Representative Paul McMurtry Sworn in, Begins His Fourth Term

On Wednesday Jan. 3, State Representative Paul McMurtry took the oath of office to serve the citizens of Westwood, Walpole (Pct. 8) and Dedham.

The oath administered by his Excellency Governor Deval Patrick and Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray marks the beginning of the 188th Biennium of the General Court. McMurtry said, “I am honored to serve the citizens of the 11th Norfolk District in my 4th term in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.” 

He then went on to say, “as I consider the challenges ahead, I continued to be inspired by those I represent to serve with both commitment and compassion.”

After being voted in by his colleagues to his third term as speaker, House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo vowed to take up a bill designed to carefully reform the issues facing the state’s transportation system.

"The Department and Administration must consider all opportunities to bring efficiencies to our transportation operations; any transportation plan must reflect a sense of regional equity," DeLeo said. "Our roads, bridges and tunnels must be maintained in good and safe condition – worthy of the top –flight national standard that we expect our state to have.”

Speaker DeLeo also stated the House would maintain a sharp focus on economic development and job creation as well as mental health and gun safety in wake of the tragedies that took place at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT.

Representative McMurtry added ”I look forward to continue working with Speaker DeLeo and my colleagues throughout the legislative session and take comfort in prioritizing a legislative agenda of transparency, reform, efficiency and effectiveness.”