After failing to pass a budget by July 1, House Republicans canceled session this week, keeping schools and communities in limbo

 

LANSING, Mich., July 15, 2025 — While House Democrats are in Lansing today ready to work on getting a final state budget done, House Republicans are notably absent. After failing during negotiations and blowing past the July 1 statutory deadline to complete the full budget, Republican House Speaker Matt Hall has canceled the single session day scheduled this week — just one month out from the start of the year for public schools across Michigan.

“House Republicans failed their most important job as the House Majority — to effectively negotiate and pass a final state budget on time — and now they’ve chosen to not even show up for work,” said Democratic Leader Ranjeev Puri (D-Canton). “House Democrats were here at the Capitol today, ready to work  to protect Michigan families and kids, and to demand accountability from Michigan and D.C. Republicans for putting politics above the needs of working people.”

July 1 marked the start of the fiscal year for school districts in the state. Without a state budget, districts are operating blind, which leaves teachers, parents and kids uncertain about what jobs, classroom supplies and after-school programs will be left in the coming school year.

“House Democrats have been calling on House Republicans for months to get serious and collaborate on this budget process. When and how we pass this budget determines the safety and success of every person in the state,” said Democratic Floor Leader John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming). “If Republicans want to lead, then lead us through negotiations to get this budget done. Instead, they’re not in Lansing working while teachers are facing pink slips and parents are left wondering if their child will have safe places to go after school. Michiganders deserve better.”

House Republicans’ continued neglect for the budget process comes as millions of Michiganders are preparing to lose their health care access and food assistance benefits due to Congressional Republicans’ Big Beautiful Bill Act.

“Michigan’s families are dealing with a lot of uncertainty about what the cost of living and health care will look like over these next 18 months, from grocery bills to a visit to the doctor,” said state Rep. Stephanie A. Young (D-Detroit). “Our communities deserve a state budget crafted with care, one that fights for their right to live comfortably. That is what my Democratic colleagues and I show up to do every day, and we will continue to put pressure on Republicans to get a people-centered budget done for Michiganders. Love is the work!”

 

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