Senator Lewis to Host MA State Budget 101 Community Conversation

Event will cover state budget drafting process, funding decisions, and how residents can get involved.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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State Senator Jason Lewis is hosting a virtual Community Conversation on February 24, 2026 to discuss the Massachusetts state budget process. He will be joined by officials from the Executive Office for Administration and Finance and MassBudget, a public policy research organization, to explain how the $60 billion+ state budget is drafted each year, how funding decisions are made, and how residents can have their voices heard.

Why it matters

Understanding the state budget process is crucial for residents to advocate for their communities' needs and ensure funding is allocated appropriately. This event aims to increase transparency around budget decisions and empower constituents to get involved in shaping the state's priorities.

The details

The Community Conversation will cover topics like the budget drafting schedule, impacts of federal funding cuts, and how Fair Share revenue is being used to support education and transportation. Attendees will have the opportunity to provide feedback and ask questions of the panelists.

  • The event will take place virtually on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 from 6:30-8:00 p.m.

The players

Jason Lewis

State Senator hosting the Community Conversation.

Christopher Marino

Assistant Secretary for Budget at the Executive Office for Administration and Finance.

Dr. Viviana M. Abreu-Hernández

President of MassBudget, a public policy research and advocacy organization.

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What they’re saying

“Understanding the state budget process is crucial for residents to advocate for their communities' needs and ensure funding is allocated appropriately.”

— Jason Lewis, State Senator (Patch.com)

What’s next

The event will be live-streamed on Senator Lewis' YouTube channel, where viewers can participate in the live chat. A recording will also be available after the event.

The takeaway

This Community Conversation aims to increase transparency around the state budget process and empower Massachusetts residents to get involved in shaping the state's priorities and funding decisions.