LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Legislature encountered a deadline issue on Tuesday when it was unable to finalize a spending plan before midnight. Despite this setback, state lawmakers assure citizens that there is no need for alarm and that they expect to resolve budget issues within the upcoming days.
Senator Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing) remarked that negotiations are nearing completion and emphasized the importance of allowing sufficient time for bill drafters. She stressed the goal of ensuring that government services continue without interruption.
With concerns of a potential government shutdown looming, lawmakers conveyed a reassuring message to Michigan taxpayers. “It was important for me to ensure that our citizens had some predictability,” Anthony said, indicating that state workers are assured of receiving their paychecks for at least the upcoming week due to a “budget continuation” bill approved early Wednesday morning.
This temporary measure provides lawmakers with an additional week to finalize the budget, with a deadline set for October 8. House Appropriations Chair Rep. Ann Bollin (R-Brighton) stated the legislature is on the verge of completing the work. “You can all be witness to, I think when people have the will it can be done,” she remarked.
Bollin also highlighted that the budget reflects priorities from both political parties, including provisions for universal free breakfast and lunch, as well as no taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security. While a specific budget figure was not disclosed, it was noted that the final plan is expected to align more closely with the House Republicans’ proposed $78.5 billion budget.
As Michigan works diligently towards passing a final budget, the efforts of the legislature aim to provide stability and predictability for state workers and residents.