Rep. Michael Webber, of Rochester Hills, 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.

Webber’s votes came as the Legislature completed its work on a new state budget for the fiscal year starting Oct. 1. Webber and the Legislature last week approved an increased investment in Michigan students as part of the same overall budget.

“I am proud that the Legislature has come together, crossed the aisle and done its part to avoid a shutdown and send a balanced, fiscally responsible budget to the governor,” Webber said. “Michiganders deserve a government that runs well and provides the services they depend on—like state police, health services and funding for local governments. That is what this budget plan delivers.”

The Legislature’s budget places a priority on:

• Public health. Funding to prevent opioid abuse and provide substance abuse treatment increases by more than $30 million. A statewide mental health hotline is supported by a $2 million commitment.
• Clean water. Dedicates $120 million to protect drinking water against PFAS, lead, and other contaminants.

• 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. This builds upon the previously approved schools budget providing significant increases in career and technical education.

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.

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