Action Stalled On New International Trade Crossing 

Debate over legislation to build a new bridge between Windsor and Detroit is now in a holding pattern following a failed vote on Senate Bill 410 in the Senate Economic Committee last week. The vote came out: 2 in favor, 3 opposed, and 2 abstained. We appreciate that Republican Senators Dave Hildenbrand and Judy Emmons supported the Michigan Chamber and voted in favor of the New International Trade Crossing. Disagreements arose regarding benefits to the people of Delray Community (the location where the bridge would land on the America side). Gov. Rick Snyder has called for a "cooling off" period before discussions on the NITC continue.   

The Chamber will continue to monitor this situation and we will keep you posted on any developments.  For more information, contact Jim Holcomb at jholcomb@michamber.com or 517/371-3696.

Workers' Compensation Legislation Expected to Move This Week 

The House Commerce Committee is expected to vote on legislation backed by the Michigan Chamber in the near future. House Bill 5002 updates the Michigan Workers' Compensation Act with the goal of keeping workers' compensation premiums affordable for job providers and generally make Michigan more economically competitive.   

The full House is expected to take action on the legislation soon, but the bill remains highly controversial and is strongly opposed by labor unions and personal injury attorneys. The Michigan Chamber has countered their attacks, setting the facts straight in committee hearings and in the news media all the while advocating for passage of a strong bill.

HB 5002 seeks to address a long-standing problem with Michigan's workers' comp system, mainly that the result of each case largely depends on what judge hears it.  This has led to inconsistency, confusion and ambiguities for injured workers and high premiums for job providers.  HB 5002 would put an end to the madness and flip-flopping. 

For further information, or an update, contact Wendy Block at 517/371-7678 or wblock@michamber.com. 
 

Gov. Snyder to Unveil Special Message on Transportation This Week 

The Michigan Chamber eagerly awaits Gov. Rick Snyder's special message on transportation which will be delivered on Wednesday, October 26. A strong supporter of improving the condition and performance of Michigan's transportation system, the Chamber will thoroughly review this message which is expected to contain proposals on how to move Michigan's infrastructure forward. Learn more about the Michigan Chamber's position on transportation investment here. 

New Materials Available in the Chamber's Online Briefing Center 

In the Michigan Chamber's online Legislative Action Center, you can find information on key pieces of legislation the Chamber is working on. The Briefing Center takes an in-depth look on specific issues from health care to tax policy. Recently posted in the Briefing Center is information on Escheats legislation under consideration in the State House.