Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S1820

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Resolve to establish a commission to report on the Moral Budget

Impact

The bill proposes that the commission will assess how a comprehensive Moral Budget could infuse approximately $24.4 billion annually into K-12 education, aiming to improve academic performance for low-income students. Additionally, it calls for substantial investments in healthcare, affordable housing, and job creation through infrastructure projects. This could lead to transformative changes in how state resources are allocated, potentially enhancing the quality of life for many residents who have historically been marginalized or neglected in budget considerations.

Summary

Senate Bill S1820 is a resolution aimed at establishing a commission to evaluate the potential impacts of the Moral Budget proposed for Massachusetts. This initiative takes insights from the Poor People’s Campaign and advocates for significant changes in fiscal priorities, suggesting that the wealth of the nation should be used to improve living conditions for all residents. The bill highlights widespread issues such as poverty, high housing costs, lack of healthcare access, and education funding deficiencies, emphasizing the urgent need for a moral reassessment of the state’s budget allocations.

Contention

One notable area of contention surrounding S1820 might stem from its implications for state spending and priorities. Opponents may argue that the extensive funding proposals could strain the state’s fiscal capacity or lead to increased taxes. Circling around economic debates, supporters argue that effective investments in health, education, and social services could ultimately boost the economy by improving overall citizen well-being. The bill seeks to address systemic inequalities and ensure that socio-economic advancements benefit the majority rather than a select few.

Companion Bills

MA H2875

Similar To To establish a commission to report on the moral budget

MA H4562

Similar To To protect pollinator habitat

MA S2728

Similar To Resolve to protect pollinator habitat

MA H4721

Replaced by Study Order

Previously Filed As

MA S2273

Reducing administrative burden for government and industry

MA S1675

Relative to defining Court Service Coordinator in Group 2

MA S747

Relative to access to paid family and medical leave and unemployment insurance for graduate student workers

MA S1671

Relative to retirement boards

MA S239

Relative to certain hospitality venues

MA S2125

Reducing administrative burden for government and industry

MA S1844

Relative to retirement boards

MA S514

To protect the integrity of town meetings

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