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Beson Criticizes Governor's Budget Proposal
Russ Survance
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 05:07:56 EST
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State Rep. Timmy Beson, R-Bay City, criticized portions of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's executive budget proposal, objecting to roughly $800 million in new taxes and fees and a planned $400 million withdrawal from the state's rainy day fund. Beson said Michigan families are already facing higher living costs and argued that state government should focus on controlling spending rather than increasing taxes. He pointed to previous efforts to cut what he described as wasteful spending and said lawmakers should continue pursuing a balanced budget without tax hikes.
Beson acknowledged the governor's proposal includes property tax relief and about $625 million for literacy and student achievement initiatives. However, he said the tax relief should be expanded to benefit a broader group of homeowners and expressed concern that additional education funding alone may not reverse declining literacy rates, calling for policy changes alongside financial investment.
He also welcomed continued investment in road and bridge improvements, referencing a bipartisan plan signed into law last year that directs an additional $2 billion annually toward infrastructure projects. Beson said the funding is expected to support thousands of construction jobs and improve road conditions statewide as budget negotiations move forward.
