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Michigan House passes financial disclosure bill

Critics blast the timing and lack of teeth in the bills as lawmakers pass legislation in 3 weeks

… governor, and for the attorney general and secretary of state. Critics have questioned the timing and the content of the bills. As a result of Proposal 1 of 2022, lawmakers are bound by the Michigan Constitution to enact a financial disclosure law by Dec. 31. But the Senate bills weren’t submitted … more

With COVID emergency over, Michigan senator pushes for remote meetings

With a two-seat majority in the House and Senate, Democrats who run Lansing don’t have a vote to spare

In a May 3 letter to colleagues, Sen. Veronica Klinefelt, D-Eastpointe, seeks co-sponsors for a pending … to seek co-sponsors for an amendment to section 3 of Michigan’s Open Meetings Act, which requires a … no reason. The Michigan Freedom Fund sees the proposal as problematic. “As Michiganders have returned … more

The Whitmer agenda is a sop to the rich

Governor proposes EV subsidies that would benefit the well-off

… Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s recent budget proposals turbocharge this effort. She proposes expanding … millionaires. School lunches: Another budget proposal from the governor is free school lunches for … month, the new Democratic-led Legislature pledged $3 billion of taxpayers’ money to a handful of rich … more

Michigan’s 10 least-popular constitutional proposals since 1963

These 10 proposals got an overwhelmingly negative response at the ballot box

… have decided the fate of 82 proposals to amend the current state … in 1963. Out of the 82 proposals offered since the last constitutional … (“progressive”) income tax system. This proposal appeared on the 1968 ballot, … in nonpublic schools. This proposal on the 2000 ballot lost by 1,531,787 votes. No. 3 was a 2012 proposal that would … more

School officials are to blame for parent uprising

Families raise children, not teachers or bureaucrats

… may not stop with mental health treatment if a proposal on the Michigan ballot passes in November. Proposal 3 would amend Michigan’s constitution and may … a parent’s consent. Proponents of the ballot proposal say it would not conflict with state law, according … more

Study on Ann Arbor-to-Traverse City railway rests on flimsy data

Yet it’s the foundation for $2.3 million in taxpayer funds for a second-phase study

… 2018 for the Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities, launched the proposal. The environmental group says public transportation systems are needed … derived from both Traverse City and Petoskey tourist databases. ... Exhibit 3-16 presents the current annual number of visitors in these two areas. As it … more

How Michigan can have term limits and lifetime service

A modest proposal to bring the best of both worlds to Lansing

… model – 14 years, consisting of 3-two-year House terms and 2-four-year … service? Why not have both? My proposal: Let them serve, as long … talk like that. There is a proposal on the November ballot to … two. As a sweetener, the proposal carries a transparency measure, … “overwhelming support” for the proposal. Under my plan, Bolger could … more

Michigan Residents: Whitmer Did Not Fix The D@mn Roads

New poll shows governor’s credibility on this issue full of potholes

… revenue. But when she submitted an executive budget proposal that year, it allocated just $1.9 billion of … bill to enact the increase. When the 45-cent proposal received no traction in the Legislature, Whitmer’s … of 20 years is currently paying interest of about 3%. The cost of debt depends on its timing and structure. … more

Lansing Bus System: Free Rides To Vote On New School Levy

Government entities all-in when one of them seeks new taxes

… Lansing School District debt proposal on May 3. The Capital Area Transportation … Biden over Trump by more than a 3-to-1 margin. “It is government-sponsored … inclined to voting yes on a bond proposal.” CATA responded to an email … Lansing School District debt proposal states the millage will impose … more

CapCon’s Top 10 Stories Of 2020

COVID-19 dominated the news, but it wasn’t the only topic of great interest

… that’s going to be a while.” No. 3 (March 3): Giving a friend a manicure … proposed in 2019. But that proposal would not have directed any … for such projects. No. 6 (May 3): Wife says Flint dollar store … court ruled, by a vote of 4-3, that the 1945 law violates the … more

State Budget 2022: Not Too Early to Cut Corporate and Industry Handouts

Michigan needs a fair field for all and favors for none

… With the new calendar year closing in, and a fiscal year 2021-22 budget proposal just a month or two away, it is worth reminding lawmakers that there is … survival, employment growth, or sales growth of new ventures on average.” 3. Pure Michigan: $15 million The official appropriation for Pure Michigan … more

Backed By Police Unions in 2018, Whitmer Silent On Police Union Reforms

Police collective bargaining contracts implicated in departments’ failure to dismiss bad actors

… Floyd died in police custody on May 25 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. On June 3, a press release from the governor listed four actions she was taking related … officers and agencies statewide. Whitmer’s efforts have revolved around proposals such as mandatory training on implicit bias, de-escalation techniques, … more

State and Local Bailouts Would Reward Fiscal Wastefulness

Congress should avoid bailouts

… House recently passed a plan for the federal government to spend another $3 trillion to help mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Congress should stop this proposal in its tracks — particularly its elements that are unrelated to the pandemic. … more

Claims of State Fiscal Collapse Exaggerated

No, the sky isn’t falling on Michigan state government

… resisting calls from Republican leaders in the state Legislature for a proposal to address the projected $3.2 billion shortfall in the current budget … excess of $1 billion. Secondly, Congress has already appropriated more than $3 billion to Michigan to address pandemic-related issues, Hohman said. That … more

Ban on Fossil Fuel Drilling in Michigan Could Be on the Ballot in 2020

Anti-oil and gas group missed two deadlines but wins in court

… Michigan law says it may get its proposal on the November ballot “if … Appeals ruled in its favor. The proposal will now go back to the Board … Legislature did not pass the proposal first, which most observers … window. While selling the proposal as banning fracking, the … of gas was $1.65 as of April 3, according to American Automobile … more

Some Perspective: Michigan is Stronger Today

The state is in a more resilient position to weather an economic storm than at any time before

… the nation. 2. Personal property tax reform. Proposal 1 of 2014 relied on a vote of the people to minimize … by the inefficient personal property tax. The proposal created exemptions for the tax on businesses … amount to $500 million per year in net savings. 3. Our labor climate is more flexible and market friendly. … more

Great Lakes Water Levels Too High? Too Low? For 60 Years Newspapers Answer: Yes

Variation appears the norm

… big-ticket item,” the Free Press reported. The newspaper describes Whitmer’s proposal to spend $40 million on what the budget calls “Local Climate Resilient … modeling proves accurate, global warming will cause the lakes to recede up to 3 feet this century. “‘Climate projections say the lakes will go up and down … more

CapCon’s Top 10 Stories For 2019

Road Fix That Wasn’t, Gun-Free Zones, 1,100 Windmills Won’t Replace This Coal Plant

… web traffic, was about Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s proposal for an annual state budget that required a permanent … an estimated $1.26 billion, Whitmer’s budget proposal only allocated a $764 million more to transportation … additional $1.2 billion with no tax hikes. No. 3 Headline: Michigan Road Funding Doubled In 10 Years … more

A Record In Snyder’s Last Budget, Transportation Budget Down in Gov. Whitmer’s First

Whitmer’s 45-cent tax proposal got no traction, and she vetoed the Republicans’ road budget fix

… of $3.37 billion in 2019 dollars, a inflation-adjusted level it did not reach until 2018. The only other time the transportation fund has exceeded $3 billion (in 2019 dollars) was in 1978, when was at $3.18 billion. The Michigan Transportation Fund’s record-setting revenue in the recently ended fiscal … more

Conflict Of Interest: Officials With Turbine Tower Leases Approve Wind Development

‘First you harvest the (local) officials, then you can harvest the wind’

… approve an ordinance authorizing the Invenergy proposal was made by a commissioner who had signed a 25-year … Crescent Wind. (That member has lease contracts for 3 turbines and two substations, the Concerned Citizens … potential conflicts before acting on a development proposal. But the law provides no clearly defined circumstances … more

School Aid Budget Proposals Not That Far Off

Legislature approves 99% of what Whitmer seeks without a tax hike

… several versions of its own proposal before agreeing to a school … Adopted as is, the Legislature’s 3% boost would end up being the … the two remaining budget proposals — more than half of which … Legislature’s new school aid proposal: “I feel like I’ve been punched … rightly resisted the governor’s proposal to fund cyber school pupils … more

Senate Bill Revitalizes Skepticism about Corporate Handouts

Policymakers and the public should question undisclosed expenses

… estimated $1.8 billion in tax credits — which is the equivalent of less than 3% of their combined profits. The companies’ investments in Michigan seem to … skepticism is still enshrined in the state constitution. Sen. Ananich’s proposal is a welcome step in questioning these expenses, and Michigan policymakers … more

Gary Model Suggests Way Forward for Benton Harbor Students

Effective dual-enrollment school serves similar community

… has emerged. Benton Harbor’s school board has rejected two separate proposals from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to address its dire academic and fiscal situation. … status quo has produced poor results for Benton Harbor. On state tests, only 3% of third graders read at grade level, while no one from the last five cohorts … more

Uber, Lyft May Be Reducing Michigan Drunk Driver Crashes

But activist site seems to criticize ridesharing services as competitors to taxpayer-funded transit

… driving numbers. But he said the department supports Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s proposal to increase transportation taxes. “The governor’s proposed budget with $2.5 billion in additional revenue for roads would dedicate [3%] of that new revenue to transit and other multi-modal initiatives,” Cranson … more

Regulated Enough? Bill Imposes Licensing Mandate on Hunting, Fishing Guides

Current guides say state should enforce existing rules, not write new ones

A proposal to enact sweeping new licensing requirements for … in the state House. The proposal, contained in HB 4442 and … Branch, would impose:  A $500 (3-year) licensing fee on those … regulated in the nation. The proposal, modeled on a similar bill … guides, who discussed the proposal but asked not to be publicly … more

College Pays $75 Fine For Illegal Electioneering

President used taxpayer-funded equipment to ask for $7.1 million tax hike

… need your support for this ballot proposal.” And in the subject line of an email … educate voters about upcoming tax proposals, but it does not allow those entities … Millage Restoration.” On June 8, 2017, at 3:11 p.m., Jeffress sent an email from … need your support for this ballot proposal. This will benefit you personally, … more

The Roads Are Crumbling And Have Always Been Crumbling

Michigan media has been breaking the story going on 30 years

… each year to fix Michigan’s crumbling roads was launched last week with proposals to nearly double vehicle registration fees, switch from a flat tax to … Engler took office, largely because the state was not spending enough.” June 3, 1997 Detroit Free Press Headline: Words fail and roads crumble as hot air … more

Gas Tax Hike of 45 Cents May Kill More than 22,500 Private Sector Jobs

Lawmakers should look at other options

… Center’s web site. The largest single recommended list of cuts — worth $3 billion in general fund dollars — was floated by the state budget office for … Mackinac Center, I feel compelled to note that too many budget reforms and proposals to reduce spending are too easily dismissed as too big to be politically … more

State Officials Question Detroit’s Universal Preschool Plans

Is this the best use of that money? Can the city manage the program?

… the city has the necessary facilities. According to the memo, Detroit’s proposal did not take into account the eligibility requirements of a federal Child … preschool to every 4-year-old in Michigan. About 47 percent of Michigan’s 3-year-olds and 4-year-olds are enrolled in some sort of preschool program, … more

State Dems Want Public Education To Do And Spend More

Universal preschool programs could cost taxpayers $826.5 million

… have begun putting some of these proposals into bill form. On Nov. 8, Democratic … $182 million to expand eligibility to 3-year-olds. Expanding preschool is just … schools. One of Whitmer’s main proposals, and also one of the most expensive, … In 2018, about 47 percent of Michigan 3-year-olds and 4-year-olds are enrolled … more

Campaign Season, And More Taxpayer-Funded Tax-Hike Electioneering

This time it’s Schoolcraft College advocating with public resources

… support for the tax hike. The proposal would raise the property … communications going out with MCL 169.257(3) stating that a public body must … your support for this ballot proposal,” one email signed by Jeffress … vote “Yes” on the ballot proposal. Champagne’s email said: … us can do for the ballot proposal. I received the below text … more

Want Faster Internet? What Rural Communities Should Explore

Government shouldn't be in business of providing internet

… services for residents (there’s also a substantial group working on a similar proposal just outside Ann Arbor). Unfortunately, even with federal stimulus dollars … streamlining state and local rules; Michigan has considered some bills to do so. 3) Create vouchers for rural and senior citizens. This encourages private investment … more

How Much Will the Repeal of Prevailing Wage Save Taxpayers in Michigan?

It’s complicated, but a reasonable estimate is in the hundreds of millions

… spending $4.3 billion on transportation construction projects this year, and $3 billion of that funding is coming state taxes and fees. Spending on transportation … on construction projects. Perhaps they’ll ask voters for smaller bond proposals and reduce what taxpayers have to pay in these costs. But districts could … more

Flint Water Whistleblower, Mackinac Center Sue Wayne State Over Records Denials

Virginia Tech professor among first to raise questions, challenging Wayne State prof’s actions on crisis

… course of a year, between May 30, 2017, and March 3, 2018. The lawsuit, which was filed on June 13, … Texas at Austin; National Science Foundation proposals authored by McElmurry in 2016 which received … any documents requested through FOIA. On March 3, 2018, Edwards put in a FOIA request for more emails … more

Reverse Course on Restricting Medicaid Workers With Criminal Backgrounds

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services pushing new rules

… recovery coaches, parent support partners and home care providers. (Under the proposal, people with a criminal record could provide some home health care if … the state and federal level. Some estimates, in fact, conclude that 1 in 3 Americans has a criminal record. Policies such as the newly proposed ban would … more

Another Michigan Community Moving Toward Wind Farm Restrictions

DTE turbine tower plans for Beaver Township stumble on proposed zoning board recommendation

… March, DTE Energy submitted a proposal to the Michigan Public Service … state commission approves the proposal, DTE estimates that it will … that while she believes the proposal is anti-wind, DTE will work … outnumbered supporters by a 3-1 ratio. In the weeks leading … turbines that produce 2.5 to 3 megawatts each. Between July … more

How Much Less Union Politicking If Supreme Court Bans Forced Fees?

With compulsory fees coming in, teachers union spent $29.8 million on politics in 2016 cycle

… not stop." The NEA, for example, has just under 3 million members who pay union dues and 87,764 agency-fee … funneled $4.2 million to the campaign against the proposal. And in 2013, the NEA reported giving $3.6 million … other liberal organizations to defeat ballot proposals in this state. “The National Education Association … more

Some Teachers In This District In Line For 17 Percent Pay Hikes

But superintendent says his schools are underfunded

… to the Legislature on Feb. 7. They include a proposal to increase public school spending by $312 million, … amount,” Roedel said. “When the Governor makes a proposal that is a 3% increase, and it's the largest in his tenure, that … more

City’s Politicians Strive To Beat The Clock Spending Federal Money

‘We are trying very desperately to save this money’

… was sold for about $11,000 last year. After the council rejected the proposal by a 4-3 vote, it scheduled a special meeting and approved spending most of the federal … more

Detroit Would Mandate Video Surveillance, Make Businesses Pay

ACLU, others concerned; live video to police from inside thousands of firms

… is currently operating with 230 businesses that have opted in as of Jan. 3, according to Crain’s Detroit Business. It began in January 2016 with eight businesses. There’s no official timeline for the City Council taking up the proposal, but according to John Roach, the mayor’s director of media relations, … more

Best Of The Best

CapCon’s most popular stories from 2017

… elections as less democratic than those of Cuba, Iran and North Korea. No. 3 story: The Best-Paying Public School Districts In Michigan Utica Community … criticizing recently introduced legislation dealing with campus speech. The proposals would require Michigan’s state universities and colleges to adopt policies … more

With Income Tax Rejected By Voters, East Lansing Looks at Spending Cuts

A common story: Residents will pay for years of pension underfunding by elected officials

… “no” this week to a ballot proposal that would have imposed a … East Lansing will need to find $3 million in extra revenue or spending … voted to put the income tax proposal on the Nov. 7 ballot, arguing … gaining a majority, neither proposal will go into effect. Beier … believes the city can find $3 million in cuts but thinks they … more

Another Local Politician Violates Election Law, Sanctions Again Unlikely

‘Elected officials ... violate the law far too often,’ says critic of taxpayer-funded tax-hike electioneering

… urging residents to vote yes on a 3-mill property tax increase styled … special assessment. The proposal failed Nov. 7 by a 56-43 … Drolet said. The Fraser proposal would have imposed an additional 3 mill levy on city property owners. … voters defeated a similar proposalmore

Federal Tax Proposal Not Perfect, but Good for Michigan, Nation

Reform plans are on the right track

… to those who earn it in the first place. This proposal will allow more people to keep more of what they … policies. Where we were told you could never see 3 percent growth again by the people who brought us … growth over the last 8 years — we are already at 3 percent — this take us up to 4 percent. This is a … more

Sheriffs Float the Idea of a Kayak Tax

Just another example of the trough truce

… what’s left is given to the DNR’s law enforcement division. That leaves just $3 million for the 83 county sheriffs. Instead of demanding that paddlers pay … time a kayak tax has been floated in Michigan. Lawmakers introduced a proposal in 2010 that would have created a registration requirement and small fee … more

Astroturf? Facebook Page Promotes Union Politics Under Tea Party Flag

On pension reform, it quacks like a government employee union

… The Facebook page has had eight posts since Jan. 3. Five were posted in May, and they oppose possible … for Tax Freedom first appeared on Facebook on Jan. 3 with a post that contained just a masthead. On Feb. … in May, four of them opposing pension reform proposals. Wendy Day, a grass roots tea party activist, … more

Doctored Video Promotes Authentic Tax Hike in Northern Michigan School District

Cars passing school made to look faster as narrator talks safety

… debt service on a new bond. Mesick’s video, about 3 1/2 minutes long, was altered in two sections. The … community of Mesick will be asked to vote on a bond proposal that, if approved, will help prepare our students … our students and our community. ... An approved proposal would eliminate our elementary students being … more

Governor's Commission Rejects Voters' Judgment On More Windmills

Citizens voted down 25 percent 'green energy' mandate by huge margin; Snyder wants 30 percent

… by himself. “Gov. Snyder’s 2015 proposal and the commission’s report are goals … Snyder's Press Secretary Anna Heaton. “Prop 3 was a mandate.” Julie Bennett, spokeswoman … email. Voters flatly rejected Proposal 3 in 2012. The measure, placed on … must come from renewables by 2025. Proposal 3 was defeated by a vote of 62 to … more

Be Wise in Deciding How to Spend Taxpayer Funds on Infrastructure

… inefficient road spending practices and recommend reforms within road agencies. 3.Retain the user-fee principle. Those who drive more should pay more. 4. Identify … foremost a matter of integrity, it’s politically smart. Part of the reason Proposal 1 of 2015 (promoted primarily as a road funding measure) got drubbed in … more

State Health Policy Toolkit

10 reforms state lawmakers can implement now

… and prepare legislation now to take back control if the ACA is repealed. 3. Verifying Medicaid Eligibility Problem: The number of Medicaid enrollees … regime that governs health insurance. Not-so-good news: A Senate-passed proposal for a pilot program extending the same benefits to Medicaid recipients … more

You Can't Do That: Township's Taxpayer-Funded Tax Hike Electioneering

Expert says the law means what it says on this one

… mailing. We have the correct wording on the ballot proposal for November.” Bishop did not respond to follow-up … department are asking for your ‘YES’ vote for a 3-year millage that would allow us to replace our outdated … information that is highly favorable to tax increase proposals, but as long as they don’t expressly ask for … more

Tax Hike Election Coming to You Tuesday?

Proposals to restrict local elections to the state primary or general election stall

… Michiganders may not realize that there will be elections on Tuesday, May 3 — next week. The Michigan Secretary of State has a list of the 81 school and … been complaints about schools and local governments putting tax hike proposals on the May election date rather than the statewide August primary or November … more

Healthy Charter Sector Belies Need for Commission, Extra Regulation

… process, believed to be the first of its kind, may help lift Michigan’s No. 3 ranking higher in future editions. Ignoring this key upgrade, the advocacy … state of charter authorization in Michigan. But Ed Trust’s heavy-handed proposal is a solution in search of a problem. A chart the organization produced … more

A Hopeful Vision for Education in Detroit

… tweaks to this institution will make a significant difference. Some proposals offer limited hope of making a positive impact, but mostly work around … Their research found the average Detroit charter student gains an extra 2 to 3 months learning every single year. That means if a student enrolls in a charter … more

Four Questions About the Detroit Public Schools Plan

Legislators should be skeptical of the Detroit Education Commission

… contentious part of the rescue plan is a proposal to create a new Detroit Education … district since 2009. The Senate proposal’s prospects are uncertain in the Michigan … encourages more bad behavior in the future. 3. Who wants the Detroit Education Commission? … the interests behind the Senate’s proposal also looking to “claw-back” the thousands … more

Republican Senate Bails Out Detroit Schools, Rations School Choice

State's largest teachers union 'applauds'

… Senator Dale Zorn, R-Ida, was one of 13 Republicans who voted for the proposal. “School choice works when parents have quality options but large areas … but, generally, if a school is ranked in the bottom 5 percent statewide for 3 years, it will be closed.” The Senate plan to put the put decision-making … more

Healthy Charter Sector Belies Need for Commission, Extra Regulation

… process, believed to be the first of its kind, may help lift Michigan’s No. 3 ranking higher in future editions. Ignoring this key upgrade, the advocacy … state of charter authorization in Michigan. But Ed Trust’s heavy-handed proposal is a solution in search of a problem. The organization's own chart shows … more

Trump, Snyder Agree: More Visas for Foreigners With Degrees

Possible change of course for presidential candidate

… appearing to reverse course on the issue during a March 3 candidate debate in Detroit. “I'm changing. I'm … this issue he and Trump appear to agree. Among proposals for returning Detroit to greatness, Snyder has … policy debate remains to be seen. After the March 3 debate, Trump posted a statement reasserting his … more

New Taxpayer-Funded Electioneering Restrictions Anger Local Government Tax Hikers

But 1st Amendment gives rights to people, not governments

… referencing local tax hike ballot proposals during the 60 days before … news conference about the proposal, which was part of Senate … electioneering for its tax hike proposals. In 2009, the district mailed … $120 million debt and tax proposal on the May 3, 2016, ballot that it calls “The … more

Archaic Prevailing Wage Law Should Be Repealed

State-imposed wages lead to unnecessary extra costs for taxpayers

… passed Sen. David Robertson’s similar proposal, Senate Bill 3. However, because unions receive a concentrated … supporting the failed road-funding plan, Proposal 1. But there’s additional action … by voters in a Nov. 2016 ballot proposal. If voters approve, the repeal can … more

Don’t Subsidize Billionaires’ Hobbies; Take Away the Copyright

… Milwaukee. Wesley Edens and Marc Lasry, who combined are worth more than $3 billion, got the state of Wisconsin to fund $250 million for a new stadium … happening again and again. What is needed is a policy change, and here’s one proposal worth considering: If the taxpayers pay for the stadium, then the taxpayers … more

Will Republicans Backtrack on Corporate Welfare Cuts?

Many economic development programs receive bipartisan support

… Republicans voted against it. The bill was passed 33-3 in the Senate, with only 3 Republicans voting against it. A different battery … Manufacturing Jobs, Spurring Business Investment top GOP Proposal.” Their nine-point plan featured prominently … more

Earmarking Increasing Government Revenue to Roads Is a Good Idea

It's that or an ever-increasing state

… columnist Susan Demas is angry over a House-passed proposal to earmark $600 million of state income tax receipts … implemented in the 2021-22 fiscal year. That’s nearly $3 billion more than the state currently collects each … grow at half that rate it still covers the House proposal, without cutting a penny from other spending. … more

Beware 'Wimpy' Tax Cut Promises

Politicians will gladly give tax relief later for a big tax increase today

… a provision in their competing road funding proposals to cut the state income tax in 2019, but only … The gaping loophole in this tax cut trigger proposal is that “general fund” is not a precisely defined … sneaky. In a voice vote taken in the House on July 3, 2002, an amendment was adopted that stripped the … more

No School Funding System Adequate to Manage Large Student Declines

Benton Harbor student funding 27 percent above state average

… evidence of shortcomings in the Proposal A school funding system that … in 1994. “Take a look at Proposal A? I think that's a great … not related to his views on Proposal A. Pscholka's spokesman … comments about reviewing Proposal A and Benton Harbor schools’ … year, falling short by just 3 percent. The latest state review … more

House Road Plan Secures Road Funding

Road funding does not rely on an increasing budget

… increasing.) This is not a large earmark. The proposed $192 million amounts to just 3 percent of the currently unearmarked portion of income tax revenue. Even after … would have a powerful incentive to keep this earmark: the 80-20 loss from Proposal 1. Voters indicated that legislators should first find money within the … more

Is State's Prevailing Wage Law at Risk of Being Tossed?

A citizen initiative would trump Gov. Snyder's promised veto on any repeal legislation

… enough legislative votes to put the now-defunct Proposal 1 on the May ballot. A citizen initiative to … group that led the successful campaign to defeat Proposal 2 in 2012, which would have enshrined a union … passed a three-bill package, Senate Bills 1, 2, and 3, to repeal the prevailing wage and sent it over to … more

Here's How Much Michigan's 'Prevailing Wage' Law Costs Your School District

Taxpayers paying hundreds of millions extra

… law and on the Senate side Senate Bill 3, sponsored by Sen. David Robertson, … part of negotiations that led to Proposal 1 being placed on the May 5 ballot, … commitment remains in force now that Proposal 1 has been rejected by the voters … the way, Zeeland passed a millage proposal for a project last night (May 5),” … more

Township Votes Down Wind Energy Project

Meade voters shot down plan for 48 wind turbines

… prospective Detroit Edison wind energy project. On May 5, voters rejected a proposal to allow Detroit Edison to erect up to 48 wind turbines in the township. … negative effects on property values. In 2012 Michigan voters rejected Proposal 3 by a vote of 62 to 38 percent. That statewide initiative, sponsored by … more

Will Poll Hurt Legislation Aiming to Give Energy Utilities Monopoly?

Nearly 75 percent of Michigan citizens oppose electricity monopoly

… from the electric energy company that serves their local area. If this proposal is approved, there would no longer be electric energy choice for customers … likely.” Another 45 percent said it wouldn't influence their vote either way and 3 percent said “more likely.” ~~~~~ See also: Bill Package Includes Elimination … more

Love it or Hate it, Voters are Aware of Proposal 1

Poll suggests substantial turnout on May 5

… side in the battle over the Proposal 1 sale tax increase on the … gathering information. Press 3 if you don’t plan to vote." … landlines. ~~~~~ See also: Proposal 1 Will Cost Average Michigan … Taxes Michigan's May Tax Proposal Policy Brief: Proposal 1 of 2015 more

Lower Gas Costs Benefit School Funding in May 5 Ballot Proposal

… the 6-percent sales tax saves taxpayers 18 cents per gallon when gas costs $3, but just 12 cents per gallon when the price falls to $2. In contrast, the … average was $3.26 per gallon. The average gas price statewide has been under $3 since early November. Here are the additions and subtractions that amount … more

Double Tax on Some Fuels is Problematic for $2 Billion May 5 Proposal

Mistake in ballot language means fuel for boats, snowmobiles, lawnmowers would cost extra

… Dave Murray). The ballot proposal that goes before Michigan … anonymity. Officially dubbed Proposal 2015-1, the ballot measure … statewide election. The proposal would be a $2 billion tax … problematic language in the ballot proposal states: “No sales tax or … that travel on roads? Question 3: If Proposal 2015-1 passes, thus … more

The Myth of a Spreading ‘Tax Cut Fever’

… tax revenue. Income tax revenues are collecting $3 billion more than they did just four years ago. Preliminary … be important in the upcoming sales tax ballot proposal. Part of the package will ask voters to increase … and eliminated a number of smaller exemptions. Proposal 1 of 2014 eliminated personal property taxes … more

Speed Limit Reform Died Last Year but May be Revived

Government rakes in millions from tickets

… executive director of the NMA, says that the proposals offered last year “would be the best speed limit … also called the original form of last session’s proposals “pretty scientific.” Lawmakers have heard numerous … for going 11 to 15 miles over the limit results in 3 points on a driver’s license. Motorists face huge … more

Michigan Sales Tax Hike Proposal May Provide Schools With Less

What the law says now and what it would be changed to

The tax hike proposal that goes before Michigan voters on May … unfounded and the language in the proposal not only wouldn’t create … exists. Under the ballot proposal, the state sales tax would … percent since passage of Proposal A in 1994. In the Michigan … the 4 percent yields about $3 billion, roughly 20 percent of … more

‘Tax Cut Fever’ – Never Burning Hot

… drove up tax revenue. Income tax revenues are up $3 billion more than just four years ago. Preliminary … be important in the upcoming sales tax ballot proposal. The Earned Income Tax Credit will be increased … and eliminated a number of smaller exemptions. Proposal 1 of 2014 eliminated personal property taxes … more

The Best of the Best: CapCon's Top 10 Stories of 2014

Police seize property; religious discrimination in school contracts; Obamacare piles on disabled family’s burdens

… to change the title – but not the opening line. 3. Wisconsin Wind Turbines Declared Health Hazard … Sense of the Complicated Ballot Language for Proposal 1 Confusing ballot language about an important tax reform proposal on the August ballot aroused understandable suspicion … more

School District May Have Crossed Legal Line in Tax Request

Pinckney Superintendent's email on millage renewal raises questions

An email blast sent Nov. 3 from the superintendent in Pinckney Community Schools using school mailing … “voters can vote yes for one, two or three (bond) proposals.” The state ruled that was a statement of fact … infrastructure improvement plan by authorizing a bond proposal on November 6, 2012." ~~~~~ See also: Superintendent … more

October 17, 2014, MichiganVotes Weekly Report

Key votes from 2013-14

… conventional school district. The Senate earlier passed a more rigorous proposal, and has not taken up this version. Who Voted "Yes" and Who Voted "No" … Detroit $195 million bankruptcy grant: Passed 21 to 17 in the Senate on June 3, 2014 The Senate vote on the bill described above. Who Voted "Yes" and Who … more

Oakland – the County That Could (Reform Its Pensions)

The path to sustainable retirement plans

… member of the pension board, noted that first year savings alone topped $3 million adding up to a present day savings of $107 million in total. The … been proposed. House Bill 4804 is sitting in committee right now. The proposal gives local voters the power to prohibit unions from re-opening a defined-benefit … more

Why Are Some Tea Party Supporters Fighting Proposal 1 In Michigan?

… the ins and outs of what Proposal 1 would do in Michigan, James … Tea Party members. “This proposal cuts taxes and pays for it … some Tea Party supporters.” Proposal 1 will be voted on Tuesday, … these new tax exemptions." 3. Confusion about how the proposal is worded and a general distrust … more

Making Sense Of The Complicated Ballot Language For Proposal 1

Personal property tax cut would result in $500 million tax decrease when fully phased in

Proposal 1 on the Aug. 5 ballot would cut personal property … Hohman, who researched the proposal and wrote a policy brief … voters into thinking the proposal will raise taxes. The ballot … language on such a complicated proposal. "Let me put it this way, … ambulance emergency services. 3. Increase portion of state use … more

Small Business Owner: An Increased Minimum Wage Hurts Everyone

… y Kevin Kelly The ballot proposal that would raise Michigan's … increase significantly with this proposal. Furthermore, future investments … The coalition behind this proposal suggests that this increase … this industry is only about 3 percent. Consequently, further … this minimum wage increase proposal. They stated that if approved, … more

Detroit 'Openly and Notoriously' Went Bankrupt

Its reward? Maybe a state bailout

… trouble was coming, and so today have little ground to complain about proposals to give them disproportionately large financial "haircuts" compared to … current and future retirees for health care lies between $1.75 billion and $3 billion. A few months later this author warned the state's Treasury Department … more

Happy Anniversary Proposal A

… Michigan voters approved "Proposal A," a fundamental overhaul … After the initial rollback, Proposal A capped property tax increases … after inflation. The other Proposal A promises have held up better. … and May. In contrast, the Proposal A limit on property assessment … taxation requirement and require 3/4 vote of Legislature to exceed … more

Economics 101: Minimum Wage Kills Jobs

When prices go up, quantity demanded goes down

The minimum wage has been in the news a lot lately due to proposals at the state and federal levels to increase it and because of a February Congressional … only marginally with the average income of families being lifted "by about 3 percent …" Writing for the Cato Institute in this month's, “Tax & Budget … more

March 7, 2014, MichiganVotes Weekly Vote Report

… business tools and equipment. The bill is part of proposal to essentially replace all of the foregone local … an August, 2014 ballot initiative; the current proposal is intended to forestall local government opposition … spending to current school budget: Passed 107 to 3 in the House To appropriate extra money for various … more

Housing Expenses Among the Perks Michigan Residents Pay for Big Hollywood

… attempted to slash that $50 million budget in half in his 2015 budget proposal. The governor and House Republicans tried to end the program last year, … to 32 percent back on in-state expenditures. The incentive adds an extra 3 percent if the filming is done in one of Michigan's qualified production or … more

Bars, Restaurants Could See 280 Percent Increase in Labor Costs With Minimum Wage Ballot Proposal

Small business owners fear negative consequences; group pushing proposal disagrees

… Arbor, said he thinks the proposal would put restaurants and … tipped workers. If the ballot proposal were to pass, Michigan would … a solution." The ballot proposal language for Raise Michigan … signatures by May 28 to place the proposal on the November ballot. … associated with a 1 percent to 3 percent decline in low-skilled … more

February 14, 2014, MichiganVotes Weekly Vote Report

… 4808, End mandatory life for very serious offenses by minors: Passed 35 to 3 in the Senate To revise Michigan's mandatory life sentence with no chance … state itself borrowed under the 1998 “Clean Michigan Initiative” ballot proposal, which authorized $675 million of new government debt (“bond sales”) for … more

U.S. Supreme Court Discusses Right-to-Work For All Public Employees

Union 'dues skim' case could mean the end of forced unionization of home-based caregivers, others

… caregivers; (2) declare that it cannot be extended to home-based caregivers; or, (3) overturn the 1977 Abood ruling. A decision is expected by midsummer. Tuesday's … non-union member objects to this line of policy? Are there not other union proposals that say that state employee's salary must be a certain percentage of … more

Gov. Snyder Keeps Pace in State of the State

Bipartisan track record to expand government

… them into two categories: Proposals to expand government vs. proposals to limit it. Over the years … Blanchard: 6.75 proposed expansions, 3 proposed limitations Gov. John … governors to debut his policy proposals, many of which have come … For example, Gov. Snyder's proposal to create a state "Office … more

Tax Cut ‘Fever’?

Happy New Year!

… property owners within their zones. On the talk side, several increase proposals are under active consideration, including House Bills 4202 and 4203 to … implicit in the most momentous action taken by the current Legislature: a $3 billion expansion of the Medicaid medical welfare program, which is a key … more

Effort In Lansing To Override Voters' Rebuke of Higher-Cost Energy Mandate

Demonstrators to picket upcoming wind forum

… power. Last November, Michigan voters rejected Proposal 3 by a 64 percent to 36 percent margin. It would … discussed are higher than the 25 percent of Proposal 3. Mandates of 30 percent and higher are being … are the same people who pushed for the failed Proposal 3 ballot measure last year. Our message to them … more

Detroit Bankruptcy: Why the Emergency Manager Powers Were Insufficient

… million to $672 million in the next five years, ultimately consuming almost 2/3 of operating revenues. Orr argued that given the economic situation of the … was not so, as illustrated by the lawsuits filed by creditors after his proposal was made, and the bankruptcy filing itself. Still, even without the consent … more

July 12, 2013, MichiganVotes.org Weekly Vote Report

… Medicaid expansion bill to full Senate: Failed 12 to 18 in the Senate on July 3 To discharge the Committee on Government Operations from further consideration … (WPW vs. Troy) which held that the Constitutional tax cap put in place by Proposal A in 1994 capped annual increases in the assessments of commercial property … more

July 5, 2013, MichiganVotes.org Weekly Vote Report

… Medicaid expansion bill to full Senate: Failed 12 to 18 in the Senate on July 3 To discharge the Committee on Government Operations from further consideration … (WPW vs. Troy) which held that the Constitutional tax cap put in place by Proposal A in 1994 capped annual increases in the assessments of commercial property … more

Film Incentives: The $50 Million Sequel

State Rep.: 'I think the studios made a big push for them ... they won me over'

… out." Rep. Durhal said there was almost no opposition to the film subsidy proposal. "Maybe a little from the governor's office, but I was never approached … Should Michigan Taxpayers Have Been Forced To Spend $30 Million on 'Iron Man 3'? New Transformers Flick Costs Each Michigan Taxpayer $1.36 Real Steel or … more

Democrat Contradictions: Corporate Tax Breaks Bad, But Incentives for Hollywood Good

Dems criticize MEDC, but want to give more money to millionaire movie moguls

… work, not empty promises. The MEDC for far too long has wasted tax dollars on proposals that don't work and it must stop." Michigan Film Office Spokeswoman Michelle … Should Michigan Taxpayers Have Been Forced To Spend $30 Million on 'Iron Man 3'? New Transformers Flick Costs Each Michigan Taxpayer $1.36 Real Steel or … more