Michigan Voters to Decide on Competing Property Tax Cut Proposals

As the debate over property taxes intensifies, Michigan voters might soon have a say in shaping their financial future. A potential ballot decision could pit two different property tax reduction plans against each other, if the leading Republican in the state House has his way.

Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall, a Republican from Richland Township, has proposed that the Legislature not only adopt a property tax cut initiative but also present voters with an alternative option. This move would allow the electorate to choose between the two proposals.

Speaking on the Michigan Public Television show Off The Record, Hall emphasized the importance of affordability, stating, “Because I believe we need to cut property taxes. Affordability is going to be probably the biggest issue in the election.”

Hall has been vocal about tackling property taxes, with hopes of addressing the issue within the current year. However, with 2025 approaching quickly, the timeline is becoming increasingly tight.

The idea is inspired by the significant property tax reform that Michigan voters approved in 1997, which saw a shift from property tax funding for schools to a state sales tax increase. Hall is considering multiple options before finalizing the two proposals he aims to present.

“So what I’m looking at is potentially two competing proposals, working through the Legislature to put that on the ballot in giving the people of Michigan two choices,” Hall explained.

A key concern for Hall is to ensure that the proposals safeguard funding necessary for local governments and schools, which depend partially on property taxes. He has also suggested reducing the state’s income tax rate.

For any ballot proposal to advance next year, bipartisan support is crucial due to the Democratic control of the state Senate. Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s agreement would also be necessary to bring the matter to voters. Whitmer’s office has yet to respond to Hall’s proposal.

The upcoming election year, with term limits affecting Governor Whitmer, Attorney General Dana Nessel, and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, could see every legislative seat in play. A high-stakes ballot question might sway election outcomes significantly.