This budget for the new century - strengthens our longstanding commitment to education, adds to an already outstanding record of tax relief and focuses on helping families achieve independence. By far, the most important feature of this budget recommendation is the extraordinary increase in education funding. I should note, however, that my spending recommendation for K-12 education is not a blank check. Indeed, we will achieve full funding only when we enact full freedom for students and parents. Every child must have access to a high quality education.
Reform is the catalyst to quality - the key to helping make Michigan schools the best in the world.
This budget is balanced, fiscally sound and prudent. It reflects the lessons we learned in the '90s and keeps Michigan in the lead as we begin this new century. I am excited about this budget, and what it can mean to Michigan families. I look forward to working with the Legislature and our citizens to enact this budget.