Senator Ross Votes in Favor of State Budget

(PRESS RELEASE)

Senator Richard Ross (R-Wrentham) voted Thursday to pass the Conference Committee’s $32.5 billion state budget for Fiscal Year 2013. The agreement comes after nearly one month of negotiations. The budget will now be presented to Governor Deval Patrick who will have 10 days from June 28 to approve it.  

“The unanimous passage of this final budget truly demonstrates the fairness and collegiality that went into creating it,” said Senator Ross. “Ensuring that our cities and towns, as well as the fundamental programs our constituents rely on, are well funded without increasing taxes or fees is a real accomplishment.”  

Senator Ross was pleased to see that the final budget contained his amendment providing veterans with free or reduced admission to public forests and beaches in the Commonwealth.

The amendment also requires that prior to implementing this plan, the Department of Conservation and Recreation must report on the effects of this plan, including the cost implications stemming from it.  

Several programs that Senator Ross has supported saw maintained or increased funding in the final budget. The budget will keep Taunton State Hospital open, funding 45 beds at the facility. Additionally, the Town of Norfolk received $222,011 in prison mitigation funds and the Town of Needham was provided $100,000 to purchase health, wellness and fitness equipment in the Needham Senior Center. The METCO program, which Senator Ross has been a strong advocate for, also received $18 million in funding.  

“I have come to realize the great value in promoting diversity in my communities, as well as throughout the Commonwealth,” said Senator Ross. “I am happy to see METCO receive the funding necessary to provide students with educational opportunities and to create an enhanced and more diverse environment in our school districts.”  

The final budget increases funding for local aid by $288.9 million over FY12 budget, including $898.9 million for unrestricted local aid. Chapter 70 funding is increased to $4.17 billion. Regional School Transportation is also increased by $2 million over FY12 levels.

Additionally, the budget provides for $241.9 million for the Special Education Circuit Breaker, an increase of $28.8 million from FY12.  

Contact the office of Senator Ross with any questions or concerns at (617) 722-1555 or Richard.Ross@masenate.gov.