November's tortuous road-funding deal called for a raise in gas taxes beginning next year to help repair crumbling roads. But why not raise taxes this year, when gas prices are cheap, easing the tax burden in 2017? Lansing, that’s why
Michigan roads
Posted inPhil's Column
Road deal made by politicians who won’t face the consequences
Fully half of the $1.2 billion road deal will have to be diverted from the state’s general fund, which means inevitable cuts to education, safety net benefits and the like. By that time, most of the architects of this deal will be out of office.
Posted inBusiness Bridge
State road construction industry seeks funding certainty
A patchwork of temporary roads fixes makes companies hesitant to invest heavily in Michigan
Posted inTalent & Education
Legislative preview: Lansing tackles teaching, roads and inmates
It’s back to work for Michigan’s Legislature. A Bridge guide to the biggest issues lawmakers are likely to face this fall
Posted inBusiness Bridge
Swearing, sex and the path to a roads deal
Lansing is getting rid of antiquated criminal laws and addressing the Courser and Gamrat mess. But a roads fix must wait until the fall.
Posted inBusiness Bridge
Should electric vehicle owners pay higher fees to help fund state roads?
A state House bill is proposing EV owners pay up to $100 more in registration fees to help fund the state’s roads plan. Automakers counter that buyers should be given incentives to buy alternative-fuel cars, not penalties.
Posted inBusiness Bridge
State roads legislation getting bumpier than the roads that need fixing
House Republicans adjourn for the week after failing to square their measure with a bill passed by the Senate.
Posted inBusiness Bridge
House summer plans including watching Senate’s move on road funding
Critics say legislative leaders should be meeting now with Gov. Snyder to hash out permanent roads fix for Michigan. But House prefers to wait to see what the Senate comes up with first.
Posted inBusiness Bridge
Mackinac notes: A train to Traverse City; road funding; MEDC cuts
Wish lists and bottom lines at the Mackinac Policy Conference.
Posted inPhil's Column
A roads solution for Michigan
Like the aftermath of a sudden spring snowstorm, the ground is blanketed with various proposals to fix Michigan’s roads. And most have something else in common with spring snow: They’re likely to have melted into the ground once the sun comes out.