State Rep. Nancy Jenkins-Arno today helped secure passage of the bipartisan state budget, delivering improvements to workforce development through the Going Pro employee training and small business supports. House Republicans also cut waste, fraud and abuse while delivering on a plan that does not increase taxes. Throughout the budget process, Jenkins-Arno helped implement unprecedented transparency measures that will continue to strengthen accountability in the appropriations process for years to come. 

“Citizens deserve to know where their taxpayer dollars are going and why,” said Jenkins-Arno. “I am proud of the work we accomplished this budget cycle to strengthen transparency, increase accountability, and ensure taxpayers can have confidence in the decisions we make in Lansing.” 

Over the past two budget cycles, Representative Nancy Jenkins-Arno (R-34) has served as Chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), overseeing the budget process and determining which Legislatively Directed Spending Items (LDSIs) are included in the state budget. Under her leadership, the committee implemented new transparency standards that will continue beyond her tenure as chair. 

During her time as chair, Jenkins-Arno implemented reforms requiring all budget earmarks to be published online before committee votes, including the sponsoring legislator, project location, intended recipient, requested funding amount, and a description of the public benefit. In addition, every proposed earmark receives a public committee hearing, allowing residents to review proposals in real time and follow the appropriations process before funding decisions are made. 

“This budget reflects months of hard work and thoughtful negotiations. I’m proud we were able to advance a budget that not only invests in our state’s priorities but also leaves taxpayers with a clearer understanding of how their dollars are being spent.” 

The budget now heads to the Governor’s desk for her expected signature.