Livingston Today

The House has voted to restore a portion of the funding for school safety, which had been significantly reduced by Democrat lawmakers at the end of June. The decision to cut 92 percent of the budget for school safety and mental health programs was met with criticism not only from Republican lawmakers but also from schools and parents.

"Democrat lawmakers and the governor cut more than $300 million for protecting students but managed to find $400 million for pork barrel spending such as free Wi-Fi for the Greektown Casino area," said Bezotte. He emphasized that budgeting involves tradeoffs, stating, "put the money toward protecting students."

Bezotte also highlighted that Democrats removed language that would have allowed the state to reclaim $19 million from a grant given to a political appointee who spent taxpayer money on a high-end coffeemaker. He urged Governor Whitmer to explain her stance on this issue.

Despite being in the minority, Republican lawmakers have focused on restoring school safety funding. Their efforts led to Democrats agreeing to restore $125 million, which is about 40 percent of what was initially cut. Bezotte supported this restoration but stressed the need for full restoration: "We need to get to 100 percent restoration."

This vote marked the first time in three months that Democrats controlling the House held a vote. Bezotte expressed satisfaction with this progress but insisted on maintaining pressure for further action.

Additionally, Howell City Clerk Deanna Robson announced that absentee ballots will be available starting Monday, Oct. 7.