Michigan coalition plans coordinated statewide protests against Gov. Snyder's budget proposal

3/14/2011

MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. — A coalition of individuals and groups is planning to gather in a number of cities across Lower Michigan to protest Republican Gov. Rick Snyder's proposed budget.

The coordinated rallies planned throughout the day Monday include Mount Clemens, Monroe, Lansing, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, Kalamazoo and Saginaw. Participants include state workers, small business owners and retirees.

A press release issued by the liberal group Progress Michigan says Snyder's proposal is "an attack on Michigan families and their future."

Snyder says his budget represents "shared sacrifice" and puts Michigan on the path to a better future because it solves the state's budget ills.

His $45.9 billion proposal includes spending cuts for schools and would eliminate many personal tax breaks while slashing business taxes.

The state is facing an estimated $1.4 billion shortfall.