The office of State Representative is a multi-faceted and diverse responsibility that requires a deep commitment to the people of Springfield. As your State Representative Ben Swan Jr.’s top priority will be constituent services, to ensure that every resident of the 11th Hampden District has access to the information and representation they deserve.
In addition, Ben will focus on the following issues as he crafts a legislative agenda:
BEN'S TOP PRIORITIES
JOB TRAINING & OPPORTUNITIES
Ben will encourage and work to help fund small business entrepreneurship, professional apprenticeships, renewable energy, and high-tech related employment opportunities.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT & EARLY EDUCATION
Ben will fight to ensure that our children have access to early education and literacy training programs.
SAFER NEIGHBORHOODS
Ben will work to address the root causes of crime, such as joblessness, homelessness, drug addiction, and poverty.
SENIOR SERVICES
Ben knows that our seniors deserve the best care and services available. As State Rep, Ben won’t leave our seniors behind – he’ll hold regular office hours at senior centers to ensure their voices are heard.
VETERANS SERVICES
Simply put - Our veterans have earned our support. Ben lost his oldest brother to the ravages of war, and will work collectively with the veterans service organizations in Springfield and across the Commonwealth to ensure that they have the resources they need to serve our heroes.
COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Ben will work to build and broker partnerships between the community and business entities to create community based economic development that helps our neighborhoods thrive.
TREATMENT ON DEMAND
Ben will work to make counseling and rehabilitation resources available to people when, and where, they need it for all forms of substance addiction.
SUPPORT FOR THOSE WITH DISABILITIES
Ben provides direct support and is health care proxy to his partially paralized big sister. He appreciates the need to assist those with disabilities in overcoming their challenges.
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
Ben will address the impact that environmental pollution has had on our community, especially among our most vulnerable populations.
CORI & CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM
Ben will work to ensure that those who have served their time are not punished further as they pursue jobs, housing, and support services.
COMMUNITY HEALTH
Ben will work to ensure that constituents in the 11th Hampden District have access to affordable health care and facilities, as well as work to support community organizations that provide affordable and nutritious food sources to the community.