House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo joined Representative RoseLee Vincent and their colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives to pass a supplemental budget which allocates additional funding to critical programs and initiatives – including a critical provision to help racing return to Suffolk Downs.
The legislation will allow horse racing and simulcasting to continue at Suffolk Downs until 2016, if approved by the Senate and the governor. It would also creates greater flexibility in payment structures to allow for relocation or training of horses, and related operations.
“This legislation represents a strong effort to maintain jobs and live racing at Suffolk Downs until the stakeholders come to a resolution,†said Speaker DeLeo. “Likewise, this bill contains funding for other programs that will assist hardworking families and vulnerable citizens.â€
“I’m thrilled that the House was able to adopt legislation that will allow live racing to continue at Suffolk Downs. This will preserve many local jobs and our community’s beloved Suffolk Downs,†said Representative Vincent. “Overall, the supplemental budget the House passed will help to ensure the best quality of life for our state’s citizens.â€
The bill provides mid-year appropriations for the Department of Children and Families to bolster existing funding for group care services and guardianship, foster care, adoption and kinship services. It also includes funding for homelessness assistance including $44.2 million for the Emergency Shelter program, and crime prevention programs.
To aid cities and towns following the year’s historic storms, the bill includes $50 million for snow and ice removal and $7 million in storm reserves for the Massachusetts Emergency Management Association (MEMA) and the National Guard.
The supplemental budget bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
