August 14, 2003
August 14, 2003
LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm signed into law a supplemental budget bill for fiscal years 2003 and 2004. Senate Bill 540 provides funding of $499.8 million for fiscal year 2003 and $50.5 million for fiscal year 2004. It also implements $13.3 million in general fund reductions outlined in the February Executive Order package.
“By signing this legislation, the state can provide citizens with necessary health care services, a more efficient means of voting, and help grow scientific research jobs in Southwest Michigan,” said Granholm.
The supplemental bill provides:
•$286.1 million in Medicaid funding to address increased caseloads, financed by the recently enacted federal fiscal relief;
•$47.6 million for improved election administration, replacement of outdated voting equipment, and to facilitate improved access for disabled and absent voters as required by the Help America Vote Act (HAVA);
•$41.6 million from federal and state restricted funds for the final implementation of Michigan’s Child Support Enforcement System;
•$12.3 million in federal homeland security grants earmarked for the City of Detroit to enhance security and critical infrastructure;
•one-time funding of $10 million for a biosciences research and commercialization center at Western Michigan University; and
•$10.8 million in federal revenues to assist low-income families with payment of their utility bills.
The one item vetoed by Governor Granholm was the construction authorization for the 400-bed female housing unit at Western Wayne Correctional Facility.
“While the state still requires additional bed space for female offenders, we must carefully review and evaluate the sites to determine which site best fits the needs of the state and local community,” said Granholm. “We truly believe that this issue needs further analysis and public input before proceeding.”
