Dear MassCOP Members,
This morning, in lieu of the typical update I have been providing, I will just say that many of the amendments did not go in our favor yesterday. We were able to keep some aspects of Due Process, the most positive being that it is likely that we will be able to maintain our collective bargaining process for discipline. MassCOP leadership has recognized a core group of Representatives that have backed us on nearly every vote and that have spoken passionately on our behalf. We will be getting those names to you after the process is over.
Most importantly, this morning, all of the Qualified Immunity Amendments WILL be coming to the floor today for debate. Amendment #176, filled by Rep. Hecht, is an amendment THAT CAN NOT PASS!!!
Scott A. Hovsepian
President
John E. Nelson
First Vice President
Robert W. Murphy
Secretary/Treasurer
P: 508-581-9336
F: 508-581-9564
Qualified Immunity Amendments: Amendment #176 Must Not Pass!
Most of the other QI Amendments put it into a study, where lawyers and judges who have actually argued or presided over QI cases, will make up the panel. This is an issue that must be addressed IMMEDIATELY by flooding your State Rep’s office and email with calls to oppose Amendment #176. The House Reps will be watching very carefully the amount of calls and emails they receive on this issue. If it looks like we don’t care, they will pass it. Be respectful, but very firm, that you expect your Rep to vote against Amendment #176. This single vote will eliminate the possibility of getting Qualified Immunity into a study where it actually belongs.
I know everyone is tired of making calls and sending emails and you may feel like you are not making a difference, but I can assure you that every single communication with your Representative is making a HUGE difference. We have been told time and time again, that our calls and emails are extremely important to how this process plays out. This is the last push before they take the final vote on the amended bill
In Solidarity,
Scott A. Hovsepian
President
