LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – State Rep. Parker Fairbairn (R-Harbor Springs) announced Tuesday that Northern Michigan communities will see $14 million in ice storm recovery funding included in the state budget currently being negotiated. The money is intended to help counties still digging out from March’s devastating storm, which left behind damaged homes, downed trees, and strapped local governments.

Fairbairn said in a press release, “There was no way I was going to let a budget deal happen without some level of ice storm relief.”

Push for $100 million plan.

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While the $14 million is seen as a first step, Fairbairn continues to push for passage of House Bill 4328 – a $100 million supplemental relief bill that overwhelmingly passed the House months ago. The legislation would provide additional aid to residents, small businesses, and municipalities in the 12 hardest-hit counties.

Fairbairn blasted the Senate for refusing to take up the plan. “The Senate must end the blockade and pass House Bill 4328 and provide real relief to the 12 counties affected by the storm,” Fairbairn said. “It shouldn’t take this long to get ice storm relief dollars approved,” Fairbairn said. “The House acted quickly and deliberately to secure funding. We understood the urgency, so I am shocked to see my colleagues in the Senate allow this much–needed relief to languish in committee for five months.”

Budget talks continue.

The storm relief comes as part of broader budget negotiations that remain unsettled in Lansing. Lawmakers are working against the clock to finalize spending priorities, with disputes over supplemental funding and long-term commitments still unresolved.