LANSING – The Michigan House of Representatives today approved a pair of budget plans that will give local schools the resources they need to provide our children with a top-notch education, boost the number of children who can attend preschool programs across the state, and help cities provide police and fire protection for our communities.
"Every dollar that we invest in education will pay off in dividends as we prepare our children to compete in the global economy," said State Representative Matt Gillard (D-Alpena), the Chair of the House School Aid and Education Appropriations Subcommittee. "Michigan will need a highly educated workforce to attract 21st century employers and the good-paying jobs they provide. Ensuring that our schools have the tools they need to provide our kids with a high-quality education is the right thing to do to help move Michigan forward."
The Michigan House today approved two more budgets for the 2008-09 fiscal year – the School Aid and General Government budgets.
Highlights of the SAF, which funds Michigan's K-12 schools, include increasing funding for local school districts between $56 and $112 per student and boosting the number of children who can attend preschool programs by 1,470.
The Legislature today also approved the General Government budget, which increased revenue-sharing payments to local municipalities by 2 percent, or $8.1 million. The increase, which is required under Michigan law, will help communities provide public safety and other vital services.
"Our cities and townships are struggling in these tough times," said State Representative Marsha Cheeks (D-Detroit), Chair of the House General Government Appropriations Subcommittee. "By approving this increase in revenue-sharing payments, we can help our cities maintain core services like police and fire protection. Every little bit counts as we work to get Michigan back on track."