Supplemental budget would increase local aid to cities and towns
This week, Senator Nick Collins announced his support for a supplemental budget bill that delivers significant state aid to cities and towns, including targeted investments to support Boston and ease strained municipal budgets across the Commonwealth.
The supplemental budget, S.3041, includes investments funded through the Fair Share surtax to strengthen public education, transportation, and local services, while also advancing policies to spur housing production and support the health care workforce.
“This budget reflects a broad approach to supporting our communities by investing in the systems that keep us all connected,” said Senator Collins. “When we strengthen our roads, transit networks, and education systems, we are not just improving infrastructure, we are supporting local economies, including Boston’s, and making sure every community has the opportunity to grow and succeed.”
The bill utilizes $1.34 billion from the Fair Share surtax on high-earning households to make investments in public education and transportation, while also providing substantial direct relief to municipalities.
Municipal and education funding includes $391 million in targeted aid to cities and towns, including $100 million for winter relief, $232 million for special education costs and reimbursements, and additional support for school districts, infrastructure, and student services.
Transportation investments feature $535 million for MBTA and commuter rail programs and improvements, as well as $218 million for statewide road and bus supports, including municipal funding relief for winter storm expenses.
The bill also makes strategic investments to support housing production and strengthen critical services across the Commonwealth, including:
Housing Production Incentives
Creates a sales tax exemption on building materials for qualifying multifamily housing projects to spur new affordable and middle-income units. The program is capped at $35 million annually and targeted toward communities with the greatest need.
Strengthening the Primary Care Workforce
Launches a pilot scholarship program offering free tuition at UMass Medical School for students pursuing family medicine who commit to serving in Massachusetts communities for at least five years.
Investments in Core Services
Includes funding to meet rising costs and maintain essential services, such as $300 million for the Group Insurance Commission, $41.7 million for DTA staffing, $20 million for home heating assistance, and support for public defense and legal services.
The Senate is expected to take up the bill for debate this week.
