How should Michigan use the rest of the federal money that was sent to the state in the form of COVID and infrastructure packages? We asked the five candidates for Michigan House in the new 38th District during a candidate forum last week. Democrat Annie Brown said her top priority is education, and she sees other opportunities for the $7 billion the state is sitting on.
“I would support funding going into economic development to provide infrastructure, transportation for training, and childcare,” Brown said.
Republican Troy Rolling said the money should be given back to the people. Republican Kevin Whiteford, a CPA, said he always has advice for those who get a windfall.
“The seven billion dollars was not expected, it came from the federal government,” Whiteford said. “I would do long term projects, things that need fixing long term. That is, child facilities for mental illness in various parts of the state. I would also look at paying down the debt.”
Democrat Joey Andrews said the surplus should be used to eliminate the pension tax. Republican George Lucas said the funds should be given back to the people so they can cope with inflation. The five candidates are running for state House in the 38th District in the August 2 primary. The 38th District covers the Lake Michigan coast from New Buffalo to Saugatuck. If you live more than a few miles from the coast, you’re probably not in that district, but instead are in the 37th or the 39th. You can find out which legislative districts you live in by following the below links.
