Debate Over ABE Funding
Moves to Joint Conference Committee
The House and Senate Levels Differ by $5.4 million
You Can Help Secure an Increase for ABE!
Over the past two weeks of rapid action, the FY2021 state budget process has moved closer to completion. But the House and Senate haven't come to an agreement about funding for Adult Basic Education (line item #7035-0002).
- The House budget adopted a $5 million increase for ABE: $46,045,000
- The Senate adopted level-funding for ABE: $40,606,883, plus a few earmarks for specific programs
Senator Eldridge's amendment #113 to increase funding for ABE to the House level
, with 12 additional co-sponsors, was bundled with other education amendments and defeated.
What's next?
The budget now moves to the Joint Conference Committee, where the two chambers will reconcile differences before the final bill goes to a vote. The following House and Senate members have been assigned to the Joint Conference Committee:
House Members of the Joint Conference Committee:
-
Rep. Aaron Michlewitz (D - 3rd Suffolk)
- 617-722-2990 Aaron.M.Michlewitz@mahouse.gov
-
Rep. Denise Garlick (D - 13th Norfolk)
- 617-722-2380 Denise.Garlick@mahouse.gov
-
Rep. Todd Smola (R - 1st Hampden)
- 617-722-2100 Todd.Smola@mahouse.gov
Senate Members of the Joint Conference Committee:
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Sen. Michael Rodrigues (D - 1st Bristol and Plymouth)
- 617-722-1114 Michael.Rodrigues@masenate.gov
-
Sen. Cindy Friedman (D - 4th Middlesex)
- 617-722-1432 Cindy.Friedman@masenate.gov
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Sen. Patrick O'Connor (R - Plymouth and Norfolk)
- 617-722-1646 Patrick.OConnor@masenate.gov
It's time to take action!
If your Senator or Representative is on the Joint Conference Committee, ask them to adopt the House-approved level for ABE line item #7035-0002 at $46,045,000.
If your Senator or Representative is not on the Joint Conference Committee, ask them to urge their colleagues on the Joint Conference Committee to adopt the House-approved level for ABE line item #7035-0002 at $46,045,000.
Thank your Representative for the House increase for ABE.
Thank you for advocating for ABE funding today!
