Rep. Beaton Reflects on His First Term

Submitted by Phu Mai, legislative aide, state Rep. Matthew A. Beaton

As the 187th Session of the Massachusetts General Court winds down, state Rep. Matthew A. Beaton, R-Shrewsbury, paused to look back on the past two
years in his first term serving in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.

“First and foremost, I want to thank everyone for giving me the opportunity to represent the 11th Worcester District on Beacon Hill. It has been a great experience and I look forward to the opportunity to serve another term,” said Beaton.

In the midst of the continued economic downturn, Beaton cited as one of the major accomplishments of the Legislature the ability to pass two budgets in the past two years that increased local aid to cities and towns without increasing taxes or fees. Moreover, reforms to Municipal Health Care, Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT), and Energy will go a long way toward bringing down costs and making Massachusetts a more affordablen place to live for all its residents.

As a freshman legislator, Beaton was appointed to the Energy Conference Committee that was tasked with reconciling the difference between the House and Senate versions of the Energy Bill.

“I was very encouraged by the willingness of leadership to not only appoint me, but to hear my opinions, which were based on my experiences in the private sector, and ultimately adopt every amendment I introduced.”

During his first term, Beaton has maintained a perfect voting record and has scored high marks with various organizations like the National Federation of Independent Business and Citizens for Limited Taxation, which showcase his commitment to helping small businesses and taxpayers in Massachusetts.

Locally, the Representative has been active and engaged in the community, holding regular office hours and attending local municipal meetings. Just this past August, Beaton hosted the first annual Beaton Charity Classic which raised $34,500 that went to three local charities in Shrewsbury and Westborough. Also, Beaton has worked closely with local officials in raising funds for the new WWI Monument outside of Beal School, having taken part in a bi-partisan fundraiser for the cause.

On a personal note, the past two years for Beaton have brought into his life two new additions to his family. Matt and his wife, Laura, announced the birth of their first child, Samuel Brian Beaton, back in April 2011. This past week they welcomed their second child, Lillian Marie Beaton, into the world on October 10, 2012.

Looking ahead, Beaton is ready for the challenges ahead and working with his
colleagues on both sides of the aisle in order to further improve the business climate in Massachusetts and make living and raising a family in Massachusetts more affordable.