State Sen. Eric Lesser On Arts, Transportation And The Opioid Crisis In Western Mass.

State Sen. Eric Lesser was in studio to talk abut his role as a consultant on HBO's "VEEP." That conversation will air on Friday. But in addition to the fictional political comedy, we spoke about real issues affecting his district.

We talk about his efforts to increase funding for the arts, transportation needs and his push for an East-West rail link in the state.

We also ask about a WBUR report out Thursday on records from a lawsuit filed by Attorney General Maura Healey against Purdue Pharma. The lawsuits shows how Purdue allegedly manipulated legislation at the State House.

In response, Lesser's office pointed to his work with the state's Narcan Bulk Purchase Program and his vote for an opioid abuse reform bill that increases access to medication-assisted treatment and increases prevention efforts.

Eric Lesser, state senator who represents the First Hampden and Hampshire District in Western Massachusetts. He is also a political consultant on "VEEP." He tweets @ericlesser.