Hearing will look at state's underground economy

US Senator John F. Kerry has scheduled a public field hearing in Chelsea Monday that will focus on the state's underground economy, the office of the Massachusetts Democrat said.

The hearing will examine the impact of employers who fail to abide by lawful hiring practices, said Kerry's office, which noted that Massachusetts loses $152 million in annual tax revenues due to the underground economy.

One topic for discussion is how the playing field can be leveled for businesses and workers abiding by the rules, Kerry's office said.

Kerry is the chairman of the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.
(By Chris Reidy, Globe staff)