The Providers' Council co-sponsored a forum on Thursday, January 26 to advance human services social enterprises and purpose businesses in Massachusetts. Other co-sponsors included the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, and the Massachusetts Chapter of the Social Enterprise Alliance.

The forum provided an opportunity to learn about resources available to social enterprises and to discuss what additional support is needed. The forum was well attended by more than fifty providers, state representatives, and academics interested in social enterprise. To read more, click below.

This morning Governor Deval Patrick released his FY ‘13 budget proposal. The Council is continuing to analyze the line items that affect our members; however, based on an early review, we are pleased to report that your continued advocacy has resulted in level or increased funding for many programs across EOHHS.

However, the Council is disappointed to report that Governor Patrick has proposed yet another budget that does not include a Salary Reserve. We are also continuing to work to evaluate whether this budget reflects the 2.13 percent  inflation adjustment requested by the Council. Read the Council press release on the budget or click below to read more.

The Executive Office of Administration & Finance on Wednesday, January 18, issued Requests for Response in an effort to encourage innovative solutions to social problems, improve the performance of government and save taxpayer money.

The Patrick-Murray Administration announced it plans to explore the use of social innovation financing to tackle the challenging issues of chronic homelessness and juvenile justice, according to a press release. The release gives additional detail on the issues:

Are you registered to vote in Massachusetts? If you aren't register or you've moved since last registering, you must register to vote by Feb. 15 to be able to vote in the March 6 presidential primary.

Register to vote today or find out where your polling place is located. Make sure you register on or before Feb. 15 to be eligible to participate in the presidential primary.

The Providers' Council on Monday, January 9, sent its comments on the State Demonstration to Integrate Care for Dual Eligible Individuals to EOHHS Secretary Dr. JudyAnn Bigby. Download a copy of the Council's full comments here.

The Executive Office of Health and Human Services is getting ready to implement the FY’12 Salary Reserve process and wishes to inform you of some key aspects of the process that need your immediate attention.

The Salary Reserve webpage is available at www.mass.gov/salaryreserve.  This page will be updated regularly during the process.  You are advised to check the site regularly to be sure you have the most updated information.

You may email questions to possalary.reserve@massmail.state.ma.us or call the Salary Reserve HelpLine at (617) 573-1717.

As you may know, Chapter 142 of the Acts of 2011 included a provision for the establishment of a Human Services Salary Reserve fund for Fiscal Year 2012, which is dependent upon tax revenue receipts.