Capitol Comments
By State Rep. Patricia A. Walrath 3rd Middlesex District

Region - With a new month upon us, it is time to enjoy summer to the fullest. Fire up the grill, catch a Sox game, go to the beach - but make sure you wear sunblock! The dog days of summer are here, but things at the State House continue to be formal until August, when we will meet informally twice a week until Labor Day. Here is a look at what has been happening recently:

Legislation in the works: The third annual sales tax holiday would be held Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 11 and 12. The exemption would not apply to items more than $2,500, telecommunication, tobacco, gas, steam, electricity, motor board, motor vehicles or meal purchases. An ID theft bill, Darfur divestment, and Chapter 91, which deals with tidelands, will also be on the governor's desk soon since they have been passed by both the House and Senate. More foreclosure help in Massachusetts: A few months ago, I highlighted some organizations that focus on helping homeowners prevent foreclosures. Legislation is in the works to curb foreclosures in the commonwealth. The proposed bill would establish felony provisions on unfair mortgage lending practices and an employer-assisted housing program. Other parts of the bill call for state licensing of mortgage originators, in-person counseling for consumers seeking variable rate mortgages, and a foreclosure database. The bill would make businesses establishing employer-assisted housing programs eligible for matching funds from the Department of Housing and Community Development.

Welcome home bonus: Are you or a loved one in the armed forces aware of this available bonus? The Welcome Home Bonus offers $1,000 to veterans who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan after Sept. 11, 2001. There is also a $500 bonus for veterans who have served in other countries after the same date. In Massachusetts, there are approximately 28,000 residents who are eligible for the bonus, which is included in a list of benefits and bonuses in a "Welcome Home" package that veterans receive after returning from war.

Prevention of mosquitoborne illnesses: Though the summer brings a lot of fun, there are bugs - especially mosquitoes - that we need to watch for during these hot months. Mosquitoes are carriers for two potentially fatal diseases: Eastern Equine Encephalitis, or Triple E, and West Nile Virus. Oftentimes, people infected with West Nile Virus show no symptoms. Some people will have a fever, headache, body aches and nausea, which are common symptoms of Triple E as well. There are no specific treatments for either of these diseases so the best treatment for them is prevention. If you are planning to be outdoors, do so after dawn and before dusk when mosquitoes are less active. When outdoors, wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt and socks. Mosquito repellent containing DEET, permethrin or picaridin should be used. Oil of lemon eucalyptus is also as eff ective as low concentrations of DEET. For information about pesticides, call the Massachusetts Department of Public Health at 617-624- 5757.

Made in Massachusetts Day: The third annual Made in Massachusetts Day was celebrated in the State House recently and featured many participants from across the commonwealth. The governor was in attendance, sampling the many food items and asking questions about products and services that were on display. Mathworks of Natick, Vaillancourt Folk Art of Sutton, and Ravel Technology of North Adams were just a few of the businesses in the Great Hall. There was delicious pie from Ever So Humble Pies of East Walpole, samples from Brigham's Ice Cream (Arlington) and Friendly's (Wilbraham), crunchy snacks from Cape Cod Potato Chips of Hyannis, and a comfortable seat from which to enjoy and take it all in from Nantucket Beach Chairs of Nantucket. Green Wave Mosaics of Worcester displayed their "Smart Murals," which are pleasing to the eye while they protect you or your home. Security sensors such as video, microphones and gas detectors are placed behind the murals to keep you, your family and your property safe. Visit www.facente.com for more information.

As always, please feel free to share your questions, comments or opinions with me by calling 617-722-2430; writing to Room 236 State House, Boston, MA 02133; or sending e-mail to Rep. PatriciaWalrath@hou.state. ma.us.

Editor's note: Rep. Walrath serves the 3rd Middlesex District of Hudson, Bolton, Maynard and Stow.