Budget plan calls for more funds for child welfare

BOSTON (AP) — A $36.25 billion state spending plan unveiled Wednesday by Senate budget writers calls for increased financial support for substance abuse prevention and for the state’s beleaguered child welfare agency.

The proposal seeks an overall 4.8 percent increase in spending, but no new taxes. The bottom line is about $77 million below the budget approved by the House of Representatives last month, though it’s likely that difference will be narrowed by amendments added during Senate debate scheduled for next week.