South Michigan News

Senator Mark Huizenga has voiced his opposition to the Senate budget plan for fiscal year 2026, arguing that it fails to address critical issues facing Michigan residents. According to Huizenga, the plan overly emphasizes government expansion while neglecting essential needs such as education and infrastructure.

"The hardworking people of West Michigan need and deserve a state budget plan that uses their tax dollars in a responsible and sustainable way to meet their needs and improve their lives — not one that increases their taxes and spends more of their money," said Huizenga, R-Walker. He highlighted concerns about student performance, noting, "Only 25% of Michigan’s fourth graders and fewer than a quarter of our eighth grade students are able to read at grade level. I am a strong supporter of our schools, but this plan does nothing to provide solutions to improve student performance."

Huizenga also criticized the lack of tax relief measures for Michigan residents and the absence of effective strategies for road improvements. "This plan also fails to provide any tax relief to Michigan residents or fix our roads. We need a road funding plan that doesn’t increase taxes or burdens on families," he stated.

During the debate over the budget, Huizenga proposed several amendments aimed at enhancing the budget's effectiveness; however, none were accepted. Among these amendments was an initiative focused on addressing concerns related to PFAS contamination. "A lack of information about PFAS and individual testing has created further fear for parents. My amendment would have helped our state better understand the extent of the PFAS problem facing our communities and better provide vital information and resources to affected families," said Huizenga.