By Noah Brasseur
Gov. Whitmer released her proposal for this year’s state budget on Feb. 8. Her plan is in largest in Michigan’s history, coming to a total of $79 billion, up from $74.1 billion in 2023.
Part of the increase may be due to Democrats having a governmental trifecta, which allows for more ambitious projects that may not have been possible with a Republican majority.
The budget also includes an increase for education funding across the board. Schools, colleges, and universities would all have an increase in funding from the state government under the plan, should the legislature approve the plan.
It would also provide free breakfasts and lunches to all students in public schools, regardless of age. The proposal also includes money to begin replacing school buses with electric equivalents, according to a press release.
Additionally, Whitmer’s plan set aside funds for public safety, the first time the Michigan state government would be setting money aside for such a purpose. It includes provisions for training police officers, providing equipment to first responders, and more recruitment initiatives.
The budget also attempts to fight inflation, as it would rollback certain taxes while expanding tax credits. There is an included proposal to pause the sales taxes on electric vehicles to encourage more purchases.
The full plan can be found on the state government’s website.
