Downriver Today

Michigan legislators approved an additional emergency spending budget of $125 million in response to the coronavirus crisis on March 10.

The Senate unanimously voted on House Bill 4729 after meeting for 11 hours, which directs $50 million to the Department of Health and Human Services and $40 million towards other Michigan agencies. Another $35 million will be set aside just in case more funds are needed in the future.

The plan will set aside $50 million virus monitoring and testing, $50 million for critical health care providers to expand space for coronavirus response units, and $50 million will be put in a reserve account when extra funds are needed.

“This funding will help Monroe and Wayne county residents as we push forward and navigate through this public health crisis,” State Rep. Joe Bellino (R-Monroe) said in a release.

Bellino said that Michigan leaders are doing everything possible and taking all the necessary precautions to keep residents safe.

“The Legislature is working hard to stay proactive," Bellino said in the release. "I encourage people to take the necessary precautions to slow down the spread of this virus. Your health and safety matter and I want to assure everyone that their state government is working closely with our local health professionals as we continue to find solutions.”

After the vote, Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey (R-Clark Lake) said the Senate is working with other government officials to direct funds where they are needed.

“We are working with our governor to direct necessary funds to slow the spread of COVID-19 in Michigan," Shirkey told MLive. “Today’s actions make additional state dollars available to deploy across Michigan.”

More information about COVID-19 is available at www.michigan.gov/Coronavirus and www.CDC.gov/Coronavirus.