State Rep. Josh Schriver today voted in support of a state budget that prioritizes fiscal responsibility, strengthens accountability in government, and ensures taxpayer dollars are focused on the services Michigan families depend on.

“This budget reflects a commitment to responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars,” Schriver said. “We’re reducing unnecessary spending, increasing accountability, and making sure state government is focused on serving the people, not growing bureaucracy.”

The $75.2 billion budget reduces state spending compared to the previous fiscal year while maintaining funding for essential government services. The plan cuts wasteful spending without raising taxes and includes reforms designed to reduce fraud, waste, and abuse across state government. 250 ghost employees were identified and eliminated from the state payroll, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are being spent toward real projects. It also strengthens oversight of public assistance programs with additional safeguards to help ensure benefits are reserved only for eligible recipients.

The fiscal year 2027 budget also dedicates additional resources to ensure that state funding for autism service providers actually reaches the children and families who legitimately depend on these critical services.

“Children requiring autism services need a system that works for them, not one that allows bad actors to exploit taxpayer dollars,” Schriver said. “I know the struggles of these families firsthand. As a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, I’ve developed client-specific programs to support children with autism and their families in home, at school, and in the community. By strengthening oversight and rooting out fraud, we can better protect these vital services for the children and families who truly need them.”