State Budget

FISCAL YEAR 2027 STATE BUDGET

The EJC calls on state lawmakers to protect and increase funding for the Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation (MLAC, line item 0321-1600) in the state budget.

Understanding the State Budget Process

The participation of EJC supporters is crucial to our budget campaign’s success. Below is a timeline of the state budget process that lets you know important dates in our campaign from January to July.

• The State Budget Process [PDF]

Sign up for our action alerts to know when you should contact your elected officials about civil legal aid throughout the year.

Talking to Your Legislator

Every year, the EJC provide talking points for supporters who want to call, email, or meet with a legislator about civil legal aid. The FY28 Talking Points are currently in development. 

LOOK BACK: MLAC Line Item 0321-1600 in the FY27 Budget

Governor’s Budget

  • On January 28, 2026, Governor Maura Healey included $52 million for civil legal aid (MLAC line item 0321-1600) in her FY27 budget recommendations. 

House Budget

  • On April 15, the House Ways and Means Committee included $52 million for civil legal aid in its FY27 budget recommendations. 
  • On April 29, the House of Representatives approved its version of the FY27 budget, including $52.2 million for civil legal aid.

Senate Budget

  • On May 5, the Senate Ways and Means Committee included $51 million for civil legal aid in its FY27 budget recommendations. 
  • On May 21, the Senate approved its version of the FY27 budget, including $51 million for civil legal aid.

Conference Committee Budget

  • On June 29, the Conference Committee (made up of three Representatives and three Senators) combined the House and Senate budgets into a single bill. It included $51 million for civil legal aid through MLAC’s line item for FY27.
  • The House of Representatives and Senate both voted to approve the Conference Committee’s combined bill. 

Final Budget

  • Governor Healey then had 10 days to sign or veto portions of the budget. 
  • On July 9, 2026, Governor Healey signed the FY27 Budget of the Commonwealth into law, including $51 million for civil legal aid (MLAC line item 0321-1600). 
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