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Proposal 1 passes changing how money is spent on natural resources in Michigan

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Michigan voters have passed Proposal 1, which will change how money is spent under the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund.

The trust fund uses royalties paid by developers of state-owned minerals like oil and natural gas, to protect sensitive lands and increase outdoor recreation across the state.

Established in 1976, there has been more than a billion dollars distributed.

With the passage of the proposal, at least 25% of the money spent in a year must go toward land purchases and another 25% toward developing recreation facilities. Before the passage, no more than 25% could go toward recreation facilities.

A board appointed by the governor considers proposals for projects and then decides how to spend the rest of the money, as it already does.