North Michigan News

Rep. Greg Markkanen, a Republican from Hancock, criticized the governor's population council for proposing tax hikes to address population declines in the state. In a statement released today, Markkanen expressed concern about the council's recommendations, which include $2.5 billion in new spending without clear methods to increase state funding without raising taxes.

Markkanen warned that these tax hikes could drive young families away from the state. He stated, "When our kids start asking us to pay for U-Hauls to manage moves to Texas, we can all look back and thank the governor for the tax hikes that drove them away." He emphasized that young families are more concerned about affordable housing than fancy infrastructure projects.

The population council's proposals also drew criticism from Markkanen for their inclusion of unpopular liberal initiatives. He pointed out that the recommendations include redistributing school funding from fiscally responsible areas to failing districts with financial mismanagement. Additionally, the proposals suggest raising taxes to pay people to move to Michigan and implementing a state-run initiative to provide illegal immigrants with drivers' licenses.

Markkanen dismissed these proposals as recycled liberal talking points. He stated, "Yoopers will recognize this report is filled with the same reused liberal talking points we’ve been hearing for years." He accused the governor and Lansing Democrats of attempting to mask their failing leadership by rebranding their initiatives.

According to Markkanen, the key to attracting people to Michigan is not through expensive new programs or incentives, but by promoting the state's natural beauty, friendly communities, and hardworking spirit. He emphasized the need to lower taxes so that people can afford to live in the state.

In conclusion, Rep. Markkanen criticized the population council's proposals, warning that they could drive families away from Michigan. He called for a focus on promoting the state's strengths and lowering taxes to make Michigan an affordable place to live.

Click this link to access more information: https://gophouse.org/posts/rep-markkanen-population-council-proposals-force-families-to-pack-their-bags