LANSING--State Representative Alma Wheeler Smith (D-Salem) was appointed to the powerful House Appropriations Committee of the 93rd Legislature. The appointment came from Democratic Leader Dianne Byrum (D-Onondaga) and Speaker Craig DeRoche (R-Novi) who also named Smith the Minority Vice-Chair of the Appropriation subcommittees on Corrections and Community Health.
"It is crucial that we assign our most knowledgeable members to carry the load and protect Michigan families," said Byrum. "Alma's appointment allows the Democratic Caucus to show the public that we are better positioned both in philosophy and skill to fight for them and to lead the House in the future."
Smith is no stranger to the budget process. As a former State Senator, she served eight years on the Senate Appropriations Committee. Her experience is expected to be a valuable asset as the committee works to balance Michigan's budget which, currently, is facing a deficit upwards of $1 billion for Fiscal Year 05-06. Particularly so on the Community Health subcommittee which recently lost two of its three Democratic members to term limits.
State Representative Gretchen Whitmer (D-East Lansing), the Minority Vice-Chair of Appropriations, said she welcomes Smith's experience working on vital state issues like Medicaid and health care, knowledge of Democratic public policy issues, and "proven ability to work with our Republican counterparts to craft successful compromises on the budget."
"I am delighted for the opportunity to serve in a support role to Vice-Chair Whitmer and to assist the Governor's efforts to protect spending over the wide range of services in the complex Community Health budget," said Smith. "Michigan is facing serious fiscal challenges that demand our immediate attention and I believe that my past legislative experience and knowledge of Medicaid and other health issues can assist in making appropriate decisions regarding Michigan's budget."
Smith represents the 54th District, which includes the City of Ypsilanti and Salem, Augusta, Superior and Ypsilanti townships.