Dear neighbor,
I hope this newsletter finds you well as we navigate through the winter months in Michigan. February holds significant importance, marked by Black History Month, legislation going into effect, and crucial initiatives like the retirement tax repeal and navigating the working families tax credit (EITC) during the tax season.
February Highlights
Black History Month
As we celebrate Black History Month, let us recognize the invaluable contributions of African Americans throughout our nation’s history. Our diversity is our strength, and this month provides an opportunity to celebrate the achievements, resilience, and cultural richness of the Black community. If you want to be more involved, Oakland County has a blog with performances, workshops, and other in-person and virtual events to celebrate Black History Month. Wayne State University also has Black History month events to participate in on its website.
Legislation
Much of the legislation passed last year went into effect on Feb. 13. This includes expanded protection in the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act for members of Michigan’s LGBTQ+ community by permanently prohibiting any discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity or expression. The Michigan Jobs, Michigan Energy package will also go into effect. This legislation plans for Michigan’s energy to be 100% carbon-free by 2040 and for utilities to be generated 50% from renewable sources by 2030.
There is also new gun legislation to help protect Michigan families, specifically children. The new secure storage law requires secure storage of firearms to prevent access by minors. In addition, red flag laws have also gone into effect. Universal background checks will be required for all gun buyers to prevent individuals who pose a risk to themselves or others from possessing a firearm.
As of right now, I am currently working on a pharmacy savings bill. This legislation will require insurers and pharmacy benefit managers to share discounts and rebates at the pharmacy counter, saving you money. It is important to me that Michiganders have access to the affordable health care they need.
Taxes
As tax season approaches, here are two programs that could be of assistance while filing taxes this year. Both programs aim to provide Michiganders with financial relief and ease the stress of tax season.
Retirement Tax Repeal
Under a new law, the 2011 retirement tax will phase out over four years and exempt most retirement income from the state’s individual income tax. This will save 500,000 households an average of $1,000 a year, allowing retirees to start seeing some savings.
Working Families Tax Credit (EITC)
This program provides a tax benefit to low- and moderate-income working individuals and families. Roughly 700,000 households will benefit from Michigan’s EITC expansion. You can verify your federal EITC eligibility here and go to michigan.gov/iit/refund to check your refund status.
Michigan has many resources for free tax help. Visit MichiganFreeTaxHelp.org for more information.
I am proud to be your voice in Lansing. Please do not hesitate to reach out to my office if I can ever be of service to you.
In Service,
Mike McFall
State Representative, House District 8
Serving Hazel Park, Highland Park, Madison Heights, and part of Detroit and Ferndale