A Macomb County developer who secured a $5 million budget earmark quickly became one of the state’s top political donors. It’s the latest incident to prompt questions about Michigan’s appropriations process.
Michigan's spending
Posted inMichigan Government
For Michigan officials building an $80B budget, ‘boring is a good thing’
New projections show tax revenues and the economy are stabilizing as Gov. Whitmer, legislators work to finalize an $80 billion spending plan.
Posted inMichigan Government
How Michigan pork spending rose tenfold to $1B under Whitmer (with GOP help)
The Democrat came into office criticizing lawmakers’ pet projects. Buoyed by a federal windfall, she and fellow lawmakers — including Republicans — have learned to love them.
Posted inMichigan Government
Lawsuit: Michigan’s $714 million income tax cut should be permanent
Should a tax cut that Democratic officials declared temporary actually be permanent? Conservative groups are suing to find out.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan’s new anti-poverty effort: $7,500 for Flint moms, no strings attached
The state is experimenting with guaranteed income, investing $16.5M in a program launched by a foundation. Studies say such programs can lift people out of poverty, but others question state expense.
Posted inMichigan Government
Whitmer signs $82B Michigan budget: ‘Good stuff’ or wasteful ‘spending spree’?
The governor signs a record budget that includes new money for business incentives, affordable housing, public safety — and plenty of ‘pork.’ Here’s what you need to know.
Posted inMichigan Government
How to spend $10B: Stimulus funds bonuses, water, monthly checks in Michigan
Flush with federal cash, Michigan and its largest communities have announced nearly 900 separate projects that do far more than simply help them recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan lawmakers lay tracks on plans to clear back-ups at train crossings
The Michigan Senate unanimously approved a plan to offer grants for getting trains out of the way of road traffic. Some lawmakers believe there’s more to be done.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan ‘pork’ includes another $15 million for ex-GOP chair’s company
For the third time in five years, Michigan legislators have agreed on a package of grants that includes millions to help develop a commercial and residential project by a private real estate company tied to Robert Schostak, the former state GOP chairman.
Posted inTalent & Education
Michigan sends money to help Oxford ‘heal,’ improve safety at other schools
Oxford Community Schools will be able to use the new state funding for staffing to help traumatized students, as well as for repairs to the high school in the wake of the deadly shooting.