Michigan House approves road-funding package after contentious debate

Lansing — The Michigan House of Representatives on March 18 approved a multi-bill road‑funding package that shifts existing sales‑tax revenue toward road and bridge work and creates a new local road fund, after more than an hour of debate and recorded roll‑call votes.

Supporters said the package provides long‑term, revenue‑neutral funding without raising taxes and directs more money to local roads, bridges, transit and ports. Opponents said the plan risks steep cuts to schools, health care and housing unless offsetting budget fixes are identified.

Representative Longjohn, speaking in opposition, said, “Passing these bills today puts too many other things important to Michiganders at risk.” He warned that the package could force cuts to health care and education and stressed uncertainty in forthcoming federal and state budgets.

Representative Koontz, speaking for the package, said the plan allows MDOT and county road commissions to make multi‑year plans and said it will put “$2,550,000,000 directly to local roads.” He called the measure “a long‑term solution” that uses existing revenue so “we're not…