Monroe Review

LANSING, Mich. - Sen. Joseph Bellino, R-Monroe, strongly criticized Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's fiscal year 2025 state budget recommendation, calling it "irresponsible and short-sighted." In a statement issued on Wednesday, Bellino expressed his concerns about the budget's reliance on stopping a $700 million income tax cut and redirecting $670 million from the state's teacher retirement plan to fund government spending.

While Bellino acknowledged his support for the increase in funding for schools and local governments, he criticized the governor for prioritizing the growth of government rather than making long-term infrastructure investments and allowing hardworking individuals to keep more of their own money. He emphasized the need for a state budget that puts Michigan students, workers, and small business owners first and adopts pro-growth policies to attract new jobs and talent.

"The governor has offered an irresponsible and short-sighted budget that continues the liberal spending spree that exhausted a $9 billion surplus last year - while offering peanuts to families struggling to make ends meet," Bellino said.

Bellino highlighted the urgency to improve the budget and stated, "We can - and must - do better." He called for a focus on policies used effectively in other states to stimulate economic growth and provide relief to struggling families.

The senator's criticism comes after Gov. Whitmer presented her budget recommendation, which paints a positive picture but faces opposition from Bellino and others who believe it falls short in addressing the needs of the people.

The impact of the budget proposal on struggling families is a significant concern for Bellino and his constituents. He believes that the government should prioritize helping those who are facing financial challenges rather than increasing the size and scope of government.

Bellino's statement serves as a call to action for lawmakers to reconsider the budget and make necessary adjustments to better support Michigan residents. His message resonates with those who believe that the state's fiscal plan should reflect the needs of its citizens and provide meaningful assistance to those who are struggling.

In conclusion, Sen. Joseph Bellino has criticized Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's budget proposal for neglecting struggling families. He argues that the budget focuses more on growing the size of government instead of making long-term infrastructure investments and helping Michigan residents keep more of their own money. Bellino's statement calls for a budget that puts the needs of students, workers, and small business owners first and adopts pro-growth policies to attract new jobs and talent. He emphasizes the importance of providing meaningful assistance to families facing financial difficulties and urges lawmakers to reevaluate the budget to better support Michigan residents.