LANSING, Mich., Feb. 12, 2026 — This week, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer proposed her executive budget recommendations for the upcoming fiscal year. As the budget process begins, House Democrats are focused on improving affordability, investing in education and making health care more accessible.
In response, State Rep. Samantha Steckloff (D-Farmington Hills), member of the House Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement:
“The start of every budget cycle is filled with optimism, and this year is no different. I know that Michigan faces some tough challenges — from rising costs to aging infrastructure — and we need to tackle those issues head on. The cost of higher education, for instance, continues to rise, so I’m particularly excited by the proposal to lower the age requirement for Michigan Reconnect from 25 to 21, allowing more Michiganders the opportunity to afford and expand their education.
“I’m hopeful that we will be able to continue work on updating our infrastructure this year, from our roads, bridges and outdated water infrastructure to our schools and hospitals. As it is every year, investing in our state is the best way to make Michigan thrive, and I’m determined to make that happen.”
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