State Rep. Lightner today championed the passage of a bipartisan budget deal for next year, locking in critical funding for first responders and schools. The budget agreement lands tons of wins for Michigan residents, including no new taxes, strengthened accountability measures, and a focus on efficiency in state department spending.

“This was a long budget process, but now that it’s over, we got some great wins for our communities,” said Rep. Lightner. “We’ve got a final product that makes the government smaller, takes care of our schools, and makes life easier for our families. The best government is one that stays out of your way and still delivers on things that matter. We stopped those who were pushing unnecessary tax hikes or annoying new fees, and we still locked-in investments for schools, roads and bridges, and local law enforcement. We expect people to tighten their belts, and government should do the same.”

The bipartisan budget deal, approved by an overwhelming majority of lawmakers – Republicans and Democrats alike, continues historic investments in public safety, infrastructure, and education. Lightner’s agreement continues a new trend of responsible budgeting in Lansing, protecting the state’s rainy-day fund, blocking tax increases, and making key investments all while delivering a more efficient budget than last year.

“We’re delivering results by putting historic amounts of funding behind things people really care about. Public safety, infrastructure and education are the things everyone’s been asking us to make better for years now.” Lightner said.

The budget deal continued funding for the state’s Public Safety Trust Fund, which divvies out key investments to local law enforcement throughout the state. The agreement also includes additional school safety funding, and continuing efforts to keep kids safe while they learn.

Last year, lawmakers secured a nearly $2 billion infrastructure deal to repair local roads and bridges throughout Michigan. The budget agreement for next year continues that progress by implementing the roads plan, ensuring scheduled statewide repairs are fully funded for next year.

The budgets in education, including record-breaking per-student funding of $10,300 per student and true universal breakfast and lunch programs. Lawmakers also secured funding for teacher bonuses, school buses, dual enrollment, and early learning programs. The investments in education ensure schools have ample resources to prepare Michigan kids for adulthood, all while keeping them fed and ready to learn.