Dear Neighbor,

I am honored and humbled to serve as our community’s voice at the Capitol in Lansing. As we continue into the term, rest assured that the challenges families in our community and state are facing are at the top of my legislative priorities.

If you are in need of support or resources, have any questions regarding legislation or state government in general, please feel free to reach out to me at my office via email, NateShannon@House.Mi.Gov, or by calling (517) 373-1794.

Sincerely,

Nate Shannon

State Representative

58th House District

In this issue:

  • Upcoming Community Conversation
  • Legislative Update
  • Student Loan Payments Restart

Upcoming Community Conversation

Please join me for my next community conversation on Friday, Sept. 29, from 3-4 p.m., at the Sterling Heights Community Center.

Shannon coffee hour sept 29

Legislative Update

House Bill 5008

HB 5008 would eliminate business tax deductions for outsourcing expenses in Michigan.  Currently, businesses are able to deduct certain outsourcing expenses when determining their federal taxable income liability. Businesses dedicated to the success of this state should not be incentivized to erode Michigan’s tax base, job market and our local communities. I introduced this bill for the hardworking Michiganders and the positive future of our communities.

House Bill 5046

I introduced HB 5046 to raise the per-page rate for certified court reporters and recorders to $3.75 per page. Many people do not realize that these transcript rates are set in statute at $1.75 per page, which hasn’t budged in nearly 40 years. Michigan has over 1,500 court reporters playing a vital role in our justice system, and this stagnant wage has led to contractors going out of business and, in some cases, delayed justice. My bill would move Michigan from last place to rates near those of our neighboring states, helping preserve a vital service and career. It would also recognize the value of the labor provided by these professionals.

Transportation Committee 

It has been a busy few weeks for the Transportation, Mobility, and Infrastructure Committee as we settle back into the fall session schedule. In the last two weeks, we have reviewed legislation covering topics from historic license plates and speed limits, to car seats and equipment sharing. This week we passed my bill, HB 4897, out of committee. This bill would allow equipment sharing between the Michigan Department of Transportation and county and local road commissions. This legislation will result in improved efficiency of road agency operations by reducing costs and cutting down on redundant obstacles regarding special equipment.

SAVE Plan: New Student Loan Repayment Option

Starting in October, the pause on student loan repayments will be coming to an end. As you begin budgeting for the return of your student loan payment, check to see if you can save money on your monthly payment. The SAVE plan is an income-driven repayment plan that calculates payments based on a student loan borrower’s income and family size — not their loan balance — and forgives remaining balances after a certain number of years. Get more info and apply here.