MLA Advocacy and Legislative Priorities Survey 2022-2023

Advocating for the Michigan library community is one of MLA's highest priorities. It has never been more important for librarians, staff members, trustees, and others with a vested interest in libraries to convey and address the challenges that their libraries and the library profession are facing. We hope you will take time out of your busy day to help us pinpoint our field's highest priorities.

Governor Whitmer's Fiscal Year 2023 Proposed Budget

Today, Governor Whitmer introduced her FY23 proposed budget with a $74.1 billion spending plan, the largest in state history. The Governor’s priorities for FY23 are laid out specifically on page 3 of the budget presentation document and the Budget Stabilization Fund – “Rainy Day Fund” has increased by $51.8 million bringing the total fund to $1.5 billion.

Even with increases in revenue, the Governor’s General Fund budget, which totals $14.3 billion, remains flat for Library State Aid at $15,067,700 but also continues to include $800,000 for a Library Pilot project for school and public library collaboration. (See pages 79 and 80 in the FY23 General Omnibus Budget). Other line items for the Library of Michigan take into account slight salary and program increases from FY22 for MeL and other library operations.