EXTRA...

Non-candidate endorsement; Appeals Court ignores complaint

TODAY'a quote: "Interesting to see an endorsement for a non-candidate." - Gail Spector.

Circuit Appeals Court refuses to review Cape electric charge case

The United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit (in case citations, D.C. Cir.) known informally as the D.C. Circuit, is the federal appellate court for the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. Appeals from the D.C. Circuit, as with all the U.S. Courts of Appeals, are heard on a discretionary basis by the Supreme Court.

On Tuesday the D.C. Cir. refused to review the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's (FERC) orders denying several Massachusetts utilities' claims that they were unfairly charged to ensure electricity service on Cape Cod, finding the agency properly handled the dispute.

The appeals court affirmed the four FERC orders at issue and denied the petitions for review lodged by Braintree Electric Light Dept. and a handful of other municipally-owned utilities in southeastern Massachusetts, holding that the agency "reasonably resolved" some claims and "reasonably construed" a 2007 settlement agreement.

While it has the smallest geographic jurisdiction of any of the United States courts of appeals, the D.C. Circuit, with eleven active judgeships, is arguably the most important inferior appellate court. Source.

Union endorses Joe III before he announces

The Newton Tab reports that The Service Employees International Union (SEIU), today announced its endorsement of Joseph Kennedy III for US Congress. It’s the first endorsement for the potential candidate for the 4th Congressional District seat being vacated by Barney Frank.

The full release from the SEIU reads:

     One of the state’s largest grassroots labor organizations, the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), today announced its endorsement of Joseph Kennedy III for US Congress.
     The SEIU endorsement is the first for Kennedy, who is exploring a potential candidacy for the Fourth Congressional District seat, vacated by retiring US Rep. Barney Frank. With a combined membership of over 75,000 the backing of SEIU is one of the most sought-after in any political contest.
     While middle-class families suffer, Washington continues to give unfair tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans. Joe Kennedy promises to build a stable future for the Commonwealth,” said Lizete Rosa, a personal care attendant from Fall River and member of SEIU Local 1199. “Kennedy shares our commitment to supporting Massachusetts families and the members of SEIU are proud to endorse his candidacy.
     SEIU boasts a diverse membership, including healthcare workers, social workers, security guards and janitors representing 75,000 members and their families in Massachusetts. The endorsement was awarded to the Kennedy following a town hall style meeting with nearly 600 SEIU members this weekend.
     Controlling the costs of Medicare and Medicaid and protecting healthcare workers benefits our members and brings long-term stability to the Commonwealth,” said Veronica Turner, the Executive Vice-President of SEIU Local 1199. “We are pleased to support Joe Kennedy who is a strong voice for building a better future for Massachusetts healthcare workers and their families.
     Kennedy’s career has been focused on public service and helping those in need. He served for two years in the Peace Corp creating a thriving business for local workers in the Dominican Republic. While in law school, he stood up for families facing eviction from big banks due to foreclosures by landlords. Until recently, he served as an assistant district attorney, first in Cape Cod and then in Middlesex County.
     "The economic crisis has put extraordinary pressure on thousands of families struggling to make ends meet, creating an undue burden for children,” said Christine Crean, a social worker and a member of Local 509. “Joe Kennedy vows to protect the struggling families that need assistance the most.
     The SEIU State Council includes members of SEIU Locals 1199, 615, 509, 888, Chapter 3FO and the Committee of Interns and Residents.

Read the Newton Tab story here.

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