Auchincloss Letter Leads To Flexibility For $175M In ARP Funds

NEWTON, MA — Following a letter sent from Rep. Jake Auchincloss to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen earlier this year, the Treasury Department has announced it will provide maximum flexibility to states so that they may direct funds allocated in the Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund toward a wider variety of projects.

The Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund, which was established as part of the American Rescue Plan Act and provided $175 million to Massachusetts, was initially only to be used for broadband and connectivity infrastructure. However, due to the new flexibility, the state is now able to use the money for capital projects that support early childhood education and workforce training.

“Massachusetts has a strong record of investing in early education and workforce training,” said Auchincloss in a statement. “A flexible Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund will allow us to go bigger and better—creating opportunities for those who need it most as we continue to rebuild our economy so it works for everyone.

"I applaud the Treasury Department’s decision and look forward to collaborating with state and local officials on how best to get these funds directly to those who need it most," he continued.

Rep. William Keating, Rep. Stephen Lynch, and Rep. Seth Moulton joined Auchincloss in his letter to Yellen.