A column by state Rep. Beth Griffin

My job representing you in the Michigan House is all about listening and leading.

I’ve listened to countless concerns about the poor condition of our roads. I’ve also heard your concerns about the governor’s idea to pay for improving them, and the vast majority of Van Buren and Kalamazoo county residents I’ve talked with say her proposed 45-cent per gallon tax increase is simply unaffordable.

That’s why I joined my Republican colleagues in the House to lead the way toward a different approach in the state budget. Once fully phased in, we would have more than $800 million in additional resources each year to fix our roads – without raising taxes.

As a former teacher, it’s extremely important to me that our changes do not hurt students in any way. I’m happy to say that the budget plan recently approved by the House would increase the schools budget by $200 million statewide, including a $180 increase in the minimum pupil foundation allowance.

We must also ensure support for our local communities – established through revenue sharing – does not fall off. Our plan includes a 2.3 percent increase in revenue sharing to help local communities maintain essential public services.

A key building block in the House plan is ensuring all taxes paid at the pump go to fix our roads. We would accomplish this by dedicating the equivalent of the 6 percent sales tax motorists already pay on fuel purchases to fixing our roads, instead of allowing that money to be rerouted elsewhere.

The House budget plan provides an increase in school funding and revenue sharing by focusing available tax revenue on what matters most. The House also has pushed for savings and efficiencies within state government – freeing up more resources for roads, schools and other priorities.

This is an approach that works far better for Southwest Michigan families than a 45-cent per gallon tax increase. I will continue fighting for this responsible reform as the budget process continues in conjunction with the Senate and the governor.

(Rep. Beth Griffin represents District 66 in the Michigan House, including Van Buren County and part of Kalamazoo County.)