Battle Creek Times

State Representative Steve Frisbie has announced that the Michigan House’s Value for MI Dollars Budget includes significant funding increases and targeted investments for the 44th House District. The budget sets per-pupil spending at $12,000 for every student in Michigan, increases support for law enforcement and public safety, allocates funds to repair local roads and bridges, and aims to reduce wasteful government spending.

“This budget isn’t about politics as usual — it’s about getting the fundamentals right for our communities,” Frisbie said. “Every student in Michigan now receives the same record investment of $12,000 per pupil. That means more resources for classrooms in District 44 — to focus on reading, math, school safety, mental health, and career training. Parents and teachers here know what their kids need, and this budget finally puts the money in their hands instead of Lansing’s.”

According to Frisbie, House Republicans scrutinized the budget line by line and eliminated over $5 billion in unnecessary expenditures, including thousands of unfilled state employee positions. These savings were redirected toward education, public safety initiatives, and infrastructure projects.

“Families in District 44 don’t waste money they don’t have — neither should Lansing,” Frisbie said. “We ended the slush funds and sent those dollars to the people and priorities that matter.”

The approved budget also creates a new Public Safety Trust Fund with $115 million in ongoing funding dedicated to supporting local law enforcement agencies. “Our sheriffs, prosecutors, and police officers have been forced to do more with less while violent crime rises,” Frisbie said. “This budget gives them the resources they need to hold criminals accountable and keep families safe. Public safety is non-negotiable.”

In addition to education and public safety funding, $3.14 billion will be invested into repairing local roads and bridges without increasing taxes. This allocation is intended to ensure progress on transportation projects throughout District 44.

“People are tired of dodging potholes and detours while Democrats talk about tax hikes,” Frisbie said. “We proved you can fix roads responsibly with existing resources. We’re protecting taxpayers and delivering the infrastructure our community needs.”

The plan further provides $150 million in tax relief by eliminating state taxes on tips, overtime pay, and retirement income.

“Families across District 44 are stretched thin,” Frisbie said. “They deserve a break. This budget makes sure they get one.”

Frisbie emphasized that these measures reflect feedback from constituents regarding priorities such as schools, safe neighborhoods, and lasting infrastructure improvements.

“The Value for MI Dollars Budget tells families in the 44th District that Lansing is finally working for them,” Frisbie said. “We put every student on equal ground, we backed the blue, we fixed the roads, and we did it all without raising taxes. That’s what leadership looks like — and I’m proud to deliver it for our district.”