Mass. executive branch to freeze hiring, citing Trump's economy

Driving the news: Healey announced the hiring freeze will take effect May 27, citing the nation's economic climate and a "tightening budget outlook" for fiscal 2026.

What they're saying: "Tariffs and funding cuts from Washington are causing so much economic damage and instability," Healey said in a statement.

• "We are taking this step to prepare for more uncertain economic times, protect taxpayer dollars and move our state forward while ensuring funding will be available for the vital services people need."

Threat level: Massachusetts receives $22.9 billion in federal funding each year, including $16.1 billion that the state relies on for its operating budget. That funding has now been slashed, including:

• $106 million in cuts to K-12 school emergency relief
• $84 million for epidemiology and lab capacity for infectious diseases
• $19 million for childhood vaccinations
• $12.5 million for community mental health block grants and other programs, per state estimates

What we're watching: The state has more than 1,100 open jobs posted, but it's unclear how many would be filled in fiscal 2025 or are exempt from the hiring freeze, per the Healey administration.