The Legislature and Rep. Beth Griffin today approved more resources to repair roads, protect drinking water and improve mental health services in Southwest Michigan and the entire state.

Griffin’s votes came as the Legislature completed its work on a new state budget for the fiscal year starting Oct. 1. Griffin last week helped approve record-high investment in Michigan students as part of the same overall budget.

“I’ve listened to taxpayers and families across Van Buren and Kalamazoo counties – and this budget helps deliver on their top priorities,” said Griffin, of Mattawan. “More money for road and bridge repairs. More investment in public health – especially mental health — and protecting our drinking water. A deeper commitment to education and getting our children prepared for jobs and college. It’s all accomplished without tax increases, which is incredibly important to families working hard to make ends meet.”

Gov. Whitmer declined to participate in budget negotiations after her demands for a 45-cent per gallon gas tax increase were rejected. The budget the Legislature is sending to her costs taxpayers significantly less than the plan she proposed in March.

The Legislature’s budget places a priority on:

• Public health. Another $120 million is dedicated to protect drinking water against PFAS, lead and other contaminants. Funding to prevent opioid abuse and provide substance abuse treatment increases by $30 million. Rural hospitals receive more support to help patients in every corner of Michigan receive dependable health services. A statewide mental health hotline is supported by a $2 million commitment.
• Roads. Another $400 million is invested in road and bridge repairs, continuing the Legislature’s commitment to improving roads without tax increases or cuts to essential services. Michigan’s Department of Transportation budget will top $5 billion and provide more money for road repairs than ever before.
• Public safety. Eighty-six new Michigan State Police troopers will be trained. Statutory revenue sharing increases by 2.3 percent to help local governments maintain essential public services including police and fire departments.
• Economic growth. Investments continue and increase in programs such as Going Pro to train more workers for good-paying, high demand careers so they can support themselves and their families – continuing Michigan’s economic comeback. This builds upon the previously approved schools budget providing significant increases in career and technical education. The new budget also makes a $4 million investment in the Food & Agriculture Investment Grant program supporting innovation and job creation.

The schools budget approved last week includes a record $15.2 billion for Michigan students, increasing the foundation allowance by more than $300 million — up to $240 more per student. Additional support is provided for special education, early literacy, school safety and several other programs.

The budget legislation advances to Gov. Whitmer.

“I am counting on the governor to do the right thing and sign this budget into law, so important services continue without interruption,” Griffin said.

###