Michigan lawmakers are continuing negotiations on the state budget ahead of the October 1 deadline, with key issues sparking debate between House Republicans and the Democrat-controlled Senate.
State Representative Brad Paquette, R-Niles, described the talks as “contentious, but for the best reasons,” citing ongoing discussions over what he calls corporate welfare, transparency in legislative spending, and road funding.
Paquette said House Republicans are pushing to end so-called corporate welfare programs and require lawmakers to publicly associate themselves with specific “pork projects” to increase accountability.
“We want it all to be transparent,” he said, noting past controversies where taxpayer dollars were allocated without adequate oversight.
Road funding and school lunch programs are also major components of the budget discussions. Paquette emphasized the need for a sustained road funding plan and said House Republicans support continued funding for school meals, including ensuring that foods served do not contain additives that could negatively impact students’ attention and health.
Negotiators are also facing pressure over revenue proposals. Paquette expressed opposition to tax increases, saying, “I did not get elected to raise taxes… the revenue is there if we just focus on priorities and not lobbyist priorities.”
Despite disagreements, Paquette indicated that potential agreements are emerging, though he stressed that nothing is final until it is formalized on paper. He also noted a longstanding concern with delayed budget timelines, calling for measures to ensure future budgets are passed on schedule to provide schools and local governments with clarity for planning.
With the state’s budget deadline approaching, lawmakers continue to meet behind closed doors, aiming to reach a consensus that balances spending priorities, transparency, and taxpayer interests.
The deadline for lawmakers to act or else face a government shutdown is October 1.
