State Rep. Ann Bollin continues to advocate for local budget priorities, including funding for road improvements and resources to help local governments fund elections.

Bollin, the minority vice chair of the General Government budget subcommittee, said local governments are slated to receive an increase in the revenue sharing funding they get from the state. She proposed an amendment that would direct 3% of the increase in revenue sharing to fund election operations – helping local governments address the increased costs associated with early voting, which was required by Proposal 2 of 2022. It also would have reserved 1% of additional revenue sharing for local road repairs in cities, villages and townships, and 3% for local roads at the county level.

“Prioritizing essential government services such as local road repairs and elections is fundamental,” said Bollin, R-Brighton Township. “It ensures safe and functional infrastructure while upholding the integrity of our elections, which are the foundation of our democracy.”

Bollin also sponsored budget amendments to ensure transparency and accountability by requiring reports on the state’s outstanding pension debt and removing a large increase in contingency spending proposed by the governor. Other amendments she brought forward would have reined in the growing number of state bureaucrats, cutting back on unsustainable funding.

Although none of her amendments were adopted by the subcommittee, Bollin has optimism that the changes she proposed will be incorporated as the budget process progresses. She also expressed appreciation for the subcommittee’s efforts to remove funding for non-essential services proposed by the governor, including the MI Vehicle Rebate program, which used taxpayer dollars to fund handouts for individuals who purchase new electric vehicles.

“The budget is heading in the right direction, and I want to express my appreciation for the subcommittee’s work,” Bollin said. “Removing funding for non-essential services like the MI Vehicle Rebate program shows a commitment to responsible spending. Taxpayer dollars should be allocated wisely, prioritizing essential needs over unnecessary handouts.”

The general government budget, contained in House Bill 5516, includes multiple departments including the Attorney General, SOS, Legislature, Treasury, and the Auditor General. The bill was approved by the subcommittee Tuesday, advancing it to the House Appropriations Committee for further consideration.

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