September 24 – Advocacy News
Four months ago, Michigan was facing a $3 billion budget shortfall. Recently, legislative leaders, working with the Governor’s office, passed a $17.7 billion School Aid budget and a $45 billion General Fund budget.
With very few cuts, a far better revenue outlook than expected in May and a lot of federal money, the budget process turned out to be much smoother than anyone expected.
Yet, unless the economy rebounds quickly over the next several months, next year’s budget might be where the real problem lies with an expected budget shortfall for fiscal year 2021-22 to be about $2 billion.
Overall, the Michigan Chamber commends the Legislature and the Governor for crafting a balanced budget given unprecedented times. The Michigan Chamber is especially thankful for the approximately $58.7 million in workforce development programs with GoingPro employer-based training grants receiving $28.7 million and the Michigan Reconnect Program, aimed at upskilling employees receiving $30 million. The Michigan Chamber was happy to see funding restored for the Pure Michigan tourism marketing campaign in the amount of $35 million.
For more information about the budget, please contact Dan Papineau at dpapineau@michamber.com