The new state budget sets aside nearly $2 billion more for local road work, something lawmakers accomplished by establishing a new 24% marijuana tax and shifting around gas tax revenues.

Van Buren County Road Commission Managing Director Bret Witkowski tells us he’s been in close contact with the County Road Association of Michigan as the budget came together. Republican lawmakers initially sought even more road money.

“ Initially, it started out as a $3 billion increase that was agreed upon by pretty much all sides,” Witkowski said. “ It’s going to end up being $1 .8 to $2 billion.”

While the $1.8 billion the Legislature did come up with is less than the original target, Witkowski said it would be unrealistic for anyone to com

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