Whitmer's tax overhaul plan explained
Leah Olajide
Good morning! Today is Tuesday. Let’s talk about Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's relief plans for Michigan taxpayers …
On Monday, Whitmer announced a proposal from Democratic lawmakers that includes $180 checks for each Michigan taxpayer from the state’s record budget surplus of about $9 billion.
Michiganders could see these checks as soon as spring or early summer, Whitmer spokesperson Bobby Leddy said. The total cost of the checks, which would come from the general fund, will be $800 million, he said.
"Too many families are seeing inflation cut into their monthly budgets," Whitmer said. "We want to help."
The checks are part of proposed Democratic legislation that would also repeal the "retirement tax" by restoring exemptions for certain pension income that were removed under former Gov. Rick Snyder and increase the state Earned Income Tax Credit — which Whitmer is renaming the Working Families Tax Credit — to 30% of the federal credit, up from 6% currently. Votes are expected this week.
Paul Egan and Clara Hendrickson break down the legislation and what it means for you in this story.
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Two Grammys for the D
The Detroit jazz scene was recognized at Sunday's Grammy awards. Terri Lyne Carrington, artistic director of Detroit’s Carr Center, took home Best Jazz Instrumental Album for her “New Standards Vol. 1.” Saxophonist Wayne Shorter and pianist Leo Genovese won Best Improvised Jazz Solo for “Endangered Species,” a track from Shorter’s “Live at the Detroit Jazz Festival." Duante Beddingfield has the story. Congratulations to the winners!
Make the best of this Tuesday. Remember: You are in control. See you tomorrow!