Senate Ways and Means unveils $61.3 billion FY26 proposal, shields MassHealth and schools

The Massachusetts Senate Committee on Ways and Means presented its FY26 budget recommendations to the full Senate, outlining a $61.3 billion proposal that protects MassHealth and increases K–12 and early-education funding while using a mix of recurring and one‑time resources.

Senator Rodericks, chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, told colleagues the plan "places heavy emphasis on not only keeping our residents safe, secure, and supported, but also stays true to our responsibility to embolden, uplift, and empower our residents." He added, quoting a maxim he said guided the committee, "Don't tell me what you value. Show me your budget, and I'll tell you what you value."

The committee's proposal funds Chapter 70 at about $7.3 billion, including a stated increase in minimum aid of $150 per pupil, and sets aside approximately $682 million for increased special education reimbursements (described in the presentation as a 75 percent reimbursement rate for tuition and transportation). The Senate plan also proposes $183 million for charter school reimbursements, roughly $103.7 million for regional school transportation, and $60 million for rural school aid.

On higher education and workforce training, the recommendation would continue funding for the universal tuition- and fee-free…