Governor Maura Healey has added $734 million to her expanding spending agenda, bringing the total proposed state spending to over $56.5 billion since she took office.
The new supplemental budget request, announced on Friday, includes funding to extend the free school meals program, assist school districts with special education programs, recruit and retain more MBTA employees, and fund temporary staffing in response to the ongoing health crisis.
The largest spending item in the bill is $200 million to continue pandemic response and mitigation efforts.
Governor Healey has emphasized the importance of supporting Massachusetts residents during these challenging times, and this additional funding is intended to help alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by families and businesses throughout the state.
The governor’s spending agenda has been met with mixed reactions, with some expressing concern about the long-term fiscal impact of such large investments.
However, Governor Healey has argued that this funding is necessary to support the state’s economic recovery and ensure that all residents have access to the resources they need to thrive.
As the state continues to navigate the ongoing health crisis and work towards a more equitable future, Governor Healey’s spending proposals will likely remain a topic of debate and discussion among policymakers and residents alike.
