Sen. Collins, Rep. Biele Support $15 Million in State Funds to Combat Coronavirus Outbreak

Last week, the Massachusetts Senate and House of Representatives passed a supplemental budget to create a $15 million fund in response to the outbreak of COVID 19 cases in Massachusetts. The funds, held in reserve, will support the Commonwealth’s monitoring, treatment, containment, public awareness and prevention efforts against the novel coronavirus by the Department of Public Health, regional and local boards of health, and other public entities.

“These funds will allow our public heath facilities to adapt quickly to this emergency,” said Senator Nick Collins. “It is imperative we support our public health infrastructure while we plan for more relief like small business loans, increased healthcare coverage, and eviction moratoriums.” 

“I am proud that the House acted decisively with the Senate in response to this recent public health crisis,” said Representative David Biele.  “This investment of $15 million into our public health system will support crucial efforts at the state and local level to monitor, treat, and contain the coronavirus.”

The bill was signed into law by Governor Baker.