North Michigan News

Michigan Representative Borton has recently released a "naughty and nice" list to wrap up the legislative year of 2023. With the Democrats in power for the first time in over 40 years, Borton believes that there have been more bad bills than good ones. Here is a breakdown of the bills that made it to the "nice" list and those that ended up on the "naughty" list.

Starting with the "nice" list, Borton highlighted the Guardianship Package, specifically HB 4912, which he sponsored. This legislation aims to improve Michigan's guardianship program and offers new protections for vulnerable adults who are unable to make their own legal, medical, or financial decisions. Borton emphasized that these measures would help prevent abuse and hold guardians to a higher standard.

Another bill that made it to the "nice" list is HB 4724, which provides tax credits to 100% disabled veterans who rent or lease their homes. Currently, these veterans qualify for a property tax exemption, and this bill extends the exemption to veterans who are renting or leasing.

Borton also praised the Crime Victims' Rights Package, which includes several bills that support crime victims and ensure their voices are heard throughout the justice process. These reforms aim to provide additional protections and services for victims, helping them heal and move on with their lives.

Lastly, Borton commended the package of bills that prohibit child marriage in Michigan. The legislation sets a minimum age of 18 for marriage, aiming to protect children from forced marriages and the potential exploitation that comes with it.

Moving on to the "naughty" list, Borton expressed his concerns about the Renewable Energy Mandates and Solar Siting bills. These bills mandate Michigan to switch to 100% renewable energy sources by 2040 and give the Michigan Public Service Commission authority to permit large solar and wind construction. Borton argued that this plan would lead to higher energy costs for families and questioned the reliability of renewable energy sources, citing the example of California's struggles with their own renewable energy plan.

Borton also criticized the Reproductive Health Package, which decriminalizes and normalizes certain aspects of abortion practices and removes health and safety requirements in abortion clinics. He argued that these bills undermine the will of the majority of Michigan voters who support common-sense abortion regulations.

Additionally, Borton expressed his concerns about the Red Flag Laws, which strip legally owned firearms from law-abiding citizens without due process. He believes that these laws ignore constitutional rights and pointed out the need to focus on improving the mental health system instead of blaming firearms.

Lastly, Borton highlighted the Right to Work Repeal bills, which mandate union membership in certain industries. He emphasized that every worker should have a choice on whether to join a union or not, and forcing someone to join a union goes against individual freedom.

In conclusion, Representative Borton's "naughty and nice" legislative update for 2023 reflects his opinions on the bills that have been passed during the year. While he acknowledges some positive achievements, he remains critical of certain policies that he believes undermine the will of the people or have potential negative consequences.

Click this link to access more information: https://gophouse.org/posts/rep-borton-wraps-up-2023-with-naughty-and-nice-legislative-update