State Senate votes online

BOSTON, Mass. (AP) - Massachusetts residents trying to keep a closer eye on how their state senator has voted on key issues on Beacon Hill will soon be able to check the Legislature's official website.

The Massachusetts Senate has adopted a Republican proposal requiring the posting of roll call votes on the Senate's website within 48 hours of a vote being taken.

The measure was passed unanimously Thursday by a vote of 39-0, and will take effect no later than May 1 of this year.

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr said the rules change is "a step in the right direction of transparency."

The Gloucester Republican added that the change "will provide the public with the opportunity to see how exactly members are voting in a timely fashion."