House of Representatives Passes Supplemental Budget Addressing Unemployment Insurance, Fuel Assistance, and Adult Day Health Programs

State Representative (D-Canton) joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing legislation that prevents a scheduled increase in unemployment insurance for employers, includes a crucial increase in funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), and provides additional funding for the MassHealth Senior Care Adult Day Health program. 

“I often speak with constituents about these three subjects, so I know how important this supplemental budget is to the communities of Avon, Canton and Stoughton,” stated Representative Galvin.  “I am very glad we were able to assist businesses by preventing the unemployment rate increase, while also allocating additional monies to help the LIHEAP and Adult Day Health programs to continue to provide their vital service and reach more people that require their help.”     

The State’s unemployment system is primarily funded by employers. By law, as the funds in the unemployment system become depleted, employers’ contributions increase. Freezing at the current rate will save the average employer $141 per employee. Workers will continue to receive the same benefits under this rate freeze.

This supplemental budget also directs $21.2 million to the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This funding helps low-income elders, working families, and many other households to heat their homes that otherwise could not afford to do so.

The bill also provides $35 million to the MassHealth Senior Care Adult Day Health program. Adult Day Health centers are assistance centers that provide care for seniors during the day when other family members or caregivers may have to work or handle other responsibilities. This funding will extend adult day health services until July 1, 2012.

-Press release contributed by Rep. Galvin's Office.