LANSING — The Michigan Legislature voted on a package of House Republican bills today that attempt to address the need for additional state transportation funding. State Representative Julie Plawecki (D-Dearborn Heights) voted in opposition to the bills, with the exception of a bill to strengthen road construction warranties. She expressed her concerns in regard to the rest of the bill package.
“We need a comprehensive transportation funding solution, and this is certainly not it,” Plawecki said. “This proposal hurts working families by eliminating the Earned Income Tax Credit, and also relies on projected growth, rather than existing revenue. I have significant concerns with funds being potentially shifted from our schools, health care programs and local governments. We need to come up with a real solution to fix our roads, not the political tricks in this package.”
House Democrats have introduced several bills which they believe are a better solution for Michigan. These bills would address topics such as truck weight limits, the Michigan Transportation Fund formula, gradually adjusting gas taxes and transitioning to a graduated income tax. The bills have yet to be scheduled for a committee hearing.
“The House Democrats’ proposals seek to invest in and stabilize transportation funding, rather than relying on an unpredictable and inadequate funding source,” Plawecki said. “I support innovative ideas and true long-term solutions that will address our crumbling infrastructure. In fact, I am currently working on legislation of my own which I believe will help move our state forward. I encourage my colleagues, on both sides of the aisle, to work on real solutions that benefit Michigan.”