Shelby Review

The Michigan House of Representatives has been active with several legislative measures recently, addressing issues ranging from budget overspending to public safety and women's sports. Representative Josh Schriver shared updates on these developments.

House Resolution 127 passed with a vote of 58–48, urging the Michigan Senate to revise its proposed 2026 budget due to an almost $1 billion overspending error. "The people of Michigan deserve a responsible, legal budget—not a reckless one that blows through constitutional limits," stated Schriver. The Senate Fiscal Agency reported that the current plan exceeds projected revenues by $986.5 million, which violates the state constitution's balanced budget requirement.

In another move, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson was declared in contempt by the Legislature following her refusal to comply with a subpoena for un-redacted election training materials. The House passed Resolution 117 by a vote of 58–47. Schriver remarked, "This is not transparency—it’s defiance."

Schriver also co-sponsored a constitutional amendment aimed at capping annual state government spending increases based on inflation and population growth rates. He noted that Michigan's state budget had increased by more than 40% over five years.

Legislation requiring school board candidates to declare their political party affiliation on ballots was introduced as well. Schriver commented on this initiative saying voters should know candidates' stances, especially concerning decisions impacting children and parental rights.

Attorney General Dana Nessel missed a deadline to provide financial records related to the Flint Water Crisis prosecutions, prompting the House Oversight Subcommittee to consider further actions.

On sports legislation, two bills were passed focusing on fairness in women's athletics: HB 4066 and HB 4469. These bills ensure biological females compete in female-designated sports categories and strengthen enforcement standards.

Public safety measures included passing HB 4203 unanimously to exempt tow trucks from seasonal weight restrictions during emergencies and extending similar exemptions for emergency vehicles through HB 4343 and HB 4344.

Schriver opposed HB 4287 which created tax carve-outs for companies receiving broadband grants citing it doesn't deliver real tax reform: "Michigan’s tax code should be consistent and fair across all industries—not tailored for special interests."

Other notable votes include supporting license reciprocity for medical professionals (HB 4101 & HB 4380), designating Harrison Township as “Boat Town USA” (HB 4010), renaming parts of highways in memory of individuals such as Animal Control Officer Darrian Young (HB 4100) and honoring William S. Broomfield (HB 4105).

These legislative activities reflect ongoing efforts within Michigan's House of Representatives to address diverse issues affecting residents statewide.