BOSTON – Representative James Arena-DeRosa of the 8th Middlesex District (Holliston, Hopkinton, Sherborn, and precincts two and three of Millis), voted in favor of the state’s $56.2 billion dollar budget, which passed the legislature on July 31^st.

“This budget is a historic investment in education, food security, and affordability for the Commonwealth”, said Representative Arena-DeRosa. “I am particularly excited about the passage of free universal school meals, so that no student goes hungry while in class. This measure is expected to save each family $1,200 per student, making this a win for students, families, and school districts alike”.

Other budget items aimed at combatting food insecurity include:

• $5 million for the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP)
• $2 million for Community Food Security Direct Assistance
• $35.6 million for the Massachusetts Emergency Food Assistance Program (MEFAP)

Higher education was also a focus of this budget, with $50 million allocated towards the goal of free community college by the fall of 2024. Of this, $20 million was secured for MassReconnect free community college for students 25 and older, and $18 million directed towards financial assistance for nursing students.

The legislature also set aside $581 million for tax relief in anticipation of a conference report expected some time this fall.

Local school districts benefitted greatly from the increased Chapter 70 funding in this budget, with the minimum per pupil aid doubling from $30 to $60. In total over $27 million in Chapter 70 funding was secured for schools in the 8^th Middlesex District and $4.3 million in unrestricted general government aid was secured for local town services. Representative Arena-DeRosa also successfully advocated for

$25,000 for a new transportation vehicle for the Millis Senior Center and $25,000 towards the position of Economic Development Officer in both the Town of Holliston and Hopkinton.

Representative Arena-DeRosa was proud to work alongside the legislative delegation of the 8^th Middlesex District which includes Senate President Karen Spilka, Senator Becca Rausch, and Representative Marcus Vaughn. He also sends his thanks to the many local elected officials who were instrumental in communicating the fiscal needs of each community. “We are fortunate to have so many dedicated local officials who made it easy for the legislative delegation to advocate for our towns in this budget. These collaborations are essential to ensuring the state is meeting the needs of our communities”.

Please contact jeffrey.meyers@mahouse.gov with any questions.