UP Gazette

State Representative Karl Bohnak announced the passage of a bipartisan budget agreement that brings several changes for the Upper Peninsula. The new budget includes pay increases for corrections officers, more funding for rural healthcare, and maintains universal free school breakfast and lunch programs as well as transportation services in rural schools.

According to Bohnak, every county in the Upper Peninsula will see an increase of more than 35% in road funding. Marquette County is set to receive over $4 million in additional funds.

“The process was long and hard-fought, but I’m proud to have negotiated a budget that will make an incredible, positive impact in our U.P. communities,” said Bohnak, R-Deerton. “Our plan locks in a well-deserved raise for our corrections officers, protects our rural healthcare system, and ensures no child goes hungry.”

The budget allocates $32.1 million for corrections officer pay increases. It allows top-performing officers to reach their highest pay grade within three years instead of five and introduces new incentives aimed at retaining experienced supervisors. These measures are intended to help address staffing shortages by making it easier to recruit and keep qualified staff.

“We still have a lot of work to do to help our corrections officers, but this is a step in the right direction,” Bohnak said. “These individuals are the backbone of our criminal justice system and deserve way more respect and benefits than what they’re currently receiving. That being said, I’m proud we were able to secure this raise for them and their families.”

Additionally, the agreement provides $250 million in grants for rural hospitals across Michigan. The funding aims to strengthen hospitals serving underserved areas and support their long-term stability so that families statewide can access quality care close to home.