LANSING, Mich. (Aug. 20, 2025) — Earlier today, Michigan Senate Democrats broke down what’s at stake if House Republicans continue to stall on passing a budget and refuse to engage as a serious partner in delivering solutions for the people of Michigan.
In May, Senate Democrats passed a comprehensive and collaborative budget proposal that would help lower costs for working families, provide stable funding for schools and students, improve government efficiency, and ensure access to the vital services and programs that Michiganders rely on. But months later, with the Oct. 1 funding cliff rapidly approaching, House Republicans have still not produced a complete budget plan, creating uncertainty and concern for school districts, families, and so many others across Michigan.
“You deserve to know the truth about what is happening — and not happening — in your state Capitol. While House Republicans obstruct the legislative process, refuse to take up bipartisan legislation we’ve sent them, stall the passage of a state budget with only 42 days left, and push our state toward a point of irreparable harm, Senate Democrats are still getting things done for the hardworking Michiganders we represent. We’re in your corner and we won’t stop fighting until we have a budget that delivers on the priorities that matter most,” said Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids).
Due to a lack of leadership and the bad-faith negotiation tactics of the House GOP this budget cycle, schools have struggled to plan for the upcoming school year, families have grown uncertain about the stability of programs they rely on every day, and soon, local governments could face a shortfall in funding for essential services.
“Legislative leadership is about putting politics aside to put the people you serve first,” said Sen. Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores). “If we want to pass a budget and tackle the challenges facing Michigan families, compromise isn’t optional — it’s essential. The Senate is ready to do the work and find common ground, but we can’t do it alone. The question that remains is whether Speaker Hall is willing to put partisanship aside and meet us halfway.”
The House Republicans’ inaction goes beyond just the budget. In addition to their failure to pass a full budget proposal, House Republicans are also stalling progress on 49 bills that the Senate unanimously passed. These bills would help address Michigan’s opioid crisis, strengthen protections for our retired service members and their families, allow survivors of sexual assault the opportunity to get the justice they deserve, and so much more.
“House Republicans missed the budget deadline 50 days ago. Now, we’re only days before school starts and weeks left until our government runs out of funding, and they can’t get their act together,” said Sen. Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield). “They can’t even pass any of the 100 plus Senate Bills sitting on their desks — some that passed unanimously that protect kids from mass shootings, vulnerable adults from abuse, and veterans from fraud. Michiganders are looking for lawmakers to pass budgets and bills, and right now, only Senate Democrats are doing our jobs.”
“Here in the Senate, our budget process has been transparent, collaborative, and on time,” said Sen. Sam Singh (D-East Lansing). “From delivering historic investments in Michigan students to offsetting the financial stress caused by tariffs, my colleagues and I engaged with our communities to craft a comprehensive plan that directs dollars to the people and places that need it most. Yet here we are, 42 days away from a government shutdown, and Speaker Matt Hall and his Republican caucus have still not passed a full budget. The clock is ticking, and time is almost up — Matt Hall needs to stop playing games with people’s livelihoods and start doing the job he has been entrusted to do.”
You can view a recording of the press conference here.