Gov. Baker Seeks Additional $50M For Snow Removal

BOSTON (AP) — Gov. Charlie Baker is asking state lawmakers to approve a spending bill that includes an additional $50 million to cover the costs of snow and ice removal during what he called an "unprecedented" stretch of winter weather.

Parts of Massachusetts have received more than eight feet of snow in the past month and are on track to break an all-time seasonal record for snowfall.

The measure filed by Baker on Friday also would create a $7 million winter reserve fund for state agencies and allow local communities to spread snow removal deficits over a two-year period.

The bill totals more than $350 million. It also includes $190 million to cover unanticipated increases in state employee health care costs and $44 million for a program that provides shelter for homeless families.