Capitol News

State Representative Rylee Linting of Grosse Ile Township has praised a recently signed state budget agreement, emphasizing its focus on local priorities, taxpayer protection, and government transparency. Linting highlighted that the budget reduces overall state spending while still addressing key concerns for residents.

“The big thing for me with this budget is what it stands for. We reduced overall state spending to respect taxpayers while still funding their top priorities and providing them with value for their tax dollars,” Linting said. “The transparency and historic funding within this budget were reflected in the House with over 100 yes votes before it was signed. House Republicans led on this from very early on in the term, and I am proud that we were able to deliver all these wins for people Downriver and workers and families throughout the state.”

During an event at Mom’s Restaurant in Trenton, part of her district, Linting pointed to a $10 million allocation she helped secure for Wayne County to start construction on a new bridge on West Road in Trenton. She also noted obtaining $5 million for the Downriver Career Tech Center, which provides students across local districts with career options and skilled trades experience.

Other features of the budget include nearly $2 billion in ongoing funds dedicated to repairing local roads, aiming to help communities address longstanding infrastructure needs such as pothole repairs and road repaving.

The plan supports federal tax cuts by eliminating state taxes on tips, overtime pay, and Social Security income for Michigan families and seniors.

Linting emphasized efforts to limit government expansion by reducing the general fund by $800 million after years of significant growth in state spending. The budget also eliminates spending on unused office space.

Transparency measures are now required for all special projects funded by the state budget. All such projects underwent public hearings totaling over 100 hours, and new rules bar for-profit companies from receiving special project funds. These changes have been made permanent through law.

“When I went to Lansing to serve workers and families Downriver, I wanted to push for change in how state government operates with people’s tax dollars,” Linting said. “The status quo was unacceptable. People had seen enough of wasteful spending and government continuing to grow on the backs of hardworking taxpayers. This budget is a direct response to those concerns, and we delivered on promises. We can have greater transparency and more responsibility with the budget while still funding people’s most pressing priorities, and this agreement sets Michigan up for that this year and going forward.”