State Rep. Rodney Wakeman, of Saginaw Township, today voted in favor of a new Michigan state budget investing more in roads and bridges, public health and safety, and strengthening communities – without raising taxes.

The approval votes are the latest in the Legislature’s work to have a state budget for the fiscal year starting Oct. 1, as required by the Michigan Constitution. Last week, the Legislature approved record-high investment in Michigan students as part of the same overall budget.

“My colleagues and I in the House and across the way in the Senate finalized months of work to approve these plans for a state budget ahead of the deadline,” Wakeman said. “Our total state budget is just under $60 billion. To say that we cannot get by with that amount of money – money that comes from our residents – is irresponsible. This is a responsible plan.”

Wakeman highlighted a legislative budget that places a priority on:

• 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.

• 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.

• 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. A statewide mental health hotline is supported by a $2 million commitment.

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 proposals now move collectively to the governor’s desk for review.

“The Legislature directly addressed the needs of the people while respecting their views on the wildly unpopular gas tax increase within the governor’s initial recommendation. We did it in a fiscally responsible fashion,” Wakeman said. “I look forward to the governor signing this budget for the benefit of all Michigan residents and people who call Saginaw County home.”