LANSING, Mich. — The state Legislature on Tuesday granted final approval to the fiscal year 2020 budget plan.
“One of the primary jobs of a Michigan legislator is to deliver a responsible budget that invests in our state’s future and to do so on time, before the start of the fiscal year,” said Sen. Kevin Daley, R-Lum. “This budget includes record funding for roads, schools and water quality analysis and protection — all without depending on a massive $2.5 billion tax hike on Michigan families.”
Last week, the Legislature finalized the school budget. House Bill 4242 would invest more than $15.2 billion in K-12 education, a boost of nearly $400 million over last year and the largest investment in the state’s history. This marks a $2.2 billion increase in school funding since fiscal year 2011. Also included are funding increases for special education and school safety, while also putting more resources toward career technical education and skilled trades training.
Tuesday afternoon, the Legislature approved Senate Bill 149, which would invest $5.4 billion in transportation in FY 2020, an increase of more than $2 billion since FY 2010.
“Fixing Michigan roads has been a major point of contention among members of the Legislature and the administration,” Daley said. “Today’s vote does not signify the end of the discussion. It is revenue we could afford to spend now as we continue to look for a long-term solution.”
The budget also included funding for a new 100-bed facility in Caro as well as $5 million for demolition of old buildings at the Caro site. The language in the legislation also states that the facility be built at the existing Caro Center location.
“I am proud of the way folks came together and showed the administration just how important the Caro Center is to our area,” Daley said. “I look forward to seeing construction resume on this project.”
Other notable items in the plan approved Tuesday include funding to train new state police troopers and corrections officers, funding for water analysis and treatment, language requiring state departments to work together to ensure veterans receive their benefits, increased funding to local governments and support for Michigan farmers.
The 2020 budget package will now go before Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for consideration.
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