North Michigan News

State Representative Ken Borton expressed strong opposition to Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Michigan Department of Natural Resources Director Scott Bowen regarding proposed increases in hunting, fishing, and boating fees. The governor's budget proposal includes these fee hikes.

Borton stated, "I don’t know how much clearer I can make myself; if DNR leadership continues this ridiculous crusade to hike fees across the board – an action that does nothing but punish those who love the outdoors – we are going to zero out their budget. This is not a threat. This will be their reality if the DNR does not commit to working with us to protect access to the outdoors."

He further challenged Director Bowen by saying, "If fee increases are so important, the director is going to have to sit in our public meeting and explain exactly why he needs them and why the money he already has – which many would say is grossly misspent – isn’t enough. He’s going to have to justify every single dollar they want to spend. If the committee is convinced, it goes into the budget. If not, try again next year."

Borton emphasized his commitment by adding, "My committee is ready to work on behalf of people, and the people are tired of poorly run government agencies charging them extra just because they can."

In his roles as chairman of the Agriculture and Rural Development and Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee and vice chair of the Department of Environment Great Lakes and Energy Appropriations Subcommittee, Borton plays a significant part in overseeing related budgetary matters.