Michigan starts contingency planning in event of government shutdown

State officials have started 'contingency planning' for a potential government shutdown.

In a letter, State Budget Director Chris Kolb asked department directors to prepare for a potential shutdown if the Legislature and Governor Gretchen Whitmer don't reach a budget by Oct. 1, the start of the next fiscal year.

Gov. Whitmer and top Republicans have been at odds over funding to the fix Michigan's crumbling infrastructure.

The governor is proposing a 45-cent per gallon gas tax hike.

Republicans have repeatedly denied Governor Whitmer's plan.

If state officials don't agree on a budget before the deadline, the state government would shut down for the first time since 2009.

Gov. Whitmer and top Republicans have publicly said progress is being made and there's hope a deal can be reached before the deadline.

The Michigan Legislature is set to come back into voting sessions this week.