Representative Haggerty Pleased with Swift Passage of $200 Million Supplemental Budget

BOSTON – The Massachusetts Legislature, on July 31, approved a $200 million supplemental budget bill (Bill H 4033) for the 2023 fiscal year, shortly after finalizing the 2024 state budget.

State Representative Rich Haggerty praised the Legislature’s swift passage of a $200 million supplemental budget providing timely funding and support for hospitals, farms, and the horse racing industry across Massachusetts.

“I am pleased the Legislature acted swiftly to pass the $200 million supplemental budget, providing critical and timely support to Massachusetts hospitals and farms as well as extending simulcasting. The funding for financially strained hospitals is vital for maintaining the care our communities rely on. The disaster relief for farmers hit hard by flooding and freezing will act as a lifeline during their recovery. Also extending simulcasting and horse racing protects jobs and supports an important local industry,” said Representative Haggerty.

The supplemental budget includes $180 million in fiscal relief for financially strained hospitals confronting pandemic-related revenue challenges. It also provides $20 million in aid for farms and agricultural businesses devastated by recent natural disasters like flooding and deep freezes.

The $20 million agricultural reserve will be administered by the Executive Office for Administration and Finance and Department of Agricultural Resources to help damaged farms recover losses and rebuild infrastructure.

Additionally, the budget extends deadlines for simulcasting and live horse racing operations through December 15, 2025.

“I want to thank House Speaker Mariano and my colleagues in the House and Senate for taking quick action on this crucial funding package providing stability and relief across multiple sectors of our economy,” Representative Haggerty added.

Governor Maura Healey signed the supplemental budget into law on Tuesday August 1.