UP Gazette

Rep. Dave Prestin, a Republican from Cedar River, expressed his opposition to the tax hike proposals put forth by the governor's population council. The recommendations, aimed at curbing population declines in Michigan, include $2.5 billion in new spending but lack clear methods to increase state funding without raising taxes.

Prestin criticized the proposals, stating that they do not support Michigan residents who already pay high fuel and vehicle registration taxes. He also pointed out that the recommendations suggest raising taxes to pay people to move to Michigan and implementing a state-run initiative to provide illegal immigrants with drivers' licenses.

"These recommendations are going to leave Yoopers seriously considering closing the bridge and exploring statehood," Prestin said. "If the governor was serious about encouraging people to move here, she'd lower taxes so people can afford their bills and get government out of the way so people can create successful businesses."

Prestin further criticized the population council, describing it as a platform for imposing the governor's predetermined agenda. He highlighted the pattern of using expensive task forces and councils to push for expensive new programs without a clear funding source.

"We know what people want when they consider moving anywhere. They want a good paying job, to buy a house, and to raise their family in a good environment. These recommendations will do the opposite," Prestin argued. He warned that the proposals would drive businesses out of Michigan, raise housing costs, and continue a wasteful spending spree that has not made any difference for families.

In conclusion, Prestin denounced the population council's report as "simply an excuse to hike taxes and implement programs to cover up five years of failed leadership." He urged the governor to focus on lowering taxes and creating an environment conducive to job creation and economic growth.

The governor's population council has proposed tax hikes to curb population declines in Michigan. However, Rep. Dave Prestin, a Republican from Cedar River, strongly opposes the recommendations. He argues that the proposals lack clear methods to increase state funding without raising taxes and do not support Michigan residents who already pay high fuel and vehicle registration taxes. Prestin also criticizes the suggestion of raising taxes to pay people to move to Michigan and implementing a state-run initiative to provide illegal immigrants with drivers' licenses. He believes that lowering taxes and removing government barriers to business creation would be more effective in encouraging people to move to Michigan. Prestin further criticizes the population council, accusing it of being a platform for imposing the governor's predetermined agenda. He argues that the recommendations will drive businesses out of Michigan, raise housing costs, and continue wasteful spending. Prestin concludes that the report is an excuse to hike taxes and cover up failed leadership.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://gophouse.org/posts/rep-prestin-population-council-proposals-are-one-big-keep-out-sign-for-michigan