July 28, 2010

State Representative Allen McCarthy yesterday joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing legislation requiring health insurance companies to cover the diagnosis of and treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders.

“As a co-sponsor of this legislation, I am very excited to see it on the move,” said McCarthy. “Autism Spectrum Disorder affects 1 in every 110 children, including many of my constituents.  Over the past few months, I have heard from many parents and family members about the critical need for this bill.  I look forward to adding Massachusetts to the list of more than 20 states that have already passed similar legislation.”

July 23, 2010

State Representative Allen McCarthy yesterday joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing legislation designed to control health care costs for small businesses.

The legislation requires carriers to submit rate filings to the Department of Insurance (DOI) at least ninety days before the effective date with sufficient detail so that the DOI may approve the rates or disapprove if the rates are found inadequate, excessive or unreasonable in relation to the benefits provided.

July 21, 2010

State Representative Allen McCarthy yesterday joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in restoring $12.5 million to the Workforce Training Fund, which provides employers with grants aimed at educating and training existing members of the workforce and new hires.

“The Workforce Training Fund is a critical investment because it benefits businesses and employees alike,” said McCarthy.  “With assistance from the fund, businesses get the talented workers they need to thrive and expand, and employees acquire skills that will serve them well throughout their career.  It’s one step we can take to help promote economic development right here in Massachusetts.”

July 21, 2010

The Massachusetts House of Representatives has passed legislation establishing a Silver Alert program to assist in locating seniors with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia who have gone missing.  Representative McCarthy supported the bill.

“I hope this legislation will give some peace of mind to families caring for a loved one affected by Alzheimer’s or dementia,” said McCarthy.  “A coordinated system, staffed by trained personnel and prepared to respond to these particular emergencies, is relay a necessity.”

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has announced a simpler system for parking lot payments that will allow everyone from daily commuters to visitors to use their mobile phones and an online account to pay for parking at MBTA lots.

Beginning July 23rd, customers parking in MBTA-owned and operated lots with existing cash honor boxes, including those at the Abington, Bridgewater, and Whitman commuter rail stations, will be able to pay for parking online or via phone while in their cars or once they board a train, bus, or commuter boat.

July 8, 2010

State Representative Allen McCarthy yesterday joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in approving an amendment that would allow a state sales tax holiday on August 14th and 15th of this year to encourage consumers to shop at local businesses across the state.

The amendment is part of an economic development bill passed by the House that would streamline economic development agencies, make Massachusetts more attractive to businesses and repeal the state’s medical and pharmaceutical gift ban.  The amendment passed by a vote of 134-13.

July 8, 2010

State Representative Allen McCarthy yesterday joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing economic development legislation that would streamline economic development agencies, make Massachusetts more attractive to businesses, repeal the state’s medical and pharmaceutical gift ban and establish a sales tax holiday this summer.

"This legislation will help businesses access the resources they need to locate, expand, and create jobs right here in Massachusetts," said McCarthy.  "I was especially pleased to vote in favor of a summer sales tax holiday, which will benefit local businesses and consumers alike."

July 1, 2010

As part of the budget for the new fiscal year, the Restaurant Rejuvenation Act was signed into law yesterday allowing restaurants to serve alcohol starting at 10 a.m. on Sunday.