GOVERNOR WHITMER HIGHLIGHTS HOUSING
Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered her sixth State of the State address on January 24th, and one of the key points of emphasis was housing. As a part of her housing comments, the Governor proposed a new $1.4 billion investment to build or rehabilitate 10,000 housing units. The Governor’s speech did not provide specific details on the proposal, but in her comments she stated, “In 2024, let’s build more of every kind of housing - single family homes, apartments and mixed-use buildings.” The speech also reiterated the goals set in the Statewide Housing Plan, released in 2022, to build or refurbish 75,000 housing units in 5 years.
The Governor’s speech also highlighted economic development initiatives such as R&D tax credits, and a “High-wage Incentive for Regional Employment” (HIRE) program to lower payroll taxes on new jobs at small and second-stage businesses. Additional emphasis was placed on education, with proposals for free community college for high school graduates, and free access to pre-K. All of these ideas will be included in the proposed budget, which will need legislative approval.
MICHIGAN LEGISLATURE RETURNS WITH 54-54 SPLIT IN HOUSE
The Michigan Legislature returned to work in January with the House of Representatives in a 54-54 split between Democrats and Republicans. Previously, the Democrats held a 56-54 majority in the chamber, but the new split is a result of the wins by Rep. Kevin Coleman and Rep. Lori Stone in their respective mayoral races in Westland and Warren last November. This split will remain until special elections are held on April 16th and the two seats are filled. Despite the current tie, House rules mandate that Democrats will retain leadership control, but with an even split passage of any bills will require bipartisan support. The first significant issue the legislature will consider will be the annual budget proposal from the Governor. That proposal will be delivered to the appropriations committees of the House and Senate on February 7th.
AAM MEMBERSHIP & THE IMPORTANCE OF YOUR PAC CONTRIBUTION
We need your help to maintain our strong voice for the multifamily rental property industry. It starts with membership. Membership supports our staffing and lobbying efforts, as well as communications, education, and member benefits. For just $1.80 per unit (minimum dues $250), multifamily rental property owners can support the organization that tells your story in Lansing. Associate members (suppliers or service organizations) can join for $495 annually. If you are not currently a member, we strongly urge you to join today online BY PRESSING HERE. If you have questions about member benefits, contact AAM at 248-737-4477.
Just as important as membership, the Apartment Association of Michigan Political Action Committee (AAM-PAC) needs your support. AAM-PAC accepts contributions from members and aggregates them into one fund, which then financially supports those elected officials who understand the important role of rental housing in Michigan’s economy. You must be an AAM or HBA Member to contribute to the fund, which has a fundraising goal of $150,000 for 2023-24. Remember, an AAM-PAC contribution must be made via personal, partnership, LLP, or LLC check or credit card. Members - make your PAC Contribution online BY PRESSING HERE.
