Praise for Rep. George Ross

I have had the privilege and honor of serving the people of the city of Attleboro since 2002. During the last two years, I have partnered with Rep. George Ross in what has proven to be an extremely successful and productive alliance. I have watched as George has earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues on both sides of the aisle. He has shown incredible diligence and passion for serving not only the citizens of the city, but the residents of the commonwealth as a whole. 

During his first term in office, George championed legislation aimed at banning the sale of bath salts. Thanks to Rep. Ross' proactive approach to public safety, and his ability to work across the aisle, this piece of legislation—hailed by all public safety and health officials—was signed into law by Gov. Patrick.

Furthermore, George joined his Republican colleagues in embarking on a GOP Jobs Tour throughout the commonwealth. During the Jobs Tour stop in Attleboro, business owners and residents alike came out to offer their insight as to what we as legislators could do to create and retain jobs in Massachusetts. Since the Tour, House and Senate Republicans offered a comprehensive jobs package. Many components of our Jobs Package have been adopted by the House, including an integral part of the VALOR Act which will give veterans college credit for military training they have previously received.  

Since George was sworn-in to office, local aid to Attleboro has increased every year. In the Fiscal Year 2012 budget, Rep. Ross joined his Republican colleagues in successfully securing an initiative in the state budget which would return $65 million in unused parts of the budget to cities and towns. Under George's guidance, Attleboro continues to receive increased funding for local road and bridge repairs. 

While serving as the House Republican appointee to the Special Commission on Housing, Rep. Ross remained a powerful and steadfast advocate to find solutions aimed at combating and eradicating homelessness in Massachusetts. Recently, he was selected to serve on a special committee charged with identifying the recipient of the Madeline Amy Sweeney Award for Civilian Bravery.     

George and I have worked on multiple issues facing the city, and many areas still require our undivided attention. The residents and taxpayers of Attleboro have a winning combination hard at work day in and day out. I ask you to keep the able, active and successful partnership in place for the benefit of all. By sending Rep. George Ross back to the Legislature, both he and I will continue to work for you and your family.

Betty Poirier is the representative of the 5th Bristol District in the state House of Representatives. Her district includes the portion of Attleboro not included in the 2nd Bristol District, currently represented by George Ross, who is running for re-election against Paul Heroux.