News: Press Releases & Statements
JONES JOINS STAFF, TAKES VOLUNTARY FURLOUGH
11.30.09 | Contact: Sarah Scalese, 617-722-2100
BOSTON—House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. today announced he’d be taking a voluntary furlough. This announcement comes after Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo announced all House staff would be required to take a five day furlough to help tighten the budget gap.
The members of the House are not constitutionally obligated to take a furlough, however Representative Jones said everyone needs to share in the sacrifice as state lawmakers deal with a massive budget shortfall.
“My staff works very hard and for limited money,” said Representative Jones who pushed for a statewide furlough during the budget debate last April. “If they can go five days without being paid, it’s the least I can do to show them and my constituents I understand the magnitude of this economic crisis. Some of my constituents are working two or three jobs just to make ends meet, while others continue struggling to find employment.”
Representative Jones added he’s disappointed the financial picture has worsened over the last few months saying the Legislature should have been more proactive.
“I pushed for a statewide furlough and a number of other cost savings proposals in April because the outlook was bleak. Had we been more proactive then, we may not be in such a horrible situation now. Those ideas were unfortunately rejected in favor of significant tax increases.”