Tensions at the state Capitol are increasing as Republicans in the Legislature push back against the Whitmer administration’s use of executive powers to manage the COVID-19 crisis.
The House Appropriations Committee rejected Governor Whitmer’s back-to-school plans and substituted a Republican plan. It offers financial incentives to resume in-person learning.
It’s past time, said House Appropriations Chair Thomas Albert.
“Frankly, I don’t think it’s absurd to try and get kids in the classroom.”
At the same time, state Senate Republicans sent a message by rejecting a second batch of Whitmer nominees, which incensed Democratic Senator Jeremy Moss.
“So their plan is to hold everything hostage until they get their way.”
Whitmer’s office released a statement that there’s already a goal for all schools to offer an in-person option by March 1st, but the decision should be up to local schools.