The Michigan Municipal League, along with a number of other statewide organizations, has formed a coalition to defend the constitutional principle of majority rule that would be eliminated by a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow just one-third of the members of one chamber of Michigan’s Legislature to obstruct any state tax reform or re-approval to broaden the base of a tax.

“Defend Michigan Democracy“, is a broad-based bipartisan coalition representing a diverse segment of Michigan’s residents.  Its members include business, health care, local govenment, nonprofit and labor organizations who together oppose this particular ballot proposal.  If enacted it would make it virtually impossible for Michigan to take steps to modernize its tax system in years to come.

And, a recently filed campaign finance report makes it clear that the signature collection effort was largely funded by a shadow group believed to be comprised of out-state interests trying to use the Michigan constitution for their own purposes.

The citizens of Michigan cannot stand idly by while wealthy, out-state funders look to corrupt the principle of majority rule established as a basic commandment of both our national and state constitutions.

Arnold Weinfeld is Director of Strategic Initiatives and Federal Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League.