College tour brings information to 24 Michigan campuses
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$4.5 Million to Food Bank Council of Michigan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 30, 2025 Contact: press@michigan.gov
State of Michigan Announces $4.5 Million to Food Bank Council of Michigan, Additional Resources to Feed Families Before SNAP Pause Caused by Federal Government Shutdown State also working with philanthropic partners to align funding for impacted families in all 83 counties
LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that the State of Michigan will provide $4.5 million to the Food Bank Council of Michigan to feed families amid the federal government’s decision to pause SNAP benefits starting November 1. The funding will help feed Michiganders in all 83 counties and provide food delivery to those who can’t drive to their local food bank. The state is also aligning philanthropic support to help assist families impacted by the disruption of SNAP benefits.
“Hungry families cannot wait for the folks in power in Washington, DC to do their jobs,” said Governor Whitmer. “Today, in light of the USDA’s decision to freeze SNAP, the State of Michigan is taking action to support the Food Bank Council of Michigan so they can continue feeding families in all 83 counties and deliver food to those who are unable to drive. We take care of each other in Michigan, and we will continue bringing together public and private philanthropic resources to feed people as we hit day 30 of the federal government shutdown and approach the November 1 pause of SNAP. We will continue to do what we can in Michigan to help impacted families.”
“SNAP helps countless Michiganders put food on the table and feed their families when times are tough,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “The federal government’s decisions have put SNAP in jeopardy, making it harder for families to stay out of poverty and stay healthy. That’s unacceptable. Today’s action will shore up community food banks who are working to fill the gap caused by the shutdown and get Michiganders relief. The State of Michigan will continue to Stand Tall so more families can get the resources they need to eat.”
“Republicans and Democrats in Michigan were able to come together and work across the aisle to keep the state government open and pass a budget that moves to Michigan forward,” said Speaker of the House Matt Hall (R-Richland Township). “Because we did the right thing and kept state government on the job, we are now able to step up with this critical support for our local food banks, ensuring they have the resources they need to protect our communities and keep Michigan families strong. But this will never be a long-term solution and state government can only make up so much of the federal government’s spending. Congress must follow our lead and keep more Michigan families from being hurt by this shutdown.”
State Budget Office Director Jennifer Flood directed MDHHS to direct funding to the Food Bank Council. This action builds on a letter sent this morning from 21 governors, led by Governor Whitmer, calling on the White House to release SNAP contingency funding and allow states to use those existing funds to feed people.
“No one should go hungry and that’s why we’re sending out these emergency funds to help Michigan children, seniors and people with disabilities who are facing food insecurity,” said State Budget Director Jen Flood. “The federal government shutdown has created serious uncertainty for millions of Americans who rely on SNAP to put food on the table. This emergency funding will help food banks across the state support vulnerable Michiganders.”
“With the delay in November SNAP benefits, the roughly 1.4 million Michiganders who receive food benefits are facing an impossible choice between putting food on the table and covering other basic needs,” said Elizabeth Hertel, director of MDHHS. “The Food Bank Council of Michigan and our philanthropic partners are stepping up to help fill the gap to ensure that our friends and neighbors have access to the basic nutrition needed to live, work and thrive.”
Administered by the federal government’s USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), SNAP is the nation’s largest food assistance program and one of the most effective tools to reduce food insecurity. Nearly 13% of Michigan households, approximately 1.4 million people, receive federal SNAP benefits. About 43% are families with children and 36% are families with members who are older adults or disabled.
SNAP participants should reach out to their local MDHHS office with any questions regarding their federal SNAP benefits or check MI Bridges for updates.
Additional resources
How SNAP works The USDA Food and Nutrition Service administers SNAP at the federal level with states operating the program at the local level, determining eligibility and issuing benefits to eligible households. The program is funded by the federal government, not the state government.
SNAP benefits are provided on electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards that participants can use to purchase food at grocery and convenience stores, farmers markets and other retailers, circulating money directly into the food supply chain and other retail sectors. SNAP spending generates revenue for grocery stores, farmers and other businesses, which helps pay local wages, keeps shelves stocked and boosts the local economy.
SNAP in Michigan In FY 2024, the average SNAP household in Michigan received $335.03 in SNAP benefits per month, which is about $173 per person per month or $5.68 per person, per day. Households with very low incomes receive more SNAP benefits than households closer to the poverty line because they need more help affording nutritious food.
In Michigan, more than 9,700 retailers accept SNAP. In 2023, retailers redeemed over $3.6 billion in SNAP.
To be eligible for SNAP in Michigan, applicants must be a U.S. citizen (or acceptable non-citizen status) and must live in Michigan. Eligibility is based on the financial situation of all members of a household. Everyone who lives together, purchases and prepares food together is considered a member of the same household group. In order to determine if a household is eligible for SNAP, MDHHS will review a household’s expenses, assets and income. Expenses include rent, mortgage, utility bills, child support and dependent care expenses. For individuals with a disability or who are at least 60 years old, medical care, medical supplies and health insurance premiums may be included as an expense. |
Michiganders to Volunteer for Free Tax Prep Programs
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ron Leix, Treasury, 517-335-2167 State Treasurer Eubanks Calls on Michiganders to Volunteer
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Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 23, 2025 Contact: press@michigan.gov
Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions
LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced appointments to the following boards and commissions: Michigan Cherry Committee; Public Health Advisory Council; Autism Council; Michigan Council for Rehabilitation Services; Human Trafficking Commission; Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission; Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council; Governor’s Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect; Advisory Council on Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing; Michigan Soybean Committee; State Boundary Commission; and Workforce Development Board.
Michigan Cherry Committee Juliette McAvoy, of Central Lake, is the vice president of sales and marketing at King Orchards. McAvoy was previously an assistant account manager for Nielsen Perishables Group and a vegetable salesperson and account manager for Strube Celery and Vegetable Company. McAvoy holds a Bachelor of Science in agri-business management and horticulture with a specialization in food industry management from Michigan State University. Juliette McAvoy is reappointed to represent District 1 Tart Cherry Growers for a term commencing October 23, 2025, and expiring February 1, 2027.
Emily Miezio, of Suttons Bay, is the receiving station manager for Cherry Bay Orchards. Miezio holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Hope College and a Master of Science in nursing from Michigan State University. Emily Miezio is reappointed to represent District 1 tart cherry growers for a term commencing October 23, 2025, and expiring February 1, 2027.
Mark Schilling, of Saint Joseph, is the owner of Schilling Family Farms, LLC and Mick Klug Farm. Mark Schilling is reappointed to represent District 3 tart cherry growers for a term commencing October 23, 2024, and expiring February 1, 2027.
The Michigan Cherry Committee was developed for the purpose of improving the economic position of the Michigan red tart and sweet cherry growers by creating greater marketing opportunities for their fruit. The Committee conducts advertising and promotion programs, assembles, and disseminates market information, and supports research into new marketing methods.
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Public Health Advisory Council Dr. Gregory Zimmerman, of Big Rapids, is associate dean of The Dow College of Health Professions at Central Michigan University. Zimmerman previously served as department head for the clinical laboratory, respiratory care, and health administration programs at Ferris State University. Zimmerman holds a Bachelor of Science in sports medicine and public health education, a Master of Science in health sciences administration from Central Michigan University, and a Doctor of Education in higher education leadership from Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Gregory Zimmerman will be reappointed to represent schools of public health from an institution of higher education in Michigan for a term commencing November 2, 2025, and expiring November 1, 2029.
Kristen Schweighoefer, of Ann Arbor, is the environmental health director for the Washtenaw County Health Department. Schweighoefer is a registered sanitarian and holds a Bachelor of Science in biology and a Master of Science in hospital and molecular epidemiology from the University of Michigan. Kristen Schweighoefer will be reappointed to represent food safety experts for a term commencing November 2, 2025, and expiring November 1, 2029.
The Public Health Advisory Council was created within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services at the recommendation of the Public Health Advisory Commission. The Council will develop an action plan for implementing the recommendations of the Commission and is tasked with providing advice about emerging issues in public health, monitoring the effectiveness of Michigan’s public health response system, and reviewing multiagency efforts to support collaboration and a unified approach on public health responses.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Autism Council Raymie Postema, of Marshall, is the director of the Office of Recipient Rights at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Postema holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Western Michigan University. Raymie Postema is reappointed to represent Recipient Rights for the public system for a term commencing October 23, 2025, and expiring September 30, 2029.
The Autism Council is charged with overseeing Michigan’s Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) State Plan. The Council will implement, monitor, and update the Michigan ASD State Plan, which will provide for comprehensive lifespan supports to individuals with ASD and their families through access to information and resources, coordination of services, and implementation of evidence-based practices.
This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Council for Rehabilitation Services Marisa Spain, of Westland, is an employment advocate at Disability Rights Michigan. Spain was previously a policy research assistant for the City of Detroit and a testing accommodations specialist at the University of Michigan. Spain holds a Bachelor of Science in integrative biology from Michigan State University and a Master of Science in biology from the University of North Florida. Marissa Spain will be appointed as an individual representing current or former applicants for, or recipients of, vocational rehabilitation services for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2027. Spain succeeds Kellie Blackwell, who has resigned.
Laurie Penfold, of East Lansing, is the applicant department customer service representative for Peckham, Inc. Laurie Penfold will be reappointed to the Michigan Council for Rehabilitation Services as an individual representing business, industry, or labor for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028.
Kathryn Flagstadt, of Marquette, is retired and most recently was a site manager at Michigan Rehabilitation Services. Flagstadt worked for the State of Michigan for 28 years before retiring. Flagstadt holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration and management from Northern Michigan University and a Master of Social Work from Michigan State University. Kathryn Flagstadt will be reappointed to represent qualified vocational rehabilitation counselors with knowledge of, and experience with, vocational rehabilitation programs for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028.
The Michigan Council for Rehabilitation Services reviews, analyzes, and advises Michigan’s rehabilitation programs and services, and advises the department director and Governor. The Council works in partnership with Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) and the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs’ Bureau of Services for Blind Persons (LEO-BSBP).
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Human Trafficking Commission Jayla Irons, of Lansing, is a policy advisor in the Executive Office Governor Gretchen Whitmer, specializing in criminal justice and public safety. Irons holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Michigan State University. Jayla Irons is appointed as a designated representative from within Office of the Governor for a term commencing October 23, 2025, and expiring January 17, 2027. Irons succeeds Alicia Moon, whose term has expired.
The Human Trafficking Commission is designed to identify sources for grants that will assist in examining and countering human trafficking, fund research programs to determine the extent and nature of human trafficking in this state, and provide information and training to police officers, prosecutors, court personnel, social services personnel, and other individuals.
This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission Dr. Ruben Martinez, of East Lansing, is a professor of sociology emeritus and the past director of the Julian Samora Research Institute at Michigan State University. Martinez holds a Bachelor of Science in behavioral science from the University of Southern Colorado, a Master of Arts in sociology from Arizona State University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in sociology from the University of California at Riverside. Dr. Ruben Martinez is reappointed as a member of the general public for a term commencing October 23, 2025, and expiring June 15, 2029.
The Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission is the successor to the Michigan Boxing Commission and is responsible for the regulation of professional boxing and mixed martial arts. The Commission and the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs are vested with management, control, and jurisdiction over all professional boxing, professional or amateur mixed martial arts, and unarmed combat contests or events conducted in this state.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Governor’s Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect Annie Harrison, of DeWitt, is a detective and deputy sheriff at the Ingham County Sheriff’s Office. Harrison holds a Bachelor of Arts in social relations, criminal justice, and Jewish Studies from Michigan State University. Annie Harrison will be reappointed to represent law enforcement for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028. Harrison will also be redesignated as chair of the task force.
Stacey Goodson, of Wyoming, is the owner and lead trainer of Amoyan Training and Consulting, LLC. Goodson holds a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice from Grand Valley State University and a Master of Science in human services from Capella University. Goodson is a mentor to foster parents through Bethany Christian Services. Stacey Goodson will be reappointed as an individual representing parents’ groups for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028.
Dr. Alane Laws-Barker, of East Lansing, is vice chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Michigan Health – Sparow and the lead OB/GYN at the Ingham County Health Department’s Women’s Health Services division. Laws-Barker holds a Doctor of Medicine from Michigan State University College of Human Medicine and a Master of Business Administration from Indiana University. Dr. Alane Laws-Barker will be reappointed as a health professional for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028.
Ivana Maplanka, of Lake Orion, is the regional director for Business Service Center 2 within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Maplanka holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Southern Adventist University and a Master of Arts in counseling with a specialization in child and adolescent counseling. Ivana Maplanka will be reappointed to represent child protective service agencies for a term commencing January 1, 2026, and expiring December 31, 2028.
Charles Ellias, of Clawson, is an artist. Ellias is also a founding member of Defenders of the Children. Charles Ellias is appointed to represent adult former victims of child abuse and neglect for a term commencing October 23, 2025, and expiring December 31, 2025. Ellias succeeds Kimberly Clemmons, who has resigned.
Created by Executive Order 2017-4, the Governor’s Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect is established within the Department of Human Services and is designed as a multidisciplinary task force for the purposes of the federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act. The Task Force consists of 18 members appointed by the Governor for three-year terms who are professionals with knowledge and experience relating to the criminal justice system and issues of child physical abuse, child neglect, child sexual abuse and exploitation, and child maltreatment related fatalities.
These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Advisory Council on Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing Erica Chapin, of Kentwood, is the community and partnerships manager at Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services. Chapin holds a Bachelor of Science in public and nonprofit administration from Grand Valley State University. Erica Chapin is appointed as an individual knowledgeable in the field of deafness for a term commencing October 23, 2025, and expiring January 18, 2026. Chapin succeeds Liliana Ospina-Herbstreith, who has resigned.
The Advisory Council on Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing serves to advise the Department of Civil Rights on matters pertaining to deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing persons.
This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Michigan Soybean Committee Ryan Drozd, of Gobles, is an equipment operator at Drozd Farms. Drozd holds a Bachelor of Science in farm management from Purdue University. Ryan Drozd is reappointed to represent District 7 growers for a term commencing October 23, 2025, and expiring September 23, 2028.
Jeff Fromm, of Owosso, is the owner of Fromm Farms Trucking. Jeff Fromm is appointed to represent District 6 growers for a term commencing October 23, 2025, and expiring September 23, 2028. Fromm succeeds Mark Senk, whose term has expired.
The Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee develops procedures relating to the soybean marketing program and recommends amendments to the marketing program. The Committee prepares the estimated budget required for the proper operation of the marketing program, develops methods for collecting and auditing the assessments, and collects and assembles information and data necessary for proper administration of the marketing program.
These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
State Boundary Commission Richard Datema, of Petoskey, is a retired land surveyor for KEBS, Inc. Datema holds a Bachelor of Science in agricultural economics from Michigan State University. Richard Datema is reappointed for a term commencing October 23, 2025, and expiring November 14, 2027.
The State Boundary Commission is responsible for administering the State Boundary Commission Act and portions of the Home Rule City Act and the Home Rule Village Act. The Commission serves as a quasi-judicial body adjudicating many types of municipal boundary adjustments and recommends to the Director of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs the approval or denial of petitions for incorporations of new Home Rule Cities, new Home Rule Villages, and municipal consolidations. The Commission also recommends approval or denial of certain types of petitions involving land currently under township jurisdiction that is proposed to be annexed into a Home Rule City.
This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Workforce Development Board Representative Joey Andrews, of St. Joseph, is currently serving his second term representing the 38th House District. Representative Andrews is a former organizer and policy analyst for the AFL-CIO and was also a managing partner of Parasol Solar. Rep. Andrews holds a Bachelor of Arts in history and music from Carson Newman University and a Juris Doctor from the Wayne State University School of Law. Representative Joey Andrews is appointed as a member of the Michigan House of Representatives, appointed by the Governor from a list of three candidates submitted by the house minority leader, for a term commencing October 23, 2025, and expiring January 1, 2027. Andrews succeeds Representative David Martin, whose term has expired.
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Grants for Villages and Small Cities for Road Repair
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 23, 2025
Contact: press@michigan.gov
Gov. Whitmer Announces Grants to Villages and Small Cities for Road Repair
LANSING, Mich. – Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced today 39 villages and cities across the state with populations less than 10,000 that will receive road funding grants awarded through the Community Service Infrastructure Fund (CSIF) Category B program. Established by the state Legislature in 2018 and administered by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), the CSIF is a stop-gap program to help fund road projects in small communities. Successful projects were selected, in part, because they are paired with planned infrastructure work, coordinated with other road agencies, focused on extending the useful life of the road and have limited other funding sources.
“I ran on fixing the damn roads, and I’m proud to keep my promise and get it done,” said Gov. Whitmer. “This year’s balanced, bipartisan budget makes a record nearly $2 billion annual investment to fix our state and local roads, which will make everyone’s drive safer and faster. We’re getting this done by ensuring every penny you pay at the pump goes toward our roads. I’m so grateful to legislators on both sides of the aisle for coming together to get this done so we can build reliable roads that last for decades while supporting tens of thousands of good-paying local jobs. We have a lot of work to do, so let’s move some dirt and fix those damn roads!”
Grant awards range from $50,000 to $250,000 for road resurfacing, culvert replacement, pavement crack sealing and other preservative measures.
CSIF Category B grants for 2026
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County |
Applicant |
Project/Route |
Grant Amount |
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Antrim |
Village of Elk Rapids |
Various streets |
$235,935 |
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Arenac |
City of Au Gres |
Various streets |
$250,000 |
|
Arenac |
City of Standish |
Airpark Drive |
$250,000 |
|
Barry |
Village of Nashville |
State Street and Queen Street |
$137,500 |
|
Branch |
City of Bronson |
Compton Street |
$199,155 |
|
Eaton |
Village of Mulliken |
Various streets |
$250,000 |
|
Eaton |
Village of Dimondale |
Hamilton Street and Ash Street |
$75,809 |
|
Eaton |
City of Eaton Rapids |
East Knight Street and South Center Street |
$250,000 |
|
Emmet |
Village of Pellston |
Mill Street and Edgar Boulevard |
$145,325 |
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Genesee |
City of Flushing |
Bellewood Drive |
$189,300 |
|
Ingham |
Village of Stockbridge |
Elizabeth Street and Center Street |
$103,650 |
|
Ionia |
City of Portland |
Hill Road |
$250,000 |
|
Ionia |
Village of Lake Odessa |
Various streets |
$250,000 |
|
Ionia |
Village of Saranac |
Various streets |
$50,000 |
|
Iron |
City of Iron River |
Various streets |
$250,000 |
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Jackson |
Village of Brooklyn |
Monroe Street |
$250,000 |
|
Kent |
City of Lowell |
Laurie Gail Drive and Brook Street |
$250,000 |
|
Kent |
City of Rockford |
Glen Park Drive and Gibraltar Drive |
$51,882 |
|
Keweenaw |
Village of Ahmeek |
Wright Street and Hubbell Street |
$101,956 |
|
Leelanau |
Village of Northport |
Rose Street and Second Street |
$97,482 |
|
Manistee |
Village of Copemish |
Cedar Street, 5th Street and 2nd Street |
$60,000 |
|
Manistee |
Village of Eastlake |
End Street and Third Street |
$134,310 |
|
Marquette |
City of Negaunee |
Hungerford Avenue, West Prince Street and Ann Street |
$250,000 |
|
Montcalm |
City of Carson City |
Williams Street and Mercantile Street |
$242,800 |
|
Montmorency |
Village of Hillman |
Various streets |
$210,000 |
|
Muskegon |
City of North Muskegon |
Central Avenue and Lake Avenue |
$93,272 |
|
Oakland |
City of the Village of Clarkston |
East Church Street |
$117,700 |
|
Oakland |
Village of Lake Orion |
Various streets |
$250,000 |
|
Oakland |
Village of Bingham Farms |
Coachlight Lane and Old Stage Lane |
$250,000 |
|
Oceana |
Village of Shelby |
South Michigan Avenue, Bennett Street and Grant Street |
$246,500 |
|
Sanilac |
City of Marlette |
Concord Street and Cranbrook Street |
$73,440 |
|
Sanilac |
City of Sandusky |
Various streets |
$250,000 |
|
St. Clair |
City of Marine City |
South Belle River |
$250,000 |
|
Tuscola |
City of Caro |
East Sherman Street |
$250,000 |
|
Tuscola |
Village of Mayville |
Orchard Street and Lincoln Street |
$185,000 |
|
Tuscola |
Village of Fairgrove |
West Street and Slack Road Bridge |
$144,581 |
|
Van Buren |
City of Paw Paw |
Various streets |
$250,000 |
|
Washtenaw |
City of Chelsea |
Commerce Park Drive |
$250,000 |
|
Wayne |
City of Ecorse |
3rd Street, 4th Street and High Street |
Budget Protects Health Care for Millions of Michiganders
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 13, 2025 Contact: press@michigan.gov
Gov. Whitmer’s Budget Protects Health Care for Millions of Michiganders Balanced, bipartisan budget secures $2.7 billion of federal funding for health care statewide, protects core Medicaid services, keeps hospitals open and accessible for families
LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer highlighted the balanced, bipartisan fiscal year 2026 (FY26) budget measures to protect $2.7 billion of core Medicaid services for Michiganders. As every state grapples with recent federal changes to health care, the bipartisan state budget ensures Michigan’s health system is prepared and can continue delivering quality, affordable care.
“The balanced, bipartisan budget I signed will protect access to health care for millions of Michiganders and ensure our hospitals have the resources they need to stay open and keep serving patients,” said Governor Whitmer. “As we face huge federal cuts that threaten to destabilize health care, we’re being strategic and proactive in Michigan to protect funding and stay flexible for the future. Together, we will defend access to care for families and maintain a balanced, fiscally responsible budget. I’m grateful to our partners for working together to get this right for Michigan.”
“Since taking office, Governor Whitmer and I have been committed to putting more Michiganders on paths to achieving health and wealth in our state,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “This year’s budget bolsters this mission by taking action against the attacks on Medicaid and healthcare made by Republicans in Washington. Here in Michigan, our balanced budget protects access to affordable health care for millions of Michiganders and keeps hospital doors open in both urban and rural areas. Together, Governor Whitmer and I will continue Standing Tall to help everyone thrive in Michigan.”
“Our bipartisan state budget protects Medicaid from devastating federal cuts, ensuring everyone is afforded the dignity of having access to care,” said Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks. With this bill, we are halting what was sure to be a catastrophic domino effect felt by all Michiganders, from kids, families, and seniors to health care workers and even to folks with private insurance. And by doing so, we have set ourselves apart as national leaders for the actions we’ve taken to safeguard Medicaid here in Michigan — and that’s certainly cause for celebration.”
“Medicaid is an important program for Michigan families, and Republicans want to do everything we can to protect it and secure its future,” said Speaker Matt Hall (R-Richland Township). “Our plan protects healthcare services and access for the people who need them most and does it by making smart changes and focusing spending on the biggest priorities. President Trump took strong steps to stabilize Medicaid at the federal level, and now we are making smart reforms to protect it here at home. That’s how we can support families who need help, protect taxpayers and expand healthcare access in rural communities all in one plan.”
“Governor Whitmer is focused on protecting health care access while making sure Michigan’s budget remains responsible and sustainable,” said State Budget Director Jen Flood. “The fiscal year 2026 budget gives us the tools to protect hospitals and families while planning for the future so that Michigan stays healthy, prepared, and resilient.”
“As part of this budget, we wanted to ensure our most vulnerable have access to needed care,” said state Representative Greg VanWoerkom (R-Norton Shores), sponsor of HB 4968. “I’m proud this budget prioritizes the health and well-being of people and communities throughout Michigan and works to rein in fraud to protect critical services and respect taxpayers. The passage of the Insurance Provider Assessment shows we are committed to a sustainable budget for the future.”
“Medicaid and health care are vital to supporting our residents and our economy, keeping people healthy, lowering costs, protecting and creating jobs, and maintaining access to care, especially in rural communities,” said state Senator Sean McCann (D-Kalamazoo). “While partisan fights over health care continue at the federal level, I am proud that we have been able to work together across the aisle to support Medicaid and health care throughout my time in the Legislature, from expanding Medicaid in 2013 to defending and protecting it today.”
“As the only medical doctor in the Legislature, my top budget priority was protecting Medicaid,” said state Rep. Matt Longjohn (D-Portage). “President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill is destabilizing our health system, raising premiums, and making care less accessible. Michigan’s new budget ensures we’re doing everything possible to keep Medicaid and our health system intact. I’m grateful the Governor and her team held the line against partisan attacks, and I was proud to work alongside them to get this done.”
To comply with new regulatory requirements recently adopted at the federal level, the legislation updates the state’s existing tax on certain health care providers. By updating the state’s insurance provider assessment to comply with this new regulatory landscape, the budget preserves current revenue amounts and maintains funding for health care providers statewide. The administration will continue working with legislators, providers, insurers, and federal partners to deliver solutions that support Michigan’s hospitals and uphold Medicaid coverage for those that need it.
Stakeholder Quotes The signing of this bill guarantees that our community’s most vulnerable individuals will maintain access to essential healthcare and medications,” said Denise Crawford, President & CEO of Family Health Center. “We sincerely thank Governor Whitmer for prioritizing the health and well-being of Michigan’s most at-risk families. This legislation ensures that 27,000 Medicaid adults, seniors, and children will continue to receive the high-quality healthcare they deserve. On behalf of the entire healthcare community, we commend Governor Whitmer for her commitment to preserving access to compassionate, patient-centered care for those we serve.”
“The harmful federal Republican megabill passed in July has put states in a tough spot as it changes the rules on how they can fund the state portion of Medicaid coverage,” said Monique Stanton, Michigan League for Public Policy President and CEO. “This is one positive step toward protecting state-level coverage for the 2.6 million Michiganders who rely on Medicaid for their preventive and emergent health care needs while also safeguarding our state’s health care system. We are grateful that the Legislature and governor were able to come together to make this happen.”
“Area Agencies on Aging applaud the work of Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Legislative leaders in enacting the state budget,” said David LaLumia, Area Agencies on Aging Association of Michigan, Executive Director. “The budget protects essential health and human services including in-home care for older adults and people with disabilities served by the MI Choice program. The budget assures access to MI Choice which keeps Michigan citizens at home and is a valuable asset to the Medicaid program.”
“Michigan’s health centers are proud to serve hundreds of thousands of people who get their health insurance through Medicaid, which supports their access to essential healthcare and helps our patients live healthier lives,” said Phillip Bergquist, Chief Executive Officer of the Michigan Primary Care Association. “This critical legislation will help Michigan’s Medicaid program navigate changes in federal law and sustain health insurance coverage for the 1 in 4 Michiganders who count on Medicaid every day.”
“Today’s bill signing is a victory for every Michigander who believes that quality, affordable health care should be within reach for all. By strengthening Medicaid and protecting the health coverage millions rely on, this legislation takes an important step toward making sure our state can continue to care for children, pregnant women, seniors, workers, and people with disabilities in every community. We’re grateful for the Governor’s leadership and the bipartisan commitment to putting people’s health first,” said Amy Zaagman, Protect MI Care Coalition.
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