Sarah Birnbaum  

 

Topics by Sarah Birnbaum

'Three Strikes' Bill Moves on to the Governor


By Sarah Birnbaum
The Massachusetts Senate has approved a compromise version of the controversial “three strikes” crime bill. The 31-to-7 vote came one day after the House overwhelmingly approved the legislation.
Government

Governor Responds to Parking Record Controversy


By Sarah Birnbaum
A fight is being waged on Beacon Hill over a newspaper’s request to keep tabs on the comings and goings of lawmakers — and the controversy has provoked additional press criticism of Gov. Deval Patrick.
Gambling

Lawmakers Fear Wampanoag Casino Delay


By Sarah Birnbaum
At a public hearing on the compact that Gov. Deval Patrick signed with Mashpee Wampanoag tribal leaders, southeastern representatives expressed concern that the project could be frozen for years. 
Government

This Week in State Politics: A Race Against the Deadline


By Sarah Birnbaum
With the formal session deadline approaching, lawmakers hold a public hearing on the governor's casino agreement, officials consider the price of placing calls from prison and the June job numbers get released.
Gambling

Governor, Tribe Sign Agreement for Taunton Casino


By Sarah Birnbaum
The deal grants the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe the exclusive right to operate a casino in the southeastern part of the state. It's the most concrete development yet in the race to establish casinos in Massachusetts.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA

The Big Dig: $23 Billion and Counting


THE TOLL ON THE MBTA
By Sarah Birnbaum
At a State House hearing, transportation officials said the total cost of the Big Dig is continuing to grow, starving the state of funds for other road and bridge projects.
Health Care

'Obamacare' Decision to Have Limited Impact on Commonwealth


WGBH NEWS FOCUS: HEALTH CARE ON TRIAL
By Sarah Birnbaum
The U.S. Supreme Court is set to rule on the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act. But if it's struck down, the practical ramifications in Massachusetts may be relatively small.
Immigration

On Beacon Hill, a Reaction to Arizona


REVIEW THE ARGUMENTS: HEALTH CARE ON TRIAL
By Sarah Birnbaum
Gov. Deval Patrick praised the U.S. Supreme Court for striking down key provisions of Arizona's crackdown on immigrants. But he wasn't entirely satisfied — and neither were some of his critics.
Election 2012

This Week in State Politics: The President and an Eastie Casino


By Sarah Birnbaum
President Barack Obama makes a campaign swing through Boston, a proposed casino in East Boston draws opposition and a film and television studio pushes ahead in Devens. 
Education

Want to Go to UMass? Get in the Lab


By Sarah Birnbaum
Massachusetts high school students will soon be required to take at least 3 years of lab-based science classes to get into the state's 4-year public universities. 
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA

Mass. Senate Passes MBTA 'Bailout' Bill


By Sarah Birnbaum
The bill passed after officials rejected a bid by five senators to replace the MBTA's current governing board with a new one.
Government

This Week in State Politics: Biotech and Bailout


By Sarah Birnbaum
Officials join scientists at the BIO International Convention and the House and Senate take up transportation spending bills. 
Economy

Is the Housing Recovery Finally Here?


By Sarah Birnbaum
A new report from Harvard University concludes that the housing crisis may be at an end — and this time, they really mean it.
Election 2012

Brown Takes Warren 'Heritage' Issue National


By Sarah Birnbaum
Massachusetts Sen. Scott Brown is stepping up personal attacks on his Democratic opponent. After leaving the issue mostly to surrogates, he appeared on national television questioning Elizabeth Warren's claims of Native American ancestry.
WGBH News Focus: The MBTA

House Passes MBTA Bailout Bill


MORE ON MBTA FUNDING
By Sarah Birnbaum
The state House of Representatives passed a bill giving the MBTA nearly $50 million from a fund that was intended to help reduce air pollution. The vote was 130-25.
Economy

Revenues Rise, but Governor's Budget Stays Cautious


By Sarah Birnbaum
A national survey of governors' budgets shows the state's tax revenues are finally projected to hit pre-recession levels. But Gov. Deval Patrick is still taking a tight-fisted approach to budgeting.

Test News Story


MORE CALLIE CROSSLEY
By Sarah Birnbaum

The  University of Massachusetts Board of Trustees approved a 5% hike in student fees Wednesday over the objections of Governor Deval Patrick.  WGBH Radio's / WCAI's state house reporter Sarah Birnbaum has more.

WGBH News Focus: The MBTA

Politicians Demand Transportation Funding


WGBH NEWS FOCUS: THE MBTA
By Sarah Birnbaum
Massachusetts officials, local mayors and advocates rallied at Boston’s South Station for a solution to the state's transportation funding crisis.  
Government

This Week in State Politics: Transit and Catherine Greig


By Sarah Birnbaum
Hundreds rally to draw attention to Massachusetts' ailing roads, bridges and mass transit systems; Whitey Bulger's girlfriend heads to court for sentencing; lawmakers debate a one-time bailout of the MBTA and Gov. Deval Patrick resumes his busy travel schedule.
Transportation & Infrastructure

Big Dig Needs $1M Repair


By Sarah Birnbaum
More trouble with Big Dig infrastructure: State transportation officials said crews need to replace crumbling concrete that was supposed to last 30 years — and the fix could cost $1 million.
Education

Governor Objects to UMass Tuition Increase


By Sarah Birnbaum
University of Massachusetts trustees have approved a nearly 5 percent tuition and fee increase for undergraduates. Says the governor, "It's a crummy time to ask students to pay more."
Gambling

Suffolk Downs Announces Casino Plan


By Sarah Birnbaum
The racing center unveiled plans for a $1 billion resort-style complex with approximately 200,000 square feet of gaming space, a hotel and up to 10 restaurants.

Mass. House Set to Debate Health Care Bill


By Sarah Birnbaum
The Senate passed a measure last month to contain rising health care costs. Now it's the House's turn. But experts are divided over whether the plan will actually work.
Government

This Week in State Politics: Health Care and Casinos


By Sarah Birnbaum
The state House of Representatives begins debate on a landmark health care cost containment bill and Taunton residents weigh in on the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe's plans to build a casino in the city.
Election 2012

What Now in the U.S. Senate Race?


By Sarah Birnbaum
U.S. Sen. Scott Brown of Massachusetts has congratulated his Democratic opponent, Elizabeth Warren, for winning her party's endorsement and said he wants a debate.
Election 2012

Elizabeth Warren Gets Overwhelming Support at Dems' Convention


By Sarah Birnbaum
Despite predictions that underdog Marisa DeFranco would get on the ballot, nearly 96 percent of the delegates at the state Democratic Convention nominated Warren — a record, and enough to avoid a party primary.
Social Issues

Appeals Court Rejects Key Provisions of DOMA


CASE CHALLENGES DOMA
By Sarah Birnbaum
In a landmark decision, on May 31 a Boston federal appeals court declared the heart of the Defense of Marriage Act, called DOMA, unconstitutional. The 1996 law defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman.
Election 2012

Obama, Romney Supporters Face Off at State House


By Sarah Birnbaum
About 100 people shouted slogans as Obama strategist David Axelrod tried to address the crowd.
Election 2012

Warren's Democratic Challenger Keeps Going


By Sarah Birnbaum
Her U.S. Senate campaign has little cash and no paid staff. Yet Massachusetts Democrat Marisa DeFranco is on the verge of qualifying for the September primary ballot.
Local Politics

This Week in State Politics: Storms and the Senate


By Sarah Birnbaum
This week in Massachusetts state politics, the casino oversight board meets, officials commemorate the Western Massachusetts tornadoes and Springfield hosts the Democratic state convention.
Immigration

Before a License, an Immigration Check?


By Sarah Birnbaum
The Massachusetts Senate is expected to debate a controversial amendment to the state budget that would require the Registry of Motor Vehicles to check for proof of lawful immigration status before issuing driver's licenses.
Business

State Opens Investigation into Facebook IPO


By Sarah Birnbaum
Massachusetts’ top securities regulator has subpoenaed Morgan Stanley related to allegations that it misled most shareholders about the value of Facebook's IPO.
Health Care

'Safety-Net' Hospitals Awarded Federal Funds


By Sarah Birnbaum
The federal government has approved the use of $628 million to implement cost-saving reforms at seven Massachusetts hospitals that treat many of the state’s poorest residents.
Courts, Crime & Police

AG Moves to Close Drunk-Driving Loophole


By Sarah Birnbaum
Massachusetts lawmakers are trying to change a part of the state's drunk driving law that advocates say could let thousands of drunk drivers get back on the road sooner than expected.
Government

This Week in State Politics: On TV and in D.C.


By Sarah Birnbaum
Gov. Deval Patrick welcomes cable industry executives and celebrities to Boston, Lt. Gov. Tim Murray travels to the Pentagon and the state House and Senate debate spending and jobs.
Government

After a Tragedy, Life Jackets at Camp


By Sarah Birnbaum
A grieving father is calling for legislation at the Massachusetts State House aimed at preventing child drownings.
Social Issues

A Law to Help Struggling Homeowners


By Sarah Birnbaum
The Mass. House has passed a bill aimed at preventing unnecessary foreclosures by requiring loan modifications when it is in the financial interest of the borrower and the lender.
Government

State Senate Opens Debate on Health Care Costs


GOV. PATRICK WEIGHS IN
By Sarah Birnbaum
The bill would control the cost of health care in Massachusetts. But is it necessary — or too much?
Government

Governor Sets Requirements for Health Care Bill


STATE SENATE OPENS DEBATE ON BILL
By Sarah Birnbaum
Deval Patrick weighed in for the first time since the state House and Senate unveiled competing versions of bills to rein in health care spending, listing four elements a final bill must have.
Government

Lawmakers Support Universities and Infrastructure


By Sarah Birnbaum
Mass. House leaders unveiled plans on Monday to boost the budget for universities and local infrastructure programs as part of an omnibus economic development bill. 
Government

This Week on Beacon Hill: Love and Money


By Sarah Birnbaum
The budget process moves forward, the Mass. Senate tries to cut health care costs and the state marks 8 years of legal same-sex marriage.
Election 2012

On 'Mr. Mean' and 'Fauxcahontas'


By Sarah Birnbaum
Two different stories hit the news recently about prominent Massachusetts politicians and not-so-flattering incidents from their pasts. They might factor in voter choices. 
Health Care

State Senate Targets Health Care Costs


By Sarah Birnbaum
With health care spending growing at least twice as fast as the overall economy, state Senate leaders released a proposal on Wednesday to drastically rein in the costs. The Mass. House released a similar measure last week.
Government

Commission Targets Corporate Tax Incentives


By Sarah Birnbaum
A bipartisan commission has unanimously approved recommendations to track and assess the performance of business tax breaks.
Government

Budget Season on Beacon Hill This Week


By Sarah Birnbaum
The Mass. House of Representatives is considering a $32.3 billion spending plan for the fiscal year that begins July 1.
Economy

MIT Aerospace Center Could Save Hanscom Jobs


By Sarah Birnbaum
MIT is proposing a multi-million-dollar new research facility at Hanscom Air Force Base at a time when state officials are worried Pentagon cutbacks could mean steep job losses.
Government

Beacon Hill Examines Municipal Unemployment System


By Sarah Birnbaum
City and town leaders pleaded with state lawmakers to fix the municipal unemployment system, saying that questionable claims are draining town budgets.
Gambling

Gambling Commission Looks for Expert Guidance


By Sarah Birnbaum
The newly formed gambling oversight board is holding a conference to learn about what will be a multi-billion-dollar addition to the state's economy.
Government

Proposed Budget at Odds with Governor's Plan


By Sarah Birnbaum
Massachusetts Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo unveiled a $32.3 billion state budget that would deal a blow to some of Gov. Deval Patrick's major policy initiatives.
Government

At the State House: Legalizing Medical Marijuana


By Sarah Birnbaum
There is evidence that Massachusetts residents support legalizing marijuana for medical uses. But at a public hearing on a proposed ballot initiative on the issue, Beacon Hill was decidedly lukewarm.
Transportation & Infrastructure

Lawmakers Consider T Bailout Bill


By Sarah Birnbaum
The debate over how to close the MBTA’s huge deficit is in lawmakers' hands now. 
Government

This Week on Beacon Hill: Budget Season


By Sarah Birnbaum
Immigration advocates rally, transportation officials testify on a bill transferring funds to the MBTA and the Massachusetts House unveils its budget for fiscal year 2013.
Energy

Power's Out? You Might Get Paid


By Sarah Birnbaum
The state Senate unanimously passed a measure that would compensate ratepayers for prolonged power outages.
Transportation & Infrastructure

MBTA Board Passes Unpopular Fare Hike


By Sarah Birnbaum
The board that oversees the Mass. Bay Transportation Authority voted 4-1 in favor of fare increases and modest service cuts as the crowd of 200-plus riders shouted "shame on you."
Government

Governor Blames GOP for Gridlock in Congress


By Sarah Birnbaum
Gov. Deval Patrick criticized congressional Republicans Tuesday, saying they're blocking President Barack Obama’s efforts to fix the economy.
Government

This Week in State Politics: Same-Sex Marriage and the MBTA


By Sarah Birnbaum
A law banning the recognition of same-sex marriage law heads to federal appeals court in Boston and the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority board is poised to approve service cuts and fare hikes.
Government

Panel Recommends Limits on EBT Card Use


By Sarah Birnbaum
A Massachusetts commission is recommending new restrictions on Electronic Benefits Transfer or EBT cards — the debit cards that replaced food stamps. Some lawmakers say the proposals don’t go far enough. 
Health Care

Mass. Ranks above Average on Medication Adherence


By Sarah Birnbaum
New research shows that Bay State residents are better at sticking to their prescribed drug regimen than most. Still, one-third of the patients with chronic health conditions stop taking their medication within a year.
Energy

Bill Seeks to Lower Your Electric Costs


PREVIOUS COVERAGE
By Sarah Birnbaum
The Massachusetts Senate plans to take up an omnibus bill this week aimed at controlling electricity costs by authorizing more frequent reviews of proposed rate hikes and requiring competitive bidding for green energy.
Government

Three Former Mass. Probation Officials Indicted on Fraud


By Sarah Birnbaum
A former commissioner and two deputies pleaded not guilty to charges of seeking favors in exchange for hiring job applicants sponsored by state lawmakers. (AP photo)
Business

Postal Workers Protest Planned Closures


TWO POST OFFICES, TWO STORIES
By Sarah Birnbaum
Advocates and employees warn that a plan to save $20 billion will result in furious customers and lost jobs.
Gambling

A Long Delay Possible for Casinos in Mass.


By Sarah Birnbaum
When the casino bill passed in November 2011, top lawmakers said shovels would be in the ground within 3 to 5 years for casinos, and even sooner for a slots parlor. The newly formed gambling commission says that timetable may be unrealistic. 
Government

Governor Responds to Corruption Risk Investigation


COMPLETE WGBH COVERAGE
By Sarah Birnbaum
The executive branch earned a C-plus on the nationwide State Integrity Initiative, which looked at laws on the books to prevent corruption in government.
Government

This Week in State Politics: Gambling, Courts and Utilities


By Sarah Birnbaum
On Beacon Hill, judges make the case for more state funding for the trial courts, officials weigh the proposed NStar-Northeast merger and the final members of Massachusetts Gambling Commission are expected to be announced.
WGBH Special Reports

Mass. Earns a C on National Corruption Risk Index


FILL OUT YOUR MASS. CORRUPTION REPORT CARD
By Sarah Birnbaum
When you think of Sal DiMasi and his two convicted predecessors, Massachusetts can seem like a hotbed of political intrigue. See how we ranked in a new nationwide study of corruption risk.
WGBH Local News

Insurance Claims & Lemon Cars Top List of Consumer Complaints


By Sarah Birnbaum
Thousands of callers contacted the state's Office of Consumer Affairs last year to lodge complaints. See which five top the list.
Transportation & Infrastructure

Lawmakers: We Have to Fix the T ... Somehow


By Sarah Birnbaum
As the debate continues over proposed fare hikes and service cuts for Boston-area mass transit, advocates called Monday for a long-term solution to the state's transportation funding problems.
Government

This Week on Beacon Hill: Hearings and Complaints


By Sarah Birnbaum
This week in state politics, the debate over MBTA fare hikes and service cuts is about to enter a new phase, the state announces the top five consumer complaints and a rally is planned at the State House to push for a change in sex abuse laws.
Energy

The Question of Green Jobs and Energy Costs


Sean Corcoran's Cape Wind blog
By Sarah Birnbaum
A bill aimed at lowering state electricity prices spurred a debate on jobs Thursday at a hearing of the Legislature's Joint Committee on Utilities and Energy. 
Education

Lawmakers Consider Raising Dropout Age


By Sarah Birnbaum
The Legislature's Joint Education Committee is set to vote on a bill today to change the high school dropout age from 16 to 18. However, questions about funding remain unanswered.
Government

Put That in Your Ballot Box and Smoke It


By Sarah Birnbaum
Lawmakers held a public hearing Tuesday on a bill to legalize, regulate and tax marijuana.
Election 2012

The State of the Massachusetts Republican


EMILY ROONEY: WHITHER CONSERVATIVES?
By Sarah Birnbaum
Mitt Romney's opponents call him a "Massachusetts moderate." In the week of Super Tuesday, we look at what characterizes the GOP voters who went to the polls.
Government

This Week in State Politics: Super Tuesday Looms


By Sarah Birnbaum
This week in Massachusetts state politics, Sen. John Kerry addresses the Bay State business community, Lt. Gov. Tim Murray continues his tour of military bases and voters head to the polls to choose presidential nominees. 
Gambling

Wampanoags Put a Casino Stake in Taunton


By Sarah Birnbaum
A Native American tribe has taken the first concrete step toward securing one of the state's three casino licenses. The Mashpee Wampanoags announced Wednesday that the tribe has entered an agreement to buy land in East Taunton. 
Government

State Considers Option to Free Terminally Ill Prisoners


By Sarah Birnbaum
A state Legislature hearing turned contentious over a bill that would permit compassionate release of terminally ill inmates.

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