State Rep. Mary Whiteford, of Casco Township, reacted to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s recent comments criticizing the Republican-led Michigan Legislature for inactivity as Whiteford and her colleagues work to fix roads without forcing residents to pay what would be the highest gas tax in the country.

“I think her statements are a dishonest portrayal of what has actually been happening,” said Whiteford, who has an integral role as part of the budget process through her work on the House Appropriations Committee. “No one wants a government shutdown. It puts our schools in a difficult position, jeopardizes funding for mental health and other vital services people rely on and impacts our state’s ability to work for residents in an efficient manner.

“But the governor seems set on taking us in that direction while she clings to this notion that Michigan drivers must be taxed more than anyone else in the country for roads to be fixed. We have provided alternatives showing that does not have to be the case.”

Throughout the summer months, House Republicans have arranged different plans and engaged in discussions to adequately fund road repairs. This came after the governor recommended a massive 45-cent per gallon gas tax increase that Whiteford has repeatedly said is far too burdensome for the residents of Allegan County.

In June, the House approved a budget plan that adds more than $800 million a year to fixing roads without a tax increase. It’s a proposal that comes on top of a 2015 plan that gradually adds revenue every single year to roads, with over $1 billion in additional annual revenue estimated to be generated by 2021.

The approved June budget plan also injects money into schools, raising the state’s minimum per-pupil foundation allowance by $180 and assisting a majority of Michigan school districts. All districts statewide would receive at least $90 more per student as part of a $226 million foundation grant increase in the K-12 budget.

“The proposed gas tax would drive away residents and make Michigan less attractive going forward,” Whiteford said. “Our plan provides record funding for roads and schools without going to taxpayers for more money.”

Provisions in the Michigan Constitution require action on a state budget before the new fiscal year begins Oct. 1.