Legislature Passes $54.9 Billion In State Spending, $165 Million Earmarked For Flint Water Crisis

LANSING, Mich. (WWJ/AP) - The Michigan Legislature has passed a $54.9 billion state spending plan and directed $165 million more in aid toward the water crisis in Flint, including money to replace thousands of lead pipes that carry water into homes.

The bills will head to Gov. Rick Snyder for his expected signature after winning approval Wednesday night.

Late in the evening, the Michigan Senate approved a $617 million bailout to restructure Detroit's debt-ridden school district.

Spending on Flint's emergency rises to roughly $235 million.

Key components include a 1.9 percent funding boost for preK-12 education, including $60 to $120 more per student.

"While the $25 million allocated for my FAST Start program to replace lead-tainted pipes in Flint is less than half the amount needed, I'm grateful that lawmakers have directed $165 million more to help Flint, its residents and businesses deal with the water crisis we're still living with every day. I encourage lawmakers to continue to address the education, health, economic and infrastructure needs in Flint caused by this man-made disaster," said Flint Mayor Karen Weaver in a released statement after the vote.

Republicans cite record-high spending, while Democrats say there's not enough money for state universities and too much spending on things like cyber schools and funding to reimburse private schools for state-mandated costs.