State Rep. Ann Bollin of Brighton Township today issued the following statement after the governor’s office provided its preliminary budget proposal to the Legislature, kicking off the process of setting the state budget for the 2021-22 fiscal year:

“Our state budget establishes our priorities and sets the tone for the coming year, so it’s vital that this process includes input from the people in Livingston County and communities across our state. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, my focus is on serving as a voice for people in our community and crafting a smart and responsible state budget that fully funds shared priorities like roads, schools and health care without raising taxes or adding state debt.

“I was happy to hear that the governor agrees with some of our House priorities, including reducing debt and rebuilding the state’s rainy-day fund.

“Our biggest challenge remains the pandemic. Our families, workers and job providers need a state budget that helps them navigate these unprecedented times. Our kids are falling behind in school, and we need a plan of action to address this learning loss and get students back on track. Students all over our state deserve access to greater learning opportunities. Local job providers and the people who depend on them are struggling. They need hope and certainty moving forward.

“These are tough times, and the people of Michigan must be well-represented as this budget process moves forward. We must put people ahead of politics and work together to deliver a sound spending plan that respects our residents and does not place the burden on the backs of taxpayers or small businesses.”