(Western Mass News- Maria Wilson) Ten days after arriving on her desk, Governor Maura Healey has signed into law the state’s $58-billion budget. This spending plan tackles some of the biggest issues our state is facing.
The governor said she knows many Massachusetts residents are struggling when it comes to affording childcare or higher education, that’s why she’s setting millions aside in those types of programs in a plan local leaders are calling a “game-changer.”
“There are a lot of really good things that are in this budget,” expressed Senator Velis.
Free community college, an online lottery and cleaner energy, just some of the things part of the state’s budget.
“It provides not only access but also equity to this state so that people can have access to a quality education,” explained Dr. George Timmons.
The $58-billion budget signed into law Monday afternoon ups state spending by 3.5% or close to $2-billion. Local Senator John Velis excited about what this could mean for the region.
“One of the most commonly held beliefs,” said Senator Velis.”Is west of 495, we never get our fair share. What I love the most about this budget is the regional equity.”
The budget also setting aside $117-million towards making community college free for residents.
“There really is a thirst and a desire for Massachusetts residents to want to earn an education and get a degree but for Holyoke Community College specifically, about 38-39% of our students overall were 25 and older so a huge shift in our student demographics,” noted Dr. Timmons.
A program that Holyoke Community College President Dr. George Timmons said will open opportunities for so many.
“This opens an opportunity and a pathway to higher education and we’re really excited about that,” added Dr. Timmons. “I’ve had several students approach me and say had it not been for MassReconnect that would not have had the opportunity to go back to school.”
But, of course, with $317-million in vetos, not everything made the cut.
“I firmly believe that one of the biggest issues that we’re not talking about enough is substance abuse disorders,” expressed Senator Velis. “Some of the vetoes impact BSAS which is one of the state agencies that oversees that, we are going to be looking to override because I just don’t think that we can dial back.”
The governor also setting aside millions of dollars for our veterans, including historic levels of support for the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home, Senator Velis calling that 15% increase in funding ‘significant’ and said that money will go a long way in serving those who’ve served.