As the new year gets under way, we're looking ahead at some exciting challenges. Later this month, the Governor will unveil his Fiscal Year 2011 budget plan. Once again, the state budget will be tight. Although revenue trends began to improve at the end of 2009, mental health and substance use disorder programs are facing significant reductions in funding for the new fiscal year that starts on July 1.
Also, we have the very real prospect of a ballot campaign, organized by the state's package store owners, to repeal the sales tax on alcohol sold in retail stores. ABH will be on the front lines of that battle.
It took decades to get the sales tax exemption for package stores repealed, and we're not going backward now! The Legislature must act on the alcohol tax repeal measure by May 4. If they do not vote, or vote it down, then proponents can gather another 10,099 signatures to secure a spot on the ballot November 2.
All in all, it appears 2010 will be busy year. We welcome and appreciate your help!
On the Issues, People & Organizations in Behavioral Health in the Commonwealth
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