Think you can manage Michigan’s public piggybank better than the politicians? This game lets you take a crack at balancing the state general fund budget. It takes just a few minutes and gives you a sense of the debate in Lansing.

Here’s the situation...

There’s a $1.4 billion budget deficit. To close it, you can cut spending, raise taxes, or do both. The game options are actual choices the governor and lawmakers have now.

To get started, answer the first question below. On the next screen, click the categories on the left to choose cuts or tax hikes. As you choose, watch the blue bar at the top of the screen to see how close you are to a balanced budget.

At the end, see how your choices compare to others and share your results with friends.

Good luck! Questions? Contact us at info@centerformichigan.net.

First Question: Do you endorse the governor’s plan to cut business taxes by $1.2 billion? It’s meant to spur the economy but also increases your budget deficit.