Michigan Paves the Way to Preemption

Date: October 31, 2017

The Michigan Legislature ensures that local governments will not overstep their authority by passing a series of pre-emption bills.

The Michigan Legislature won’t have any of its cities becoming another San Francisco, or a Philadelphia or Seattle. What does that mean? The Michigan Legislature has been passing preemption laws to prevent “faddish” bills, like banning minimum wage or soda pop tax rules that are gaining popularity from the aforementioned cities.

According to The Detroit News, those pushing for preemption bills argue that it will shield the state from economic decline in the future. Last year, the Legislature passed a ban on plastic bag fees. Legislators are considering bills that would ban restrictions on local zoning for Airbnb or short-term property rentals. In October, the Legislature sent Gov. Rick Snyder a bill banning taxes to sugary drinks, food, and gum. The Michigan Senate also passed a bill preemptively banning any legislation that would not allow employers to ask applicant’s wage history in a job interview.

NFIB/MI State Director Charlie Owens said that preemption laws are important because too frequently, local legislations use their power “as an excuse to grow their own bureaucracy” and to make money. “If you look at a lot of the local governments trying to do this, it’s very clear they haven’t solved all of their own local problems with regards to the basic services that citizens come to expect,” Owens said. “We suggest part of the reason they’re struggling with their budget is perhaps because they’re doing things they shouldn’t be doing.”

Subscribe For Free News And Tips

Enter your email to get FREE small business insights. Learn more

Get to know NFIB

NFIB is a member-driven organization advocating on behalf of small and independent businesses nationwide.

Learn More

Or call us today
1-800-634-2669

© 2001 - 2024 National Federation of Independent Business. All Rights Reserved. Terms and Conditions | Privacy