Democratic lawmakers in the state Legislature have been keeping busy since Michigan voters elected them to take charge of the state government for the first time in decades.
So much has happened since then, but The ‘Gander’s Kyle Kaminski has the rundown of the biggest headlines in Michigan politics this year to bring you up to speed.
Tax relief: Two tax reforms signed into law this year are set to put $1.6 billion back into Michiganders’ pockets—all told, more than 700,000 Michigan families will receive tax rebate checks for about $550. Legislation to roll back the retirement tax is also set to take effect in February.
Reproductive freedom: An unenforceable abortion ban from 1931 is set to be erased from state law after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation to repeal the statute in April. With the signing of the Reproductive Health Act, Michigan is also set to repeal several “medically unnecessary” restrictions on abortion providers. The changes take effect in February.
Clean energy: Legislation signed into law by Whitmer last month is set to create new clean energy standards for electricity providers in Michigan, requiring them to source most—and eventually all—of their energy through renewable sources over the next 17 years.
Public schools: An $82 billion budget was passed that included a historic $24 billion investment in Michigan’s public schools. The latest budget also included millions to fund a universal pre-K proposal. It also set aside funds to provide free breakfast and lunch for all students.
Guns: Several gun safety bills passed this year—including laws that will create new requirements for universal background checks before guns can be purchased in Michigan, and added safe storage requirements. Additional legislation signed into law by Whitmer will also prohibit those convicted of domestic violence from owning or possessing a firearm for eight years.
Voting rights: State legislation passed and signed into law this year is set to boost voter registration opportunities, improve efficiencies on Election Day, protect poll workers, and ensure that all Michiganders have equal access to the ballot box ahead of the next general election in 2024.
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