Senator Jon Bumstead, the Senate Appropriations Minority Vice Chair representing Norton Shores, responded on Wednesday to the governor’s fiscal year 2027 budget proposal presented to the Michigan Legislature.
Bumstead highlighted concerns about government spending and called for careful consideration of the needs of families and small businesses. “As we move forward to pass a balanced budget, we must focus on the real-life challenges many families and small businesses are facing. People want effective government, not just more spending. They are working hard and stretching every dollar — and they expect their government to use their tax dollars wisely,” Bumstead said.
He expressed willingness to collaborate with both the governor and legislative colleagues. “I am willing to work with the governor and our legislative colleagues to enact a responsible spending plan that invests in our shared priorities like education, infrastructure and public safety, and makes a positive impact in the lives of everyone in our state.”
Bumstead raised concerns about using funds from Michigan’s budget stabilization fund, often referred to as a “rainy day” fund, suggesting that relying on these reserves instead of making targeted cuts could be detrimental. “Tough conversations are needed on how we balance the budget. Taking money from the budget stabilization fund to support her liberal agenda instead of taking a deeper look at what can be cut or offset in other places is bad for all Michiganders,” he stated.
He also commented on possible tax relief measures discussed by the governor but cautioned against selective benefits. “I welcome the governor’s openness to providing additional tax relief, but I have never been a fan of offering relief to only specific groups. Since families are struggling to make ends meet, we should be uplifting all Michigan households.”
The discussion over Michigan’s next fiscal year budget comes as state lawmakers weigh competing priorities amid ongoing economic pressures for residents across Michigan.
