Launch Michigan CEO Urges Michigan Lawmakers to Adopt a Responsive State Budget

Dear Michigan Lawmakers,

On behalf of Launch Michigan, I write to urge you to move quickly to adopt a state budget that prioritizes both strong per-pupil funding and the critical categorical supports that ensure we meet the needs of all Michigan students. We cannot afford delays—our schools, families, and employers are counting on timely decisions and the certainty of a completed budget.

We recognize that conversations are underway about how Michigan should rethink the way we fund schools. Launch Michigan supports and stands ready to actively engage in that broader conversation. But right now, the urgent priority is clear: we need a budget. Collaboration and negotiation across chambers and with the governor must happen swiftly so that our education system does not lose valuable time and momentum.

At the same time, while we understand and support the fact that the most important issue on the table is finalizing the budget, we encourage you not to lose sight of the opportunity to advance important state-level policy alongside it. Specifically, this legislative session is the right time to adopt a new graduation standard that anchors what Michigan students know and can do in future-ready skills and competencies.

By including an initial investment for the Michigan Education Guarantee in the budget, the legislature and governor can plant an important stake in the ground: that Michigan will deliver a diploma aligned to a new, empowering vision for our students and our economy. Sometimes we must do two things at once—and right now that means passing a timely budget while also investing in the future of our education system.

Thank you for your leadership and for your commitment to Michigan’s students, families, and future workforce. Launch Michigan stands ready to work with you on both the urgent task of adopting a budget and the longer-term challenge of transforming our system to prepare every child for success.

Sincerely,
Venessa Keesler
President & CEO
Launch Michigan