EDITOR:

With the Michigan Legislature, Governor Rick Snyder has worked tirelessly over the last seven years to right the state’s budget and finances. This discipline has allowed us to reduce taxes for Michigan families and job providers, invest in important areas such as education and roads, and pay down long-term debt, all while putting money aside for the next economic downturn.

This disciplined approach to our state’s finances is part of the reason Michigan has seen a tremendous rebound – creating more than 540,000 private-sector jobs and increasing family incomes at a faster pace than almost any other state.

As a growing state, we can do anything, but we cannot do everything if we are not responsible. If we work together, we can continue to reduce taxes and invest in priorities to improve the lives of all Michiganders. Nearly $3 billion in new tax cuts have already been made since Governor Snyder took office while still increasing investments in services for residents and paying down long-term debt.

As we begin the debate about additional tax reductions, we need to keep at the forefront our commitment to pass sustainable balanced budgets that do not leave our children, and their children, paying for the debts we incur today.

A balanced budget is required by the constitution. But more than that, a smart, balanced budget that puts dollars in the pockets of Michigan families while investing in critical areas is an important part of securing Michigan’s future.

Nick Khouri

State Treasurer