Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed off on Michigan’s $83 billion budget this week, a monumental move in Lansing that signals a transformative period for the state. This budget, which includes a $23 billion plan specifically for education, promises to reshape the landscape of public services, education, and housing.
Governor Whitmer emphasized that the budget is designed to prioritize public safety, infrastructure, and the workforce without increasing taxes. “This budget prioritizes public safety, infrastructure, and Michigan workers without raising taxes by a dime,” Whitmer stated in Detroit. She hailed it as a plan that builds on the foundations laid by previous budgets and addresses numerous key areas crucial to Michigan’s future.
One of the most significant aspects of this budget is the expansion of preschool access across the state. This initiative will provide early educational opportunities to countless children who previously lacked access, setting a strong foundation for their future academic success. Additionally, the budget offers two years of free community college, opening doors for many Michiganders to further their education without the burden of tuition fees. This move is expected to enhance the skills of the workforce, making Michigan more competitive and economically robust.
The budget also takes a bold step in addressing housing issues. With $100 million earmarked for housing affordability, including $66.6 million for various local and regional housing projects, the state aims to tackle the housing crisis head-on. These funds will support competitive grant programs and homeowner affordability grants, aiming to increase the housing stock and provide more affordable housing options. Furthermore, $20 million has been allocated for permanent supportive housing, which will provide long-term solutions for those facing housing instability.
Despite these advancements, some critics argue that the budget falls short in critical areas. Concerns have been raised about potential cuts to school safety and mental health supports. These areas are vital for the well-being and security of students, and any reduction in funding could have serious implications. Additionally, there is criticism that some of the budget allocations are directed toward pet projects rather than addressing more pressing needs.
Chris Jackson, the Executive Director of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus (MLBC), highlighted the importance of sustained representation and decision-making power for members. “The true measure of success is based on the ability to sustain after the first wave of that success has settled in. The FY 2024 Budget was coined the ‘Blackest budget in Michigan’s history’ and rightfully so thanks to MLBC First Vice-Chair Senator Anthony and Executive Vice-Chair Representative O’Neal in their respective appropriations roles. This budget, for FY25, builds on the foundation that was laid in the previous budget. This level of prioritization is only sustained if our members continue to have representation and decision-making power. It’s a great start, but the MLBC and its members are aware that there is still generations worth of work to accomplish,” Jackson stated.
The education sector has seen significant allocations, with $4 million designated for the Michigan Education Justice Coalition. This funding will be used to create and implement a toolkit for addressing racial disparities in education, conduct research with teachers of color in high-need districts, investigate the school-to-prison pipeline, and support administrative costs. An additional $2.5 million is set aside for the Black Male Educators Alliance, and $1 million for the Communities In Schools program.
Housing and utilities are also major focal points in the budget. Besides the $100 million for housing affordability, $10 million is allocated to assist residents at risk of having their water service shut off due to financial hardships, and $5 million to the Michigan Saves Green Bank to offer credit enhancement tools for renewable energy and energy efficiency improvement loans.
Maternal and infant health has not been overlooked. The budget includes $5 million for Michigan Perinatal Quality Collaboratives, $3.9 million to support doula care, $3.3 million for the Maternal Infant Health Program, and $2.5 million for Centering Pregnancy programs. Additionally, $500,000 is allocated to the Michigan Department of Transportation to continue working with the Mama’s Mobile Milk program, ensuring incarcerated mothers can transport breastmilk to their newborns.
Healthcare and public safety see a substantial boost, with $11.3 million for the Federally Qualified Health Centers Medicaid rate increase and $500,000 for the Michigan Office of Community Violence Intervention Services. This funding will provide administrative support for community-based public safety efforts. There is also $250,000 allocated for a study assessing the impact of implicit bias training requirements for Michigan health professionals on healthcare access and delivery.
The cultural, arts, and recreation sectors are set to receive significant funding as well, with $5 million allocated for the Motown Museum and $4 million for Ferris State University’s Jim Crow Museum. Additionally, $2 million is earmarked for park renovations in Lathrup Village.
Economic development initiatives include $10 million for minority-owned business grants, $2 million for the Michigan Minority Supplier Developer, $1 million for the Global African Business Association (GABA), and $500,000 for the Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses’ new headquarters.
Diversity and equity are prioritized, with $3 million allocated to the Michigan Independent Retailers Association to combat food deserts, $1 million for Life Remodeled to repurpose vacant properties into opportunity hubs in underserved communities, and $750,000 for Life Leaders to make opportunities accessible for Detroit youth. Detroit PAL receives $250,000 to help youth achieve greatness through athletic, academic, and leadership development programs.
This budget also includes allocations to support the Michigan Department of Civil Rights and the Office of Global Michigan, ensuring that diversity and equity remain at the forefront of the state’s agenda.
Gov. Whitmer’s signing of the $83 billion budget marks a pivotal moment for Michigan. While the budget aims to address a broad range of issues from education and housing to healthcare and economic development, it also highlights the ongoing debates about funding priorities and the need for sustained representation and advocacy. As Michigan moves forward, it will be crucial to monitor the implementation of these funds and ensure that they effectively address the needs of all communities across the state.
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