As Michigan lawmakers grapple with an $88 billion budget proposal, a significant divide remains between the Senate and House over school funding priorities. The Senate has advanced an education budget plan that allocates $25 billion, while the House Republicans are pursuing cuts to the General Fund. Amidst calls from superintendents for timely approval of funding to prevent cuts, advocates stress the necessity of prioritizing education in the budget discussions. Initial proposals have passed, but a budget battle looms as the negotiations continue, with various stakeholders, including small businesses and early childhood advocates, voicing their perspectives on the fiscal responsibilities of the state.