Last week, the House of Representatives passed its FY 2025 budget. Representatives filed nearly 1500 amendments but less than $110 million in funding above the level proposed by the House Ways and Means Committee was approved.
Although CHAPA’s priority amendments were not included in the final House budget, housing accounts generally fared well considering difficult revenue projections. The final House budget includes:
- A $40 million increase over FY 24 for MRVP (7004-9024)
- A $5 million increase over FY 24 for Public Housing Operations (7004-9005)
- A $20 million increase over FY 24 for HomeBASE (7004-0108)
- A $7 million increase over FY 24 for RAFT (7004-9316)
- Inclusion and funding for an Access to Counsel Program (0321-1800)
Also encouraging was the rejection of three amendments that would have delayed or weakened the MBTA Communities Act. This landmark law paves the way for multifamily zoning in nearly 200 municipalities in proximity to public transportation. CHAPA applauds the House for its continued commitment to this measure that is an important too to address Massachusetts’ current housing challenges.
There is still work to be done, and it was disappointing that the House budget includes $500,000 less for the Alternative Housing Voucher Program (7004-9030) as compared to FY 24.
The budget process now moves to the Senate, which is expected to take up its work on the FY 25 spending plan in the next few weeks. Traditionally, that branch completes its consideration before Memorial Day.