Michigan budget deadlock risks government shutdown, state workers uncertain

Michigan faces a potential government shutdown as state workers confront uncertainty due to a budget deadlock, with the new fiscal year starting on October 1. The impasse arises from partisan disagreements over spending priorities, with Republicans proposing $5 billion in budget cuts and Democrats opposing this, citing mischaracterizations of fiscal management. Both parties express a willingness to compromise, particularly on a free school meal program, but they remain divided over allegations of waste and non-transparent spending. The State Budget Office has not yet detailed the impact of a potential shutdown, reminiscent of Michigan's brief shutdown in 2009.