Michigan Moves Forward With Bipartisan Action on Military Benefits and Conservation

.Governor Gretchen Whitmer continued her administration’s record of bipartisan action this week, signing a bill to help lower costs for Michigan National Guard members and advancing major conservation and recreation investments across the state. With this latest measure, the Governor has now signed 1,531 bipartisan bills since taking office — a record that underscores her stated commitment to collaboration.

Support for Michigan’s National Guard Families

The centerpiece of the newest legislation is a bill creating the Michigan National Guard Member Benefit Fund, designed to put more money directly into the pockets of service members and their families. Backed by Rep. Ron Robinson (R-Utica), the fund will help Guard members afford childcare, healthcare, and tuition — easing everyday financial pressures for those who serve.

Though signed, the measure will officially take effect once related legislation moves through the Legislature. Governor Whitmer praised the bipartisan cooperation behind the effort, noting that supporting service members should rise above partisan politics.

Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II echoed the sentiment, recognizing the Guard’s sacrifice and calling for continued teamwork to support families across the state.

Investing in Parks, Trails, and Outdoor Access

Michigan’s natural resources — long considered among its greatest treasures — also received bipartisan attention. Rep. Ken Borton (R-Gaylord) led the charge on legislation investing $41.8 million from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund to support 85 recreation and conservation projects statewide.

These investments will improve parks, expand trails, enhance wildlife habitats, and increase accessibility to outdoor spaces. From small-town recreation areas to state-level conservation projects, the improvements are expected to have a lasting impact on communities across Michigan.

Governor Whitmer emphasized that protecting Michigan’s environment and expanding access to outdoor spaces is not a partisan effort, but a shared commitment to quality of life and future generations.

Strengthening Clean Water and Conservation Efforts

Several bills signed by the Governor extend and reinforce Michigan’s clean water and environmental protection programs, again reflecting cross-party cooperation.

Sen. Kevin Daley (R-Lum) sponsored legislation extending water-quality protection fees through 2029, helping support agricultural and conservation initiatives run by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Sen. Sam Singh (D-East Lansing) advanced measures to strengthen drinking water training and certification programs, enable emergency response readiness for water threats, fund environmental permitting oversight, and increase support for scholarships — including programs benefiting nursing students. Combined, these bills secure millions in annual funding for programs that safeguard drinking water and the environment.

Another measure from Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing) allows unused funds in a local reimbursement account to be transferred to the General Fund, providing greater financial flexibility for state operations.

A Model of Bipartisanship in Action

In a national political climate often defined by division, Michigan’s latest legislative achievements highlight what collaboration can accomplish. Lawmakers from both parties came together to support military families, protect natural resources, and strengthen the state’s long-term environmental and economic wellbeing.

Governor Whitmer framed the moment as a testament to shared priorities, not partisan goals. “I’ll keep working with anyone to protect and defend our environment,” she said, reaffirming her commitment to cooperation.

As Michigan continues investing in its people, land, and future, these bipartisan efforts stand as an example of how progress can move forward — and how working across the aisle continues to make a tangible difference for residents across the state.