State Rep. Eric Leutheuser this week voted for a state budget plan that continues Michigan’s economic resurgence, and generates record investment in roads and schools – all while avoiding the governor’s requested 45-cent per gallon fuel tax increase.

“This plan keeps Michigan’s economy moving forward, and that’s great news for everyone living and working in our state,” said Leutheuser, of Hillsdale. “I know the governor’s proposed fuel tax increase would hurt families, cost jobs and stall our economic momentum. That’s why the House took great care to put together a plan that protects families and their budgets – which is the best course of action for Hillsdale and Branch counties.”

The House approved several budget measures this week, advancing the plan to the Senate for further consideration.

Key elements of the budget plan:

• Roads. The plan ensures all taxes paid at the gas pump go to improve our roads – including the 6 percent sales tax motorists already pay. This change could add more than $800 million more per year to road repairs – without raising taxes – once fully phased in over two years. This change would be accomplished without cutting money for schools, local government revenue sharing or other essential public services.

• Schools. The plan raises school districts’ per-pupil foundation allowance by $90 to $180 per student. Every school district in Branch and Hillsdale counties would receive the $180 increase. This comes on top of the largest annual per-student increase of the past 15 years – which schools are receiving in the current budget year – while continuing to close the gap between the state’s lowest- and highest-funded districts. Early literacy and career training are special focuses as the overall school aid fund would surpass $15 billion.

• Workforce development. Continuing and adding to the “Going Pro” initiative will increase the viability, versatility and potential of Michigan’s workforce. The House plan also focuses on career and technical training in Michigan schools, and supports research and other initiatives connected to agriculture. Leutheuser noted these are key strategies that have helped add more than 500,000 private sector jobs in Michigan, while reducing the unemployment rate to about 4 percent – down from nearly 15 percent in mid-2009.

• Supporting local communities. Local communities will get an increase in revenue sharing to enhance essential public services.

• Respecting taxpayers through government efficiencies. Many state departments are being asked to find a savings of 3 percent in their administrative budgets. The House also has identified several state programs that do not spend as much money as taxpayers have been providing, so their budgets will be adjusted accordingly. The plan also helps rein in information technology project spending within state departments, which has been a problem area.

The House budget plan costs taxpayers about $1.3 billion less than the plan recommended by the governor.

“Just like Michiganders do when running a business or a family budget, this plan forces government to eliminate waste and operate efficiently so we can focus on top priorities,” Leutheuser said. “I’m proud to support this plan and look forward to the next steps in discussions with the Senate and the governor.”

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