By Bob Katzen

Senate 40-0, approved a $63.37 billion fiscal 2027 state budget after three days of debate. The House has already approved a different version, and a House-Senate conference committee will eventually craft a compromise plan that will be presented to the House and Senate for consideration and then sent to Gov. Maura Healey.

“This budget is proof of what we can accomplish when every member of this chamber brings their best to the table,” said Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland). “Together, we have built a spending plan that meets this moment and delivers record investments in our cities and towns, expands access to food and economic security for our most vulnerable residents and creates new pathways for housing growth across the commonwealth. This is a budget that reflects the kind of state we are committed to being, investing in our people, protecting our communities, and leading with purpose even in uncertain times.”
 
“Over these past three days, Senators have embraced the collaborative budget process and engaged in a thoughtful manner to address our shared priorities in areas like early education, special education, school-based mental health, food security, child protection, public safety, and supportive housing for our most vulnerable,” said Sen. Mike Rodrigues (D-Westport), chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “The deliberations this week are a strong example of our commitment to fiscal responsibility and living within our means to produce positive results for the commonwealth during this time of continued economic uncertainty.”

“This budget proposal reflects the Senate’s commitment to meet this moment with urgency, compassion, skill, and resolve,” said Sen. Jo Comerford (D-Northampton), Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “As residents and communities across Massachusetts face rising costs and constant uncertainty, this proposal makes critical investments in food security, health care, education and municipal support. While we cannot fully address the hardship stemming from federal cuts, this budget works to protect essential services and to guard against further harm.”

(A “Yes” vote is for the $63.37 billion fiscal 2027 state budget.)

Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes