Cowardly Dem Senate in MA takes voice vote to strip collective bargaining rights

[seaglass]

"Senate limits bargaining rights to save on health costs"


http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2011/05/27/massachusetts_senate_limits_bargaining_rights_to_save_on_health_costs/

"The Massachusetts Senate voted last night to curb the collective bargaining rights of police officers, teachers and other municipal employees, making it likely the overwhelming Democratic state will limit union power in an effort to ease budget woes.

The voice vote, with barely any debate, came a month after House lawmakers approved similar legislation in hope of saving cities and towns $100 million in the next budget year. Governor Deval Patrick has indicated he is eager to sign the bill once the two branches hash out their differences.

Senate President Therese Murray, who negotiated the bill on collective bargaining behind closed doors, sounded relieved after it was approved without a floor flight just before 9 p.m."


MA Senate - 36 Democrats, 4 Republicans
MA House - 128 Democrats, 31 Republicans
Governor - 1 Democrat

This is a betrayal. I am sure it would have been much worse if the Republicans were in charge - somehow that doesn't make this a damn bit better.