Congress is now moving forward on a $26 billion package of aid to states to extend funding for Medicaid and to prevent teacher layoffs. If as expected, the bill passes the House this week, it will mean $379 million to help with Michigan's medicaid payments and $326 million for K-12 education.
Although less than originally expected, such funding will certainly help alleviate the current state budget deficit and the need for deep cuts. How programs such as revenue sharing will be impacted remains to be scene but this is good news as the Legislature begins discussions on settling this year's fiscal budget and finalizing next year's as well.
Arnold Weinfeld covers federal issues for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.
ad259849-c628-4000-b30d-68f158160a4b|0|.0
