Democrats led the passage of landmark public education budget, in sharp contrast to Republicans who opposed supporting schools across Michigan
LANSING — With Governor Whitmer’s signature, the landmark education budget will devote historic resources to schools and students across Michigan. This funding will invest in teacher retention, provide free school meals for all K-12 public schools, take a first step toward expanding pre-K for all 4-year-olds, and stand as the highest per pupil funding in Michigan history. While Republicans continue to oppose this momentous investment in education, Democrats are delivering on their promises: growing the middle class, supporting public schools, and building a better Michigan.
“Democrats are making Michigan a model for building a strong public education system where all families can thrive and prosper,” said Michigan Democratic Party Chair Lavora Barnes. “We are so proud of our Democratic leaders for investing in Michigan’s future by supporting students, teachers, and parents with this groundbreaking budget. Unfortunately, it’s no surprise that Republicans turned their backs on Michigan families by voting against bringing millions of dollars to their districts to support public education.”
Below is a round-up of how much money key Republican members voted against bringing back to their districts:
Rep. Tom Kuhn (HD-57) voted against:
- $62,822,659 going to schools in his district
- 32,247 students receiving school meals
Rep. David Martin (HD-68) voted against:
- $28,893,875 going to schools in his district
- 11,805 students receiving school meals
Rep. Alicia St. Germaine (HD-62) voted against:
- $27,287,072 going to schools in her district
- 9,794 students receiving school meals
Rep. Jim DeSana (HD-29) voted against:
- $30,639,076 going to schools in his district
- 7,812 students receiving school meals
Rep. Donni Steele (HD-54) voted against:
- $43,494,369 going to schools in her district
- 31,446 students receiving school meals
Rep. Kathy Schmaltz (HD-46) voted against:
- $18,023,968 going to schools in her district
- 5,319 students receiving school meals
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