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Boston, MA – The state Senate has unanimously approved a bill to reorganize the state judicial system following revelations about hiring and promotions abuses at the court-administered Probation Department. WAMC's Tristan O'Neill reports...
The bill largely echoes legislation unanimously approved by the state House to create a new civilian court administrator responsible for the general oversight of the courts, including requesting appropriations and approving contracts and leases.
The bills also tighten hiring and promotion practices including the creation of a new written exam.
Both bills reject a proposal by Governor Deval Patrick to merge the Probation Department with the Massachusetts Parole Board and bring both under the control of the executive branch.
The Senate also adopted several Republican-sponsored amendments yesterday.
Any differences between the bills must be ironed out before the legislation can head to Patrick's desk.
Tristan O'Neill, WAMC News.
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