LANSING, Mich., Feb. 11, 2021 — Rep. Nate Shannon (D-Sterling Heights), 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.
“How we spend our money is one of the truest measures of our values,” said Shannon. “The executive recommendations for this year’s budget make it clear our students, teachers, and education system are very important to the governor and her administration, exactly as they should be. Our kids need the support now more than ever as they continue to face the learning challenges brought on by the pandemic. We also need to look to the future so Michigan can be a leader in education again and our students will have every opportunity to be successful, in and out of the classroom. ”
Specific budget priorities Shannon endorsed include:
- $200 million for schools faced with declining enrollment.
- $370 million for increased access to affordable child care.
- $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.
- Increased revenue sharing for local government.