Sen. Jehlen Hosts State Budget Forum April 12

The budget crisis continues, as local aid and programs from those for disabled children to assistance for vulnerable seniors are threatened with cuts or closure.

This year’s budget promises to be the worst yet. We have depleted the rainy day fund, we have used federal assistance that is ending, we have used one time revenues, we have consolidated agencies, laid off state workers, frozen wages and imposed furloughs. So what can we do this year? Where will the cuts come from? Can we preserve safety net services?

Please join Senator Pat Jehlen on Tuesday, April 12th at a budget forum at the Brooks School, 388 High Street, in Medford. Refreshments are at 6:45pm and program will be from 7-9pm.

Noah Berger, Executive Director of Mass Budget and Policy, will explain our current budget situation, how we got here and possible solutions.

Thomas A. Kochan, Co –Director of the Institute of Work and Employment Research at MIT Sloan School of Management, will discuss labor issues, including wage and benefit comparisons between public and private sector workers. There will be an opportunity for questions and comment.

Across the country states are wrestling with budget shortfalls, challenges to collective bargaining, and divisions over the role of government itself. This is an opportunity to learn the facts, and to discuss the our current situation and our options in resolving our budget crisis.

Please spread the word and encourage others to come!

– Information from State Senator Pat Jehlen