State Rep. Jason Woolford (R-Howell) today voted to approve Michigan’s final budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 that eliminates government waste, and invests in key priorities for Michigan families, seniors, and students.

“This budget delivers on the promises we made to Michigan families: less waste, lower taxes, and stronger schools,” said Woolford. “This plan reflects the values of Michigan residents by returning more money to taxpayers, protecting seniors, supporting local schools, and strengthening Michigan’s defense presence at Selfridge Air National Guard Base.

“I also led the charge to require upgrades to Bridge cards with chip technology, because protecting taxpayer dollars and making sure benefits go to the families who truly need them is common sense. It puts taxpayers first and ensures our state is investing in what truly matters.”

Key highlights of the budget include:

• Tax relief for workers and seniors: The budget ends state taxes on tips, overtime pay, and Social Security income, helping more than 500,000 Michiganders keep more of what they earn.
• Eliminating waste and fraud: It cuts 2,000 ghost government employee positions, saving hundreds of millions and redirecting the money to statewide priorities.
• Strengthening Selfridge Air National Guard Base: The plan invests $26 million for runway replacement and upgrades to support the new fighter jet mission.
• Protecting taxpayer dollars: Bridge cards will be upgraded with chip technology to prevent fraud and ensure benefits reach families who need them.
• Record funding for schools: Michigan schools will receive $10,050 per student, a $442 increase, with equal funding for public cyber school students.

“This budget represents a win for taxpayers, workers, seniors, and students,” said Woolford. “By cutting waste, protecting our military base, and ensuring record investment in education, we’re delivering a stronger future for Michigan.”