The annual Michigan budget is the single, most powerful expression of the state's priorities. Lawmakers must hear from the public to better understand how taxpayer money should be prioritized and spent.

Unfortunately, it has been difficult for many parents, teachers, community leaders and child advocates to become involved in the budget process. It is too unfamiliar to many, budget bills often move quickly through legislative committees, and it is also a very complex process.

To significantly improve outcomes for Michigan's children, the public must become more aware of and involved in setting state priorities.

Read more about how to become engaged in the state budget process in our latest Budget Basics, "The Budget Process in Michigan: Opportunities to Advocate for Children and Families."

Stay tuned throughout the budget process for updated, detailed Budget Basics publications.

The Budget Watch Project is generously funded by the Detroit-based Skillman Foundation.

Appropriations subcommittees have started to meet, and are moving quickly to meet the Legislature's goal of getting completed budgets to the Governor by July 1st.

Below are next week's hearings--although subcommittee meetings are ongoing. Please continue to check Michigan's Children's website for an updated schedule of hearings.

Department of Community Health (DCH):
Date: Thursday, March 4th

Time: 3pm

Place: Senate Hearing Room, Ground Floor, Boji Tower, 124 W. Allegan St., Lansing, MI 48933

Senate DCH Appropriations hearings are currently scheduled to continue on Thursdays at 3pm in the same location.

Department of Human Services (DHS):
Date: Tuesday, March 2nd and Thursday, March 4th

Time: 8:30am

Place: House Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, State Capitol, 100 S. Capitol Avenue, Lansing, MI 48933

House DHS Appropriations hearings are currently scheduled to continue on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:30am in the same location.

K-12/School Aid:
Date: Tuesday, March 2nd

Time: 2pm

Place: Senate Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, State Capitol, 100 S. Capitol Avenue, Lansing, MI 48933

House K-12/School Aid Appropriations hearings are currently scheduled to continue on Tuesdays at 2pm in the same location.