nbsp;</li><li>Increase support for individuals after their release to reduce the likelihood of re-incarceration.&nbsp;</li></ul><h4>Data Collection and Oversight: </h4><ul><li>Support continued efforts to collect aggregated data about charges and convictions for sentenced offenders in state and county correctional facilities.</li><li>Carry out the reforms of 2018 that called for more data collection. </li></ul>The reforms of 2018 have gone a long way, but we must continue to do more. As your state representative, I promise to advocate for the rights of the incarcerated and work to keep people out of the criminal justice system.

In 2018, reforms were enacted in our criminal justice system; since then, Massachusetts has seen a number of notable improvements. <a href="https://www.tbf.org/news-and-insights/reports/2024/january/criminal-justice-reform-in-ma-report" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">A Boston Foundation report</a> indicates that the reforms have led to a decline in crime and incarceration rates. However, the report also suggests that there is still more to be done to address racial disparities and to divert young adults from entering the criminal justice system.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM

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<h3>Newton prides itself on the quality of education we provide our students but we know that the needs of students have grown exponentially in the wake of the pandemic.</h3>As your State Rep, I will work to direct more resources toward social and emotional learning, mental health support, and funding to pay our teachers and aides competitive wages. We need to ensure that we meet every child where they are so that they can master the skills they need to succeed in whatever they choose to do when they leave our educational system.

Newton prides itself on the quality of education we provide our students but we know that the needs of students have grown exponentially in the wake of the pandemic. As your State Rep, I will work to direct more resources toward social and emotional learning, mental health support, and funding to pay our teachers and aides competitive wages.

EDUCATION

Massachusetts is a leader in gun violence prevention, with the lowest rate of gun deaths in the nation. Even so, the state must continue to combat the gun violence epidemic facing our communities. The passage of An Act Modernizing Firearms Laws (H.4885), recently signed into law by Governor Maura T. Healey, is a huge victory to make Massachusetts even safer. The law marks the first major piece of gun violence prevention legislation passed since 2014. Among other actions, it cracks down on homemade ghost guns and 3D printed guns, strengthens the state’s already existing Extreme Risk Protective Order (ERPO) statute (also known as the Red Flag Law), and enhances public safety and violence prevention. As Senate Majority Leader Cynthia S. Creem said, “It provides the tools needed to better protect our residents from the epidemic of gun violence and to prevent future tragedies.” I am very proud of Senator Creem’s and others’ dedicated efforts in getting this comprehensive and lifesaving gun safety legislation signed into law.However, more still needs to be done to further gun violence prevention. I support the following:<ul><li>Waiting Periods: Only six states and the District of Columbia impose waiting periods on the purchase of all firearms. Waiting period laws require a certain number of days to elapse between the buying and possession of a firearm, and can help prevent acts of gun violence driven by impulse or temporary emotions. As of December 31, 2023, Massachusetts has no law imposing a waiting period between the time of purchase and the actual physical transfer of a firearm.</li><li>Firearm Microstamping and Ballistic Identification: Only two states - California and New York - have laws regarding microstamping or ballistic identification. While microstamping technology is still developing, it is a way to help reduce gun violence and improve the solve rate of gun-related crimes. Each time a firearm is discharged, microstamping technology marks bullets and cartridge cases with a unique fingerprint, allowing for law enforcement to identify the gun used in the crime. The latest gun legislation signed into law establishes a commission to study the status and feasibility of utilizing microstamping and other firearm technology. I support this and other efforts to add microstamping and ballistic identification to our slate of gun violence prevention tools.</li><li>Restricting the sales or purchases of multiple firearms: Restricting the bulk purchases of firearms within a certain timeframe has been shown to help reduce the number of guns in the secondary market and reduce gun trafficking. Only a handful of communities limit the number of guns that can be purchased within a 30-day period: California, Maryland, New Jersey, Connecticut, and New York. Massachusetts should consider similar restrictions.</li></ul>

Massachusetts is a leader in gun violence prevention, with the lowest rate of gun deaths in the nation. Even so, the state must continue to combat the gun violence epidemic facing our communities.

GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION

<h3>Rep. Kay Khan has done an outstanding job obtaining funding for important projects in our district, and I look forward to hearing what you see as our pressing needs. </h3>I have already heard requests for investments in arts and culture, parks, reducing invasive plants in the Charles River, and helping our small businesses thrive.

Rep. Kay Khan has done an outstanding job obtaining funding for important projects in our district, and I look forward to hearing what you see as our pressing needs. I have already heard requests for investments in arts and culture, parks, reducing invasive plants in the Charles River, and helping our small businesses thrive.

LOCAL FUNDING

<h3>The north side of Newton is blessed with numerous options for public transportation:</h3>The Green Line in Auburndale and Lower Falls, the commuter rail in Newtonville, West Newton and Auburndale, and bus stops <a href="https://www.newtonma.gov/government/planning/transportation-planning/public-transportation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">in all of the Massachusetts 11th District</a>. While most of our residents who commute to work use a car, <a href="https://datacommon.mapc.org/profile/newton/transportation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">nearly 15%</a> take public transportation. Public transportation is vital for many reasons - it increases mobility options, particularly those who cannot afford a car or who can no longer drive; it reduces congestion on our roads, by reducing the number of single occupancy vehicles on the roads; it improves safety, because traveling by public transportation is safer than traveling by car; and it’s better for the environment, by causing less air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions than cars and trucks.So there are many reasons to support and invest in quality public transportation. Particularly as our village centers experience more density in response to the passage of the MBTA Communities Law, we will all benefit by new residents using public transportation for at least some of their travel, rather than single occupancy vehicles. Simply having access to subway, train or bus service is not enough though - that service must be affordable, reliable, safe, and accessible to the mobility challenged. And that is where the MBTA is not at the level our residents need and deserve.Service and Reliability: During the pandemic, the MBTA reduced frequency of service of the bus and commuter rail. Even before then, we needed more bus and rail service, not less. Many residents tell me they used to ride the express bus to Boston, until service was cut. They then switched to the Commuter Rail or the Green line to get downtown. However, they are finding they are reverting more and more to car transport - particularly in inclement weather, because it’s not fun to wait in the rain or cold for a train that may not arrive.I will advocate for public transportation, not only to reverse previous cuts to bus and train service but to expand them further so they provide a real alternative that is useful for our residents.Accessibility: It is an embarrassment that our three commuter rail stops are the only ones in the entire MBTA system that are not accessible to those with mobility challenges. It is promising that the MBTA is <a href="https://www.bcheights.com/2024/04/12/mbta-proposes-redesign-of-newton-commuter-rail-stations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">planning to upgrade the Newtonville stop</a>, but it long past time when they should have upgraded all our stops. I will be a firm and unyielding advocate for upgrades and accessibility for all our stops: Auburndale, West Newton and Newtonville.Sustainability: Having a well-run public transit system will help address the climate crisis. With more than 40 percent of greenhouse gas emissions coming from transportation infrastructure and vehicles, it is imperative that the state make public transit a more attractive alternative to car usage.I will advocate for electrification of our bus fleet and rail system as soon as possible. Both car commuters and transit advocates have expressed concern about the I-90 Allston project, in terms of how it will impact commutes, how the state intends to improve regional transit service to mitigate lack of car access during what is expected to be a seven-year construction period, and how the project aligns with the state’s climate and traffic reduction goals given the current proposal includes 12 lanes of traffic and no express bus lanes.I will work with MassDOT/Mass Highway/ and the MBTA to ensure a coordinated plan is in place during the construction period and that we ensure the project will not impede meeting the Commonwealth’s Climate Action Goals.Cycling advocates are looking to the state to provide funding and assistance to create safe and protected bike routes and more bike trails.I will work with state agencies to ensure potential bike and pedestrian trails are included in state infrastructure improvements.

Our residents deserve a safe, modern, well-functioning transportation system, and that includes roads and bridges, as well as our public transportation system - buses, subways, and trains. If we are to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector, we must provide an alternative to single-occupancy vehicles powered by gasoline.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

We must stand together to combat the rise in antisemitism, hate and hate crimes, and harassment. The <a href="https://www.justice.gov/crs/highlights/2022-hate-crime-statistics" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">FBI’s 2022 Hate Crimes Statistics Report</a> found an increase in hate crime incidents by 794 in 2022, based on race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, disability, and gender or gender identity. The report also found that the top bias categories reported were anti-Black or African American for race-based bias, anti-Jewish for religion-based bias, and targeting gay men for LGBTQI+ targeted bias.&nbsp; Hate crimes and incidents have been on the rise here in Newton. Given the recent rise in hate crimes specifically targeting the Jewish community and building on the recommendations of the <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/U.S.-National-Strategy-to-Counter-Antisemitism.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">2023 US National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism</a>, I support the following measures to combat antisemitism and all forms of hate: Increase understanding and awareness of our different cultures and communities, and the history of hate against them <ul><li>Support the inclusion of cultural, ethnic, religious, and identity histories, and the history of hate against them. Massachusetts has already adopted mandatory genocide education, but more still needs to be done to bring awareness and appreciation of the contributions of our many diverse communities.</li><li>Support the recognition and accommodation of major cultural holidays of all faith communities, including Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, Orthodox Christian, and Sikh communities.</li><li>Increase access to foods compliant with cultural and religious dietary needs in government funded programs. </li></ul>Improve safety and security <ul><li>Make it easier to report hate incidents to the appropriate authorities.</li><li>Share data on the rise in hate incidents in an easy to access public web portal.</li><li>Increase support for victims. Ensure that victims have access to legal, medical, and social or mental health services. </li></ul>Reverse the normalization of hate and discrimination <ul><li>Speak out against antisemitism and all forms of hate.</li><li>Review anti-discrimination laws and identify all tools that can be used to address every form of discrimination and hate. </li></ul>Build cross-community solidarity and collective action <ul><li>Continue to build relationships with other targeted groups.</li><li>Work with the local human rights commission, youth groups, faith organizations, and local law enforcement and host town halls and meetings to discuss ways to combat hate. </li></ul>My record as a public servant demonstrates that I always have, and always will stand against antisemitism and all forms of hate. I have a diverse coalition of supporters who hold a wide range of opinions on many issues, united by their trust and belief that I am the right choice to represent them in the Massachusetts State House.

We must stand together to combat the rise in antisemitism, hate and hate crimes, and harassment. The <a href="https://www.justice.gov/crs/highlights/2022-hate-crime-statistics" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">FBI’s 2022 Hate Crimes Statistics Report</a> found an increase in hate crime incidents by 794 in 2022.

HATE AND ANTISEMITISM

<h3>Here are my responses to a questionnaire I completed for the New Art Center and the Newton Cultural Alliance:</h3>Supporting Arts and CultureArts and culture strengthen our community, connect us to each other, create a welcoming sense of place, and improve our quality of life. In our economy, arts and culture promote tourism, stimulate significant economic activity, and encourage innovation and a creative workforce. The arts are also essential to education, as they aid in the development of critical thinking, communication, and innovation skills. Overall, the arts help create a welcoming, vibrant community, enhancing the quality of life of the residents and attracting tourists and businesses.What specific policies would you advocate for to support the arts and cultural sector in our state?I will advocate incorporating the arts into economic revitalization projects and programs, ensure art programs remain an essential part of K-12 curricula and receive adequate funding in education, and create more opportunities for technical assistance, professional development, and other forms of workforce development for creative workers. I will also encourage the expansion of tourism and support arts in healthcare.How do you plan to ensure sustainable funding for nonprofit organizations for arts programs and initiatives?Nonprofit organizations for art programs and initiatives cannot simply rely on the revenue they generate from ticket sales or subscriptions. They need continued support through public and private funding. I support the following to ensure sustainable funding for our nonprofit art organizations:<ul><li>Renewing our commitment to funding the Mass Cultural Council within the State Budget. The Mass Cultural Council was allocated $26.9 million in the FY2025 budget.</li><li>Establishing a percent-for-the-art program: levying a percentage against capital construction or renovation budgets for the purchase, commissioning, and installation of artworks; allocating a fixed amount of the municipality’s capital budget for public art; partnering with other government departments to include art into public infrastructure improvements; and partnering with regional institutions such as business chambers and academic institutions to secure matching funds and integrate public art into projects in public spaces.</li><li>Using fees and taxes to generate revenue for the arts, such as a portion of hotel/motel fees, room or sales taxes, corporate filing or recordation fees, or gaming revenues.</li></ul>How do you view the role of the arts in the state’s economic development?&nbsp;The arts are a key economic driver for the state’s economy. The National Endowment for the Arts, utilizing data from the Arts and Cultural Production Satellite Accounts (ACSPA) and the US Bureau of Economic Analysis, reports that in 2021, the arts and culture sector accounted for 4.2% of the state’s economy, comprising 133,773 jobs and $28.6 billion of economic impact. The arts and culture sector not only brings in direct revenue, but also generates indirect economic benefits: specifically, when people working in the arts and culture sector buy goods and services from other businesses, when people who visit arts and cultural events spend money on other things in the community, and when tourism increases and as a result brings in millions of dollars to Commonwealth.What strategies would you implement to use the cultural sector as a driver of economic growth?I support establishing pathways to creative jobs; growing small creative businesses; strengthening cultural non-profits; protecting and expanding spaces for the creation, presentation, and enjoyment of arts and culture throughout the commonwealth; and ensuring that artists have the creative spaces needed to do their work by protecting and creating new art spaces.What are your views on arts education in schools? How would you ensure that arts education remains a priority in the state’s education system?Arts have a critical role in our schools. In addition to teaching students to appreciate and make art, arts education fosters critical thinking, communication, and innovation skills. It provides kids with an opportunity to both explore their inner selves and find a new way to express themselves. It also guides students in learning to not only enrich themselves, but to share their talents with the community at large. Too often, art and music classes are subject to school budget or programmatic cuts, or are subject to fees which discourage participation. During my tenure on the City Council, I fought to save art and music programs and argued against the imposition of fees for music instruction and extracurricular activities such as band, orchestra, and theater in order to ensure every child had access. As your state representative, I will advance policies and support investments to ensure that all students have access to arts education from Pre-K - 12th grade.&nbsp;How do you plan to involve local communities in arts and cultural activities? What do you think could be done to better support local artists? And local nonprofits?Arts and cultural events build community. A tremendous amount of work, effort, and funding is required to put these events together - whether they are art and music festivals, or shows. Performance and gallery spaces are needed to host these events. Planning and event staff are needed to coordinate logistics, find local artists, and promote the events. Funding is needed, not only to pay for these spaces and coordinating and marketing services, but also to compensate artists for their work.To better support local community involvement in the arts and artists, I will support the following:<ul><li>Increasing funding for the Cultural Facilities Fund (CFF), which provides support for the planning and development of cultural facilities. More than half of CFF grants go to nonprofit cultural organizations with budgets of less than $1 million. CFF grants have also been used to create and restore studios and rehearsal and performance space.&nbsp;</li><li>Increasing funding for the Mass Cultural Council so they in turn can increase the amount of grant funding they provide applicants to host their festivals and projects. These grants are provided to support those activities that “contribute to the cultural vitality of the community” as opposed to any private individual or group.</li></ul>What measures would you take to make arts and culture more accessible to underserved communities?The most important way to make arts and culture more accessible to underserved communities is to provide resources to organizations committed to serving these communities. Whether it is for providing more materials and tools for arts education or for making exhibits/performances more accessible, funding will be key. I support the following:<ul><li>Increasing funding for arts programs that help buy materials and improve facilities. For example, I support ensuring that schools have access to musical instruments, art materials and equipment, and facilities to allow for creative spaces within schools or within the community for students to access (e.g. NewTV’s partnership with Newton Public Schools for studio space).</li><li>Increasing funding to arts organizations to allow free or reduced entrance/ticket fees to museums, concerts, and exhibits.</li><li>Increasing partnerships with our business community so they can provide necessary financial and technical support to increase community access to arts and culture.</li></ul>What initiatives would you support to provide direct assistance to individual artists? How do you plan to address the challenges faced by artists, such as affordable housing and workspace?I believe housing is a human right. Unfortunately, our government has not been intentional about creating and funding more affordable housing opportunities for everyone including our artist community. Instead, we are relying too much on the market to create the housing that we need. I believe our state and federal government needs to be more intentional to create more deeply affordable, affordable, and middle-income housing.&nbsp;Artists need affordable places to live and affordable places to create art. Like many, artists are being priced out and displaced as our area undergoes redevelopment and gentrification. I support efforts to increase equitable access to existing cultural infrastructure and to reduce barriers preventing the creation of&nbsp; new arts spaces. By strengthening partnerships with government and private developers, I believe we can preserve and protect existing housing and workspace, and create new ones. One such partnership is the Humphrey Street Studios in Dorchester, where the City of Boston leveraged city and federal ARPA funds, worked with non-profit organizations, and consulted a private real estate developer, to create a workspace for a diverse group of artists and creative businesses. This development is expected to also create live/work condominiums for homeownership with a majority preference for Boston-certified artists.What is your stance on public art projects and funding? How would you encourage the integration of public art into urban development projects?I support levying a percentage against capital construction or renovation budgets for the purchase, commissioning, and installation of artworks in public spaces, sometimes referred to as a Percentage of the Arts program. I also support allocating a fixed amount of a municipality’s capital budget for public art, and partnering with other government departments to include art into public infrastructure improvements when designing their projects.&nbsp;How do you plan to foster partnerships between the arts community and other sectors (e.g., business, education, tourism)? Can you provide examples of successful collaborations you’ve been involved in or supported?I intend to strengthen my relationship with the arts, education, and business communities, and encourage collaboration between them. I will work with regional institutions such as the Chamber of Commerce, our colleges and universities, and other institutions (like medical facilities) to support art through space sharing, exhibits and event hosting, and allowing greater public accessibility in both their public and private spaces to participate in their art and cultural events. Newton Wellesley Hospital is a great example of displaying art throughout its facilities. Lasell University has also shared its space to host concerts and events.I also support working in collaboration with local property owners: empty storefronts could be used to support pop-up markets, host studio and other creative spaces, and/or showcase art until the property owner has secured a tenant. Parking lots when not utilized by businesses could host craft fairs, farmers markets, or musical/movie events (like Northland did during the COVID-19 pandemic). Developers could enhance projects both under construction or on hold by hosting fence art created by local artists.&nbsp;Examples of successful collaborations I’ve been involved with or supported:<ul><li>Business collaborations: I supported many of the small/local business events hosted at the Allen House and am a regular supporter of our local arts and culture events held throughout the city - open studios, craft and harvest fairs, farmers markets, Friday evening concerts at the Hyde, and Sunday concerts in Newton Centre (my mother LOVED going to these concerts with me!).</li><li>Cultural collaborations: I worked with several AAPI organizations to organize, plan, and participate in heritage festivals and other cultural events with the City of Newton. I also volunteered with the Greater Boston Chinese Cultural Association with their program teaching 2nd and 3rd graders about Chinese culture and history.</li><li>Music collaborations: I worked with a private music school to help fund the acquisition of property. I have supported and hosted PorchFest, and supported and attended the Piano Summit.</li></ul>How do you think the state legislature can better support the arts?The state legislature can better support the arts by allocating more funding to arts and culture. This includes:<ul><li>Increasing funding to the Mass Cultural Council so they can increase their grant giving capacity.</li><li>Increasing funding for the Cultural Facilities Fund to enable continued investment for the acquisition, renovation, expansion, and construction of nonprofit and municipal cultural facilities throughout the state.</li><li>Establishing a grant program for towns and cities to support the vitality of downtowns and main streets for technical assistance, community planning, and expanding entrepreneurship, with a focus on supporting geographic and demographic diversity and social and economic equity.&nbsp;</li><li>Considering tax credits (such as for film and live theater) and other financial incentives to help grow the arts community.</li><li>Making permitting easier.</li><li>Ensuring equitable access to art and culture for all residents.</li><li>Including arts and culture when considering other sectors of the economy, such as adding public art to infrastructure projects.</li></ul>What is your vision for the future of arts and culture in our community? How do you think we can achieve that vision together?Newton is extremely fortunate to have many cultural organizations, as well as numerous music and art schools and institutions. Each works to provide a range of artistic and cultural opportunities and programs to enrich and enhance the quality of life here in Newton, However, much of their time is spent in search of funding for their programs and services. I support the establishment of a local community foundation to provide much needed financial, technical, and other related assistance to our non-profit institutions.I also support efforts to create a cultural district along Washington Street. Cultural districts enable cities and towns to expand their tax base and support the growth of their cultural sector. Communities can apply to the Mass Cultural Council for designation and if approved, these cultural districts would be eligible for grant funding.Personal Commitment to the ArtsI am a lifelong participant and supporter of the arts. As a child, I studied dance at age 4 at a local dancing school because my mother believed I needed to become more socially integrated with other children. While at my dancing school, a local talent agent suggested I audition for commercials and other acting opportunities. I ended up doing commercials for Zest Soap and Eastern Airlines and became a member of the Screen Actors Guild. I got a bit part as a Chinese student playing ping pong with the actor playing Richard Nixon on the Alan King Show. I then went on to portray Jade Snow Wong as an adolescent for this <a href="https://vimeo.com/126857095" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">PBS</a> show.In 4th grade, I was able to take up violin lessons that were offered as part of my public school’s music program. My teacher asked me to also take up the viola and flute. I was a member of my school’s orchestra, band, and chorus. When my parents learned that I had musical abilities, they purchased a spinet piano and encouraged me to take piano lessons. I was also studying ballet at the New York School of Ballet and studying with Richard Thomas. By middle school, I had to choose between ballet and piano studies. I ended up choosing piano and eventually auditioned and was accepted to the Juilliard School of Music’s Pre-College Division - where I studied classical piano with Miyoko Lotto, Herbert Stessin, Jane Carlson, Michael Lewin, and Katherine Parker. After graduating from Juilliard, I attended Barnard College and pursued a degree in Political Science.Since then, I have continued to support the arts. All three of my children studied music and participated in choral groups, orchestra, band, and school and camp performances. My family and I have also been active participants with the Greater Boston Chinese Cultural Association, studying Chinese language as well as Chinese culture.&nbsp;I have served on the Community Advisory Board of WGBH, the Community Advisory Board of UMASS Institute for Asian American Studies, the John M. Barry Newton Boys and Girls Club, and the All Newton Music School.&nbsp;As a founder and trustee of the Charles River Neighborhood Foundation, my husband and I have supported numerous art and cultural organizations throughout Newton and the greater Boston area including the Suzuki School of Music, the New Art Center, and the Piano Summit. We are also regular attendees of many Newton arts and cultural events.My husband’s family is also very active in the arts. My mother-in-law, Anita Sangiolo, was a co-founder of the Playhouse at Piccadilly Square with Frank and Muriel Dolan, was lead actor in the Belle of Amherst, was part of the original cast of Shear Madness, performed in numerous plays including opposite Al Pacino, was Mrs. Baxter in the WCVB original version of “The Baxters”, was the voice in the original NOVA production of the Miracle of Life, and served as a spokesperson for Stop and Shop. Her brother, Robert Ridolfi, was an accomplished violist and played with the Glenn Miller Orchestra.

Arts and culture strengthen our community, connect us to each other, create a welcoming sense of place, and improve our quality of life. In our economy, arts and culture promote tourism, stimulate significant economic activity, and encourage innovation and a creative workforce.

ARTS AND CULTURE

<h3>Addressing the Climate Crisis </h3>Climate change is an existential crisis threatening all that we hold dear, including the very livability of our planet. The state legislature has passed important legislation regarding climate change, but there is much more we can and must do. There are two primary areas for climate action:&nbsp; 1) climate mitigation, which means reducing the causes of climate change, especially the burning of fossil fuels; and&nbsp; 2) climate adaptation, which means protecting people and property and natural systems from the impacts of climate change that are already here. We must act boldly on both. Climate MitigationThe City of Newton has taken many steps to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, such as investing in energy efficiency and solar and heat pumps for our municipal and school buildings, switching our sedan fleet to EVs, and implementing Newton Power Choice. But to truly meet the urgency of the moment and reach the state goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, we must do much more, and we must have a partner on Beacon Hill to help us.&nbsp;Renewable Energy <ol><li>Support more wind and solar projects and ensure they are appropriately sited, minimizing impact on the natural environment.</li><li>Increase our investment in the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC).</li><li>Promote more energy storage opportunities to increase grid reliability.</li><li>Focus on the repair of leaky gas lines and cease investments in the replacement or installation of new gas lines; change financial incentives for investor-owned utilities such that they are financially rewarded for advancing renewable energy rather than methane gas. </li></ol>Sustainable Development: With 30% of greenhouse gas emissions coming from existing buildings, it is critical that carbon emission standards are set if we are to reach our net-zero emission standards. We need to do the following: <ol><li>Encourage retrofits through incentives and through the support of a green bank to provide funding for energy efficiency improvements for underserved communities.</li><li>Ban new fossil fuel hookups in all new construction, and increase incentives for clean energy upgrades in existing buildings.</li><li>Require emission reporting from existing buildings and set targets for reduction of their&nbsp;greenhouse gas emissions.</li></ol>Sustainable transportation:&nbsp; 40% of Massachusetts greenhouse gas emissions are from the transportation sector. We won’t meet our 2050 goal without tackling transportation.&nbsp; <ol><li>Increase investments to upgrade and expand our public transportation system, and electrify our rail and buses - including school buses.</li><li>Create safe and accessible alternative means of travel - including bike lanes, pedestrian paths, and trails.</li><li>Assist communities with electric car charging stations. </li></ol>Waste Reduction:&nbsp; Waste disposal is a large burden on city and town finances. Shifting responsibility for these costs to product and packaging manufacturers will help lower carbon emissions and lower the amount of trash that goes to our landfills, which are running out of space. We need to do the following: <ol><li>Newton and many other communities have adopted bans on plastic bags, polystyrene, and miniature alcohol bottles. Not only has this reduced the amount of toxic plastic pollution in our environment, it has reduced the amount of litter on our parks and roadways. As your State Representative I will urge prohibitions on these forms of plastic pollution statewide.&nbsp;</li><li>Expand the bottle bill.</li><li>Support food waste management and reduction.</li></ol>Climate Adaptation Newton is already seeing the impacts of climate change in the form of extreme heat, more frequent and severe flooding, increased incidence of drought, and more. The good news is there are things we can do to protect ourselves and our community.&nbsp; Flooding/Heat/DroughtClimate change is bringing more intense rainstorms, which overwhelm our stormwater system which was simply not built for the volume of rainwater entering stormwater pipes and culverts. It is also the case that many of our homes and buildings are built on filled-in wetlands; over 80% of Newton’s original wetlands are gone, and that is where the water is coming back to. (Remember the August 2023 storm in which dozens of cars were totaled in the Newton Free Library parking lot, which was historically a wetland.)&nbsp;We need to be changing how we treat our built environment, minimizing asphalt wherever possible, and investing in “nature-based solutions” – solutions that replicate nature and restore natural hydrology. Trees, rain gardens, bioswales are all examples of nature based solutions that reduce the risk of flooding by holding and infiltrating water rather than directing it to storm drains.&nbsp; These nature based solutions also help reduce increasing temperatures and drought. Newton has taken baby steps toward this approach to our built environment, but with leadership from Beacon Hill, we could be moving with more urgency.&nbsp; <ol><li>I will work with State Sen. Cindy Creem for passage of her bill to provide financial incentives to cities and towns to take steps to invest in climate resilience.&nbsp; </li><li>I will work with State Sen. Jamie Eldridge to advance his bill to make it easier for the Governor’s office to impose water conservation measures during periods of extreme drought.&nbsp;</li></ol><a href="/environmental-forum-response" target="" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Check out my responses to the Environmental Forum</a>

Climate change is an existential threat facing all of humanity. Massachusetts is considered a leader in climate action thanks to the 2008 Global Warming Solutions Act and the 2021 Next-Generation Roadmap for Massachusetts Climate Policy, but there is much more to do.

CLIMATE

I have a long track record of accomplishment from 20 years serving you on the Newton City Council on everything from environmental protection to affordable housing to transparency in government to constituent services. I ask for your vote on September 3 so that I may continue to serve you!

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