The state Legislature recently passed a bill authorizing up to $1.8 billion in spending for the improvement of information technology equipment and other capital projects in Massachusetts.
The legislation also authorizes funding for food security, law enforcement body cameras and investments in educational technologies in Massachusetts schools. The bill recently was signed into law by Gov. Charlie Baker.
“This IT bond bill will allow us to find new ways to invest in underserved communities across the Commonwealth, especially as we continue to confront the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Sen. Cindy Friedman, D-Arlington. “I’m particularly thrilled that this law authorizes funds I fought for to automate and expedite the sealing of criminal records, which is just one example of how our system can do a better job to remove the stigma of having a criminal record for individuals who are trying to move forward with their lives. Now more than ever, we should be investing in the things that strengthen our communities, support our most vulnerable residents, and help people restart their lives rather than penalize them for life.” read the rest here