We predicted it would be a productive May for Michigan, and it truly was. Within the first 6 months of a “divided” state government in Lansing, our state policymakers worked together to solve one of our state’s longest-standing problems – the highest automobile insurance rates in the nation. The solution involved tough negotiations and give from both sides, but they reached broad bipartisan consensus with the House voting 94-15 and the Senate 34-4.
Where some expected division to grow in Lansing with two-party control, instead cooperation has increased. Our leaders in Lansing have taken meaningful action to solve real problems that hampered economic growth for Michiganders and have shown willingness to get to resolution on other major obstacles – including convening at the Mackinac Policy Conference to share some honest thoughts on our educational challenges.
As many things begin to slow down at the start of another Pure Michigan summer, I don’t think our state lawmakers will. They know the importance of completing a balanced budget before the start of the next fiscal year, continuing work on Governor Whitmer’s proposals to better prepare our future workforce, and secure a long-term funding source for our terribly embarrassing roads.
Here’s to continued momentum,
Doug Rothwell
President & CEO
Business Leaders for Michigan