- August 2 Michigan Primary Election Results
The outcome of the August 2 Republican primary for Governor saw candidate Tudor Dixon prevail. In the November general election, she will face incumbent Governor Gretchen Whitmer who ran unopposed. In the newly drawn 3rd congressional district, Republican John Gibbs defeated incumbent Peter Meijer.
Why it Matters: As November and the general election gets closer, stay tuned for more insights as Fraser Trebilcock’s election law team will be closely monitoring the action.
———
- MEDC to Make $237 Million Available to Help Michigan Small Businesses
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation announced that Michigan has been approved for up to $237 million in State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) funding from the U.S. Department of Treasury.
Why it Matters: Small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic can apply for funds through private lenders and the MEDC would back the loans through the SSBCI program. Learn more on the topic here.
———
- Ballot Initiative Aims to Increase Minimum Wage Targets 2024 Ballot
The Raise the Wage MI ballot initiative proposal aims to raise Michigan’s hourly minimum wage to $15 over the course of five years. The organizers behind the ballot initiative are reported to have secured more than 610,000 signatures and delivered them to Michigan officials last week.
Why it Matters: The issuance of a stay until February 19, 2023 follows the ruling by the Michigan Court of Claims stating that the state legislature’s adoption and alteration of a 2018 ballot initiative that would have raised minimum wage to $12 by 2022 was unconstitutional. This ruling has been appealed, but even if it gets overturned, Michigan may still see an increase to minimum wage if the Raise the Wage MI initiative is passed.
———
- New Law Allows Non-Profit Corporation to be a Member of Limited Liability Company
Senate Bill 926 was recently signed into law by Governor Whitmer, which changes the definition of a person in the limited liability company act, allowing nonprofit corporations to be members of limited liability companies (“LLC”).
Why it Matters: Michigan now joins other states that allow nonprofits to create LLCs that do not involve any financial gain or profit to perform certain functions while still maintaining their nonprofit status.
———
- Michigan Senate Judiciary Committee Approves Texting While Driving Bills
The Michigan Senate Judiciary Committee approved a package of bills expanding the scope of Michigan’s texting while driving laws, which would make requirements more stringent and penalties for violations more costly. The bills explicitly address social media use and live streaming.
Why it Matters: Distracted driving is dangerous. In 2020, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, 3,142 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers. Distracted driving is also costly for drivers, as those who violate distracted driving laws tend to see their insurance rates shoot up.
Related Practice Groups and Professionals
Business & Tax | Robert D. Burgee