Negotiators on Friday were unable to reach agreement on a police licensing and accountability bill. Legislative leaders and Gov. Charlie Baker had set July 31 as the target date to finalize a deal, and talks were active on Friday. The House adjourned at 12:34 a.m. Saturday after enacting a $1.8 billion information technology bill that is replete with local project earmarks. The bill also includes $40 million to replace State Police cruisers and $20 million for policy body cameras. A climate change and emissions reduction bill cleared the House on a 142-17 vote earlier in the session, which began just after 11 a.m. Friday. The climate bill is now likely headed to a conference committee. Conference panels are already established on economic development, health care and transportation spending bills. House Speaker Robert DeLeo didn’t specify a timeline on the policing bill in a statement released after Friday’s session. “Regarding police reform, the conferees are working productively to come to agreement. We are committed to reaching resolution, and the conferees will take the time to get it right,” DeLeo said. The House meets next on Monday at 11 a.m. in an informal session. – Michael P. Norton
