State Rep. David Martin | Michigan House Republicans
State Rep. David Martin | Michigan House Republicans
State Rep. David Martin voted this week in favor of a proposal that would suspend pay for Michigan legislators and the governor if they do not meet the state's July 1 deadline to pass a balanced annual budget.
The proposal, known as House Joint Resolution M, seeks to amend the Michigan Constitution so that pay is withheld from lawmakers and the governor until a budget is signed into law after the statutory deadline.
“Too many politicians in Lansing seem more worried about collecting a paycheck than doing the work they were sent here to do,” said Martin, R-Davison. “Families, schools, seniors, and local communities pay the price when the budget isn’t finished on time. If lawmakers can’t do their jobs, then they shouldn’t get paid. It’s that simple.”
For House Joint Resolution M to take effect, it would require two-thirds approval in both legislative chambers before being placed on the ballot for voters during the next general election.
The measure received a 70-30 vote in the House but did not reach the required threshold. All House Republicans supported it while several Democrat legislators opposed it.
Martin expressed disappointment at its failure but indicated hope for another opportunity to bring it forward.
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