Randolph Home Rule Legislation Heard at Public Hearing

DECEMBER 6, 2023

On Tuesday, December 5th, the Joint Committee on Election Laws held a public hearing on home rules and miscellaneous bills, including Representative Bill Driscoll Jr.’s (D-Milton) proposed legislation, H.4049 – An Act relative to the preparation of bilingual ballots in english and haitian creole in the city known as the town of Randolph.

Driscoll attended the hearing in-person, and provided the following oral testimony:

Dear Chairman Ryan, Chairman Keenan, and Honorable Committee Members,

I am testifying today and seeking a favorable report to bring this to the floor as soon as possible, to benefit future elections in the town of Randolph.

This is about:

Inclusivity;

Access to government; and

Civic participation.

Randolph is one of the most diverse towns in Massachusetts and Haitian Creole speakers are a growing segment the community.

This home rule reflects an effort to welcome that growth and invite more people to participate in the fundamentals of democracy.

I know there are a number of town officials and community members eager to testify today on this.

 Please do not hesitate to reach out to my office regarding any questions or concerns after you have heard all the testimony on this today.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

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