Mass. Legislators Agree On $27.4 Billion Budget

Members of the Massachusetts House and Senate have reached agreement on a $27.4 billion budget for the state fiscal year that starts July 1.

Members of a House-Senate conference committee say the budget would raise the state's sales tax from 5 percent to 6.25 percent, while also expanding or instituting a series of other taxes.

The full House and Senate are scheduled to vote on the spending plan Friday.

Cities and towns can expect less local aid than they did a year ago and Massachusetts residents can expect cuts in some government services. The Registry of Motor Vehicles, for example, will close 12 branches statewide under the plan.

The budget includes money to stave off a proposed Massachusetts Turnpike toll increase and any immediate fare increase at the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, but it increases taxes on satellite television subscribers, as well as hotel, motel and restaurant visitors in the state.