Rep. Bill Straus (D-Mattapoisett) has announced that on July 31, the Massachusetts House and Senate voted to approve a $56.2 billion budget for fiscal year 2024. House and Senate members tasked with reconciling the two versions of the bill had been in negotiations since early June. The balanced budget document is now before Governor Healey for her review and approval.
This year’s budget will provide increases in unrestricted local aid for New Bedford and the towns in the district represented by Representative Straus:
Local Aid coming to Mattapoisett for a total of $489,518; Marion a total of $269,740; Fairhaven a total of $2,695,733; Rochester a total of $507,744; New Bedford a total of $27,500,383 and Acushnet $1,812,575.
Chapter 70 School assistance totals for each town are as follows, and increases this year are accomplished by doubling the per student aid level for every student in the district.
Mattapoisett $1,005,221; Marion $1,154,750; Fairhaven $9,631,703; Rochester $2,414,282; New Bedford $224,099,122; Acushnet $7,170,030; Old Colony $4,171,603; Old Rochester Regional $3,468,325.
This budget will also provide free Community college to residents 25 years and older and those pursuing a nursing degree. It also includes universal school meals for students K-12.
“The annual budget dedicates much needed funding to our cities and towns, and I am extremely pleased that we were able to secure these additional dollars to assist so many worthwhile local projects and organizations.” said Rep. Straus.
The bill is now before Governor Healey for consideration. The Governor has ten days for her review under the state constitution.