By Bob Katzen

The Senate 38-0, overrode Gov. Healey’s $2.5 million veto reduction (from 8,864,721 to $6,364,721) in programs for the Bureau of Substance Addiction Services.

“This veto would reduce funding earmarked for low threshold housing, for homeless individuals with substance use and mental health disorders who are also at risk of HIV,” said Sen. Comerford. “The funding supports both continued programming and expansions of low threshold housing units. Low threshold housing units represent an approach to homelessness that is more supportive of individuals with substance and mental health disorders. Many senators in this chamber value these kinds of programs. Fully funding low threshold housing programs is a critical aspect in creating an increasingly public health led and equity focused response to homelessness in the commonwealth.”

In her veto message, Gov. Healey said, “I am reducing this item to the amount projected to be necessary to support continued programming. This operating funding overlaps with significant alternative funding sources to support expansions in low-threshold housing units and related supports.”

(A “Yes” vote is for the $2.5 million.)

Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes