Including Flanagan & Early Legislation

Bill will require all mandated reporters to receive training on how to recognize and respond to abuse and neglect

BOSTON – The Massachusetts Legislature Tuesday gave final approval to a bill that will toughen the laws meant to protect our most vulnerable children from abuse and neglect and ensure the protection of children is at the top of the state’s agenda with a new child advocate dedicated solely to child welfare.

“There is no greater task before us than protecting the most vulnerable children in Massachusetts and, with this legislation, we will help set up the framework to better handle the most troubling and disturbing cases. I have worked hard along with District Attorney Early to ensure that the Harboring a Minor provision that we authored was included in this legislation. I would like to thank the DA and Judge Erskine for their support and passion to protect one of our most valuable populations.” said Representative Jennifer L. Flanagan (D-Leominster).

“I want to congratulate Representative Jennifer Flanagan for the leadership she showed in getting this legislation passed,” said Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. “This law fills a need in protecting the children of the Commonwealth."

"State Representative Jennifer Flanagan (D-Leominster), Candidate for the Worcester & Middlesex State Senate, is hosting a series of Ice Cream Socials throughout the district. On Monday, she hosted socials for residents in Gardner at both GarWest and Hillside Gardens."

LEOMINSTER - Fitchburg Mayor Lisa Wong on Monday lent her support to state Rep. Jennifer Flanagan, D-Leominster, in her bid for state Senate.

Wong said while she was working for the Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority she was impressed by Flanagan's work to bring money to regional services.

"I knew about the work that Jen Flanagan did before I knew Jen Flanagan," Wong said during Flanagan's campaign kickoff at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel.

Flanagan, 32, is running against former Gardner State Rep. Brian Knuuttila -- also a Democrat -- for the Worcester/Middlesex seat, which represents 11 cities and towns. State Sen. Robert Antonioni announced earlier this year he is not running for re-election.

Wong said in her speech Flanagan is a viable candidate for the seat.

"She's a person who's a worker," she said. "She's a fighter, she's a leader, and she's going to be your next state Senator."