Genesee News

For the upcoming fiscal year, Michigan leadership is trying to make a road funding deal a part of the budget.

If the issue is not resolved by October, a state government shutdown will ensue, with only essential state operations continuing until further notice.

The governor and state legislature have not been able to come to an agreement on road funding. They all agree that more money needs to be put into road funding, but can’t agree on a number. State Sen. Ken Horn (R-Frankenmuth) says the governor doesn’t recognize what has been done for road funding over the past four years.

“In 2015, we added $1.2 billion on top of spending by adding a seven cent gas tax ... we raised registration fees," Horn said. "Not real popular with the people, but we did it. We set aside $600 million in a restricted fund to be used solely on roads … $1.2 billion.” 

According to Sen. Horn, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer doesn’t recognize that, calling it “not enough.” She is looking to have $2.5 billion added on top of that.

Legislators have the option of passing a budget that will increase taxes for its citizens. More than likely, the funds for transportation would increase in this proposed budget. Both the House and the Senate have presented budget proposals that require more funding for roads

Whitmer can veto the budget bill if it passes through the House and Senate without a negotiated tax hike. If that happens, then the government will shut down. 

“We need to get a budget done,” Horn said. “That is a constitutional duty of the legislator.”

Even though October is quickly approaching, Horn is confident that a compromise will be reached by then.

“If the governor continues to threaten vetoes or keeps saying no to us, we will present a budget and she can choose to veto it or sign it,” Horn said. “We’re going to get that budget done, and then we’ll fix the roads, and we’ll do it in a way that the people approve of.”