LANSING, MI (AP)-- Republicans who control Michigan’s Senate have begun approving a $66.4 billion budget that would spend 5% more than in the current year, thanks to an influx of federal funding, but about $728 million less than what is proposed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Democrats voted against many bills Tuesday, showing a legislative deal with the Democratic governor remains weeks or months away. Legislators are required to pass spending bills by July 1, though the fiscal year will not start until Oct. 1.
The Republican-led House also began passing budget legislation, including $9.5 billion in federal COVID-19 relief aid.
