State Rep. Doug Wozniak, R-Shelby Township, issued the following statement after the governor’s team presented her Executive Budget Recommendation for the upcoming fiscal year.

“Instead of budgeting responsibly by cutting wasteful spending and eliminating unnecessary programs to address the projected $800 million shortfall in state revenue, the governor is proposing roughly $800 million in new taxes and fees while also tapping about $400 million from the state’s rainy day fund. That is a big step in the wrong direction.

“During last year’s budget process, House Republicans cut hundreds of millions in waste, fraud, and abuse and eliminated thousands of ghost employee positions within state departments. We demonstrated clearly that balancing the budget does not require raising taxes on hardworking Michigan families or small businesses. That same disciplined approach should guide this year’s budget.

“As the budget process moves forward, I will continue working with my Republican colleagues to promote responsible spending, eliminate waste, and deliver meaningful tax relief for Michigan families.”