To the editor:
At a time when many citizens are becoming more and more frustrated with government, I would like to take this opportunity to write a letter in support of one local woman who continues to be a refreshing presence in our state Legislature.
Barbara L'Italien is a state representative we can be proud to call our own. First elected in 2002, Barbara entered the Legislature and immediately established herself as an intelligent, thoughtful, and committed representative.
As a former social worker and mother of four, Barbara has become a leading advocate for children, seniors, and people with disabilities. What is most impressive is that she has championed these causes as a bipartisan legislator, earning the respect of both Democrats and Republicans.
As a representative, Barbara partnered with Richard Ross, R-Wrentham, to cochair the caucus on senior citizens' concerns. Together they worked to advance cost-effective legislation that would improve the lives of seniors.
Most recently, Barbara filed comprehensive legislation that would expand health insurance coverage to include autism. This bill attracted more than 100 cosponsors, including then-state Sen. Scott Brown and Senate Republican Leader Richard Tisei. The bill then went on to pass both the House and Senate unanimously.
When it seems like politicians are only interested in partisan attacks, the Merrimack Valley is fortunate to have a true representative like Barbara L'Italien — a woman who works beyond party lines and works hard for us.
This November, Barbara is up for re-election, and I ask voters to join me in voting to keep her as our state representative.
Roz McKeon
Bradford
