The Arc is grateful for the “almost” final approval of funding from the legislature and the Governor. Baker’s veto and amendments (H 4289) to the Legislature’s $4 billion American Rescue Plan Act spending bill (H 4269) landed in the House on Thursday morning where lawmakers quickly shipped them off to the Committees on Ways and Means and Bills in Third Reading, respectively.
Yesterday, the House and Senate agreed to a compromise conference report on the supplemental budget which includes significant relief funds for our and other constituencies. Speaker Ronald Mariano and Senate President Karen Spilka said the House will take up the compromise bill today, Thursday, December 2 with the Senate planning to follow suit tomorrow. We trust that no member blocks the passage of this budget bill during this critical time.
I’m lucky. Even during COVID and after thirty years, I so appreciate serving at The Arc of Massachusetts, due to our significant mission, and the wonderful colleagues throughout the decades. I gratefully nod at the staff and volunteers who welcomed me in those early days, and although I’ll mention just a few, they represent many.
Last week, I noted that an estimated 5,000 individuals who typically receive community day supports (who either already received them or recently turned 22 years old) have not been able to obtain adequate assistance. This is not due to funding but to the lack of workers. We continue our efforts at information gathering and sharing recommendations this week and next Monday. More information follows.
