THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, December 12, 2025 Page 3 Malden legislators join colleagues to enact new affordability and protection policies through Supplemental Budget Special to The Advocate O n November 19, 2025, State Senator Jason Lewis and State Representatives Paul Donato, Steven Ultrino and Kate Lipper-Garabedian joined their colleagues in the Massachusetts Legislature to enact a supplemental budget that prioraccess to financial aid, ensures accountability in sheriffs’ operations, criminalizes the impersonation of federal agents, and supports transportation and public safety ahead of the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. “While uncertainty remains at the federal level regarding critical funding, the Massachusetts “In a moment of federal uncertainty, Massachusetts is once again stepping up to protect the well-being of our communities,” said Representative Ultrino. “This bill protects essential services, strengthens support for families, and reinforces our commitment to keeping residents safe, healthy, and cared for.” “This legislation prioritizes key investments in healthcare and housing at a time when the Trump Administration continues to defund our public health systems and undermine essential programs that support our most vulnerable residents,” said Representative Lipper-Garabedian. “I’m further pleased that the Legislature is leading on efforts to keep our children healthy and safe by fully funding the State’s universal school meals program and by empowering our Department of Public Health to determine a scientifically based child vaccination schedule. Thank you to Speaker Mariano and Chair Michlewitz for your leadership on this legislation.” In October 2025, different versions of this supplemental budget were passed by both the BUDGET | SEE PAGE 20 If We Happen To Meet By Accident ... You’ll Be Glad You Found Us! There is a difference between the rest and the BEST! Jason Lewis State Senator Steven Ultrino State Representative Celebrating 46 Years In Business! TONY’S AUTO BODY Call or Visit 781-321-0032 34 Sharon Street Malden, MA 02148 Paul Donato State Representative itizes affordability for Massachusetts residents and protections for those being negatively impacted by decisions at the federal level. As part of closing out Fiscal Year 2025, this legislation appropriates $2.3 billion for MassHealth, affordable housing, universal free school meals in public schools, operational enhancements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Massachusetts, and more, while only costing the state $806.9 million after accounting for federal reimbursements. It also decouples childhood vaccine schedules from now unreliable federal standards, protects student Kate Lipper-Garabedian State Representative Legislature continues its commitment to supporting programs and services that residents rely on each day,” said Senator Lewis. “This bill provides significant additional support for affordable housing, healthcare, education, food assistance, and other vital programs.” “This budget will ensure that vulnerable residents are insulated from dangerous federal government tactics,” said Representative Donato, who is Second Assistant House Majority Leader. “Closeout budgets provide necessary relief for parts of the general operating budget that are volatile, and are in need of replenishing at the end of the year.” TONYSAUTOBODYLLC.COM COME VISIT OUR STATE OF THE ART BODY SHOP • Computerized Paint Matching (State of the Art Spray Booth) • Computerized Frame Machines • P.P.G. Refinishing System • R134 + 1234yf A/C Machines Fully Insured -RS2415 Insurance Company Approval ALL OUR WORK IS GUARANTEED! TONY BARTOLO Owner 46 Years Let Us Handle Your Next Insurance Claim. Go With the BEST It Doesn’t Get BETTER! RENTAL CARS Available
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