For Immediate Release

Representative Demetrius J. Atsalis announced today the adoption of several of his key funding proposals as the House of Representatives began work on their version of the Fiscal Year 2007 Appropriation Budget. According to Representative Atsalis, a major earmark was included in this year’s House Budget. The $126,729 appropriation continues funding for the environmental technology program and job training partnership at Cape Cod Community College, a vital link to job creation and employee training on Cape Cod.

In addition, Representative Atsalis filed several amendments to continue funding for several of his major and important projects and programs he has traditionally supported in the past. "I filed my budget amendments to help all of those who work and live in my district, and it is my objective to build a strong economy and to continue my historic commitment to funding programs that will help people on Cape Cod," Representative Atsalis said.

Among the highlights of yesterday’s session, Representative Atsalis announced that the House had agreed to adopt three of his amendments to continue funding for several key social programs in the Hyannis area. The first secured $100,000, an increase of $50,000 over his Fiscal Year 2006 budget request, for the Cape Cod Head Injury Program, C.H.I.P.s House, which serves a client population with closed head injuries in Hyannis. "The funding I secured for C.H.I.P.s House in the Budget is well worth the money spent by giving an opportunity to its residents to live normal and productive lives in a supportive setting," Representative Atsalis stated.

In addition, the House adopted two other Atsalis’ amendments funding Veteran Services programs. Representative Atsalis secured $28,350 for the Veterans Homestead in Hyannis, and worked to include $100,000 in this year’s budget to fund the contract of the Nam Vets of Cape Cod and the Islands, representing a $5,500 increase over the Fiscal Year 2006 appropriation of $94,500.

"I am pleased that the House of Representatives approved my amendments for the Homestead and Nam Vets of Cape Cod and the Islands," Representative Atsalis said. "We really owe a lot to the men and women who served so gallantly in this conflict."

In addition, Representative Atsalis announced the House Budget now under consideration includes funding for the Barnstable Community Policing Program. This year the House Budget approximates the 2003 appropriation of $90,000 to the Town of Barnstable, and maintains the $21.3 million grant allocation amounts for current recipients. "Over the last several years Barnstable has received over $700,000 in funding from the Community Policing Program," Representative Atsalis said. "The money the Town received from this program has helped to fund the Police Substation on Main Street, establishing a police presence for the Downtown Business District."

The House of Representatives continues debate on the Fiscal Year 2007 Appropriation Act today.