BUDGETS

So-called sports wagering becomes legal in Massachusetts tomorrow. The prediction for success is uncertain, as it launches as officials report state lottery profits decreasing.

Supporters of renovating and reopening the Art Deco era Victory Theater in Holyoke, Massachusetts, say it has the capacity to be for the Pioneer Valley what Tanglewood is to the Berkshires.

The three agencies who enroll western Massachusetts residents in LIHEAP, the federal program that helps low income households pay for heating or cooling their homes, talk about enrollment requirements, increased demand and challenges this year.

As the end of the year approaches, Massachusetts lawmakers continue to sit in informal session, often considering very uncontroversial and local matters.

Massachusetts Democrats captured all major offices on the ballot, and Massachusetts Republicans are re-grouping and taking a closer look at their messaging.

It's not only Halloween that could have candidates and interest groups on edge. With Nov. 8 nearly here, recent polls show last minute messaging and funding could make all the different in tight races.

Ballot question three seeks to expanded the availability of licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages. Not long ago, it seemed to many like a low-profile, uncontested issue. But recently a opponent has emerged, and has invested millions in opposing the measure.

As the Legislature prepares to return $3 billion to taxpayers under the terms of a 1986 law, some unfinished economic development plans that included one-time checks for residents, could get scaled back.

The well-funded campaigns supporting Massachusetts ballot questions are using all types of media to convince residents to vote one way or the other.

Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker signed the new state budget into law this week and the state's arts agency received a near record high allocation.