By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law a $362 million budget to help close out fiscal year 2024 that ended on July 31. Key provisions ratify and fund some 38 collective bargaining agreements and direct $228 million in funding for the American Rescue Plan Act Home and Community Based Services before a deadline that would require Massachusetts to return the money to Washington, D.C.

Other provisions include $20 million to replace lost federal funding for victims of violent crimes; $29.7 million in early education and care subsidies to ensure providers can maintain access for all income-eligible families in need of childcare; $5.6 million for tax abatements for veterans, widows, blind persons and the elderly; $5.1 million to support increased demand for the Healthy Incentives Program which provides fresh healthy food options and supports local growers; and $2.1 million for Women, Infants and Children nutrition services to fully support the current caseload of recipients.