Michigan legislators are awaiting Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's signature after passing a new measure that increases funding for K-12 schools across the state.
The budget provides $15.2 billion in funding for schools and represents an increase of $120 per student, for a total of $240 per student. Whitmer had previously proposed capping the increase in per-student spending at $180.
The bill adds more funding for Career Technical Education, bringing CTE investment to nearly $74 million. This includes an additional $50 per student, plus a $16 million investment in new equipment.
If approved, the budget would also add an additional $60 million to reimburse districts across the state for costs related to special education programs.
Rep. Ben Frederick (R-Owosso) is supportive of the bipartisan budget, a press release states.
“Our bipartisan budget sets students up for success by directing more money into every classroom in mid-Michigan,” Frederick said in the press release.
Frederick also touted the specific focus on directing money to areas of need.
“We’re also boosting funding for critical areas like special education, early literacy and career training to help students learn the skills they need to grow into the entrepreneurs, skilled workers and business professionals of tomorrow,” he said.
The budget, which was overwhelmingly approved in the state House by a vote of 91-18, still needs to be signed by the governor.
“There’s absolutely no reason for our governor to veto this budget,” Frederick said in the release. “Both sides of the Legislature came together and invested in all of the areas she prioritized without raising taxes. It’s time to get this budget across the finish line for the sake of our kids.”
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