LANSING, Mich., Feb. 11, 2021 — Rep. Amos O’Neal (D-Saginaw), joined Michigan House Democrats in applauding the economic and education priorities outlined by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in her budget presentation to the Legislature Thursday.
The executive budget, which will now be reviewed by the Legislature, calls for significant increases in economic recovery and education funding – marking the largest investment in K-12 schools in Michigan to date. Last week, O’Neal proposed an amendment to the supplemental budget to include $5 million for a pre-apprenticeship grant program, which was also recommended by Whitmer today.
“Michigan families are counting on us in the Legislature to look out for them and use their tax dollars as efficiently and effectively as possible. Our budget has real consequences on the lives of every day Michiganders,” said O’Neal. “It determines if our kids have the resources they need in the classroom; if hardworking Michiganders, out of work through no fault of their own will be able to keep food on their tables; if we have clean water to drink. The stakes are high and we have a responsibility to deliver the best solution possible. Let’s get to work.”
Other specific budget priorities O’Neal endorsed include:
- $200 million for schools faced with declining enrollment.
- $370 million for increased access to affordable child care.
- $300 million to fix Michigan bridges.
- $120 million for the Michigan Reconnect program.
- $60 million for the Futures for Frontliners program.
- $120 million for summer learning options, including school and camps.
- $55 million for a statewide Filters First program.
- Making the $2/hour wage increase for direct care workers permanent.
- Covering the cost for sickle cell anemia treatment for all Michigan residents who need it.
Increased revenue sharing for local government.