LANSING, Mich. — State Sen. Aric Nesbitt on Tuesday voted to send the governor a balanced fiscal year 2020 budget that increases investments in key priorities while living within the state’s means.
“We approved a responsible budget that ensures Michigan lives within its means, provides record funding for roads and schools, and does not raise taxes on hardworking Michigan families,” said Nesbitt, R-Lawton. “We wish the governor would work with us in a collaborative manner to balance the budget and fund priorities, but unfortunately she is focused on massive tax increases on families, seniors and small businesses.”
The K-12 plan approved late last week would invest $15.2 billion in education, a total increase of nearly $400 million from last year’s budget. Under that plan, schools would see a foundation allowance boost, while special education, student safety and skilled trades training would also see notable increases.
The 2020 budget plan would invest $5.4 billion in transportation, an increase of more than $2 billion since fiscal year 2010, and state resources for the roads will have more than doubled. Also included is $400 million to help improve local roads and bridges.
The plan approved Tuesday also includes 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, support for rural hospitals and measures to assist Michigan farmers.
The budget bills now head to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for final consideration.
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