In deep blue Massachusetts (of all places) the legislative session ends on July 31st during election years. The shortened calendar affords lawmakers the opportunity to campaign for re-election unfettered by legislative responsibilities. Since there is no formal session until the new legislature in sworn in the following January, the people of Massachusetts are safe from the political machinations and corrupt influence of lame-duck lawmakers. In spite of the recess on Beacon Hill, lame ducks have been cradling their injured left wings and limping to the public trough for one last feast on the taxpayers. The Boston Herald reports that a number of Massachusetts lawmakers have been continuing to rack up per diem compensation (since the end of the session) to the collective tune of nearly 100K. Among the people’s representatives cashing in are:· State Rep. Christopher J. Donelan (D-Orange) put in the most per diems of any outgoing legislator, raking in $7,350 for 147 days;...(Read Full Post)