Spilka: $75.5M would “(open) the workforce floodgates” in Massachusetts.
FRAMINGHAM - The Massachusetts Senate’s nearly $58 billion plan for fiscal year 2025 features $75.5 million for a plan that would make community college tuition-free for all Massachusetts residents.
The program, entitled MassEducate, would cover tuition and fees for all state residents attending community colleges, including Massachusetts Bay Community College. A stipend for books and additional supplies worth upwards of $1,200 would also become eligible for residents who make 125% or less of the median state income.
If included in the FY25 budget, senate officials noted that students would begin receiving benefits through MassEducate in the fall.
Leaders from the State Senate, including Senate President Karen Spilka of the 2nd Middlesex and Norfolk District, believe MassEducate can boost the workforce within Massachusetts while expanding opportunities for residents.
“We are investing in talent that is right here at home,” Spilka said in a statement, “and opening the workforce floodgates to employers who are starved for graduates, so Massachusetts keeps the competitive edge that we pride ourselves in.”
With this measure, State Senate leaders are hoping MassEducate can build upon the MassReconnect program, which was introduced as part of the 2024 fiscal year budget. MassReconnect offers students 25 years old and above with free community college courses. The Senate proposal features funding to continue MassReconnect along with free nursing programs at community colleges, which would bring the total amount of money earmarked to make tuition-free community college in Massachusetts up to $117.5 million.
The 2025 fiscal year in Massachusetts begins July 1.
.png){kind=small}
.png){kind=small}
Esta semana no The Frame: o estado concede a Framingham conformidade condicional com o Ato das Comunidades MBTA, uma proposta para um novo campo de golfe na área 9-90 é apresentada ao Conselho de Planejamento, e uma recapitulação da 38ª celebração anual do Dia de MLK pela Igreja Comunitária Greater Framingham. Além disso: a Ellie Mental Health corta a fita para sua nova clínica na Speen Street.
This week on The Frame: the state grants Framingham conditional compliance with the MBTA Communities Act, a proposal for a new golf course in the 9-90 area is outlined to the Planning Board, and a recap of the Greater Framingham Community Church’s 38th annual MLK Day celebration. Plus: Ellie Mental Health cuts the ribbon for their new Speen Street clinic.
In December, Mayor Sisitsky submitted the downtown Central Business district to Massachusetts officials for consideration to satisfy the zoning law's requirements.
