LANSING – Staying true to their record, House Republicans today refused to invest in Michigan's future by voting against a proposal for the fiscal year that begins Oct. 1 that would have protected funding for children, schools, seniors and public safety, and prevented a looming government shutdown.
"With a government shutdown just days away, it is unconscionable that House Republicans are still playing political games with our state's future," said House Speaker Andy Dillon (D-Redford Twp.). "This plan was a mix of cuts, reforms and revenues – everything Michigan needs to get back on the road to recovery. It would have protected our children, schools, seniors, police officers and firefighters from the devastating effects of a shutdown. This vote shows a true lack of political will on the Republicans' part."
House Democrats have said from the beginning that a budget solution would have to include a mix of cuts, reforms and revenues. Under the plan proposed today, the state would have seen a long-term savings of $605.6 million through cuts and reforms (see attached list). Some of the cuts and reforms included cutting lawmakers salaries, eliminating free lifetime health care benefits for lawmakers and eliminating double-dipping for retired state and school employees who come back to work for the state.
"House Democrats will keep fighting to find a comprehensive, bipartisan solution to move Michigan forward," said Majority Floor Leader Steve Tobocman (D-Detroit). "We've already put up four tough votes that would have raised needed revenues for the state. Republican leader Craig DeRoche still has yet to even offer a list of reforms. My question is this: What is he possibly waiting for?"