Failure to Pass Budget Leaves Michigan Schools and Families in Limbo, Says Rep. Grant 

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., July 3, 2025 — The Legislature is required by law to pass a balanced budget for the 2025–26 fiscal year by July 1. Despite ongoing efforts, House Republicans have not engaged in meaningful negotiations to move the process forward. After the deadline passed, state Rep. Kristian Grant (D-Grand Rapids) issued the following statement:

“Passing a timely and responsible budget is one of our most important responsibilities as public servants. The Republican failure to meet the July 1 deadline is deeply concerning — not just because of what it says about the state of negotiations, but because real people and communities are counting on us.

“As a former board chair of Grand Rapids Public Schools, I’ve had to sign pink slips and prepare for potential teacher layoffs. I know the heartbreak of watching districts create lists of essential staff they may be forced to let go — not because the need isn’t there, but because the Legislature failed to pass a budget on time. It’s devastating. And after years of this cycle, we’ve seen the toll it’s taken on our education system.

“Whether it’s fully funding our schools, expanding access to housing, or making health care more affordable, the stakes are simply too high for political games and unnecessary delays.”

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