State Rep. Ron Robinson (R-Utica) voted in favor of Michigan’s final budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. This plan delivers meaningful support for Michigan families, veterans, taxpayers, and local communities.

“This budget makes strategic investments in Michigan’s future,” said Robinson. “It ensures that our veterans have the resources they need, our taxpayers know where their money is going, and our communities have the infrastructure and public safety support to thrive. We are also funding veteran service facilities and water infrastructure grants for lead line replacements and sewer upgrades to address the needs that directly impact public health, safety, and Michigan’s long-term readiness. The budget also requires full transparency on all earmarks, so taxpayers know exactly how their money is being spent.

“By funding Selfridge Air National Guard Base and veteran service facilities, we are strengthening Michigan’s role in national defense while taking care of those who have served our country. This budget is about putting Michigan residents first and making sure our state is prepared for the future.”

The final budget makes the following key investments:

• $26 million for Selfridge Air National Guard Base: Funds critical infrastructure upgrades and runway replacement to prepare the base for the new fighter jet mission, securing Michigan’s permanent role in national defense.
• $4 million for veteran service facilities: Provides competitive grants to upgrade aging infrastructure at veteran service facilities across Michigan.
• Full transparency for earmarks: Every special project must go through an open public process, with for-profit companies barred from receiving earmarks and new rules permanently in place for all future budgets.
• Grant program for water mains and sewers: Includes $17.4 million for lead water service line replacement grants, as well as a $34 million revolving loan fund to help local communities provide matching funds needed to qualify for federal funding for water infrastructure projects.

The budget also includes three approved projects that were led by Robinson, in addition to his work securing the investment in Selfridge:

• $2.5 million for OMIDDD: Funds construction of a new odor control facility to address persistent sanitary sewer odor along the 15 Mile Road and ITC corridors, while also helping preserve critical sewer infrastructure.
• $250,000 for the Utica Police Department: Provides vital public safety equipment, including drones, tasers, ballistic vests, helmets, shields, and assault training gear, strengthening officer preparedness and community protection.
• $500,000 for Helmets to Hardhats: Supports the nonprofit’s mission of helping veterans transition into civilian careers in the building trades. Since 2003, Helmets to Hardhats has helped nearly 50,000 service members and veterans successfully move into skilled training and good-paying careers in construction.

“These projects represent real, tangible improvements for our community and for our state,” said Robinson. “The odor control facility will finally address the persistent issues along 15 Mile Road, improving the quality of life for families and protecting critical sewer infrastructure. The grant for the Utica Police Department ensures our officers have the modern equipment they need to respond safely and effectively. And by funding Helmets to Hardhats, we’re honoring our veterans by helping them transition into strong, successful civilian careers. These investments will strengthen our community, support our veterans, and keep Macomb County moving forward.”