We simply cannot afford to continue to have higher education serve as the balancing wheel of the state budget, to the detriment of Michigan’s public universities and its 280,000 students.
Michigan may not get any more help from the federal government as it seeks to balance a projected multibillion budget deficit by October, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing, according to the most powerful Republican in the state Legislature.
The Michigan Senate agreed to cut spending and use up federal dollars to bridge a hefty budget gap caused by the coronavirus. The next budget is due at the end of September.
Michigan’s Democratic governor and Republican lawmakers announce budget deal for this fiscal year, but plenty of work could remain on an even bigger budget shortfall that is fast approaching because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The coronavirus pandemic and state lockdown have prompted a budget shortfall estimated at $6.2 billion, and Gov. Whitmer says Michigan and other states desperately need help from the federal government.
How bad is it going to be? Very bad. 22 percent unemployment. $1.9 billion in lost taxes out of what would be an $11 billion general fund this year alone. The only options: Huge cuts, tax increases or hope for a D.C. bailout.
As the state does its part, one better way to reduce government spending would be to turn to Ford, General Motors and Fiat-Chrysler, recipients of public taxpayer dollars.
The Senate education committee chair said drastic cuts of $2,000 per student may be unavoidable in the fall following huge tax revenue losses from the pandemic. School officials cite the need for more services, not fewer.
Michigan state budget coffers have been hit hard by the coronavirus, and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's staff begin sending emails to state employees Wednesday announcing 10-day layoffs.
One year after blasting pork-barrel spending, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signs onto a larger spending deal that includes $37 million in small community grants. Among other things, the money will pay for a Detroit Symphony Orchestra Hall elevator and $1 million for the auto show.
Addressing everyday social determinants today — from food security to postpartum care to youngsters’ teeth — will save more in the long run, says Michigan’s Health and Human Services director.
Michigan’s governor proposes a big move toward universal pre-K and free training and college for adults in a budget that includes the biggest school aid increase in 20 years. State university funding? Meh.
Much could change before Michigan adopts a budget this year, but Gov. Gretchen Whitmer wants more money for vulnerable mothers, environmental cleanups and education. College and municipal leaders aren’t so happy.
One day after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced she will borrow money for roads fixes, a state commission approves the measure that will send 40 percent of projects to southeast Michigan.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Republicans agree $3.5 billion bonds plan isn’t a long-term solution for Michigan’s ailing roads. But they contend it’s up to the other side to come up with a better solution.
Yes, Michigan’s divisive budget battle just ended. But it’s starting again soon, and state officials say there’s good news and bad news. The state collected more taxes, but old decisions limit how they can be spent.