Holland Reporter

Matt Hall, State Representative of Michigan, announced that the new K-12 education budget increases funding, enhances school security, and provides more resources for districts while eliminating for-profit earmarks. The statement was made on X.

"As Speaker, I'm proud Michigan House Republicans delivered real wins for Michigan families with a student-focused K-12 education budget," said Hall, State Representative from Michigan. "Record funding, restored support for school security, and more discretionary resources for districts—all while eliminating for-profit earmarks. We kept our promise to Michigan students and parents, and that remains our commitment moving forward."

Michigan’s K-12 education budget for 2025–26 has become a contentious issue in the legislature. According to OurMidland, Republicans are advocating for flexible per-pupil grants, whereas Democrats support targeted earmarks to fund mental health, school safety, and meal programs. This debate delayed the budget past the July 1 deadline and underscored significant partisan divides over school funding strategies.

Chalkbeat Detroit reports that the new Michigan K-12 education budget allocates approximately $10,025 per pupil—its highest ever—but significantly reduces school security and mental health grants from $328 million to $25 million. Funds have been redirected toward general aid rather than discretionary program spending.

The Citizens Research Council of Michigan indicates that the state’s K-12 budget now comprises 128 line items totaling $18.4 billion. Of this amount, 56% is allocated to broad foundation allowances with the remainder distributed among targeted earmarks. Recent House proposals aim to eliminate earmarks for for-profit schools and demand greater funding transparency.

Hall is a Republican who has served as Speaker of the Michigan House since January 2025 and previously represented the 42nd District. According to his official profile and news reports, he is a constitutional law attorney focused on increasing per-pupil funding and reducing earmarks in public education.