Michigan Gov. Whitmer Touts $77 Billion 2023 Budget, Despite No Tax Relief

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is touting the $77 billion 2023 fiscal year budget that she says will improve Michigan’s economy and workforce.

Whitmer bragged that the budget negotiated with Republicans doesn’t raise taxes. However, it also keeps $7 billion of taxpayer money locked in state coffers while spending another $7 billion more than the prior budget.

“This budget makes bold investments that will grow our economy, upskill our workforce, and create jobs in communities across Michigan,” Whitmer said in a statement. “It will make a difference for small business owners, job-seekers, and workers who want to go back to school to get a postsecondary degree or skills training. It will help us spur investment in every region of Michigan, boost tourism, and ensure that if you can buy it in a farmer’s market, it’s grown right here in Michigan. This budget is proof of what’s possible when we put working families and communities first and stay focused on getting things done.”

Economy & Workforce Budget by the Numbers

• $230 million for two projects: cancer research and the future of electric cars and mobility.
• $110 million for Michigan Reconnect and Going Pro, programs that aim to provide tuition-free paths to a job.
• $75 million for Michigan community financial development institutions.
• $75 million to remove vacant and unused structures and houses.
• $50 million for food and agriculture economic development.
• $50 million for nonprofit relief.
• $40 million for the Pure Michigan advertising campaign.
• $10 million for the Office of Rural Development.
• $10 million to remove barriers to employment.
• $10 million for the statewide pre-apprenticeship program.
• $10 million for talent retention and expansion in key industries.

The budget chases Whitmer’s goal of having 60% of Michiganders achieve a postsecondary degree or skills training certificate by 2030. The budget allocated $251 million to economic development, including $1 million for a “Buy Michigan” campaign to support local products. However, one analyst argues that much of the $251 million in projects don’t align with Michiganders’ priorities…. (Excerpt from The Michigan Star)