Representative Garlick voted to pass legislation authorizing up to $1.7 billion in spending for the improvement of information technology equipment and related projects in Massachusetts.
The House voted for the IT financing package – which also contains key funding for food security — using its remote voting procedures for the COVID-19 emergency.
The plan includes $650 million in IT needs, including $40 million in education grants to public schools to enhance remote learning environments and services. It also:
The capital plan also includes the following:
- $30 million in municipal grants for proper safety equipment for first responders;
- $100 million for capital projects at Health and Human Services facilities to better handle providing amenities throughout the pandemic;
- $41 million for food infrastructure and security needs to the most vulnerable populations;
- $10 million for software/hardware upgrades at community health centers;
- $5 million for SNAP Gap development.
- Other highlights include grants to cities and towns for a number of needs, including expanded access to broadband, library construction, ADA compliance, and other generic capital needs our municipalities might have.
The bill will now go to the Senate.
