Massachusetts Senate Broadcasts Live Over Internet

Massachusetts Senate President Therese Murray announced that residents will be able to watch the Senate's formal sessions through a live webcast. Through this new tool, the public will be able to watch session in real time, and will also be able to view archived sessions.

"We are elected to represent the people of the Commonwealth and they should be able to have greater access to the legislative process. Webcasting our sessions will give them that access," said Murray. "While our sessions are always open to the public, the reality is that most people do not have the time to come to Boston and watch our deliberations. Webcasting is a cost effective way to broaden the opportunity for the public to experience the legislative process."

"It is necessary that we provide the public with access to their Legislature," said Senator Stanley Rosenberg. "By providing live access to sessions, we are giving residents from the Berkshire Hills to the tip of Cape Cod the ability to be actively involved in their state government."

Webcasts of the Senate can be accessed through the General Court's Web site at or through www.masslegislature.tv. Captioning will be available on the webcast.

"As the State House ADA Coordinator and someone who relies on captioning, I am very excited about the Massachusetts Legislature's commitment to provide captioning so that the deaf and hard of hearing community can participate fully in their government," said Carl Richardson, State House ADA Coordinator. "For many, it will be the first time in their lives they will be able to do so."