ROMULUS, Mich. – Michigan families could lose access to free pre-K for all and free school meals as state lawmakers remain deadlocked over budget negotiations, threatening key education initiatives championed by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
During a visit to an in-home preschool in Romulus, Whitmer emphasized the urgency of passing a state budget to protect educational programs that benefit thousands of Michigan families.
The governor’s proposed expansion of free pre-K aims to address the significant financial burden many families face, with preschool costs averaging $10,000 per year.
“We know that the investments we make in the first three to five years pay dividends over the lifetime,” Whitmer said during her visit to Romulus.
The budget impasse threatens more than early education initiatives.
Michigan’s free breakfast and lunch program, which provides essential nutrition to students across the state, faces uncertainty without an approved budget.
Chelsea Chavez, a single mother of two, relies on the program to ensure her children receive proper nutrition at school.
“The free lunches benefit a lot right now to make sure they have a hot lunch at school,” Chavez said, highlighting the program’s importance for working families.
While Whitmer’s administration has maintained a track record of timely budget approvals during her six years as governor, the current situation raises concerns about potential disruptions to educational services.
“Going in this year this late, I am concerned about it. Schools have to get started,” Whitmer noted, expressing worry about the delayed timeline.
Senate Democrats have accused House Republicans of engaging in bad-faith negotiation tactics as the deadline approaches.
According to Senate estimates, the state is approximately 42 days away from a potential government shutdown if an agreement isn’t reached.
The governor expressed hope that both Democrats and Republicans can move beyond partisan divisions to create a budget proposal that prioritizes the needs of young Michiganders.
House Republicans plan a press conference to discuss the budget on Thursday, Aug. 21, at 10:30 a.m.