Weeks after lawmakers approved a $425 million short-term funding bill for the state’s shelter system, Gov. Maura Healey has returned to the Legislature asking for more cash to cover what her office is describing as “time-sensitive” needs for a host of programs.
The Democratic governor filed a $756 million supplemental spending request on Wednesday that will cover food access, public safety, housing and other needs.
In a statement, Healey said the spending proposal “[targets] investments that improve quality of life in Massachusetts, such as ensuring access to health care, supporting families with child care costs, and making sure veterans get their benefits.”
It also came hours before legislative budget writers hold a public hearing at the State House on Healey’s proposal to spend $1.3 billion in so-called “Millionaire’s Tax” revenue for the new fiscal year that starts July 1.
Under state law, the money from the “Fair Share” amendment, as it is formally known, can only be spent on education and transportation programs.
Healey has proposed a $62 billion spending plan for the coming budget year, and lawmakers have slowly been making their way through the blueprint.
Healey said the supplemental spending proposal filed Wednesday will provide needed funding for communities that are still dealing with the implosion of Steward Health Care, the Dallas-based chain that operated more than a half dozen hospitals around the state.
“That’s why we’re proposing significant funding for EMS providers that have faced extraordinary costs. Our administration remains committed to maintaining a responsible state budget that tangibly benefits the people of Massachusetts,” she said.
The short-term budget proposal also includes:
- $134.5 million for supplemental funding, at no net cost to the state, for a Medical Assistance Trust Fund Transfer
- $60 million, at no net cost to the state, for the Executive Office of Aging & Independence’s most vital direct care services, including home care services
- $42.9 million for Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT)
- $15 million for municipal and statewide tourism efforts for Massachusetts 250, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution
- $5.8 million to implement the Veterans annuity payment increases passed in the HERO Act
- $4.2 million for the State Police Crime Lab to ensure the timely review of evidence
- $600,000 for National Guard wildfire response costs
The spending proposal furthers the administration’s “strategy,” in conjunction with lawmakers that “carefully manages growth and controls spending while preserving vital state programs,” administration Budget Czar Matthew J. Gorzkowicz said.
“I appreciate the Legislature’s consideration of this bill, and I look forward to continuing to collaborate on maintaining a responsible and balanced budget,” he continued.
