Environmental and Animal Protection Groups Endorse State Senator Kathleen O'Connor Ives for Re-Election

State Senator Kathleen O’Connor Ives has been endorsed for re-election by the Sierra Club and Massachusetts Voters for Animals. These groups have applauded the Senator’s strong commitment to important environmental priorities and animal protection. “Senator O’Connor Ives has shown a deep commitment to shared environmental goals. Political leadership is as important as ever—we’re increasing stress on the waste stream, our watersupplies, our transportation systems, and our public lands. Her continued leadership will help keep our environment, and our families healthy,” said Phil Sego, MA Sierra Club Political Chair.

“I’m honored to be endorsed by the Sierra Club,” Senator O’Connor Ives said. “During my first term in the State Senate, I’ve worked on advancing environmental legislation for a safer and cleaner environment, critical to residents’ quality of life in my district and statewide. I’m eager to continue this work through the legislative process, representing residents’ concerns in the community, and by advocating for state budget priorities which serve to protect the natural environment and the public’s health and well being.”

Senator O’Connor Ives co-sponsored of a bill to ban hydraulic fracking for natural gas and a corresponding bill to ban the storage and transport of fracking chemicals in Massachusetts. She testified in support of the fracking ban at a hearing of the Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture this past September. “The quality of our drinking water is of paramount importance,” she testified. “Many residents in the state use well water, while others use municipal or state water supplies. All are equally vulnerable to chemical pollution if fracking is introduced to Massachusetts.”

The Sierra Club endorsement is just one example of advocacy groups rallying around the First Essex District State Senator during her re-election campaign.

Another group rallying for Senator O’Connor Ives’ re-election is Massachusetts Voters for Animals. “We have been very impressed with the Senator’s efforts on behalf of those who cannot speak for themselves,” stated Marge Peppercorn, spokesperson for MVFA. “We think she will continue to be a strong advocate for the animals in her district and in the Commonwealth.”

As Senate Chair of the Tourism Committee, Senator O’Connor Ives fought for the bill to ban the use of the cruel bullhook on traveling elephants. The bill would have prohibited any person who houses, possesses or travels with elephants utilized in traveling shows from using any implement (such as the bullhook) that would result in physical harm or keeping the elephants constantly restrained by chain or similar device. The bullhook ban was sent to committee, but animal advocacy groups took note of Senator O’Connor Ives determination to take action.

Senator O’Connor Ives also co-sponsored an amendment to the state’s budget that will allow more funds to be used for spaying and neutering in the new Homeless Animal Prevention and Care Fund. The result will be fewer homeless animals in Massachusetts. Massachusetts Voters for Animals also praised Senator O’Connor Ives support for the recently passed “Puppy Doe” bill, which was signed into law this month. The legislation strengthens the state’s animal cruelty laws.

“It means a lot to have the support of Massachusetts Voters for Animals,” said Senator O’Connor Ives. “This group works very hard on behalf of animals and I aim to continue working to make common-sense changes in our state laws that will increase protections for animals. It’s the responsible thing to do.”