State Senator Dennis Rosa secures funds for tank Transportation
Leominster Champion
April 25th, 2012
State Senator Dennis A. Rosa, a strong advocate for all local veterans, made an amendment proposal to the Senate during budget talks, and received a unanimous vote of approval for $10,000 to secure transportation of the tank that will sit in the Jonathan Roberge Veterans Memorial Park on Mechanic Street.
In a telephone interview with Rosa, he said, "I made the amendment during the budget talks, which is moving very fast. I asked for the money to transport the tank from North Carolina to Leominster. I told the Senate that this is the first park in Massachusetts that will honor all the soldiers in the state who did not return from the war. To my surprise, the vote passed 157 to zero to get the money," he said.
Rosa said he made his short presentation with information from Park Committee members Tucker Hazzard and David Nault.
"These guys gave me the information I needed. I cannot tell you how thrilled I am this passed, especially with the entire Senate approving it. The Senators know how passionate I am with helping Veterans. I am so pumped," he added.
Work on the park has started with ground clearing, and the next step is getting the landfill in to even the park off. All work is being done by volunteers.
Rosa has been a staunch supporter for Veteran’s benefits during his career, being a Veteran of the Vietnam War himself.
The committee for the park does have a tank, much like the one Roberge served in waiting to come up. Before the tank can be placed, the ground work must be complete, as well as the flag poles and lighting in place.
Bill seeks fairer standard for child-abuse investigations
Sentinel and Enterprise
March 2, 2012
LEOMINSTER -- Massachusetts has the 14th-largest population in the country and among its most educated citizens, but has the highest number of families under investigation for child abuse, said child advocate Mary Jean.
"It doesn't make any sense at all," she said Thursday. "When you look at the numbers, they don't collate and that's because we have this low threshold."
That "low threshold" means cases in which children may be taken from their parents because investigators have "reasonable cause to believe" abuse occurred. Under a bill filed by state Rep. Dennis Rosa, D-Leominster, that threshold will change to "no reasonable doubt" of abuse.
"Reasonable cause" can be based on rumor, hearsay or outright lies, but "reasonable doubt" must be based on evidence such as an X-ray showing a child's arm has been broken, Jean and Rosa said.
Rosa's bill was released by the Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities on Tuesday. Rosa said he will start lobbying today to get the bill its first reading in the House.
Forty-seven states use the "no reasonable doubt" standard established by the federal government, Rosa said.
"We're not reinventing anything. We're not taking protections from families and children," he said. "We're just making it more fair."
The DCF has 15 days to investigate after a child-abuse allegation is filed and then must decide whether to support the claim or reject it.
"When you look at the models of the other states, and you have 47 to look at, nowhere near the cost we have and they still protect children and families adequately," he said.
Rosa's bill doesn't change the requirement for an investigation, but the results could be different.
It can take as long as five years for parents to get hearings to rebut allegations and up to two more years for a ruling, Rosa and Jean said.
A change in the law would free up resources at DCF so case workers can better protect children, Rosa said.
Children in foster care in Massachusetts are four times more likely to suffer abuse than children in other states, he said.
Advocates for the bill lobbied representatives on Beacon Hill in a prearranged date Wednesday, but the bill was released Tuesday.
Rosa and Jean said they believe their planned lobbying effort may have spurred the committee into releasing the bill.
It is an important bill for Rosa. He started working on it within three weeks of his election in 2009.
The bill was submitted to the Legislature in January 2011, and a hearing was held in October.
This is the first bill filed by Rosa that made it out of committee.
He praised the committee chairman of the House delegation, Rep. Kay Khan, D-Newton, for her work getting the October hearing scheduled and the decision to release it to the House.
A second bill to hire an ombudsman for the DCF did not make it out of committee.
Rep. Kimberly Ferguson, D-Holden, who represents Westminster and serves on the committee, was not immediately available for comment.
A spokesman for DCF was not immediately ready to offer reaction to the bill.
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"HELPING HANDS" GUIDE UPDATED
In October of 2009, the Office of State Representative Dennis A. Rosa compiled a comprehensive guide for the citizens of Leominster entitled "Helping Hands". This guide provided phone numbers and information of local and state agencies that would be able to assist citizens whether it is for housing, food, clothing, fuel assistance or tax relief services. It was designed as a resource to help prevent at risk people of becoming homeless and to assist the constituents of the 4th Worcester District (Leominster), which Representative Rosa represents. However, there is useful information that will help families and individuals in communities nearby.
Representative Rosa's office was surprised by the requests for the "Helping Hands" guide. "The need for services and the guide has not changed; it is in as much demand today as it was in 2009, stated Representative Rosa, as the economy has not improved much since that time." Therefore, in January of 2012 the "Helping Hands" guide has been updated, and it now includes health services, tax assistance services and additional information on several of the agencies. The guide includes not only phone numbers, but information about the agency explaining what each of them has to offer; so that people can select the service they need. The guide is available at the District Office of State Representative Dennis Rosa; on his website at www.dennisrosa.com in printable version; Leominster Public Library; Leominster Mayor's Office and Leominster City Hall.
Downloadable copy can be found here.
Leominster receives ice storm reimbursement
2011-12-30
State Representative Dennis A. Rosa (D-Leominster) announced that the City of Leominster has received $413,205 for the second round of funding for the damages incurred during the December 2008 ice storm.
This brings Leominster's total to $786,844. Even though the North Central Mass. Delegation was told that there would be no more funding available for the ice storm, they worked together and lobbied the Speaker of the House and the legislature, and were successful in obtaining the second round of funding that was due them.
"The receipt of these funds is a team effort, for which I am extremely grateful and proud to be a part of", stated Rosa.
He would like to once again congratulate the Emergency Management Team, the DPW, Mayor's Office, the city's finance team and the City Council for the excellent handling of not only the physical aspects of the storm, but also for the financial accounting of all expenses incurred.
The reporting of these expenses to the State in a timely manner enabled the City of Leominster to receive a huge share of the monies that were available to the communities in Central Mass. that were affected by the storm.
"The timely response by all parties involved made my job as State Representative a lot easier. I am extremely grateful and proud to represent such a great community where everyone works together to get the job done", stated Representative Rosa.
Legislators encourage changing family abuse laws
2011-12-02
Rosa says necessary aid is misplaced
Although the State of Massachusetts ranks number 14 in highest population in the nation, the state leads the country in the amount of supported cases of child maltreatment.
Rep. Dennis Rosa (D-Leominster) believes that a few changes could go a long way towards reducing that number.
While the problem with the state system has been apparent to Rosa since he took office, the number of issues surrounding children and family abuse that continue to be brought to his attention has only encouraged him to address the possibility of making changes.
During a recent meeting with the Committee on Children, Families and Individuals with Disabilities, Rosa advocated passing legislation which he filed last January that will force courts to find evidence with "no reasonable doubt" in order to determine child maltreatment in the Commonwealth.
"The Department of Children and Families has a statuary obligation to protect children. Individual caseworkers are dedicated to their job, however based on the "reasonable cause to believe" low threshold, this leads to a systemic overload. Children in Massachusetts are four times more likely to be abused in foster care than with their biological families," he said.
There are currently 47 other states that use the "no reasonable doubt" standard, forcing caseworkers to visit every family rather than make a judgment after a brief phone call. As a result of greater due diligence being done when a case is brought to the attention of the state, the courts will have fewer cases clogging the system.
Currently, while a Fair Hearing is to be scheduled within ninety days of entering custody, it has been known to take up to eight years to obtain such a meeting. These delays happen for many reasons.
"One care and protection case can involve up to four state appointed attorneys and years of ongoing court action," said Rosa.
There is also only a staff of three children advocates for the cases that come before nine state agencies and the Department of Children and Families.
The results of these hearings could prevent parents from obtaining a job and securing visitation rights, which means it is crucial that a quick, fair, and accurate determination be made as a result of these meetings.
Rosa also encouraged the creation of an Independent Ombudsman's Office within the court system, which according to a press release sent out about the initiative," will be used to investigate complaints against and become involved with children under the care of the Department of Children and Families, which is charged with ensuring the well being of abused and neglected children."
"The Independent Ombudsman's Office bill will put a process in place that will give the Ombudsman's Office statutory authority to force actions, initiate corrective actions or remove actions taken by the Department," said Rosa.
Because the director of the current Ombudsman Office answers to the Chief of Staff for the Commissioner for the DCF, Rosa believes that it forces the staff to taken the needs of the department in higher regard than the needs of the children and families who need the services of the department.
Creating a more efficient system that eliminates the additional costs that are incurred by unnecessary or delayed court processes could also result in major savings for the state. Rosa hopes that the money that could be saved through having, what he believes will be, a more efficient system could be used towards childcare for working families who are struggling to make ends meet.
Though it might take a bit of time to pass, Rosa feels that the hard work will be worth the effort if it ensures that more children in the Commonwealth will be safe and protected.
Rep. Rosa: Tighten DCF laws
May 9th, 2011
Sentinel & Enterprise
LEOMINSTER -- Rep. Dennis Rosa, D-Leominster, says the laws granting the Department of Children and Families the right to take action against caretakers accused of abuse and neglect need tightening.
Rosa said two bills he filed in the Legislature in January are aimed at reducing the number of innocent people accused of child abuse or neglect from unnecessary scrutiny, and providing people with an avenue to file consumer complaints against the DCF.
Rosa said he was compelled to file the legislation after child and family advocate Mary Jean of Leominster told him she believes there are an inordinate number of frivolous complaints filed against parents in Massachusetts, which often result in lengthy investigations and actions that adversely affect the accused.
"This is quite common. You have people who are innocent fall through the cracks in the system," Rosa said.
The first petition proposed the language of Chapter 119, section 51B of the Massachusetts General Laws be changed so that DCF officials would have to have "no reasonable doubt" after investigations that children are victims of abuse or neglect before they can act.
The law currently says officials must have "reasonable cause to believe" children are being harmed.
DCF has the right to take children into custody if they believe they're in immediate danger, according to the law. Parents are subject to investigation by local law enforcement officials if physical or sexual abuse is suspected and can be required to submit to services offered by the DCF to improve a child's living conditions.
The second petition would establish an independent office for the ombudsman to investigate consumer complaints against the DCF.
The ombudsman would, according to the petition, refer infractions by the department to the appropriate law enforcement agency for prosecution. The ombudsman would be appointed by the chief justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, under Rosa's proposal.
James Dwyer, D-Woburn, co-sponsored the bills.
Jean, who said she's in a relationship with Rosa and was involved in filing the bills, said the ombudsman is now directly linked to the DCF office, so neutrality in handling complaints is questionable.
Jean said the Massachusetts standard for DCF action is quite low compared to other states, and it gums up the system.
"It leads to an excessive amount of work. The kids who really need the help don't get the help, because the system is so flooded," Jean said.
The bills have been referred to the Joint Committee on Children, Families, and Persons with Disabilities, though hearings have yet to be scheduled.
Rosa and Jean said they met with DCF Commissioner Angelo McClain shortly after the bills were filed. He "listened intently" to concerns, according to Rosa.
McClain couldn't be reached for comment late last week. Paulette Song, spokeswoman for the Department of Health and Human Services, of which DCF is a division, released a brief statement by e-mail.
"We are reviewing the legislation and look forward to working with the Legislature on these important issues," Song wrote.
Rep. Rosa receives committee appointments
February 5th, 2011
Sentinel & Enterprise
BOSTON -- Rep. Dennis A. Rosa, D-Leominster, has been named vice chairman of the Joint Committee on Public Service.
Rosa, serving his second term as state representative in the 4th Worcester District, was also reappointed to the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs, as well as the Joint Committee on Election Laws, according to a statement released by his office.
The Joint Committee on Public Service considers all matters concerning the salaries of Civil Service employees and the retirement of public employees, including the retirement of judges, court personnel and county employees.
"I am very pleased to have been appointed to the Joint Committee on Public Service," Rosa said in the statement. "I am looking forward to the many challenges that lie ahead, including the opportunity to work on pension reform, a very important issue that will be brought before this committee."
The Joint Committee on Election Laws will be working on redistricting of the state's congressional and legislative districts.
Reps expect real change in 2011 session
February 1st, 2011
By Patricia O'Connell, Sentinel & Enterprise
Sentinel & Enterprise Correspondent
LEOMINSTER -- Times are changing was the message delivered by state Reps. Stephen DiNatale and Dennis Rosa during a forum Monday night at Border Grille & Bar.
This is the latest in a series of forums and candidates' debates sponsored by the Twin City Tea Party.
About 45 people showed up to hear the two representatives recap some of the highlights of the legislative session of 2010. Both said 2011 should begin to usher in some real changes.
We're going to have to go back and "get to the meat" of the issues, said Rosa, a Democrat from Leominster.
Pension reform for state employees was an area in which change was promised. In the public sector, there's just been too much that's been given away over the years, added Rosa, a small-business owner.
He said he was making the necessary cuts in his business, in response to the economy. He said legislators need to revisit pension reform, and "make it meaningful."
"We can't have people retiring at 55," he said.
"We have to look at every part of pension reform," he stated. "We have to look at how it's modeled."
Rosa also spoke about municipal health care. "Cities and towns can no longer afford to pay the exorbitant health care costs," he said.
We can no longer afford to have unions have the "veto power" over our tax dollars, he added
Rosa said the state needs to cut its budget, just as citizens do in a tight economy.
"There's much more we can do in pension reform," agreed DiNatale.
DiNatale, D-Fitchburg, mentioned the high cost of insuring city and town workers. Health care is killing municipalities because it is so costly, he said.
"That's something we're going to attack," he added.
Rosa, owner of an auto-body repair shop, believes the state should rely upon the private sector for future job growth.
"Government does not do a good job of promoting growth," he said. "You need to leave it to small businesses and medium-sized businesses."
During a question and answer session, someone asked DiNatale what can be done about mandated, but unfunded, bills that imposes a financial burden on cities and towns.
"It's a huge issue," said DiNatale, who said he filed legislation in response to one mandate that would prove costly to the city of Fitchburg. "It's huge. It's a huge problem."
Responding to a question about what he, as a fiscal conservative, could accomplish if other members of the Democratic Party didn't share his views, Rosa answered that he votes only on what will benefit his constituents.
"We're going to get a lot more things done in Boston because I can vote bipartisan," he said. "The culture is changing, I can see it becoming more conservative."
On one occasion, the question-and-answer session became heated when Gwen Meunier of Leominster challenged Rosa and DiNatale on a few decisions, one involving posting votes on the Internet.
"The tide's changing," she said, explaining that, until last year, she voted, but did not get involved in politics. A lot of other people, like herself, she said, are now getting "engaged" in the process.
One of them is Jacquelyn Poisson of Fitchburg, who came to the forum to ask DiNatale a question.
Another is Joan Niehaus of Lunenburg, who said she is a member of the Twin City Tea Party. She believes attending the various debates and forums helps keep her informed.
Leominster rep calls for more pension reform
Middlesex County Sheriff James DiPaola "did the right thing" by resigning after news broke that he'd receive a retirement pension on top of his sheriff's salary, but the issue highlights unfinished business with the state's pension laws, said Rep. Dennis Rosa, D-Leominster.
DiPaola, a former police officer and state legislator, announced he would resign in January. He won re-election to the post this month, four days after filing to receive his retirement benefits.
A Boston Globe reporter pressed him about receiving a pension -- he filed retirement papers in October -- while also pulling in the salary for the sheriff's job, and DiPaola said Friday his conscience drove him to resign.
Loopholes like the one that allows state retirees to collect big pensions while holding other public jobs need more scrutiny, Rosa said Monday.
"That loophole has got to be closed," he said. "It's the epitome of what's wrong with state government."
State lawmakers last year passed a pension reform bill that closed some old loopholes, such as the "year and a day" rule that allowed elected officials to add a year to their service even if they only served one day into a new year.
Lawmakers shouldn't consider their work on pension reform done, state Sen. Jennifer Flanagan, D-Leominster, said Monday. She said the DiPaola issue may spark more action when legislators return to Beacon Hill in January.
"I think the pension reform that was passed was an initial step," she said. "Something so big as pension reform can always be re-evaluated ... I can imagine that we're going to have more conversations as we go forward. It's very simplistic to think that each and every bill that's passed is a final act."
The pension-reform bill carved out some of the "most egregious" pension loopholes, said Jay Rives, chief of staff for outgoing Rep. Lewis Evangelidis, R-Holden. Rives, speaking on Evangelidis' behalf, said the first go at pension reform solved some major issues -- such as a rule that allowed 20-year employees of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority to retire regardless of their age -- but it should be looked at as the first round in an ongoing fight to cut waste and abuse.
"Absolutely, he had been expecting that they would be revisiting that issue," Rives said. "The fact that that law exists (that a person can collect a full pension while holding another public job) in the way it does is an indication that there's still a lot of work to be done."
The pension issue surfaced in Evangelidis' recent, successful run for Worcester County sheriff. His Democratic opponent, Thomas Foley, retired on a disability pension after serving as colonel of the Massachusetts State Police and pledged to take a reduced salary and no benefits if elected sheriff.
Rep.-elect Rich Bastien, R-Gardner, said there needs to be serious re-evaluation of the state's pension laws, suggesting a cap or a threshold on the amount of money a person could receive by combining a pension with a public salary. He said he plans to cosponsor a bill that would prohibit incoming legislators from receiving pensions.
"Unfortunately, it seems like public service has turned into personal enrichment," he said. "There are retired people who are limited in the number of hours they can work because they'd take a hit to their Social Security benefits. I don't think people in public service understand how it is for (private-sector workers)."
Bastien said he wouldn't want to preclude a former public employee from being able to run for office, but there should be reasonable pension limits in place.
"We just scratched the surface with the last pension reform," Rosa said. "We did some of the job, but it's a work in progress and it needs to be completed."
Beacon Hill Roll Call
August 30th, 2010
By Bob Katzen
THE HOUSE AND SENATE: There were no roll-call votes in the House or Senate during the week of Aug. 23-27.
ATTENDANCE RECORDS: Beacon Hill Roll Call reports local representatives' roll-call attendance records for the 2010 session through Aug. 27. Some representatives may have poor attendance records because of a variety of reasons, including health problems or military service.
The House has held 239 roll-call votes. Beacon Hill Roll Call tabulates the number of roll calls for which each representative was present and voting and then calculates that number as a percentage of the total roll-call votes held. That percentage is the roll-call attendance record.
Several quorum roll calls, used to gather a majority of members onto the House floor to conduct business, are also included in the 239 roll calls. On quorum roll calls, members simply vote "present" in order to indicate their presence in the chamber. When a representative does not indicate his or her presence on a quorum roll call, we count that as a roll-call absence just like any other roll-call absence.
Only 20 percent or 31 of the 157 House members have perfect 100 percent roll-call attendance records.
The worst roll-call attendance record belongs to Rep. Robert Spellane, D-Worcester, who missed 92 roll calls (61.5 percent roll-call attendance record).
Rounding out the 10 worst are Reps. Geraldine Creedon, D-Brockton, who missed 82 roll calls (65.7 percent attendance); Demetrius Atsalis, D-Barnstable, who missed 81 roll calls (66.1 percent attendance); Brian Wallace, D-South Boston, who missed 53 roll calls (77.8 percent attendance); Daniel Bosley, D-North Adams, who missed 48 roll calls (79.9 percent attendance); Linda Dorcena Forry, D-Dorchester, who missed 43 roll calls (82.0 percent attendance); Lida Harkins, D-Needham, who missed 34 roll calls (85.8 percent attendance); Joseph Wagner, D-Chicopee, who missed 30 roll calls (87.4 percent attendance); Denis Guyer, D-Dalton, and Robert Rice (D-Gardner) who each missed 25 roll calls (89.5 percent attendance); and Harriett Stanley, D-West Newbury, and Thomas Conroy, D-Wayland, who each missed 24 roll calls (90.0 percent attendance).
LOCAL REPRESENTATIVES' 2010 ROLL-CALL ATTENDANCE RECORDS: The percentage listed next to the representative's name is the percentage of roll-call votes for which he or she was present and voting. The number in parentheses represents the number of roll calls that the representative missed:
- Rep. Jennifer Benson , 97.5 percent (6)
- Rep. Stephen DiNatale, 98.3 percent (4)
- Rep. Lewis Evangelidis, 97.9 percent (5)
- Rep. Robert Hargraves, 94.6 percent (13)
- Rep. Robert Rice, 89.5 percent (25)
- Rep. Dennis Rosa, 99.6 percent (1)
ALSO UP ON BEACON HILL
TOWN MANAGERS (S 793): The House approved a Senate-approved bill giving boards of selectmen the power to establish the length of the appointment of a town executive secretary or town administrator. Current law only allows the appointment for one or three years. Supporters said selectmen should have the authority to determine the length of the appointment and not have their hands tied by some arbitrary and antiquated state law. Additional approval by each branch is needed prior to the measure going to Gov. Deval Patrick. The same measure was approved by the Senate, 36-0, last year but died in the House Ways and Means Committee.
TAMPERING WITH WATER METERS (S 1486): The House approved a Senate-approved bill increasing from $100 to $1,000 or triple the amount of damages, whichever is greater, the fine for tampering with a city or town water meter. Damages would include the cost of the water used and the cost of labor and equipment repair or replacement. Supporters said tampering is costing cities and towns much needed revenue. Additional approval by each branch is needed prior to the measure going to the governor.
CREATE SENIOR SAFETY ZONES (H 543): The House gave initial approval to legislation allowing cities and towns to implement senior safety zones in which the speed limit would be lowered to 20 mph. The zones would be near senior citizen housing, hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, senior centers and other senior establishments. Supporters said these senior zones, similar to current school safety zones, would reduce accidents and injuries and save lives.
POST-PARTUM DEPRESSION (H 4859): Gov. Patrick signed into law legislation that would require the state's Department of Public Health (DPH) to develop a program to promote awareness of and help destigmatize post-partum depression, a condition that can affect women following childbirth. The measure also requires DPH to compile statistics on how many women are suffering from this disorder and creates a special commission to investigate and study the best ways to prevent, detect and treat the condition and recommend legislation to promote greater public awareness of it. Supporters said it is time to take this disease out of the shadows and to help the millions of people afflicted by it.
HOW LONG WAS LAST WEEK'S SESSION? During the week of Aug. 23-27, the House met for a total of one hour and 21 minutes while the Senate met for a total of one hour and 41 minutes.
Breaking News
An Act Relative to Safe Driving was released from the Conference Committee and taken up for a vote at today's formal session of the House of Representatives. The result was 150-1 with Representative Dennis A. Rosa of Leominster casting the only dissenting vote. The Representative supported the majority of the bill, especially the banning of text messaging while driving. Although he knew the bill was going to pass, it was a matter of principle. He had made a commitment to the senior citizens of his district that he would not vote for anything that would discriminate against drivers 75 and older. By having them appear in person every time they need to renew their license and undergo a vision test every five years does not really address the issue. "Simply stated, I voted with my constituency and stood by the commitment that I had made when speaking to them at several events concerning this issue."
House passes unemployment insurance rate freeze legislation
February 19, 2010Leominster Champion
BOSTON - State Representative Dennis A. Rosa (D-Leominster) joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing legislation to halt a scheduled increase in the unemployment insurance assessment that all employers pay.
As a result of increased claims to the state's Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund during the current economic slowdown, the contribution rate employers pay into the fund was scheduled to increase dramatically. The bill passed by the House of Representatives will freeze the rate at the 2009 level.
"While we remain concerned about those who rely on unemployment insurance to survive, we must also lessen the burden on our businesses, which fund our unemployment system," House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo said. "This bill sends a clear message to businesses across the Commonwealth that we are serious about economic growth and job creation in Massachusetts.'
In 2009, the average employer contribution into the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund was $584 per employee. Without legislative action, this per-employee assessment would have jumped to approximately $852. The bill as passed by the House of Representatives will maintain contribution rates on the 2009 schedule. It is anticipated that even with the passage of the legislation the assessment on employers will increase a modest amount as a result of increased layoffs.
February 12, 2010
Rosa lauded for his work in suicide prevention
By Marisa Donelan, Sentinel and Enterprise
LEOMINSTER -- State Rep. Dennis Rosa, D-Leominster, said it felt like "a thousand pounds of weight" lifted off his shoulders this week as he spoke to his Statehouse colleagues about the issue of suicide.
It's the first time he'd ever spoken publicly about his wife Debbie's suicide death in 2008.
Rosa, a first-term representative, received the 2010 Leadership in Suicide Prevention award from the Massachusetts Coalition for Suicide Prevention for his push to increase funding for prevention programs.
"It was very emotional for me," he said in a phone interview Thursday. "I told my colleagues I was very humbled by the recognition, and at first I wanted to say as little as possible. But I think I have a moral obligation to speak up. ... So many people don't want to talk about it, but that doesn't help."
Debbie Rosa, 59, died Sept. 28, 2008, after being hospitalized for her suicide attempt weeks earlier. A devastating series of family events in 1996 had deeply affected her.
"Debbie was always a very jovial, very happy person," Dennis Rosa said of his wife of 40 years.
Rosa said his wife was able to mask her pain, and said they were fortunate to have the resources to get treatment and medical attention over the years.
The legislator said he plans to make suicide prevention "a major priority," explaining that it's the 11th-leading cause of death in the United States, and the third-leading cause of death for people ages 15 to 24.
He also noted the recent, high-profile suicides of Massachusetts students who were victims of bullying.
Additionally, Rosa said, more and more military veterans are being diagnosed and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
"It is severe," he said. "They're coming home with serious problems. The economy, I believe, will be another incredibly huge factor in some suicides. It hasn't gotten better. It's gotten worse."
Rosa said he didn't realize what kinds of resources were available to residents and urged people concerned about themselves or a loved one to reach out to the Massachusetts Coalition for Suicide Prevention.
"There are specialists out there," he said. "There are good programs to address it. Even though suicide is common, it's rare that people seek help. Help is available. I have to believe that most of these suicides are preventable."
After trying for nearly 12 years to help his wife, Rosa said he beat himself up over not reaching out to others for help, and since her death, he said he has realized how far-reaching the problem of suicide is for victims and their families.
"After years of attempts, the sadness just overcame her," he said. "I felt like I had failed ..... I've learned that suicide has no barriers. It doesn't care whether you're rich or poor, how old you are, where you live. I can't change the past, but I never want this to happen again in my family,, or anyone else's family."
February 10, 2010
Press Release
REPRESENTATIVE ROSA RECEIVES SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARD
On Monday, February 8, 2010, Representative Dennis A. Rosa (D-Leominster) was presented with the 2010 Annual Leadership in Suicide Prevention Award at its annual Legislative Day at the State House.
Rep. Rosa, in his first term, included Suicide Prevention as one of his priorities. Thanks in large part to Rep. Rosa, the House process allocated $4.3M to Suicide Prevention which was increased from the proposed amount of $2,791,264. When it came out of the Senate it was $3.069M, and after heavy lobbying by Rep. Rosa, it was increased by the Conference Committee to $3.54M, an increase of $500,000. This was sent to the Governor, and signed.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health's Suicide Prevention Program has been supported by line item 4513-1026 in the DPH budget since FY2002. Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States and takes more Massachusetts lives than homicide and HIV/AIDS combined. It is also the 3rd leading cause of death for young people ages 15 to 24. Especially in these times, with the recent suicides in the State as a result of bullying, suicide prevention programs are extremely necessary. Here is a little background on what funding for Suicide Prevention does:
* In FY2008, the budget line item authorized $3.75M for suicide prevention. This increase allowed significant expansion of existing suicide prevention activities throughout Massachusetts, with additional new programming. One of them being, the Program entered into a partnership with the Department of Veterans Services to support the hiring of case managers to reach out to returning veterans. That program has served over 1500 veterans to date and has intervened numerous times to prevent the suicide of a service man or woman.
* In FY2009, the budget line item authorized $4.75M, enabling the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to enhance and expand lifesaving suicide prevention initiatives. One of them being the initiation of the state's first state-wide toll free number for suicidal callers through the network of Samaritan organizations across the state. The line reports receiving thousands of calls each month and an ever increasing volume as a result of the difficult financial climate residents are experiencing.
* In FY2010, the budget line item authorized $3.54M thanks to the efforts of legislators, such as Rep. Rosa, who lobbied heavily to keep current suicide prevention programs in place. Suicide is less about death and more about the need to overcome unbearable psychological pain. Most suicides can be prevented. The highest rate of suicide in the state is among individuals aged 35-54, which accounts for 45 percent of suicide deaths and is two times the rate for 15 to 19 year olds. On average 53 individuals will attempt suicide in the state every 5 days.
The award was presented to Representative Rosa by Representative Peter Koutoujian, Chairman of the Joint Committee on Financial Services. Rep. Koutoujian stated how rare it was for a Freshman legislator to receive such a recognition in his first term. Rep. Rosa was humbled by the Award and thanked all in attendance for this honor. He also spoke of how he has been personally affected by this cause, and was given a standing ovation.
January 4, 2010
Press Release
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES' SLALRY FURLOUGH PROGRAMH
The Massachusetts House of Representatives in an effort to combat its operating deficit decided that they must reduce its salary expenditures. Therefore, they required all staff and aides to take five (5) furlough days between December 7, 2009 and June 30, 2010. Members of the House were also asked to participate. Furloughs will be calculated based on the gross annual salary of the employee or Member as of December 7, 2009.
Representative Dennis Rosa, due to the economic constraints, did not feel it was fair for just his staff to take the furlough. Therefore, he was one of the first to call and volunteer to take the five (5) furlough days which amount to one week,s pay.
December 14, 2009
Press Release
LEOMINSTER ICE STORM REIMBURSEMENT
State Representative Dennis A. Rosa (D-Leominster) announces that the City of Leominster will be reimbursed $373,639 for the damages incurred during the December 2008 ice storm. He would like to congratulate the Emergency Management Team, the DPW, Mayor's Office, the city's finance team and the City Council for the excellent handling of not only the physical aspects of the storm, but also for the financial accounting of all expenses incurred. The reporting of these expenses to the State in a timely manner enabled the City of Leominster to receive a huge share of the monies that were available to the communities in Central Mass.that were affected by the storm. "The timely response by all parties involved made my job as State Representative a lot easier. I am extremely grateful and proud to represent such a great community where everyone works together to get the job done", stated Representative Rosa.
December 10, 2009
From your legislator
By State Rep. Dennis Rosa, Worcester Telegram Flash
We are now living in tough times, and with winter and the holidays upon us, many of us become depressed and stressed out.
Some people are finding that they do not have that extra cash to buy the gifts that they used to and that they are struggling to pay their mortgages and pay their bills. They worry from day to day whether they will be laid off from their jobs and if they will be able to keep their homes, feed their families and keep warm.What do they do? Where do they go to get the services that they need?
Seeking these services can be an intimidating and confusing process. The idea for a guide came about after a number of people came to my office seeking help after foreclosures and evictions. We tried calling state agencies for them and found it to be very difficult and frustrating to get the right person to assist us.
Our aim for the guide became working on homelessness prevention. Many people have never been in this situation before and may not have access to the preventative steps they can take to avoid becoming homeless.
The guide is called "Helping Hands" and gives contact numbers and details for a variety of local services, everything from state-run emergency shelter programs for homeless families and individuals to homeownership counseling, local food pantries, clothing, fuel assistance and tax assistance.
We knew the need for the guide was great, but we were overwhelmed by how much so. We have printed more than 200 guides and are still receiving requests for them. The guides can also be printed from my Web site at www.dennisrosa.com. If this guide can help prevent just one family or individual from becoming homeless, our mission is complete.
November 13, 2009
License reform is stalled as seniors vow ballot revenge
By Hillary Chabot and Edward Mason, Boston Herald
Buckling under pressure from irate elderly groups, House lawmakers have slammed the brakes on a tough new bill tightening the rules of the road for senior drivers, despite a year-long spate of grisly crashes that have left several dead, including a 4-year-old girl.
House Speaker Robert DeLeo plans to meet with the chairmen of the legislative transportation committee over the holidays to work towards a compromise on the bill - which currently would force Bay State drivers 75 and older to pass a mental and physical test to renew their license.
But sources close to the Winthrop Democrat said time has run out this year to pass any meaningful reform because the formal session ends next week.
"What at first I thought would cry out for people to come together and compromise is not turning out that way," DeLeo told the Herald. He also confirmed that elderly constituents - who consistently make their opinions known at the voting booth - have spooked several lawmakers as they head into an election year.
The delay outraged James Conley, whose mother Marie was run down by an 86-year-old Dorchester man in October 2008 as she worked as a crossing guard.
"It's a slap in the face to my family," Conley said. "What about the people whose families this happened to? They don't matter? My mother, she can't vote, so she doesn't matter?"
Rep. Dennis Rosa (D-Leominster) said one of his older constituents recently drove up on a curb as he was walking down the street to give him an earful on the proposed legislation
"He said, "Don't forget, I'm a senior citizen and I vote, and I don't want you to take my driver's license away,' " Rosa said.
Rosa added he's against the bill anyway because he says it discriminates based on age, not because of next year's election.
Deborah Banda, director for AARP of Massachusetts, said the elder-advocate group has been meeting with lawmakers to complain about the arbitrary age cutoff: "We need to get unsafe drivers of all ages off the road."
Pressure to pass stricter rules for elderly drivers skyrocketed this year following several deadly accidents, including one that killed a 4-year-old Stoughton girl crossing the street and another that crushed a Weymouth police officer against a utility truck.
But lawmakers have avoided taking up the issue after a series of controversial votes - including hiking the sales tax by 25 percent. DeLeo insisted pressure from seniors will not stop the bill, which still could be passed next year.
Conley is convinced it will take a tragedy striking a key lawmakers' family to get the law to change. "If it happens to one of their families," he said, "then it will get pushed into law."
November 13, 2009
House passes legislation to support veterans
Creates award for fallen service men and women; enhances housing and business opportunities for Massachusetts veterans
Leominster Champion
Representative Dennis A. Rosa (D-Leominster) joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing legislation that provides veterans of the Commonwealth with improved services and support as they return from war during these difficult economic times. The bill establishes the Massachusetts Medal of Liberty to honor fallen service members and offers increased housing opportunities for veterans.
"With Veterans Day coming, we wanted to send a message to our veterans that we know they're out there and we appreciate what they do for our country," House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo said.
"This bill expands opportunities for our service members at a time when they need it most. It's important to honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans and this bill will do just that."
"Veterans in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and across the country have sacrificed for their nation - in return, they deserve the best we can provide," said Harold P. Naughton, Chairman of the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs. "This Veteran's Day, along with respect, we can honor our veterans by giving them enhanced programs and services in an effort to say thank you. This bill will give our veterans stronger support, improved benefits and unwavering recognition. Our Commonwealth will continue its strong and historic record as the most generous state in the nation when it comes to veteran's benefits."
"This legislation expresses to all veterans our gratitude and appreciation for the sacrifices they have made, so that we have the freedoms that we benefit from each day," said Dennis A. Rosa, a member of the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs.
October 21, 2009
Rosa compiles guide to services for needy
Worcester Telegram
LEOMINSTER - State Rep. Dennis A. Rosa, D-Leominster, and his staff have compiled a comprehensive guide for Leominster citizens in need seeking information on housing, food, clothing, fuel assistance and
The guide, called "Helping Hands," provides telephone numbers and other information on local and state agencies specifically able to assist residents of the 4th Worcester District (Leominster). There is additional information for families in nearby communities.
The guide explains what each agency has to offer, so people can select services they need. "Our primary goal was to make this guide a resource to prevent at-risk people from becoming homeless," Mr. Rosa said. The guide is available at Mr. Rosa's district office, 24 Church St., Room 27; the Leominster Public Library, the mayor's office in City Hall, 25 West St., and online at www.dennisrosa.com in a printable version. For more information, call Mr. Rosa's office at (978) 534-6946.
October 9, 2009
Rep produces resource guide for the needy
By Marisa Donelan, Sentinel and Enterpise
LEOMINSTER -- State Rep. Dennis Rosa, D-Leominster, has published a resource guide he hopes will help needy area residents seek housing, food and fuel assistance.
The pamphlet, which is available online, in Rosa's district office and in the Leominster Public Library gives the numbers and details for a variety of local services to help people who are at risk for homelessness, he said Thursday.
Rosa, who's in his first year as a state representative, said he and his legislative aide, Denise Andrews, started working on the guide after a number of people came to his office seeking help after foreclosure or eviction.
"When we tried calling state agencies for them, we felt as if we were getting the run-around," he said. "Everything is so fragmented, depending on what services you need, and we were just getting passed off from one person to the next on the phone."
Rosa said he and Andrews visited many of the local service agencies to find out what programs are available through the different organizations and whether there are qualifications people need to meet for service.
The resource guide features more than 30 local phone numbers for everything from state-run emergency shelter programs for homeless families to home-ownership counseling, local food pantries, clothing and fuel assistance.
They range from the Worcester office of the Department of Housing and Community Development to church food pantries and nutritional advice.
Because of the struggling economy, people who never had trouble before are now fighting to stay in their homes and pay their bills, and Rosa said finding the right place to start seeking services can be an intimidating and confusing process.
"Our aim became working on homelessness prevention," Rosa said. "A lot of people have never been in this situation before, and may not have access to the preventative steps they can take to avoid becoming homeless."
Mayor Dean J. Mazzarella said the pamphlet is a good idea.
"There's always someone in need," he said. "There's a question every single day." Knowing which agencies can help a resident with a specific request or problem can be daunting, Mazzarella said, noting his assistants have also built a good contacts list for local and regional resources.
Rosa's district office is in Room 27 of the Gallagher Building, 24 Church St., downtown Leominster, and can be reached by calling 1-(978) 534-6946. The pamphlet is also available to download from his Web site, www.dennisrosa.com.
July 29, 2009
House of Representatives Passes Bill to Strengthen Mortgage Lending Consumer Protections
Legislation adopts federal guidelines to standardize licensing of loan originators
(BOSTON) - State Representative Dennis A. Rosa (D-Leominster) joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing legislation that will bring Massachusetts into compliance with a federal law to require all mortgage loan originators to be licensed through the Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System and Registry.
In an effort to address the role of unprofessional and unscrupulous individuals offering risky home loans which contributed to the mortgage lending crisis, Congress passed and the President signed the Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing Act (SAFE Act) which is designed to provide additional safeguards for consumers when working with their mortgage loan originators.
Prior to the SAFE Act, states had varying standards of compliance for loan originators who offered mortgage loan services to consumers. A mortgage loan originator accepts a residential mortgage loan application; or negotiates terms of a residential mortgage loan in exchange for compensation. As a result, in some cases unqualified or unscrupulous individuals who lacked education and training provided confusing and false information to borrowers.
The SAFE Act will not only enact important consumer safeguards, but will establish a system of compliance, enforcement and continuing education for mortgage loan originators to ensure that the highest ethical standard be met.
"The SAFE Act is critical to ensuring that what contributed to the downturn in the housing market never happens again," House Speaker Robert DeLeo said. Consumers are entitled to mortgage loan originators who have the stamp of approval from both the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the federal government.
"Millions of Americans lost their homes because of unprofessional -- and in some cases -- deceitful individuals looking to make a quick buck off of people's dreams of homeownership," said Representative Peter Koutoujian, House Chairman of the Joint Committee on Financial Services. "This legislation, which is a national model, will help prevent consumers from suffering the heartache and loss that so many were victim to over the past few years."
I have received several inquiries from constituents concerning this issue. The SAFE Act will tighten up mortgage lending and will provide extra protection for consumers against fraud," said Representative Dennis Rosa.
While states are charged with enacting licensing standards that meet the requirements of the SAFE Act, overall responsibility for interpretation and compliance rests with the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The law requires that all states codify the legislation by July 31, 2009.
June 2009
State Rep. Dennis A. Rosa No Stranger to Collision Repair
Reprinted courtesy of New England Automotive Report Magazine and Thomas Greco Publishing
By Joel Gausten
If you think your voice isn't being heard at the State House, think again.
A collision repair professional since the 1970s, State Representative Dennis A. Rosa knows what it means to be an auto repair business owner in the Commonwealth. Since 1975, he and business partner John Palange have operated American Auto Body & Repair, Inc. in Leominster, a place which began as (in Rosa's words) "a 1,200-square-foot chicken coop" and steadily evolved into an extensive 12,000-square-foot enterprise totaling two buildings and 20 bays.
Rosa credits his success as a shop owner to a firm focus on the financial side of the business.
"Around 1985, the concept of the Mom and Pop body shop was starting to dwindle; the body industry was starting to operate like a business," he recalls. "My real strength was in finance and business, so I became hands-off and started to tweak my business plan to go from $1 million in sales and 6,000 square feet to my next model, which was a 10,000-square-foot facility with anywhere from $1.5 to $2 million in sales. I saw a huge increase in business, and we probably averaged $1.5 million over those years."
Of course, Rosa has also dealt with many of the common dilemmas facing Massachusetts repairers on a daily basis.
"The most devastating change was our inability to get insurance companies to raise Labor Rates," he says. "That's had a major impact on my business, especially in the last three years."
Rosa sees his commitment to helping repairers and other Commonwealth businesspeople as a reflection of the values he learned during the Vietnam War.
"I saw the tremendous amount of waste in lives, materials and resources that went on," he says. "Even though I volunteered for the U.S. Air Force, I was opposed to the Vietnam War. It stuck in my mind that, someday, I was going to get myself in a position to help make decisions and get involved in government and not just stand by and get led down the path."
Having experienced both sides of the auto body/State House equation, Rosa has sound advice for his peers in the collision world as they bring their issues to legislators.
"They need to organize, put their differences aside, act as a unit, hire a lobbyist and get more focused," he says. "If they want to stay in the game, they have to get the attention of their state representatives and senators every year. It has to be a continuous job."
May 18, 2009
Leominster City Councilor at-Large and State Representative Dennis Rosa shows support for the Leominster food lunch program.
In regards to the May 15, 2009 Rochelle Group food analysts report, Councilor Rosa made the following presentation to the School Committee.
The Analysis of Leominster Food Service Program. produced by the Rochelle group, dated May 15, 2009, stated the reason for the high food cost for the present food service mode is INDEFINABLE and cannot be determined without an audit of sales prices, purchasing practices and the menu analysis.
No financial balance sheets, cost analysis or inventory control is present in the report. This is clearly demonstrated under the financial comparison portion of the report on page 6.
Without financial data a realistic determination of the financial feasibility cannot be concluded.
The food service program proves to be self sufficient without cost to the school department except for health insurance. The benefits of having a self-operated program may far exceed the cost of health care in relation to the positive results our Leominster children receive.
The cost to Leominster's local economy, such as Sholan Farms, the results to the emergency shelters located in the schools which stock food has an effect on all Leominster residents, not just the school department.
Leominster has been financially balanced and has taken great pride in providing for its citizens. We need to take a step back and look at this more clearly before any decision is made.
May 15, 2009
Rosa appointed to labor and economic development committee
Leominster Champion
State Representative Dennis Rosa (D-Leominster) has been appointed to serve on the NCSL Labor and Economic Development Committee of the National Conference of State Legislatures for the 2009-2010 biennium. The term runs typically for two years, from election to election. Rep. Rosa serves on the Committee on Bonding, Capital Expenditure and State Assets; the Joint Committee on Community Development and Small Business and the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs for the State.
May 12, 2009
Balance the Budget First then Address Revenue
State Representative Dennis Rosa under pressure recently voted against the one and a quarter percent sales tax increase proposed by the House of Representatives for his constituents in the 4th Worcester District, proving again his consistency in dealing with financial matters. Representative Rosa said the working class community of Leominster does not want more taxes. "They are telling me they can't absorb any more tax increases. People are down to one or no jobs in the family, their overtime has been cut, and everything keeps going up and up. Representative Rosa who also is finishing his last year as a Leominster City Councilor at- Large voted against building fee increases within the City of Leominster at Monday, May 11, 2009 City Council meeting. Representative Rosa opposed the measure, calling it a "revenue enhancer" and a sign city officials are trying to base the budget on anticipated revenues. The vote was 7-2 with Ward 5 Councilor Richard Marchand voting in opposition to the fee increase. Representative Rosa opposed the measure, calling it a "revenue enhancer" and a sign city officials are trying to base the budget on anticipated revenues.
During his first four months as a state elected official, Representative Rosa has shown his dedication towards maintaining his campaign position of fiscal responsibility for Leominster residents.
May 5, 2009
Committee to Elect Dennis Rosa To Hold Fundraiser
The Committee to elect Dennis Rosa will hold a fundraiser at Cristina's Restaurant, 314 Central Street on Thursday, May 14, 2009 from 5.30 to 7.30pm. The fundraiser was headlined as meet the newly elected 4th Worcester District State Representative
Representative Rosa, who himself has seen recent lays offs and decrease in revenue to his local business understands the plight of his constituent's Representative Rosa since the onset of his election has been actively working for the constituents of Leominster.
Prior to his first pay check, Representative Rosa donated his legislative pay raise, to local non profits within the city.
Recently, in budget hearings, Representative Rosa voted against the increase of the sale tax from 5 percent to 6.25 percent. Having a large local retail base, and understanding many families locally are facing finical hardship, Representative Rosa felt not all other alternatives to a tax increase had been look at.
April 10, 2009
Rosa supports legislation to maintain independent appeals board
Leominster Champion
BOSTON - The House of Representatives approved legislation that will
maintain an independent appeals board for consumers to appeal fault for auto
accidents. Rep. Dennis Rosa (D-Leominster) gave his maiden speech, the first
in his Freshmen Class of 2009 to do so, in support of this legislation,
which was approved 157 - 0. This comes on the heels of the Division of
Insurance reversing their previous decision to do away with the appeals
board.
"I believe that no one person or Commission should ever have the responsibility to take away consumer rights. This bill will be one of the best and most friendly consumer protection bills to come along in many years," said Representative Rosa. "In this time of financial crisis, there is no cost to the Commonwealth to provide this protection. The Board of Appeals generates revenues of over $2M per year through fees that are deposited in the General Fund, and generates expenses of more than $1.7M dollar per year paid for by insurance company assessments.
"This legislation will provide all consumers involved in automobile insurance disputes the right to an independent appeals process," said Rep. Stephen L. DiNatale (D-Fitchburg). "This bill is a win-win for everyone - a win for consumers, a win for state revenues and a win for good government."
The bill would create via statute, a motor vehicle surcharge Board of Appeals. This would ensure that the current Board of Appeals remained an option for any driver to appeal what they believe was a wrongful determination of a surchargeable incident due to an at-fault accident.
The bill now heads to the Senate floor for final consideration, which previously gave initial passage to the bill.
March 1, 2009
Proposed gas tax hike draws ire:
By Marisa Donelan, Sentinel and Enterprise
Small businesses already pay "exorbitant costs" to operate in Massachusetts, and a proposed 19-cent-per-gallon gas tax increase could hurt them even more in a bad economy, said Rebecca Laramee, owner of All Points Limousine in Leominster.
That's a huge increase for a small business that's just trying to keep five guys on the road," she said recently. "It doesn't make sense. And I can't just pass (the increase) along to my clients because they're struggling, too."
Area officials and business owners said they're opposed to Gov. Deval Patrick's proposal to raise the gas tax by as much as 19 cents per gallon, which he announced earlier this month.......
State Rep. Dennis Rosa, D-Leominster, said his stance against a gas tax hike is "non-negotiable," and said he's disappointed state officials didn't act much earlier to stave off the financial spiral of the Massachusetts transportation agencies. I don't wait until a bank account is empty before I say, 'Oh, hey, it's empty, I should do something,' " Rosa said. "I see it happening week by week, and I take action."
The region's roads and bridges need work, Rosa said, but a gas tax hike is "a gimmick" that won't solve all the transportation problems.
Rosa owns an auto-body shop and a wholesale auto parts business in Leominster, and said he sees how fluctuating gas prices hurt small-business owners. For his parts service, Rosa said he's already had to decrease the number of deliveries his workers make by 25 percent because they can't afford to travel outside a specific area anymore. And even though "business is great at the auto-body shop," Rosa said he's had to cut employees' overtime hours just to manage a profit as costs everywhere go up.
"I had to stop the bleeding," he said. "The economy has had a very negative impact here."Rosa said he's been inundated with calls from constituents on the gas-tax issue, and 100 percent of the callers have urged him to vote against it. The transportation needs a full-scale reform before lawmakers consider ways to bring in money, Rosa said, otherwise residents will not be confident their money is being spent wisely. Rosa said he'd like to see some consolidation of state transportation agencies as a way to cut costs...
January 16, 2009
Representative Rosa makes charitable donations
Press Release
Today, Dennis Rosa, Fourth Worcester District, State Representative announces his decision to provide charitable donations, giving back his 5.5 percent legislative pay increase to Leominster based organizations.
Having been newly elected, it is important that the constituents that supported Representative Rosa gain confidence and trust, that Representative Rosa will represent the people of Leominster.
Today, the Leominster tax payers and local charitable organizations that provide services within the City of Leominster will benefit greatly from this act of fiscal responsibility.
It is Representative Rosa's sincere pleasure to present these checks in loving memory of his late wife, Deborah K. Rosa.
Charitable Donations
Charitable Letters
State Rep. Rosa donates
pay raise to charity Sentinel and Enterprise
January 7, 2009
Massachusetts House of Representatives Sworn in
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, House of Representatives, held their inaugural ceremonies of the 186th Biennium of the General Court.
Dennis Rosa was sworn in as State Representative of the 4th Worcester District.