The bill presents the Statutory Basis Financial Report (SBFR) for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. It highlights a budgeted fund balance of approximately $15.004 billion and a consolidated net surplus of $426 million, which has been allocated to the Student Opportunity Act Investment Fund. The report indicates a significant increase in budgeted fund tax revenues, primarily due to a new 4% surtax on personal incomes exceeding $1 million, contributing to a total tax revenue of $41.410 billion. Expenditures for the fiscal year are projected at $62.069 billion, reflecting increases in local aid, education, and transportation projects. The bill also emphasizes the importance of accurate financial reporting and compliance with state finance law to ensure transparency and accountability in the Commonwealth's fiscal operations.
Additionally, the bill introduces new legal language regarding the management of budgeted funds, specifically the Budgeted Funds - Operations and Budgeted Funds - Fund Balance tables, which aim to clarify interfund activities. It specifies the state finance law that mandates the transfer of personal income tax revenue from capital gains above a certain threshold to the Stabilization Fund. The report notes that the Commonwealth Stabilization Fund's balance increased to $8.524 billion, with no withdrawals made during FY24. Overall, the bill reflects a comprehensive approach to managing the Commonwealth's finances, ensuring funding for essential services while maintaining fiscal responsibility.