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Ballot Questions:
This November, you’ll see four ballot questions ranging from a variety of topic areas. Ballot questions like these are a way for the public to propose laws and constitutional amendments without the Governor or Legislature’s action. I am voting YES on all four ballot questions, and I hope you’ll join me. Here’s a breakdown of the ballot initiatives for the 2022 Massachusetts State Election:
Question 1: Additional Tax on Income Over One Million Dollars
This proposed constitutional amendment would establish an additional 4% state income tax on that portion of annual taxable income in excess of $1 million today. This $1 million threshold would be adjusted annually, by the same method used for federal income-tax brackets, to reflect increases on the cost of living. Revenues from this tax would be used, subject to appropriation by the State Legislature, for public education, public colleges and universities, and for the repair and maintenance of roads, bridges, and public transportation. The proposed amendment would apply to tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2023.
I am voting YES on Question 1 to make our tax system fairer and provide more funding for essential services like public transportation and education.
For more information on Question 1, click here or here.
Question 2: Regulation of Dental Insurance
This proposed law would require dental insurance carriers to submit to the insurance commissioner current and projected medical loss ratios for plans and specified financial information. It would also regulate dental insurance rates, including by requiring companies to spend at least 83% of premiums on member dental expenses and quality improvements instead of administrative expenses, and by making other changes to dental insurance regulations.
I am voting YES on Question 2 to expand consumer protection laws that already exist for medical insurance companies to dental insurance companies, and to ensure better coverage and value for patients.
For more information on Question 2, click here.
Question 3: Expanded Availability of Licenses for the Sale of Alcoholic Beverages
This proposed law would increase the statewide limits on the combined number of licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages for off-premises consumption that any one retailer could own or control; from 9 to 12 licenses in 2023; to 15 licenses in 2017; and 18 licenses in 2031. Package stores, convenience stores, supermarkets, etc. will be able to apply for additional licenses for their existing locations that do not currently sell alcohol. The law would also add out-of-state motor vehicle licenses to the list of forms of identification that any holder of a license issued under the State Liquor Control Act, of their agent or employee, may choose to reasonably rely on for proof of a person’s identity and age.
I am voting YES on Question 3 to fulfill the consumer desire for expanded convenience in a reasonable and balanced manner that also protects against illegal sales.
For more information on Question 3, click here.
Question 4: Eligibility for Driver’s Licenses
This ballot question would approve the Work and Family Mobility Act which was overwhelmingly passed by 75% of the Massachusetts Legislature in June 2022. This law allows Massachusetts residents who cannot provide proof of lawful presence in the United States to obtain a standard driver's license or learner’s permit if they meet all other qualifications for standard license or learner’s permit, including a road test, insurance, and at least two documents that show proof of their identity, date of birth, and residency.
I am voting YES on Question 4 to keep in place the law that ensures safer roads for everyone and fight back against a fear driven campaign that would reverse this law. This common sense law helps families legally make essential trips, like dropping off kids at school, getting to work, attending medical appointments, and going to the grocery store. We are all safer when all drivers are tested, licensed, and insured.
For more information on Question 4, click here or here.
Voting is one of the most powerful tools that citizens have to influence change in their communities, and is a very important part of our Democracy. In this election, your vote has the potential to determine the future of reproductive rights, immigration laws, climate change, allocation of resources and so much more. I hope that this explanation of the ballot questions helped provide insight into what is at stake, however, please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns. I am happy to discuss any of these topics further.
Lastly, I wanted to let you know that a Letter to the Editor I wrote, Clean Water Should be a Fundamental Human Right, was published in Commonwealth Magazine last week regarding the State effort that will help remove lead pipe service lines to Massachusetts Homes. The Beacon Hill Times also published a story regarding the issue, Rep. Livingstone Spearheading Clean - Water Effort to Replace State’s Lead Pipes. If you think your building or apartment building may have lead service lines, please check; your municipality may be able to aid the replacement and lead removal.
I hope you are enjoying the fall weather and the many things New England has to offer this time of year. I am looking forward to seeing many of you around the district in the coming months.
In your service,
Jay D. Livingstone
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