State Representative David Martin

Rep. Martin reiterates concerns over cuts to schools as governor signs new K-12 budget - Gov. Whitmer travels to Flint to take money away from Genesee County schools

State Rep. David Martin today expressed confusion over Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s decision to stage a photo opportunity in Flint while signing a new education budget that contains devastating cuts to the local community.

The budget includes an enormous cut to a program local school districts rely on to hire school resource officers and counselors, heighten security measures, and expand mental health programming. School leaders say the massive reduction will lead to layoffs and program cuts.

Martin, R-Davison, opposed the budget, which slashed per-pupil school safety grants by 92%, leaving only $26.5 million after a $300 million cut.

“These cuts deal a devastating blow to schools in Genesee County and throughout Michigan,” Martin said. “Schools cannot function properly without adequate funding for safety and mental health. These budget cuts recklessly and unnecessarily put our children at risk.”

Collectively, schools in Genesee County are expected to lose about $11.7 million as a result of these cuts.

Data compiled by the House Fiscal Agency illustrates how much funding Genesee County school districts and charter schools are set to lose, based on the latest school count numbers:

District Funding cut
Atherton Community Schools $145,514
Beecher Community Schools $121,598
Bendle Public Schools $217,658
Bentley Community School District $150,513
Burton Glen Charter Academy $146,804
Carman-Ainsworth Community Schools $774,690
Clio Area School District $535,484
Davison Community Schools $1,153,266
Eagle’s Nest Academy $41,817
Fenton Area Public Schools $634,591
Flint Community Schools $605,195
Flushing Community Schools $857,284
Genesee Intermediate School District $197,406
Genesee School District $143,773
Goodrich Area Schools $418,387
Grand Blanc Academy $69,906
Grand Blanc Community Schools $1,590,405
Greater Heights Academy $42,873
International Academy of Flint $179,938
Kearsley Community School District $600,654
Lake Fenton Community Schools $422,813
LakeVille Community School District $219,432
Linden Charter Academy $168,956
Linden Community Schools $503,477
Madison Academy $205,759
Montrose Community Schools $310,035
Mt. Morris Consolidated Schools $311,589
Northridge Academy $50,476
Richfield Public School Academy $126,903
Swartz Creek Community Schools $731,397
The New Standard Academy $165,788
WAY Academy in Flint $21,120
Westwood Heights Schools $314,206
Woodland Park Academy $58,501
The budget also provides no increase to core per-pupil school funding for the first time since 2011.

“When you account for inflation, it’s essentially a decrease,” Martin said. “School leaders have already made it clear that this will lead to cuts and layoffs. That means larger class sizes, fewer resources, and less opportunities for our kids to succeed.”

The budget also raids teachers’ retirement accounts to the tune of $670 million.

Meanwhile, the two state budget bills spend more than $400 million on pet projects. Even private organizations are getting “education” earmarks, such as the Detroit Opera ($800,000), Detroit Science Center ($500,000), Downtown Boxing Gym ($1 million), and the Marygrove Film School ($2.1 million).

The education budget was negotiated between the governor and the Democrats who control the Legislature, passing along purely partisan lines.

“The Democrats’ priorities are misplaced, and it’s our kids who are paying the price,” Martin said. “We must demand better for our schools, our teachers, and most importantly, our children.”

Following the passage of the budget, the Michigan Education Association even issued a public statement calling for the Legislature to rethink the school safety cuts and pass supplemental funding to back student mental health and safety efforts.

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Rep. Martin reiterates concerns over cuts to schools as governor signs new K-12 budget Gov. Whitmer travels to Flint to take money away from Genesee County schools State Rep. David Martin today expressed confusion over Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s decision to stage a photo opportunity in Flint while signing a new education budget that contains devastating cuts to the local community. The...

Stopped by the FOP fundraiser benefiting Davison’s own City of Flint Police Detective Maria Reed as she battles cancer. Prayers up!

Great to see Mario Z and a couple of Davison grads at the VIP benefit car show today!

Stopped by the FISH of Grand Blanc food drive this morning! There’s still time to help Fill the Field for FISH until 3:00 PM today to help those in need in our community!

Thanks to those who came out to my July office hours in Atlas Twp. and Burton! Please don’t hesitate to contact me at 517.373.0826 or [email protected] if I can ever be of service!

I enjoyed a great tour of DeBucks Sod Farm in Davison today - they have been in business for almost 60 years!

Reminder about my July office hours tomorrow in Atlas Twp and Burton! I am looking forward to talking with you!

State Rep. David Martin, R-Davison, today issued the following statement after learning about the passing of former Rep. Tim Sneller:

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of former Representative Tim Sneller. Tim and I served together in the Legislature representing Genesee County, and while we found ourselves on opposite sides of the political aisle, I always respected his dedication to public service. Tim devoted his life to serving the people of Genesee County, both as a legislator and as a longtime legislative staffer. His commitment and passion for our community were evident in everything he did.

“We attended countless events together around Genesee County, stood side-by-side to support our community, and listened to the concerns of residents. One of the moments I will always cherish is when we proudly stood together on the House floor to recognize White Shirt Day, both of us wearing white to mark the end of the famous Flint sit-down strike and the anniversary of the first United Auto Workers contract with General Motors.

“My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of working with him. Tim’s legacy of service will not be forgotten.”

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We must protect our children!

State Rep. David Martin today highlighted the devastating effect the new state budget is going to have on local school districts, which are facing critical cuts to school safety and mental health funding.

Martin, R-Davison, opposed the budget, which cut per-pupil school safety grants by 92%, leaving only $26.5 million after a $300 million cut.

“These cuts deal a devastating blow to our local schools,” Martin said. “Schools cannot function properly without adequate funding for safety and mental health. These budget cuts recklessly and unnecessarily put our children at risk.”

The Davison and Grand Blanc school districts, in particular, are on track to lose more than $1 million each as a result of these cuts, with other districts in the communities Martin serves facing losses in the hundreds of thousands.

Recent data released by the House Fiscal Agency illustrates how much funding local school districts are set to lose, based on the latest school count numbers:

District Funding cuts:
Atherton Community Schools $145,514
Bendle Public Schools $217,658
Bentley Community School District $150,513
Brandon School District $442,062
Davison Community Schools $1,153,266
Goodrich Area Schools $418,387
Grand Blanc Community Schools $1,590,405
Grand Blanc Academy $69,906
Holly Area School District $661,907
Kearsley Community School District $600,654

The reductions are expected to have a profound impact on the ability of districts to maintain essential safety measures and provide necessary mental health support for students.

Even the Michigan Education Association has issued a public statement calling for the Legislature to rethink the school safety cuts and pass supplemental funding to back student mental health and safety efforts.

“There were deep cuts to categorical funding for school safety and student mental health — cuts that will need to be navigated at the local level to keep our schools safe learning spaces for all students and employees,” MEA President and CEO Chandra Madafferi said. “Our hope is that state lawmakers will return after the summer break to pass a supplemental budget that funds these critical student mental health and safety priorities.”

The cuts were included in the budget negotiated between the governor and the Democrats who control the Legislature. The budget passed along purely partisan lines in the House.

Martin, who voted against the budget, said the funding should be restored.

“Our schools rely on these funds to help ensure safety and well-being of our kids,” Martin said. “We must restore this funding immediately to ensure our schools can continue to provide a safe and supportive environment.”

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Rep. Martin stands up for local students, votes against school safety funding cut Davison, Grand Blanc schools to lose more than $1 million State Rep. David Martin today highlighted the devastating effect the new state budget is going to have on local school districts, which are facing critical cuts to school safety and mental health funding. Martin, R-Davison, opposed the budget...

I greatly enjoyed volunteering for the Student Statesmanship Institute as a committee chair today! I am always so impressed by the caliber of the students, and the questions they ask! If you have high school students, definitely check out this outstanding program!

Save the date for my July office hours in Goodrich and Burton!

Rep. Martin opposes cuts to school safety, irresponsible spending in state budget

PRESS RELEASE
June 27, 2024

State Rep. David Martin voted against a $82.5 billion spending plan that prioritizes pet projects over the critical needs of Michigan residents.

Martin, R-Davison, said the new state budget relies on a tax increase that has families, seniors and small businesses handing over more of their hard-earned money to the state. It also raids teachers’ retirement accounts to the tune of $670 million. Meanwhile, the budget drastically reduces school safety funding and ignores local roads that are badly in need of repair.

The new budget cuts school safety and mental health grant funding by more than $300 million, leaving just $26.5 million to help schools fund resource officers, mental health services, and other critical programs that protect kids.

“Gutting school safety and mental health funding is a serious mistake,” Martin said. “All students should feel safe and supported when they’re at school. I want to know what special project the Democrats who crafted this budget think is more important than the health and safety of our kids.”

Following the passage of the budget, the Michigan Education Association even issued a public statement calling for the Legislature to rethink the school safety cuts and pass supplemental funding to back student mental health and safety efforts.

Even though Democrats cut school safety funding by 90% and ignored calls to add dedicated funding for local road repairs, they pumped funding into pet projects like a $7.5 million drone program, $3 million in incentives for people who purchase e-bikes, and a $25 million program to build state-owned EV charging stations.

The budget also funds hundreds of millions of dollars in pork projects that were added at the last minute, including $17 million for zoos in Lansing and Metro Detroit, $2.5 million for professional baseball stadiums, $5 million for a theater in Detroit, $18 million for various public and private sports facilities, $1.9 million for a pool in Saginaw, and $300,000 to cover public Wi-Fi in downtown Detroit.

Past recipients of these “enhancement” grants have misused state funding, including one prominent MEDC appointee who created a new business and then used a $20 million grant to pay for first-class plane tickets and a $4,500 coffee maker.

“The budget fails to reflect the true priorities of Michigan families,” Martin said. “Essential services like school safety and road repairs are severely underfunded, while millions are wasted on pet projects with little accountability. Michigan taxpayers deserve a budget that prioritizes the well-being and safety of their families.”

The new state budget for the fiscal year that begins Oct. 1 was pushed through the House early this morning in two party-line votes.

Rep. Martin opposes cuts to school safety, irresponsible spending in state budget State Rep. David Martin voted against a $82.5 billion spending plan that prioritizes pet projects over the critical needs of Michigan residents. Martin, R-Davison, said the new state budget relies on a tax increase that has families, seniors and small businesses handing over more of their hard-earne...

8:10 pm, House Flag still flying. Returning to Floor for more votes and waiting on budget. Should be home before sunrise.

It was great to see For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum at the MParks “Come Out & Play Day” at the Capitol!

Thanks to those who attended my office hours today in Grand Blanc and Davison! Some of the topics covered included flag etiquette, education funding, campaign finance laws, and preparing students to be successful both in life and vocationally.

Looking forward to talking with you in Grand Blanc and Davison on Monday!

Stopped by the memorial ride this weekend in honor of our friend Rocky Roll. He was a friend to all, and his contributions to the Burton community will be fondly remembered.

It was an honor to congratulate seven Eagle Scout recipients with BSA Troop 368! The skills and work that go into these accomplishments is very significant in preparing these young leaders for the future!

Fun afternoon in the dunk tank at the Grand Blanc Chamber of Commerce Family Fun Fest!

Test your skill!

State Rep. David Martin today voted for a plan to show support and appreciation for Blue Star Mothers of America, an organization founded in Flint in 1942.

Senate Bill 235 would designate February 1 of each year as Blue Star Mothers Day in Michigan. Martin co-sponsored an identical measure in the House and gave a speech urging other legislators to support the measure.

“As a veteran, I understand firsthand the significance of the support and dedication that the Blue Star Mothers of America provide to our service members and their families,” Martin said. “Their tireless efforts to boost morale, provide care packages, assist homeless veterans, support wounded warriors, and honor our fallen heroes are truly commendable. I am honored to support this bill that recognizes and celebrates their profound impact.”

Blue Star Mothers of America was founded after 300 mothers of World War II service members first met at the Durant Hotel in Flint on Feb. 1, 1942 – eight weeks after the attacks on Pearl Harbor. The group received media attention and the idea spread rapidly, with Blue Star Mothers groups quickly popping up across the country.

Senate Bill 235 received unanimous support in both the House and Senate. It will soon be presented to the governor for her expected signature.

Rep. Martin votes to honor Blue Star Mothers with recognition every Feb. 1 Rep. Martin today voted for a plan to show support and appreciation for Blue Star Mothers of America, an organization founded in Flint in 1942.

I rode my Harley to Lansing with the ABATE group yesterday! Motorcycles are everywhere - look twice, save a life!

Rep. Martin spearheads new child tax credit to help families manage rising costs

As Michigan families continue struggling to keep up with rising costs, state Rep. David Martin today introduced a comprehensive plan aimed at providing much-needed financial relief.

Since 2020, grocery costs have surged by more than 25%, and housing prices and rent have also significantly increased. Martin, R-Davison, said he understands why many residents are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet despite working full-time jobs.

“People are tired of living paycheck to paycheck and barely getting by. They want it to be more affordable to live, work and retire in Michigan,” Martin said. “I hear these concerns nearly every day from the people I represent, and I’m listening. I want to do something to help.”

The plan, included in House Bills 5628 and 5805-5814, focuses on:

• Support for struggling families: Recognizing the pressure on families, Martin’s House Bill 5807 provides an additional $500 per child on tax returns, helping to offset the increased cost of living. House Bill 5628 also creates a new tax credit for Michiganders who fall at or below the federal poverty level.

• Home ownership assistance: To make owning a home more attainable, the plan would offer up to a $3,000 tax credit to help with down payments. Another part of the plan will significantly reduce the immediate out-of-pocket costs of buying a home by eliminating the real estate transfer tax.

• Affordable childcare: By updating state regulations, the plan would make it easier and more cost-effective to operate childcare businesses in Michigan. This will help increase access to affordable and reliable childcare, so moms and dads can land stable, well-paying jobs.

• Help with home improvements: Homeowners will benefit from an income tax credit for improvements, allowing them to maintain their homes and grow their families in the community they love.

• Lowering the cost of essential items: To ease the financial burden on families, the plan includes a sales tax holiday for back-to-school shopping.

“This plan is about letting Michigan’s working families know that I see their struggles and I’m committed to making sure hardworking people can afford to live comfortably and provide for their families,” Martin said. “By putting more money back into your pockets, this plan will help ensure that your budgets aren’t stretched so thin.”

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Rep. Martin spearheads new child tax credit to help families manage rising costs With high cost of living, action is needed to offer relief to Michigan families As Michigan families continue struggling to keep up with rising costs, state Rep. David Martin today introduced a comprehensive plan aimed at providing much-needed financial relief. Since 2020, grocery costs have surged....

Reposting this in the wake of recent news headlines.

Rep. Martin spearheads plan to protect union members from corrupt officers State Rep. David Martin this week introduced a plan to protect rank-and-file members of Michigan’s labor unions from corrupt leaders.

Rep. Martin votes to expand opportunities to hunt in Michigan

Plan opens up mentored youth hunt to people with developmental disabilities

State Rep. David Martin and the Michigan House of Representatives today voted to expand access to hunting in Michigan.

Martin, R-Davison, said the plan will provide mentorship and support tailored to individuals with special needs, making hunting experiences safe and enjoyable for all participants.

“Hunting is a tradition that brings families and friends together and teaches valuable skills and respect for our environment,” said Martin, R-Davison. “By expanding the Mentored Youth Hunting Program, we are opening the door for individuals with special needs to share in these experiences and create lasting memories.”

The Mentored Youth Hunting Program, established in 2012, allows children under 10 years old to hunt under adult supervision with an apprentice license. Apprentice hunters are limited to a two-year period on an apprentice license before they’re required to take hunter safety training to continue hunting independently.

House Bill 5737 broadens the scope of the Mentored Youth Hunting Program, making it inclusive of individuals of all ages with special needs and eliminating the two-year cap so that adults with disabilities can continue hunting under the supervision of another licensed hunter.

Martin, vice chair of the Natural Resources, Environment, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Committee, successfully advocated for an amendment to the bill to waive the license fee for people with developmental disabilities.

“This is a crucial step in removing financial barriers and promoting equal access,” Martin said. “It will make it easier for more families to get involved in hunting without worrying about the cost.”

House Bill 5737 now advances to the Senate for further consideration.

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Rep. Martin votes to expand opportunities to hunt in Michigan Plan opens up mentored youth hunt to people with developmental disabilities State Rep. David Martin and the Michigan House of Representatives today voted to expand access to hunting in Michigan. Martin, R-Davison, said the plan will provide mentorship and support tailored to individuals with special...

It’s always enjoyable participating in Mr. Riek’s “Coffee House Politics” class activity! I enjoyed a robust discussion of current societal trends with the bright Grand Blanc High School students in my discussion group - Thanks again for the invite!