Baker wants Massachusetts to spend $500M on life sciences

BOSTON (AP) — Gov. Charlie Baker is recommending Massachusetts spend up to $500 million over the next five years to bolster its leadership in life sciences.

The Republican said Monday the money would go to “strategic investments in public infrastructure, research and development, workforce training and education.”

The money would be managed by the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center.

Baker unveiled the legislative proposal days ahead of a Wednesday trip to the 2017 BIO International Convention in San Diego.

He said the money would help the state to continue “attracting world-class companies in innovation and technology, giving researchers the best available tools and educational environment, training our workforce and providing successful careers” in Massachusetts.

A $1 billion, 10-year life sciences initiative launched by former Gov. Deval Patrick expires at the end of next year.

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