Lansing, — It turns out Michigan's state government might have brought in more money from taxes and fees than previously expected in the fiscal year that ended Sept. 30.
That likely will set up a battle this fall over what to do with the cash, which could total $285 million or more.
Democrats, outnumbered in the Michigan Legislature, say any extra money should be committed first to public schools and education programs that are dealing with budget cuts in the fiscal year that started this month. Republicans, including those in Gov. Rick Snyder's administration, are hesitant to commit to any spending before they have a clearer picture of state revenues. And if there is extra money, Republicans might use it to pay off state debt or stick it in state government's savings account.
"We need to wait and be sure that we understand what's available," Republican House Speaker Jase Bolger said. "Everybody's talking about the money already — they are estimates at this point."
Republican Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville also urged caution among his colleagues at the state Capitol.
"Money gets spent real fast around here, before we ever get it in some cases," Richardville said.
No comments:
Post a Comment