North Michigan News

State Representative Ken Borton has announced the passage of the state budget, which introduces new measures to limit the authority of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Borton, a consistent advocate for changes within the DNR, highlighted that the approved budget does not include increases in hunting or fishing license fees. It also provides funding for ice storm relief and reduces what he described as wasteful spending within the department.

“We took significant steps to ensure the Department of Natural Resources would not have the resources or authority to continue their unchecked power grab throughout Michigan,” said Borton, R-Gaylord. “Our budget agreement ensures the DNR will not continue its legal warfare against honest hog farmers, no solar or wind projects will be forced on state land, and no residents will be charged or fined for simply feeding the birds near their homes.”

Borton said he opposed proposals from Senate Democrats and the DNR that would have raised hunting and fishing license fees and required all Michigan drivers to purchase a recreation passport for their vehicles.

“The DNR already has plenty of resources; if they believe they need additional funding, they should look within instead of pursuing fee hikes that will drive more people away from the outdoors,” Borton said. “People who enjoy state parks should be able to choose to have a recreation passport on their vehicles. But it should absolutely be a choice. Forcing every driver to pay for one of these passports would be like state-mandated gym memberships, even if you don’t live within 50 miles of a gym.”

The budget removes 30 unfilled positions from the DNR's roster, which Borton described as “ghost employees.” He stated that these positions were never filled but were included in the budget so that funds could be redirected elsewhere. The agreement also stipulates that the DNR must refer to land it manages as state-owned or public, rather than claiming ownership over land bought with taxpayer money.

Additionally, the budget allocates $14 million to support communities in Northern Michigan affected by a spring ice storm. The storm caused widespread damage, including power outages and significant financial challenges for local recovery efforts. The funding is intended to help these communities complete their recovery.