Michigan Legislature Passes Record $82 Billion Budget, Focused on Education

Democrats in Michigan passed an $81.7 billion budget, the largest in the state's history, allocating funds to education, environmental protection, social services, public safety, infrastructure, and economic development. Republicans criticized the lack of transparency and cooperation in the budgetary process. The budget includes increased funding for schools, including a pilot program for universal free breakfast and lunch, as well as reimbursements for teachers' student loans. The Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy also received a significant funding increase. The budget includes earmarks for individual projects in legislators' districts, drawing criticism for its lack of transparency. Governor Gretchen Whitmer praised the budget as a "make it in Michigan" budget and will sign it into law.