Steven Leibowitz
DemocraticQ2 What specific forms of AI regulation do you support, and where would you draw the line between necessary oversight and overregulation that could slow innovation?
As someone who worked for years in IT & now serve on school committee, it is a real issue. School districts need to create guidelines on use for students, teachers and administrators. This needs to be done with instruction on critical thinking and appropriate use. Technology is never something people stop, education is something we can do.
Q3 What policies, if any, do you support or envision to manage land-based resources in your state (water, open-space preserves, parks, etc.)?
I’m fortunate that in the 3 towns of my district, 30% or more of the land is protected. But we also live over a sole source aquifer, so water protection is critical. I have testified at the local level and state level about the need to restrict pesticides. There is a bill to prohibit the state from using them on state lands, I support this. We are also blessed with well used and supported open space for residents and visitors, which should of course continue.
Q4 What policies do you support to secure affordable and ready access to healthcare services for your constituents?
I support single payer. MassCare recently put out a report that show that this can be a cost saver to the state also, so I am on board with efforts to move this forward.
Q5 Do you have any policies or programs in mind to reduce the financial burden for students wanting to attend college?
I would like to see free community college extended past age 25 in MA and provide some type of “last dollar” program based on need that would cover tuition and fees to public 4 year schools on a sliding income scale. The state also needs to rededicate itself to overall public higher ed funding to levels similar to the early 2000s.
Q6 How will you support fellowships and training grants that promote the development of graduate students and other early career scientists in your community?
This goes hand in hand with the increased financial support I want to see from the state. The focus on that increased support must be aimed at providing opportunities and access such as this.