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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.