HICA Repeal Clears Senate
The
Senate on Wednesday passed a package of bills that effectively repeals the
health insurance claims assessment as a source for Medicaid, and replaces it
with income tax revenue. Revenue from the use tax on the state’s Medicaid
health maintenance organizations would replace the income tax revenues in the
General Fund. SB
987 through SB
990 all passed with minimal discussion and no debate.
Recall Petitions Approved
The
Board of State Canvassers approved a petition to recall Attorney General Bill
Schuette on Thursday. Calvin Hodges petitioned for a recall on the basis of Mr.
Schuette hiring Todd Flood, a campaign donor to both the attorney general and
Governor Rick Snyder, as a special counsel to investigate the Flint water
crisis. In order to face a recall, the petition will need to collect 790,000
signatures in 60 days. Mr. Hodges also had a recall petition approved against
Governor Snyder.
Health Endowment Fund for Flint
The
Senate Government Operations Committee reported SB
986 on Wednesday to allow the Health Endowment Fund to spend money
to assist in the Flint Water Crisis. Specifically, the bill allows the board of
the Health Endowment Fund to allocate money to areas facing a public health
emergency. Former House Speaker Paul Hillegonds, president of the fund, has
commented the fund has not had time to discuss a formal position on the bill.
House Approved Retail Property Tax
Assessment Changes
The
House on Wednesday approved HB
5578, a bill to end the “dark store” appraisal practice for big
box stores for tax purposes. The bill requires the Tax Tribunal to consider the
highest and best use and future and past income on such properties. The
legislation passed 97-11, but has seen criticism from retailers. It goes to the
Senate for consideration.