June 5, 2009

Senator Michael O. Moore Announces Support 
for Supplemental Budget

BOSTON — State Senator Michael O. Moore (D-Millbury) announced Thursday that The Senate voted 34-5 to approve legislation aimed at bringing Fiscal Year 2009 into balance, with the main source of funding being another infusion of one-time federal funds, this time to the tune of $412 million. Part of the legislation includes a $65 million draw from Massachusetts Convention Center Authority reserves used for capital projects.

“Given these unprecedented economic times, it was necessary to pass this supplemental budget,” said Senator Moore. “The passage of the supplemental budget re-allocates the necessary funding to continue providing vital services to cities and towns throughout the Commonwealth.”

The Bill also contains $6 million dollars in ice storm cleanup relief to eligible counties throughout the Commonwealth in regard to the devastating storms that ravaged parts of New England in December. The Federal Emergency Management Agency officials have estimated the total municipal cost of cleanup was $48 million dollars, with the Federal government paying $36 million of eligible costs. The remaining 25% or $12 million dollars will be funded by the Commonwealth; $6 million of which was approved today by the Legislature.

The Senate also adopted an amendment aimed at generating funds by selling naming rights to public assets like pools, playgrounds and parks, by a vote of 36-3. Senator Michael Moore stated “I am pleased that we are continuing our efforts to reform the Commonwealth’s operational practices by looking at ways to increase revenue without placing additional tax burdens on the citizens of Massachusetts.”

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