Should $670 million in retiree health care savings go directly to schools, teachers or the state? A disagreement among Democrats has slowed a Michigan budget deal as lawmakers prepare for summer recess.
Michigan's spending
Posted inMichigan Government
Dana Nessel calls for pork politics reforms amid Clare grant probe
The attorney general office calls for changes to a process that has awarded $2 billion in pet projects in recent years. Some are under investigation, including a $25 million grant for a health campus in Clare that was championed by a former House speaker and went to a former aide.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan developer gave $450K to lawmakers after $5M housing grant
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.
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.