LANSING, Mich., June 13, 2025 — House Democrats introduced their vision for the School Aid budget this week during a publicly accessible press conference, in an effort to jumpstart budget negotiations ahead of the July 1 statutory deadline for their completion. Under pressure from House Dems, House Republicans finally took a second try at their own school budget, only to continue proposing cuts to programs and services that students and schools rely on — including universal meals, mental health and school safety, school district transportation costs and much, much more. The House Dems’ investment plan would fund all these areas, investing in a future for all kids and evening the playing field between school districts. After voting against the Republican bill to defund critical categorical school investments, state Rep. Betsy Coffia (D-Traverse City) issued the following statement:
“Rural school districts face distinct challenges that urban and suburban schools often don’t — from transportation and staffing shortages to limited access to resources. House Dems’ budget invests in solutions that support these students, teachers and families. In contrast, the GOP’s hastily passed budget strips away critical support that would further burden many northern Michigan schools. Parents shouldn’t have to worry about losing universal breakfast and lunch for their kids — which is saving families an average of $850 per year on grocery bills — or how their kids are going to get to school, whether their classroom has a qualified teacher or if basic educational resources will be there tomorrow. Unfortunately, that’s the future Michigan Republicans are teeing up with their budget. I look forward to further negotiations to make sure the final budget meets the needs of Leelanau, Benzie, Grand Traverse and other rural schools.”
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