Moving on from the impasse

Posted 7/1/15

Summer has arrived for state lawmakers. But several outstanding pieces of business will likely soon draw them back to Smith Hill.

After swiftly approving the coming year’s $8.7 billion budget …

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Moving on from the impasse

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Summer has arrived for state lawmakers. But several outstanding pieces of business will likely soon draw them back to Smith Hill.

After swiftly approving the coming year’s $8.7 billion budget plan the week prior, the General Assembly adjourned abruptly Thursday, surprising many observers. The end of this year’s session brought no marathon of debate, deal making and late-night voting, as has been typical in the past.

Apparently, it was frustration over disagreement on several smaller items – in particular, one measure regulating the size of chicken coops – that led to the sudden recess. Senate President M. Teresa Paiva Weed, whose chamber opted to adjourn, described the impasse as “unfortunate.” House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello said he felt both sides shared the responsibility for the slow-going negotiations on smaller bills. Both leaders said they were otherwise proud of what was accomplished during the session.

There are many consequential issues left unresolved, however, including several pieces of legislation related to charter schools, and a vitally important extension of the “Good Samaritan” law providing legal protection for those who assist the victims of drug overdoses.

Two matters loom largest – Gov. Gina Raimondo’s plan for tolls to pay for bridge repairs, and the proposal to build a new ballpark for the Pawtucket Red Sox in downtown Providence.

Projecting optimism and a cooperative spirit has been a priority for the state’s leaders this year, particularly for Raimondo and Mattiello. The abrupt departure of lawmakers represents a significant departure from the positive atmosphere and tone that have largely prevailed since January – as does the political sparring surrounding the emergency closure of the Park Avenue railroad bridge in Cranston.

Of course, it would be naïve – and likely unwise – to expect smooth sailing and broad agreement at all times. The PawSox and toll proposals also emerged relatively late, and given the complexities and money involved with both, thorough review and debate is very much warranted.

While Paiva Weed has balked at a special session, Mattiello is laying the groundwork for legislators to return to the State House in the fall. Much will happen before then, perhaps paving the way for quick resolution on the most significant matters facing the Assembly – and on the smaller items, too.

Disagreement is inevitable. But Rhode Islanders deserve better from their leaders than a game of chicken.

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