FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 17, 2026
LANSING, MI — The Michigan Community Health Worker Alliance (MiCHWA) appreciates the release of Governor Whitmer’s FY27 Executive Budget Recommendation, which outlines investments intended to strengthen workforce development, protect Medicaid, and sustain essential services for Michigan residents.
“The FY27 Executive Budget reflects Michigan’s continued focus on protecting access to care and strengthening the systems that families rely on,” said Kareem J. Baig, Executive Director of MiCHWA.
The FY27 Executive Budget totals $88.1 billion, including $13.6 billion in General Fund resources and $20.3 billion in School Aid. Federal funding represents $35.99 billion, or 41% of the overall budget, underscoring the importance of responsible implementation and fiscal stability.
“As new federal requirements take effect, implementation capacity will matter as much as policy direction,” Baig said.
The budget includes $97.0 million ($154.6 million General Fund) to implement new federal H.R. 1 requirements, including $16.7 million for beneficiary support and $5 million tied to Medicaid community engagement requirements. It also includes $30.0 million ongoing for workforce development and training through Michigan Works!, including $5.0 million to expand registered apprenticeship opportunities, as well as $2.0 million for a data-sharing platform to support compliance and verification.
“Community Health Workers are a proven workforce that helps Michigan meet these requirements in ways that protect families and reduce system strain,” Baig said. “Through care navigation and direct engagement, CHWs help residents maintain Medicaid coverage, understand community engagement requirements, and connect to preventive services before challenges escalate.”
The budget also includes $6.6 million ($4.1 million General Fund) for community violence prevention services, including coordinated care delivered by Community Health Workers and victim support professionals, and a Community Health Worker Enhancements line item of $500,000 General Fund ($1.0 million gross).
“When CHWs are effectively integrated, we see stronger continuity of care, improved chronic disease management, reduced avoidable emergency room utilization, and greater stability for families navigating behavioral health, maternal health, and rural access challenges,” Baig said. “That impact translates into healthier communities and more resilient public systems.”
MiCHWA will continue to work with MDHHS, the Legislature, employers, and partners statewide to support a prepared and sustainable Community Health Worker workforce infrastructure equipped to deliver measurable value for Michigan residents.
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