Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has harshly criticized President Trump’s decision to cut over $12 billion in public health funding, a move that could significantly impact public health programs, including at the Harvard School of Public Health. These cuts affect vital health services like disease tracking, mental health support, and substance abuse treatment. In Massachusetts, nearly $100 million was expected to help fund programs like the State Public Health Laboratory, which handles disease testing and treatment.
Healey, alongside other state leaders, voiced concerns that the cuts could jeopardize public health, especially at a time when resources are crucial. Kate Walsh, Secretary of Health and Human Services, emphasized how these funds are essential for managing public health crises, like the bird flu outbreak.
The cuts also hit Harvard’s public health efforts hard, with the school already scaling back research projects and even closing its public health magazine. Healey called the cuts “counterproductive,” adding that they undermine efforts to improve citizens’ health. She also criticized Trump for going against his promise to improve the lives of Americans.
Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll stressed that Massachusetts can’t replace the lost funding on its own and needs federal support to keep the state’s health infrastructure strong.
This move has sparked widespread concern from health experts, including Robbie Goldstein, Massachusetts’ public health commissioner, who called the cuts “potentially dangerous” for public health across the state.
