Last Friday, members of the regional legislative delegation were on hand to provide updates to the business community at the One SouthCoast Chamber of Commerce’s annual legislative luncheon.
The legislature is deliberating the FY 2027 state budget, with meetings to reconcile differences between the House and Senate versions of the $63 billion spending plan. Fall River state Senator Michael Rodrigues is leading the Senate’s budget negotiations. As he completes his seventh state budget, he says SouthCoast communities have received their fair share of funding, with more on the way.
8th Bristol District freshman State Representative Steven Ouellette shared legislation he has worked on.
Economic development, housing, and healthcare initiatives were also discussed during the forum. So was State Auditor Diana DiZoglio’s attempt to audit the legislature based on the passage of an initiative petition supported by voters in 2024. The House approved a measure last week that proponents say improves the body’s transparency. State Representative Carole Fiola says the voter petition is unconstitutional and there are already checks on the legislature.
7th Bristol District State Representative Alan Silvia was one of three Democrats to vote against the transparency bill, saying it is important to respect the will of the voters.
