South Michigan News

State Representative Sarah Lightner, a Republican from Springport, has expressed her disapproval of the budget proposal put forth by the Whitmer administration. In a statement, Representative Lightner criticized the governor's plan, stating that it prioritizes unnecessary government growth and fails to address the financial burden faced by Michigan taxpayers.

According to Representative Lightner, the cost of living in Michigan has become increasingly burdensome for residents. She believes that instead of demanding more from taxpayers, the government should focus on finding solutions to ease the financial strain and make daily life more affordable. She expressed her concern over the governor's proposal to increase taxes and allocate funds towards new programs and special projects that only benefit a select few.

In particular, Representative Lightner voiced her opposition to the governor's plans to offer handouts to wealthy individuals when they purchase a new car, allocating more funds for state highway construction while neglecting local roads, and diverting money from K-12 classrooms to fund free community college for all. She argued that these initiatives do not align with the needs and priorities of the people she represents.

Representative Lightner emphasized that the residents she speaks to are focused on tightening their belts and managing their expenses. She believes that the state government should follow suit and prioritize essential services instead of investing in new programs. She suggested that any extra revenue should be returned to the taxpayers who have earned it.

Furthermore, Representative Lightner expressed concern about the budget proposal's potential impact on the state's financial stability. She warned that scaling back the state's commitment to addressing unfunded liabilities could have long-term consequences. She believes that responsible management of taxpayer dollars is crucial to ensuring the well-being of future generations.

While acknowledging that the governor's budget proposal is just the beginning of the process, Representative Lightner emphasized the importance of thorough review and discussion. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, she is prepared to engage in serious conversations and participate in numerous committee meetings to scrutinize the governor's proposal. Her goal is to ensure that every tax dollar collected by the state is spent wisely and in the best interest of the people.

As the budget process continues, it is clear that Representative Lightner is committed to representing the concerns of her constituents and advocating for responsible fiscal policies. Her statement serves as a reminder that the budget proposal is subject to scrutiny and revision, and that the needs and priorities of the people of Michigan must be prioritized.