(Boston- 6/30/2025) Today the Massachusetts State Legislature sent the final version of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget to Governor Healey’s desk for her consideration. Within the final $61 billion budget, language sponsored by Senator John C. Velis was included that will repeal an archaic state law that currently still restricts gold star spouses from receiving the Commonwealth’s annuity benefit if they remarry later in life. Having passed the Senate during the past two legislative sessions, Velis celebrates the language finally reaching the Governor’s desk.
“It is truly so heartbreaking that the husbands and wives of our nation’s fallen heroes, who have endured such an unimaginable loss, have been told for years that if they end up remarrying that the Commonwealth would no longer recognize their sacrifice,” shared Senator Velis, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs. “One of the essential ways we can all honor our fallen heroes is supporting and caring for their loved ones that they left behind, and the annuity is a critical benefit our Commonwealth offers. I am beyond proud that this language has finally made its way to the Governor’s desk following the Senate’s years of steadfast dedication to supporting our Gold-Star families.
A compromise budget having passed the Legislature, the bill now goes to the Governor’s desk for consideration.
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