Through advocacy at the state and federal levels, the Michigan Municipal League proactively represents municipalities to help them sustain highly livable, desirable, and unique places within the state. Some of our current advocacy projects are listed below.
The AxMiTax proposal failed to gather enough signatures to get on the ballot, thanks to the crucial efforts of educating and informing your residents about the proposal’s implications. This was an effort aimed to eliminate all real and personal property taxes in Michigan. This ballot initiative was pursued by individuals who say they “don’t care” about what is lost, which devalues the importance of having shared interest and connections between community members.
We believe the supporters of AxMiTax will continue to pursue this issue in the future. We encourage you to stay vigilant and make sure that your community understands the importance of local funding to provide vital services and create the places they call home.
Please continue to utilize the searchable database and talking points with helpful guidelines from the Michigan Campaign Finance Act (MCFA).
Short Term Rentals – Regulating short-term rental properties is a hot legislative topic in Michigan as companies like Airbnb and VRBO become increasingly more popular. Learn more about the topic, various bill proposals, and ways the Michigan Municipal League and partner organizations are working to address it.
Partnership for Place: An Agenda for a Competitive 21st Century Michigan – This policy agenda proposes a commitment of action in partnership between the State and its municipalities that will facilitate Michigan’s economic growth.
Local Agency Pavement Warranty Program – As part of the Transportation Funding Package of 2015, the Michigan Legislature created a requirement that each local road agency in Michigan adopt a Local Pavement Warranty Program acceptable to the Michigan Department of Transportation.
Marihuana in Michigan – Medical marihuana was legalized in Michigan in 2008. Recreational marihuana was legalized in late 2018. Learn the differences and requirements for both types of marihuana.
Dark Stores – Large retailers, popularly known as “Big Box” stores, have convinced the Michigan Tax Tribunal to give them special treatment as it pertains to the market value of their property. Learn more about the problem, how it negatively impacts Michigan communities, and what can be done about it.
Transportation & Transit – The League is actively pursuing several initiatives to fund Michigan’s transportation and infrastructure systems to energize downtowns and seed economic development efforts.
Federal Issues – Housing finance reform, collective bargaining, and funding for transportation and community programs are among the League’s top federal priorities.