East Michigan News

State Representative Bill G. Schuette has voted in favor of a new state budget that allocates nearly $20 million to address infrastructure needs in Mid-Michigan. The funding includes $10 million for flood reduction projects in Midland and $9.8 million for the Four Lakes Task Force, which is working to repair dams that failed during catastrophic flooding in 2020.

“With nearly $20 million in direct appropriations to two of the greatest infrastructure needs in the 95th District, this budget is a massive win for Mid-Michigan,” Schuette said. “I am proud to have worked to secure a budget that delivers value for the Michigander’s taxpayer dollars, provides record student funding and finally fixes our roads."

He added, “This critical funding will help reduce the financial burden for property owners who had their lives turned upside down through no fault of their own. They should not be on the hook for repairing this infrastructure. The funding will also help the city of Midland implement advancing technology to mitigate risk and protect the community from future disasters.”

The state budget features several major components:

- Nearly $2 billion is set aside for local road repairs, aiming to give communities enough resources to address potholes and repave frequently used roads.

- A new Public Safety and Violence Prevention Trust Fund will provide $95 million this year and an additional $50 million annually in following years. This fund aims to help communities tackle violent crime, upgrade equipment, retain law enforcement personnel, and improve public safety across Michigan.

- Education spending reaches a record per-pupil level at $10,050. The School Aid Fund also includes $321 million dedicated to school safety and mental health services after significant cuts last year.

- The plan supports federal tax relief efforts by eliminating state taxes on tips, overtime pay, and Social Security income.

- More than 2,000 unfilled positions within state government are eliminated under this agreement. Additionally, workforce occupancy rates at state buildings must reach 80 percent as part of measures intended to increase efficiency.

“This budget reduces government spending by over $1.1 billion by trimming waste, fraud and abuse and still funds schools, local road repairs, enhanced public safety and other services for people in our communities,” Schuette said. “We’ve seen government spending grow significantly over the past few years. This budget agreement stresses efficiency, effectiveness and respect for tax dollars that are afforded to Lansing.”

The approved budget now awaits action from the governor.