4/25/13 - With a goal of finishing the 2014 state budget by June, the Republican-controlled House passed its spending plans yesterday and local democrats are weighing in. Republican State Representatives Bill Rogers of Genoa Township and Cindy Denby of Handy Township voted in favor of the budget, which they maintain cuts government waste and prioritizes state funding for schools, roads and public safety. Denby said, "We have been able to deliver tax cuts, increased school funding, a healthier economy and an improved credit rating. Our long term plan is working and we must continue with it to keep Michigan's comeback on course." Rogers chairs the House Appropriations Subcommittee and commented on the K-12 funding that was included in the budget, which he says is balanced and fair. "Investing in our children and prioritizing education funding is a top priority of mine. We were able to focus on continuing to improve our education system and increase the school fund budget by $50 million over last year, which is the highest itâs been in the past three years. I am happy that we are able to continue our strong commitment to the children in Michigan." Schools and colleges would get an overall 2% funding boost in the budget, but Democrats say that is not enough. Livingston County Democratic Party Chairwoman Judy Daubenmier says schools in Livingston County are some of the lowest-funded in the state and says they are being short-changed year after year, alleging Rogers refuses to stand up for his own constituents and school children. House Bills 4228 and 4328 now move to the Senate for consideration. The GOP-led Senate plans to complete the rest of its budget next week. Daubenmierâs complete statement and a press release from Rogers and Denby can be found below. (JM)
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