Five Things You Should Know Today, January 3, 2012

by: Rob "EaBo Clipper" Eno

Thu Jan 03, 2013 at 06:46:25 AM EST

In a closed door caucus, Brad Jones (R-North Reading) was re-elected Minority Leader of the Massachusetts House of Representatives.   Sources say that, unlike prior years, the vote was taken by roll call, not by secret ballot.

2. Two Special Elections Set

Two special elections have been set for early in 2013.  Both have been scheduled for the same day.  The Schedule for the Twelfth Essex (Peabody) and Twenty Eighth Middlesex (Everett) Districts are as follows:

January 22, 2013 at 5:00 PM - Nomination Papers due to City Clerks.

January 29, 2013 at 5:00 PM - Nomination Papaers due to Secretary of State.

March 5, 2013 Primary

April 2, 2013 Special Election

Elizabeth Warren will be sworn in as the U.S. Senator of the First Class for Massachusetts today.  On Saturday she will hold a mock ceremony in Roxbury, where her former boss Supreme Court Justice Elena Kagan will swear her in.

4. Massachusetts Blue Laws you may not know

The Boston Globe has a look at some of the State's blue laws. They include: No fornication, fines for blaspheming Jesus Christ, No Adultery, Abortion still technically illegal, no killing pigeons, contraception still illegal amongst others.

5. Only Finneran there to represent convicted speakers

Unlike last year, only Tom Finneran was present in the House Chamber to represent the convicted former Speaker caucus.  Unlike last year Charles Flaherty was not present, and Sal Dimasi was unable to secure a furlough.