State Rep. Tom Kunse (R-Clare) today praised the passage of a transparency package through both chambers of the Michigan Legislature, which is a major step toward accountability in state government.

“For years, Michigan taxpayers have watched millions of dollars in grants being added to budget bills with little visibility into where those funds go or why,” said Kunse. “These are public dollars, and the hardworking people who earn their pay and pay their taxes deserve to know how they are being spent. This bill puts transparency into action.”

House Bill 4420, sponsored by Kunse, and Senate Bill 596 were approved by the House and Senate. Together, the bills require that all proposed enhancement grants be made public on a state website at least 45 days before any vote is taken.

“It’s about trust and building a culture of openness that lasts beyond one term. If you want to request taxpayer funds, you should be able to be open about it and stand behind it. Transparency should never be temporary, and it should always be the standard.

“This ensures that every Michigander can see where their dollars are going, who is requesting them, and what the funds will serve. By showing how decisions are made, we rebuild confidence in government.”