At the state Capitol, Republican leaders say they agree with Democrats that Michigan needs better roads and water infrastructure.
House GOP leaders outlined their plans for 2019 Tuesday.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer is a Democrat. The Legislature is controlled by Republicans. But GOP leaders say that does not necessarily mean gridlock for the next two years.
Republican state Representative Aaron Miller says the tough job won’t be coming to an agreement that roads need to be fixed.
“Everybody wants good roads. Nobody wants to pay for them, and the money has to come from somewhere. That’s a simple fact.”
He says Republicans and Democrats agree Michigan needs safe water and better roads.
“I think we have general agreement on the fact that there is a need of commitment of revenue to roads, and where those ideas match up, that’s where we’ll work together.”
Miller says that means lawmakers face tough choices to re-direct existing revenue, come up with new money, or a combination of both.
State House Speaker Lee Chatfield says Republicans and Democrats agree Michigan needs better roads and safer water. The question is how to find the money and resources.
"It will require an attempt to find consensus with the administration. That is something we are dedicating to doing. And that is a conversation that we look forward to having.”
Governor Gretchen Whitmer will deliver her budget message to the Legislature on March fifth. She says it will include more details for improving roads and building better water infrastructure.