On Sept. 21, Gov. Whitmer and Michigan’s Legislature came together to announce a $70 million, bipartisan budget agreement for Fiscal Year 2022. Gov. Whitmer will sign the budget into law before Oct. 1.
MCAN applauds the State of Michigan’s investment into several postsecondary education priorities, including a $55 million expansion of Michigan Reconnect and $25 million to support Futures for Frontliners, as well as an additional $6 million to fund wraparound services that remove barriers to degree completion for students in those programs. The budget also includes a 1 percent increase in base funding for operations at universities and community colleges, with a one-time 4 percent increase to help keep tuition costs down.
“Michigan’s economic recovery depends on having an educated workforce that is ready for tomorrow’s jobs, and we’re encouraged by the continued support of Michigan Reconnect, Futures for Frontliners and several other critical programs that provide residents with the resources they need to pursue their education and career goals,” said Ryan Fewins-Bliss, MCAN executive director. “In order to grow the economy and improve our communities, we must address the pinch in the college pipeline that the pandemic created and continue our momentum toward reaching Sixty by 30. Through the programs included in this budget, it will now be possible for thousands of students — especially low-income students, first-generation college-going students and students of color — to access postsecondary degrees and certificates that lead to viable career paths and economic independence.”
Gov. Whitmer's full statement on the budget agreement is available here.
On Sept. 21, Gov. Whitmer and Michigan’s Legislature came together to announce a $70 million, bipartisan budget for Fiscal Year 2022. Gov. Whitmer will sign the budget into law before Oct. 1.