Advocacy News – April 2, 2026
What’s happened: The first quarter of 2026 highlighted a policy environment defined by uncertainty, populist pressures and a focus on technological change. Michigan employers continue to face rising costs and shifting workforce challenges, while also adapting to AI and other technologies that are quickly becoming part of everyday business operations.
- At the same time, policymakers are advancing proposals that could significantly raise the cost of doing business – from a proposed sales tax on services to emerging AI regulations and growing resistance to critical infrastructure like data centers.
Against this backdrop, the MI Chamber remains focused on one priority: protecting and strengthening a competitive, predictable environment for growth.
Here’s a quick look at these happenings and forces – and how we’re working on your behalf.
Legal climate and Regulatory Certainty
Why it matters: Predictability drives investment – and Michigan remains at risk of becoming a bigger outlier.
- Helped launch the fast-growing Michigan Alliance for Legal Reform (MALR) to restore balance and fairness in Michigan’s legal system.
- Advanced HB 5725 to preserve the regulatory compliance exemption under the Michigan Consumer Protection Act, protecting regulated industries from duplicative rules and litigation.
- Pushed HB 4582 to restore commonsense premises liability protections.
- Supported HB 5281 to increase transparency in third-party litigation financing, ensuring a fair and equitable legal climate.
Bottom line: We’re building momentum for a more fair, predictable legal environment. Contacts: Randy Gross and Zach Rudat/MAFLR
Emerging Technology and Infrastructure
Why it matters: Policy decisions today will determine whether Michigan attracts – or loses – next-generation investment.
- Helped launch Michigan for Responsible Data Centers, supporting balanced, community-focused development.
- Partnered on a statewide data center policy roadmap with the Detroit Regional Chamber, Business Leaders for Michigan and Public Sector Consultants (release expected this spring) to help bring facts and Michigan-specific information to the conversation.
- Provided analysis and testimony on AI legislation (HB 4668) to prevent overly burdensome regulations that could limit innovation
Bottom line: Michigan must remain competitive without overcorrecting into restrictive policy. Contact: Dan Papineau
Ballot Initiatives and Structural Risks
Why it matters: Ballot-driven policymaking can bypass deliberative processes and create long-term economic uncertainty.
- Opposed the 2026 constitutional convention proposal and joined a broad coalition to defeat it due to risks to economic stability and job growth.
- Helped defeat efforts to advance an onerous graduated income tax on small businesses and revisit the minimum wage compromise.
- Continue to oppose the so-called “Michiganders for Money Out of Politics” (MMOP) proposal, which would restrict free speech and impose new limits on advocacy for certain job providers. Proponents are still in the field gathering signatures, hoping to make the November ballot.
Bottom line: These proposals carry significant implications for Michigan’s economic stability and governance.
Contact: Wendy Block
Sound Budget and Tax Policy
Why it matters: Rising costs remain a top pressure point – and policy decisions could compound that burden.
- Opposing new fees and tax increases included in Governor Whitmer’s latest and final budget proposal.
- Advocating to restore funding for the GoingPRO Talent Fund, a widely-used and highly effective program that provides competitive grant dollars to employers looking to build the skills of new and existing employees.
- Assessing and raising concerns about a proposed sales tax on services, which would shift costs of up to $5 billion onto previously exempt sectors to fund property tax relief.
Bottom line: Cost containment and competitiveness must remain central to budget decisions, and the MI Chamber will work with lawmakers to ensure a responsible, balanced budget enacted on time.
Contact: Randy Gross
Tackling Rising Health Care Costs
Why it matters: Healthcare continues to be one of the fastest-growing cost pressures for employers and risks diminished access for individuals and families.
- Convening stakeholders through the MI Chamber’s Health, Human Resources & Talent Committee to identify leading cost drivers and advance solutions focused on improving affordability and transparency.
Bottom line: Sustainable, practical solutions are essential to long-term workforce and business stability.
Contact: Dan Papineau
What’s next: Strong, consistent advocacy remains critical as 2026 progresses. The MI Chamber will continue advancing practical solutions that support job growth, investment and long-term competitiveness.
- Learn more about our legislative priorities and commitment to being the leading voice for business at the Capitol.
Get involved: If you’re interested in shaping the MI Chamber’s position on key pieces of legislation and initiatives, join a policy committee by submitting an interest form. Thank you for your continued engagement and support.