MFB: 'No Thanks' to Remaining 2 Ballot Proposals

By CnAgri2012-09-19 19:54:58 Print

Michigan Farm Bureau's (MFB) Board of Directors today announced its opposition to the last two proposals voters will see on their Nov. 6 ballots, Proposals 5 and 6.

Proposal 5 would require a two-thirds majority vote in the legislature--or approval by a statewide vote of electors--to enact new or additional state taxes, expand the tax base or raise existing taxes. Currently a simple majority vote by the legislature is required to approve tax changes.

"MFB is concerned about the potential, unintended consequences of this measure--that it could ultimately prove unduly restrictive to the lawmaking process," said MFB Election Specialist Matt Kapp. "Simply put, we fear it could ultimately prohibit the legislature from legislating."

Proposal 6 would require a majority vote of the state's electorate to approve the use of state funds to develop or purchase any new international bridge or tunnel for motor vehicles.

"We have clear, member-developed policy supporting the New International Trade Crossing--the new bridge connecting Michigan and Ontario," Kapp said. "Proposal 6 has the potential to undermine this widely supported and desperately needed improvement to Michigan's infrastructure. The new bridge between Detroit and Windsor is well under way and imposes no financial obligation on Michigan taxpayers."

The organization previously announced its stances on Proposals 1-4. MFB encourages a 'yes' vote on Proposal 1 to preserve the existing Emergency Financial Manager law. The organization opposes Proposals 2, 3 and 4, as they would inappropriately codify policy on dynamic issues into the state constitution.