No Imminent Shutdown for Michigan as Lawmakers Edge Closer to Budget Resolution
The looming threat of a Michigan state government shutdown has been averted for now, according to a joint announcement by state leaders. Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, and House Speaker Matt Hall assured that even without a finalized budget deal, state operations will continue as usual past the midnight deadline.
Governor Whitmer expressed her confidence in the ongoing efforts of the legislators, stating, “As drafting continues, I’m grateful to legislators on both sides of the aisle for their work and I am ready to conduct a final legal review and sign it into law after they send me the budget.” She added that state services would proceed without interruption and employees should report to work as scheduled.
Rachael Dickinson, president of UAW Local 6000, confirmed that state employees had been informed to expect no layoffs and should be present at work on Wednesday. “They have been told to show up for work tomorrow, that there is no shutdown, and that they’re reaching a budget deal,” she noted, providing relief after weeks of uncertainty.
Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson indicated that her department’s services would continue unimpeded. Addressing the situation at an event in Detroit, Benson said, “All the information we have right now indicates that we will be able to come to an agreement in line with the law’s requirements.”
Although a complete budget review by the Legislature before the deadline seems unlikely, a temporary measure might be in the works. This plan could involve Governor Whitmer taking unilateral action to maintain government functions without a new budget.
Representative Alabas Farhat highlighted the governor’s potential strategy, stating, “the Constitution gives the governor the authority to deem certain departments essential. And again, I mean, she has a plan. She has great lawyers. I would take it up with her.”
Speculation suggests that an executive directive might be used to continue funding temporarily, which would be a novel approach. However, challenging such a plan in court could be futile, as legal proceedings might outlast the time needed for the Legislature to finalize a budget agreement.
—
Read More Michigan News
