More than 1,100 amendments, many COVID-related, filed in Massachusetts House’s fiscal 2022 budget proposal
Updated 6:43 AM;
Massachusetts lawmakers filed more than 1,100 amendments ahead of next week’s debate over the House’s fiscal 2022 budget proposal, many of them in efforts to lessen the blow COVID-19 dealt to public education, social services and the economy.
House lawmakers proposed funding increases for community centers, hospitals, volunteers and nonprofits who have helped Western Massachusetts residents navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Other proposals suggest relief to farmers and other businesses hit hard by the economic downturn.
“That’s where our focus is going to be, getting people back to work, making sure they’re safe, making sure they’re protected,” said Rep. William “Smitty” Pignatelli, a Lenox Democrat.
Standard-Times Staff
The Baker-Polito administration announced last week more than $13.2 million in grants to address food insecurity amid the COVID-19 pandemic. About $900,000 of that went to organizations and businesses on the SouthCoast.
“Our Administration is grateful to the food banks, nonprofits, schools and food producers who have stepped up this past year to make sure healthy food gets into the hands of Massachusetts residents, children and communities struggling with food insecurity,” said Gov. Charlie Baker in a statement.
On the SouthCoast, recipients included fish processors, farms and food pantries.
M&P Fishing Corporation, which owns F/V Fishermen, received $85,475 to help modernize its vessel with new technology that will increase efficiency while fishing and save on fuel costs, according to the press release.
$109K grant to help Riverland Farm in Sunderland improve food access
Emily Landeck and Meghan Arquin, owners of Riverland Farm in Sunderland, talk to those gathered at their farm on Thursday. Staff Photo/Paul Franz
Winter vegetables at Riverland Farm in Sunderland. Staff Photo/Paul Franz
John LeBeaux of the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources announces grants at Riverland Farm in Sunderland on Thursday. Staff Photo/Paul Franz
Meghan Arquin and Emily Landeck, owners of Riverland Farm in Sunderland, talk to those gathered at their farm on Thursday. Staff Photo/Paul Franz
Rachel Berggren of the Franklin County Community Meals Program speaks at Riverland Farm in Sunderland on Thursday. Staff Photo/Paul Franz