State Representative Steve Frisbie has proposed that Michigan legislators should not receive their paychecks if they fail to pass a balanced state budget by the July 1 deadline. The proposal comes as schools prepare to open without a finalized budget and local governments consider contingency plans.
Frisbie criticized what he described as ongoing delays in Lansing, stating, “Every year, Lansing politicians know the budget deadline is coming. Every year, families across Michigan make their own budgets work on time because they don’t have the luxury of ignoring bills, paychecks, and responsibilities. But politicians continue to blow past deadlines and play politics with people’s livelihoods. If lawmakers can’t meet the most basic duty of government — passing a balanced budget by July 1 — then they shouldn’t collect a paycheck. Period.”
He expressed concern that such delays could affect funding for classrooms, road projects, and public safety. “When deadlines are blown, it isn’t politicians in the Capitol who feel the pain — it’s Michigan families, schools, and communities,” Frisbie said. “That’s unacceptable. If the budget isn’t done, lawmakers should feel the consequences, not taxpayers.”
Frisbie referenced a recent standoff at the state Capitol in late June when House Republicans passed a school budget with increased classroom funding and restored allocations for school safety and mental health initiatives. They also advanced a road repair funding plan ahead of the deadline. According to Frisbie, Governor Whitmer supported moving negotiations forward; however, Senate Democrats did not support passing the roads plan and instead reduced school funding directed toward for-profit companies and politically-connected non-profits. The Senate adjourned hours before the deadline without reaching an agreement.
“In the private sector, you don’t get rewarded for missing deadlines. You get held accountable. That’s the standard families live by every single day,” Frisbie said. “Some of us have done our job, but others need to stop dragging their feet. No budget, no pay. That’s how we end the excuses and force Lansing to deliver results on time.”
Frisbie emphasized that his proposal aims to promote fairness and discipline among lawmakers while restoring trust between elected officials and residents.
“Families don’t get to push off their mortgages, utilities, or car payments because they’re squabbling,” Frisbie said. “They tighten their belts and get it done. Lansing should be no different. If we can’t meet the deadline, we shouldn’t cash the check — and no one should be allowed to hold taxpayers hostage.”
