Battle Creek Times

The Michigan House’s Value for MI Dollars Budget aims to increase funding for law enforcement, road repairs, and education while reducing government waste, according to State Rep. Sarah Lightner, R-Springport.

Lightner stated that the budget prioritizes core community needs without raising taxes. “This budget is about getting the basics right,” Lightner said. “We’re putting real dollars into law enforcement to stop violent crime, repairing local roads without raising taxes, and delivering tax relief for working families. Those are the priorities of people in our community, so that’s where biggest investments should be.”

House Republicans reported removing more than $5 billion in what they identified as wasteful spending, fraud, and abuse from the state budget. This included eliminating 4,300 so-called phantom employee positions. The savings were redirected toward education, public safety, and infrastructure.

“Every year the state spends more money, but families still ask the same questions: Why aren’t the roads fixed? Why aren’t our schools stronger? Why aren’t our neighborhoods safer?” Lightner said. “This budget finally puts those priorities first and makes sure people see real results for their tax dollars.”

The plan allocates $115 million in ongoing funding for a new Public Safety Trust Fund designed to provide resources directly to communities for strengthening local law enforcement.

“Our sheriffs, prosecutors, and police officers have been forced to do more with less while violent crime rises,” Lightner said. “This budget delivers the resources to hold criminals accountable and keep families safe. Public safety is non-negotiable.”

A total of $3.4 billion is set aside for repairs to local roads and bridges without increasing taxes.

“Families are tired of dodging potholes,” Lightner said. “We proved you can fix roads responsibly with existing resources. We’re protecting taxpayers and delivering the infrastructure Michigan needs.”

Additionally, the proposal includes $150 million in tax cuts aimed at working people by eliminating state taxes on tips, overtime pay, and retirement income.

“Families are stretched thin,” Lightner said. “They deserve a break. With this budget, they finally get one.”