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SD 2885

Proposal for a legislative amendment to the Constitution requiring a supermajority vote for the utilization of rainy day funds

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Bruce Tarr

Massachusetts constitutional amendment requiring supermajority vote to access state rainy day fund, constraining emergency fiscal flexibility and increasing minority party veto power over budget reserves.

Rules suspended and adopted
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Bill Summary · SD 2885

Legislative bill overview

SD 2885 proposes a constitutional amendment requiring a supermajority vote (rather than a simple majority) to access Massachusetts's rainy day fund (the Commonwealth's stabilization fund). The bill was adopted on May 12, 2025, after suspension of standard rules, meaning it now advances toward ratification by voters.

Why is this important

Rainy day funds serve as fiscal buffers during economic downturns or emergencies. Requiring a supermajority vote makes it significantly harder to tap these reserves, potentially forcing lawmakers to choose between spending cuts or tax increases during recessions. This directly affects how the state responds to budget crises and the size of reserves maintained during normal times.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic flexibility: Supermajority requirements could prevent timely responses to sudden fiscal emergencies if consensus is difficult to achieve
  • Burden on minority parties: The higher threshold gives greater blocking power to the minority party, potentially enabling obstruction regardless of economic necessity
  • Reserve adequacy: Stricter access rules may force the state to accumulate larger reserves, potentially reducing funding available for ongoing programs during good economic times

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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