It’s budget season in Lansing. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has introduced her recommendation for the 2023 state budget. The budget was introduced to both chambers of the legislature on Wednesday morning. The budget has to be approved by June 30th.
State Budget Director Christopher Harkins said, “This is a fiscally responsible budget that provides the type of investments that will move Michigan forward, with very strong support for our schools and for our economy. “
The budget totals $74.1 billion, with a general fund total of $14.3 billion and school aid totaling $18.4 billion. Much of the budget is one-time funding but does not utilize one-time funds for ongoing purposes, according to the governor’s office.
The budget recommends heavy investment into education, with a 5% increase in per-pupil funding. To address forecasted educator shortages, significant money is budgeted for teacher recruitment and retention.
There are also major investments in the budget for workforce training, public health, infrastructure, and public safety.
A link to the budget proposal can be found below.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
