Michigan state Rep. Shane Hernandez (R-Port Huron) argues Gov. Gretchen Whitmer struck the wrong tune in her recent State of the State address.
“Tax increases are not the answer,” Hernandez, who also chairs the House Appropriations Committee, said in a statement soon after Whitmer had delivered her message Jan. 29.
“Creating more government debt is not the answer," he added. “I reject the premise that higher taxes or more debt are the only way to address our state’s most pressing needs.”
Michigan Democrat Gov. Gretchen Whitmer
| Michigan.gov
Hernandez pointed to the handling of 2019 budget crisis as an example of what can happen when lawmakers come together for the common good.
“During last year’s budget impasse, we worked together to dedicate $180 million more to protect our drinking water and environment using current tax dollars,” he said. “We addressed inequities in school funding – not just in the foundation allowance, but also through literacy coaches, skilled trades and other initiatives to help our children and grandchildren succeed."
With roads across the state now in desperate need of repairs, Hernandez said it’s critical lawmakers now take that same approach.
“Taxes already paid at the pump should go to improve roads – that’s what people want,” he added. “They don’t want their government to leave a mountain of debt to burden future generations. We’re still paying off bonds from two decades ago, and adding to that debt would be irresponsible.”
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