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Patrick Okays $15 Million For Tornado Costs

BOSTON (AP) -- Gov. Deval Patrick has signed a $54 million spending bill that includes $15 million to pay for costs incurred during the response to the recent tornadoes that tore through in central and western Massachusetts.

Patrick said the extra money will help individuals, families and businesses harmed by the tornadoes begin to rebuild their lives.

Three people died during the tornadoes which caused tens of millions in damage.

The bill, which was approved by state lawmakers, also includes $10 million for a new initiative by Patrick to reduce youth violence in Massachusetts.

The money will help pay for increased services, including education and help finding work, for young men most likely to commit or be victims of gun violence.

The bill also provides new tools for municipalities to speed emergency borrowing.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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