Massachusetts House Bill H4022

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/27/23
• Refer: 7/27/23
• Engrossed: 7/27/23
• Enrolled: 7/27/23
• Chaptered: 7/31/23
• Passed: 7/31/23

Caption

Making certain appropriations for fiscal year 2024 before final action on the General Appropriation Bill

Impact

By enabling this early appropriation, H4022 addresses potential shortfalls that could arise if funding is delayed. This is critical in ensuring that state services and operations remain unaffected as legislative discussions on the comprehensive budget continue. The provisions within the bill allow for federal grant expenditures and other necessary legal obligations, thereby ensuring that the state can meet its financial commitments in a timely manner.

Summary

House Bill H4022 presents an act aimed at allowing certain appropriations for fiscal year 2024 prior to the finalization of the General Appropriation Bill. The primary goal of this bill is to ensure that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts can maintain necessary services without interruption as it navigates the legislative process for the upcoming budget year. The bill proposes an allocation of $6,000,000,000 to cover essential operations for various government departments and services through August 31, 2023, during the gap before the General Appropriation Act is enacted.

Contention

While the bill primarily focuses on fiscal management, it may stir discussions among legislators regarding the appropriateness of using such measures to facilitate spending ahead of the finalized budget. Some lawmakers may express concerns about the transparency and oversight related to appropriations made outside the standard budgetary process. The essential nature of the funding is generally agreed upon, but it highlights broader questions about budgetary practices and accountability in state government spending.