Gov. Whitmer Signs Fourth Balanced Budget with Families, Small Businesses in Mind  

Governor Gretchen Whitmer signs the state’s budget, which prioritizes education, families and small businesses. 

Michigan has had its fourth balanced budget signed under Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s leadership.  

The state budget, recently approved, received bipartisan support for Fiscal Year 2023 that does not raise taxes even amidst the talk of a looming recession and current inflation woes that have many residents counting the costs of everyday living.   

“I am thrilled to sign my fourth balanced, bipartisan state budget that delivers on the kitchen-table issues that matter most to working families, was done on time and does not raise taxes by a dime,” said Whitmer. “The budget will protect public health and public safety, expand mental health resources, grow Michigan’s economy and workforce, empower working families and communities and pays down billions in debt. I look forward to working with the legislature and furthering this spirit of collaboration to invest the billions of dollars in additional revenue we still have on the table to offer real relief to families right now, especially as they face rising prices on groceries, gas and other everyday expenses. I will work with anyone to put Michiganders first and get this done.”  

The Fiscal Year 2023 budget significantly reduces debt by billions and makes a $180 million deposit to the Budget Stabilization Fund which brings Michigan’s Rainy Day Fund to an all-time high of $1.6 billion, according to a press release.  

The FY23 budget totals $76 billion, including a general fund amount of $15.2 billion and a school aid budget totaling $17.5 billion. It provides a significant amount of one-time funding while maintaining balance in future years while not utilizing one-time funds for ongoing purposes.  

Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist told the Michigan Chronicle that he and Whitmer are “really proud” of the budget they signed, adding that investments in K-12 education were really a priority in the state.  

“[There will be] more money for more schools for our children and families to be positioned for success,” he said, adding that an important equity component is within the budget, too. “That money is distributed more equitably than it’s ever been.… [There is] funding for districts where families are fighting poverty.”  

Gilchrist also said that the budget also increases fiscal support for small businesses with resources.  

“[The budget] reflects priorities,” of what Michigan residents asked for added Gilchrist. “All this stuff makes a difference.”  

State Rep. Joe Tate (D-Detroit), Democratic vice chair of the House Appropriations Committee, echoed similar thoughts.   

“The budget signing … is a beacon for Michigan’s bright future. Our efforts and collaboration have led to the passage of this state budget and carved a path that deserves recognition,” Tate said. “The budget will support community growth and a commitment to change throughout the state.   

“In my own community, this focus is present in the $75 million to the Community Development Financial Institution, the $500,000 to Mack Avenue Corridor Improvement for its Engineering Phase and $4 million to the Detroit Historical Society Museum. This budget grants the opportunity of a new road to growing and thriving communities throughout Michigan.”  

Three key areas of the budget that invest in families and communities are:  

• Honoring veterans; 
• Building up infrastructure; and  
• Funding critical local projects.  

Budget investments in Michigan’s economy and workforce can be divided into three key sections: talent and workforce, regional economic development and support for small businesses.  

• The budget’s talent and workforce investments will help build a skilled workforce.  

• It will boost economic development in every region of Michigan.  
• It will work to create jobs and help small business owners fill openings.  

Other budget elements include protecting public health and public safety.   

“As an elected public official, I know personally how difficult the budget process can be to achieve the desired outcome,” said Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans in a press release. “Which means I am also appreciative for what Governor Gretchen Whitmer has managed to do for Wayne County in the budget she has signed today. There are a number of wins in this budget for our community, which demonstrates the Governor’s commitment to improving the quality of life for our citizens.” 

For more information visit michigan.gov and search “budget.”