Act Now: Protect Vital Social Work Services from Budget Uncertainty

Dear NASW-Michigan Members,

As of September 29, legislative leaders and the Governor’s Office have announced a tentative budget agreement—but the final 2026 state budget has not yet passed. Until it does, uncertainty looms large. A government shutdown would cause direct and immediate harm to the people social workers serve.

If the state shuts down—or if the budget passes with damaging cuts—critical programs could be disrupted, including:

• Cash assistance and food stamps
• Child welfare services
• Mental health resources
• Other state-administered supports for vulnerable populations
• Staffing cuts across many State departments

 The stakes could not be higher. A shutdown or cuts to these services would devastate the very communities that rely on us most. As social workers, we know the human impact behind every budget line—and we must make sure lawmakers know it too.

👉 Take Action Now

Please contact the Governor’s Office and your local legislators. Urge them to prioritize human services funding and prevent harmful disruptions.  

• Governor Whitmer’s Office: 517-335-7858 | Contact Form  
  
• Find your State Representative  
  
• Find your State Senator 

 NASW-Michigan is monitoring this situation closely and advocating at every level. But we also need to hear from you. If your agency, your job, or the people you serve are affected by shutdown threats or budget decisions, please reach out:

• Jordan Freeman, Workforce Program Manager – jfreeman.naswmi@socialworkers.org
• Duane Breijak, Executive Director – dbreijak.naswmi@socialworkers.org
  Together, we can amplify the voice of our profession and protect the services Michigan’s communities depend on.

Stay Engaged:

• Workforce & Working Conditions Workgroup – Thursday, October 23, 12–1 PM (final 2025 meeting)
• Private Practice Workgroup – THIS Friday, for support navigating the Michigan Mental Health Framework and Medicaid/Medicare billing changes

Thank you for your advocacy, your expertise, and your commitment to social justice.

In solidarity,

Jordan Freeman
Workforce Program Manager. NASW-Michigan