LANSING, Mich. -- The State Superintendent of Public Instruction in Michigan says if the delay in passing a state budget drags on much longer, it could jeopardize state aid payments.
Dr. Michael Rice issued a statement about the continuation budget agreement between Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Republican leaders to keep state government operational until Oct. 8. The new fiscal year began Oct. 1, the start of the new fiscal year. Normally, not have a new state budget in place by then would have automatically triggered a partial government shutdown. But lawmakers and the Governor have reached a budget accord, and are just finalizing details and getting the budget printed.
Dr. Rice said public school districts are concerned about it.
This was his written statement:
“While it is good that Michigan government remains open, local school leaders, teachers, parents, and communities are rightly concerned about how multiple missed budget deadlines may harm the education of children. If the latest delay lasts much longer, October state aid payments on which schools rely to pay their bills and educate our children could be in jeopardy. I urge the state legislature to approve quickly a budget that provides adequate and equitable funding to our public schools, including dollars to improve literacy achievement, to keep children healthy and safe, and to provide support to all students.
"Lawmakers missed the July 1 statutory deadline to pass a budget and a second deadline to approve a budget by the beginning of the state fiscal year, which is today. It’s time to take quick action for the good of Michigan students.”
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