State Senate Candidate Accuses Hedlund of State Ethics Violation

On Tuesday which permits restaurants and taverns to proposition customers with special offers for the sale of alcoholic beverages and beer.

This did not sit well with Hedlund’s opposing State Senate candidate, , a Democratic candidate who plans to run against Hedlund in November 2012.

May, a Hull resident who lives on Whitehead Avenue, told Patch that he believes the State Senator committed an ethics violation because Hedlund is a partnering owner of the Four Square Restaurant and Pub in Weymouth Landing and the new amendment would help sales at his business.

“Bobby Hedlund has no problem advancing his interests, once again this episode demonstrates his willingness to trade on his position and the public trust,” May said. “His offering and championing of this measure, which benefits him personally and professionally, represents a clear violation of Massachusetts Ethics law.”

May said the result of this amendment becoming law would personally profit Hedlund.

On Thursday, May submitted the following letter to the State Ethics Commission:

"I am writing today with regard to the recent conduct of State Senator Bobby Hedlund. On Tuesday, October 11, 2011 the senator offered an amendment to the Casino bill currently being considered; which would permit taverns and restaurants to offer patrons’ incentives with regard to the purchase of Beer and Liquor currently forbidden by Massachusetts law.

Bobby Hedlund is a principle in the ownership of Four Square restaurant in Braintree, Massachusetts and as such is a party to the liquor license issued for the establishment. The sale of alcoholic beverages comprised some portion of the establishment’s receipts and overall profits.

His acting as the principle author of this amendment, a change from which he personally would benefit seems to be prohibited under the State ethics rules. Bobby Hedlund not only voted for this amendment, but acted as its principle legislative supporter.

This action seems to place the public trust in conflict with his most recent legislative activity seems to be in furtherance of his own outside activities. As such, we are taking this opportunity to request that your office review this situation and pursue all appropriate remedies on behalf of the people of this commonwealth."

Do you agree with Steve May?  What are your opinions on this issue. Tell us in the comments below.