LANSING, MI (AP)-- Michigan's next legislative leaders have named two western Michigan lawmakers to lead the powerful House and Senate budget committees.
Republican Sen. Dave Hildenbrand of Lowell will serve as Senate Appropriations chairman in the two-year session that starts in January.
The next Senate majority leader, Arlan Meekhof, says Hildenbrand has the "experience, leadership and common sense" for the job.
Hildenbrand says leading the budget panel is a "tremendous opportunity" and he will "work tirelessly to provide great government service at the lowest cost possible."
Incoming House speaker Kevin Cotter earlier announced that Republican Rep. Al Pscholka of Stevensville will chair the House Appropriations Committee.
House Appropriations Chairman Joe Haveman of Holland and Senate Appropriations Chairman Roger Kahn of Saginaw Township are leaving Lansing under term limits.