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Report Says State Government Short On Savings

Cash
WKAR File Photo

A downturn in the economy would quickly drain the state’s “rainy day” savings. Michigan Public Radio’s Rick Pluta tells us that’s the determination of an independent analysis.

Michigan’s “rainy day” fund can help the state weather a recession without deep cuts or tax hikes. But that requires lawmakers to deposit generously when times are good.

Craig Theil is with the non-partisan Citizens Research Council. He says lawmakers tend to focus on boosting funding for services or cutting taxes when there’s a revenue windfall.

“During an improving economy, there’s this third option, which is putting money away for the rainy day.” Says Theil.

There is currently about 700 million dollars in the fund, which zeroed out during the last recession.

Rick Pluta is Senior Capitol Correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He has been covering Michigan’s Capitol, government, and politics since 1987. His journalism background includes stints with UPI, The Elizabeth (NJ) Daily Journal, The (Pontiac, MI) Oakland Press, and WJR. He is also a lifelong public radio listener.
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