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“I am excited to be the first to applaud Governor Whitmer for establishing this department,” said state Rep. Samantha Steckloff (D-Farmington Hills). “Through MiLEAP, we will be able to better attract, educate, and retain the skilled workforce needed for Michigan to lead throughout this century and beyond.”

The Michigan Education Association, which represents tens of thousands of teachers throughout Michigan and has a history of backing Democratic candidates, said “Education is a lifelong pursuit, and it’s important that we provide the scaffolding needed to assist students and parents every step along the way. MiLEAP will help create stronger pathways to success for students from preschool through higher education and help them realize their full potential.”

However, questions have arisen as to why more bureaucracy will help Michigan’s students when it already has a state education department and “historic” funding for the 2023-24 year. The new $82 billion state budget, the largest in Michigan’s history, includes $24 billion for schools. That includes a 5% increase in per-student funding at $9,608.

House Republican Leader Matt Hall (R-Richland Township) called the new department an empty promise rather than a solution. “Connecting students throughout their education makes sense in theory, but without fixing our current education system, it won’t do much to actually help our next generation,” Hall said.

In addition, Hall stated the $335 million earmarks in the school aid budget could have increased funding statewide by $241 per pupil.

Republicans in Michigan have faced an uphill battle after voters put Democrats in control of the Governor’s office, the House, and the Senate. In general, the GOP has stood behind the idea that more bureaucracy will lead to more laws and higher taxes.