Earlier this week, Governor Gretchen Whitmer gave the “What’s Next” address, laying out her legislative policy priorities for the fall. In order to enact those changes, she will need to work with House and Senate members to pass legislation. As expected, the response was split along party lines in terms of who supported and who opposed the policies she called for.
Speaker of the House Joe Tate (D-Detroit)
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- “The momentum right now in the Legislature is palpable and making a positive impact in the everyday lives of Michiganders. We accomplished a great deal in the first six months of the year — from cutting taxes for working families and seniors, to enacting commonsense gun violence prevention laws, to passing a budget that reinvests in our state. That was just the beginning. House Democrats are ready to work with the governor and will continue passing smart legislation that focuses on putting people first.”
Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids)
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- “Our Majority for the People has already made enormous strides, and we are excited to keep that same energy and focus heading into the fall. We are looking forward to another productive, people-focused legislative season fueled by the support of folks across the state. The momentum is on our side to make Michigan a leader, not a follower, in areas from health care to climate to election administration and beyond. Together, in partnership with Governor Whitmer, we’re going to get the job done, and get it done right!”
House Republican Leader Matt Hall (R-Kalamazoo)
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- House Republican Leader Matt Hall on Wednesday called for the Legislature to make life more affordable for Michiganders following the governor’s “What’s Next” speech, in which she outlined an agenda that will only increase the cost of living. The governor pushed for green-energy mandates — driving up electric bills — and a new payroll tax on small businesses and workers. The heavy-handed proposals come as Democrats in the Legislature look to advance many other bills increasing red tape and costs interfering with Michigan businesses and workers.
- To read Republican Leader Hall’s full remarks, please click here.
Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt (R-Lawton)
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- “On the heels of the highest inflation experienced in four decades, Gov. Whitmer is still fighting to increase income taxes on hardworking families and impose new tax burdens on small businesses and charitable nonprofits. Instead of supporting proven policies put in place to lower taxes, reduce oppressive regulations, invest in infrastructure, and provide access to reliable and affordable energy, the governor is doubling down on radical policies that will do the opposite, crippling economic growth and super-charging inflation.”
- To read Republican Leader Nesbitt’s full remarks, please click here.
To read our full recap of her address, please click here.