SHIFTING LOCAL SERVICES TO THE STATE: BOSTON: I. INTRODUCTION

The division of functions between state and local governments in Massachusetts has resulted more from historical accident and particular political strategy than from an overall plan or rationale. As a result, the financing of only some public services is concentrated at the state level. For example, in 1970-71 local governments in Massachusetts had no financial responsibility for public welfare while the U.S. average is a three-to-one division between state and local government share of welfare expenditures. In contrast elementary and secondary school financing is less centralized in Massachusetts than other states, with Massachusetts localities in 1972--73 accountable for three-quarters of total state-local...