FMAP Funding Bill Passes in U.S. House; Mass. Set to Receive $655 Million
August 11, 2010
By a vote of 247-161, the U.S. House on Tuesday (Aug. 10) passed a $26 billion stimulus package that will send $655 million to Massachusetts.
No timetable has been set for the release of these FMAP and education funds to states, and it’s unclear if the Massachusetts legislature, which is on summer recess, will be called back for a formal session to determine how to spend the money.
It’s absolutely critical, however, that NAGE members be prepared to call their state legislators as soon as we receive word on when the legislature will begin debate on appropriating the funds. There will be many, many competing interests for funding, and we will need to urge the legislature to restore the cuts made to budget line items that affect state employees.
We will notify members as soon as any update on the FMAP funds is available.