How the Michigan Legislature could spend its $9 billion surplus

Expanding the job market and making changes to taxes could be among the ways Democrats look to use the extra cash.

Michigan state capitol building

The legislature is currently operating with extra money. Due to federal spending, Michigan has about $9 billion in its coffers and Democrats, who hold the majority, have been hashing out how to spend that money.

Liberals have been prioritizing expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit, repealing the pension tax and attempting to expand jobs by giving particular incentives to businesses.

“In terms of state money, we’re seeing the governor sign this bill that has money for one business up in the (Upper Peninsula), but also has another $150 million… that is designed to help lure businesses to the state.” — Jonathan Oosting, reporter


Listen: What state leaders want to spend on in 2023.

 


Guest

Jonathan Oosting is an award-winning Michigan political reporter who covers Lansing for Bridge Michigan. He recently wrote a piece about lawmaker’s new spending plan.

Oosting says the governor is trying to spend money to spur economic activity in the state.

“In terms of state money,” says Oosting, “we’re seeing the governor sign this bill that has money for one business up in the (Upper Peninsula), but also has another $150 million… that is designed to help lure businesses to the state.”

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