By Rick Pluta, Michigan Public Radio Network
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wkar/local-wkar-952807.mp3
LANSING, MI –
Republican leaders at the state Capitol say Governor Rick Snyder deserves a thorough review of his budget plans before people pass judgment. They say that includes an already controversial proposal to lift the tax exemption on private pensions. As we hear from Michigan Public Radio's Rick Pluta, the governor will unveil his budget package on Thursday.
AUDIO:
Republican leaders have been briefed on Governor Snyder's budget package, and they are counseling patience until people know all the details.
House Speaker Jase Bolger says seniors are more interested in keeping their children and grandchildren from moving to other states than in protecting every dollar of their pensions. So, he says every budget decision will be measured by its effect on the economy.
"Are we seeking to make Michigan a more-competitive place to provide a job?," he asks. "Will that mean more opportunities for those kids and grandkids and will that mean a better Michigan in the future? So, we've got a long process to go through."
Legislative leaders and the governor have set an ambitious target of wrapping up the budget by June first. The governor is also expected to outline tax reforms including a net tax reduction for businesses.