Michigan lawmakers avoided a state government shutdown after missing the budget deadline. They passed a temporary spending bill to keep the government running until October 8 while budget negotiations continue. This comes as the federal government is also experiencing a shutdown.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer said the state is "on the verge of making huge progress," as per Bridge Michigan. She signed a temporary funding measure early Wednesday after the Democratic-led Senate and Republican-led House approved it, providing about $270 million from the general fund to keep state services running until a formal budget is approved. Whitmer added, "We’re on the verge of making huge progress to fix our state and local roads, feed our kids at school, cut taxes for seniors and working families, protect access to affordable health care, and keep Michiganders safe in their communities," as reported by Audacy. Lawmakers have reached agreement on education funding, public safety, and road investments while budget negotiations continue.
Republican House Floor Leader Bryan Posthumus discussed the proposed budget plans, saying, "We’ve agreed on getting rid of all taxes on tips and overtime and Social Security," in an interview with WZZM13. Officials are hopeful that a full budget agreement can be reached soon, while the temporary budget keeps the government running.
