To the editor:

In his letter to the editor last week, Ken Block, advisor to the Republican candidate for state senate in District 32, attacked Senator Cindy Coyne on a bill that died in both 2015 and 2016. Block then stated, “a legislator’s voting record is a direct window into their priorities."

I suggest that legislation Senator Coyne introduced and championed demonstrates her priorities.

• On Election Day, Rhode Islanders will cast their votes on new, state-of-the-art vote counting machines that replace obsolete machines. Senator Coyne sponsored the legislation (S 2415) to obtain these new machines.

• For the first time ever, Rhode Island law enforcement agencies have a procedure to ensure that those convicted of domestic violence related felonies immediately surrender their firearms. Senator Coyne sponsored the legislation (S 2492) establishing this process.

• The death or near death of any child in state custody will now be fully investigated by DCYF, and the finding made public. Senator Coyne sponsored the legislation (S 2717) requiring the public disclosure of the investigation of these tragic deaths.

• Elementary school students will be guaranteed at least 20 minutes of ‘free play’ recess each school day, enhancing their ability to focus and learn in class. Senator Coyne sponsored this legislation (S 2669)

• High risk patients who don’t respond to traditional medication will now be able to receive ‘biologic’ products from pharmacies. This bill (S 2755,) sponsored by Senator Coyne, also encourages the expansion of the biotechnology industry, which already has a presence in Rhode Island.

These are just five of the bills sponsored by Senator Coyne that became law in her first term. It is

clear that Ken Block is trying to diminish her record. The record clearly shows Cindy’s priorities are ours.

I encourage everyone in District 32 to vote for Senator Cindy Coyne.

Erich Haslehurst

Barrington