“In my six years of service on the House Appropriations Committee, the COVID-19 pandemic created one of the most challenging and unique budget cycles that I have ever been part of. However, I am proud that through it all, my Democratic colleagues and I remained unwavering to protecting the priorities of Michigan families. I am also truly thankful for the steadfast leadership shown by Governor Whitmer throughout the process. As the Democratic Chair of the House Appropriations Committee on School Aid and MDE, I am pleased that this budget will protect our schools by keeping their original 2020 funding levels, while also including new investments focused on providing students with the resources they need to be successful in the midst of a pandemic. This includes increased funding for mental health support, vulnerable and at-risk students, and special education. It also ensures that our teachers and school support staff are supported through hazard pay and incentives to attract and retain first-year teachers.
This budget also expands access to childcare for families by increasing the income limit from 130% to 150% of the federal poverty level for the Child Development and Care Program (CDC). This has been a top priority of mine and something I have fought for since the very first day I took office in Lansing and I am extremely grateful that I was able to see it through. I am also pleased that this budget includes funding for initiatives like the Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies program, the Michigan Reconnect program, and other critical funding for programs focused on Michigan’s economic recovery. It also invests in environmental, health and broadband initiatives. Quite simply, this budget invests in the people of this great state and ensures that the health, education, and economic well-being of Michiganders is the primary focus. I am extremely appreciative for the opportunity to serve on the powerful House Appropriations Committee for the last six years. I am proud of the budget that is being signed into law today and the work accomplished during my time on this committee.”