LANSING — Today, the House of Representatives approved the state budget for fiscal year 2018-19. In response, state Rep. Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids) issued the following statement:
“The budget that we voted on today was far from perfect, but I owe it to the people of my community and my district to find ways to work together to move our state forward. The General Omnibus budget passed today puts more money into our universities, the First Responder Presumed Coverage Fund, and increases constitutional revenue sharing. In addition, I was pleased to see critical funding incorporated for a statewide sexual assault evidence tracking system, continued financial support to address PFAS contamination across the state, and funding for the remediation of lead paint contamination and vapor intrusion in our communities. The School Omnibus budget includes a substantial increase in per pupil funding for K-12 schools and puts more dollars into classrooms, where they belong. While I wish the budget would move us more quickly toward a state government whose priorities are aligned with those of Michigan’s working families, I will continue to fight for further investment in our children, roads and infrastructure, access to healthcare, and environmental protections beyond today’s vote.”