As of this writing, Michigan lawmakers continue working to resolve the state's budget. House Democrats approach the challenge of a $2.8 billion deficit seeking a solution that involves a combination of cuts, reforms and support for the programs that matter most. They know that a budget isn't just about numbers – it's about values. It's about deciding what kind of a state we want to be.
That's why their priorities from the beginning have been clear. First, they passed budgets that reduced state spending by hundreds of millions of dollars by making deep cuts to government in order to get Michigan back on track
As they made cuts, however, they never lost sight of the need to make sure they were the right kind of cuts.
Throughout budget negotiations, House Democrats protected certain priorities that are essential to moving Michigan
forward and creating jobs, such as protecting local police officers and firefighters who keep our families and
communities safe; saving the Michigan Promise Scholarship program for college students so we can build a highly educated
workforce that will attract 21st century jobs; and providing health care for our kids and seniors.
A place where the middle class thrives, the economy is growing, and our citizens are safe, healthy and educated
– that's the kind of state that House Democrats want Michigan to be.