Northeast

The economy grew faster from late February through early April while consumer spending increased, with a possible rise in inflation in the near term, according to the Federal Reserve’s Beige Book released on Wednesday.

The commonwealth's largest public pension fund acknowledged an erroneous investment return that was just high enough to avoid triggering a teacher risk-sharing provision.

While state budget language restricts the governor's use of $1.3 billion of bonding, he has other options as transit advocacy groups push back.

Buoyed by a ratings upgrade from Moody's, the state still faces challenges including high debt and legacy costs.

Business leaders and budget watchdogs ask whether the $212 billion spending plan would set up the state and its anchor city for a fall.

Top lawmakers bought time amid pressure from unions and progressive legislators.

Lawmakers packaged revenue, social justice and market positioning while flexing political muscle when they voted to legalize marijuana.

Moody's elevated the state's GOs to Aa3 from A1, citing a commitment to boosting rainy-day balances and sound governance during the pandemic.

Officials cited borrowing flexibility before a joint meeting of the transit authority's oversight board and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.

Gov. Tom Wolf said the tax has become unreliable for funding the commonwealth's vast network.