Waterford Today

State Representative Mike Harris has voiced his support for a new initiative aimed at addressing Michigan's deteriorating road infrastructure. The proposal, put forth by House Republicans and announced by Speaker-elect Matt Hall, intends to allocate $2.7 billion annually towards road and bridge repairs without increasing taxes. The funding will be sourced from corporate income tax and gas tax revenues.

"The gaping holes in infrastructure funding in Michigan match the potholes in our roads," said Harris, R-Waterford. He criticized Lansing politicians for spending taxpayer money on unnecessary programs instead of investing in infrastructure. "The House Republican plan will put an end to this irresponsible spending by setting aside billions of dollars for roads. And we’ll do it without raising taxes."

Harris emphasized the importance of bipartisan cooperation to pass the plan during the Legislature’s lame-duck session before Republicans assume majority control in January. He highlighted the urgency due to dwindling federal funds and the conclusion of state highway bonding initiatives.

"Federal and state funding for Michigan roads is running out, so we need to give road funding a much-needed boost as soon as possible," Harris stated. He expressed hope that legislators could prioritize infrastructure improvements before year-end.

The proposed plan includes an immediate allocation of $1.2 billion from corporate income tax revenue for local road agencies, which have been overlooked in recent years according to Harris. Additionally, starting in fiscal year 2025-2026, another $600 million annually would be dedicated to infrastructure by reallocating existing earmarks set to expire after FY 2024-2025.

Furthermore, the plan proposes replacing the 6% sales tax on motor fuel with a corresponding increase in motor fuel tax that would exclusively fund infrastructure projects, generating approximately $945 million more annually.