Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Arizona Lawmakers Reach Multi-Billion State Budget Deals

Massachusetts lawmakers have reached a bipartisan agreement on a $61.4 billion state budget for fiscal year 2026, reflecting a roughly 6% spending increase over the previous year. Key differences between House and Senate proposals included funding levels for the MBTA, education, transportation initiatives, and the use of one-time revenues, with final details to be filed and voted on soon. Governor Maura Healey will have 10 days to review the bill with the option to veto or amend specific provisions. Meanwhile, Arizona's Republican-led legislature and Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs have agreed on a $17.6 billion bipartisan budget to avoid a government shutdown, marking an end to weeks of political infighting. The Arizona budget covers core government functions including K-12 education, transportation, and public safety, and is expected to be signed by the governor following legislative approval. Both states emphasized the importance of balancing spending priorities amid uncertainties related to federal funding and economic conditions.