$35 million is restored to charter schools

State Representative Gary Howell (R-North Branch) and the Michigan House approved a budget bill on Wednesday night that reverses funding cuts made by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer—an effort that restores critical funding for students, veterans, sheriff road patrols and rural hospitals, among other crucial services. The plan has been agreed upon by the House, the Senate, and the Governor.

“I heard from hundreds of constituents regarding the funding vetoes,” Howell said. “I have made it a personal priority to actively engage in the process of restoring the much-needed funds for schools, veterans, autism services, sheriff departments and rural hospitals, as well as other funding that is vital throughout our state. I made it my goal to work with colleagues in both political parties to resolve this issue before Christmas. I am very pleased that we were able to stay the course and get this done.”

“The residents of Lapeer County work hard and pay their taxes.” Howell said, “I will not allow them to receive short-shrift in this year’s budget.”

Key components of the House-approved budget plan that Howell supported include:

• Education. The House approved $35 million for public charter schools such as Chatfield in Lapeer, restoring in full the funding that was originally vetoed. This money is the same as provided to other public schools and is absolutely essential in providing students with resources they need to be successful in the classroom.

• Veterans. The legislation reinstates $4 million to the County Veteran Service Fund to help connect veterans with the benefits they have earned. The Lapeer County veteran service office plays an important role in helping veterans and their families navigate the VA system when filing claims.

• Sheriff Road Patrols. The House action restores the full $13 million that was originally appropriated, thus giving our Lapeer County sheriff the ability to retain officers to patrol our secondary roads. Public safety should always be a key priority.

“The bottom line is that patient negotiations with the Governor, House, and Senate have finally eliminated the unfortunate vetoes.” Howell said. “Working together we have averted an unnecessary financial hardship for rural Michigan citizens.”

The budget plan approved by the House now moves to the Senate for further consideration.