My Plans for the 2023 Legislative Session ~ State Rep. Francisco Paulino

By: State Rep. Francisco Paulino – 1-23

On January 4, 2023, I was sworn to serve as a State Representative for the District 16th Essex. For me the privilege to serve our community is a responsibility that I take very seriously.

Last November and before the general elections I travelled to Washington DC to receive legislative training that prepared me to give Lawrence and Methuen the Upmost Competent Representation both cities deserve.

I also was honored to meet the Congresswoman Lori Trahan at her Washington office. We had an amazing discussion about partnering to increase opportunities to good paying union jobs in the Merrimack Valley.

Over the next few months, I will be meeting with other small business owners and state representatives to work on a small business plan for border communities to ease the burden on those providing jobs in our community.

As a small business owner, myself, I know how hard it has been for local businesses to recover from the COVID lockdowns and the changing economy. State regulations and taxes are also making it hard for small business owners to get ahead, as well as the rising costs of daily living.

With Lawrence and Methuen being so close to the New Hampshire border I believe the state should create a tax relief zone for border communities. This could include a lower sales tax for retail businesses, and fewer regulations for the service industry.

I also plan on working very hard over the next two years to identify the many non-profits in the valley who get sizable grants from the state, but don’t produce any measurable improvements in our community. We need to steer funds only to those non-profits that make a significant contribution that are measurable and productive. I believe we can spend your money smarter and achieve a better result.

Together, with the rest of the Lawrence delegation, Reps. Moran, Reyes, and Senator Payano, I believe we can and will be able to handle whatever problems Lawrence and Methuen face over the next two years.

Finally, I want the readers of The Valley Patriot to know that I am here to represent you.

I am here to help the people of Lawrence and Methuen to better navigate the complicated process of dealing with the state on every level.

You can reach me at 978-397-7598 and Francisco.paulino@mahouse.gov.◊