BOSTON, MA – Representative John Keenan (D-Salem) was inaugurated today for a second term representing the 7^th Essex District in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.  Following a caucus of House Democrats to organize for the upcoming session, the House met in formal session in order for the Representatives to be sworn in and the Speaker elected.  Representative Keenan joined all of his Democratic colleagues in voting to re-elect Representative Salvatore DiMasi as House Speaker.

“I am honored and excited to begin my second term on Beacon Hill representing the great city of Salem,” said Representative Keenan, “I am especially looking forward to working with our new Governor, Deval Patrick.”

Representative Keenan outlined his major priorities for the upcoming legislative session, which will last until December of 2008.  “On a state-wide basis, I am hopeful that we will see some interesting legislation on energy issues, particularly around stimulating alternative and renewable energy developments and encouraging energy efficiency,” pointed out Representative Keenan.  “I am also optimistic that we will be able to see some progress on such issues as automobile insurance reform, the promotion of tourism and the arts, and tougher criminal justice statutes.”

Locally, Representative Keenan is continuing to push for several major state projects in Salem.  “The courthouse project is the most significant project in our community,” said Representative Keenan.  “We’ll also be continuing our advocacy for major improvements to the Salem commuter rail station and the new MBTA garage, the on-going efforts to implement the Salem Harbor Plan, and the several other important state roadway, infrastructure, and housing projects in our city.”

Representative Keenan is currently working on assembling several pieces of legislation that he will file for the forthcoming session, including bills regarding the sex offender registry, local tourism investments, and consumer protection.  He has also been joining his colleague as a co-sponsor on a few dozen other important bills that are being prepared for the 185^th session of the legislature.  “I have greatly enjoyed reading through and discussing the legislation being proposed by my colleagues, and I am looking forward to the resumption of regular formal sessions and committee hearings,” said Representative Keenan.  Rep. Keenan is a member of the Joint Committee on the Judiciary, the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts, and Cultural Development, and the House Committee on Post Audit and Oversight.  Committee assignments and changes are expected to be announced by the Speaker’s office some time in the next several weeks.