Livingston Today

Lawmakers have not convened since June, following the vote on the 2025 state budget. Although sessions were planned for July and August, they were labeled as “no attendance/ no voting.” The next session is scheduled for September 11th, coinciding with a ceremony in Lansing to honor those who died in the 9/11 terrorist attack. It is uncertain if any voting will occur that day.

State Representative Bob Bezotte expressed frustration over the inactivity, urging lawmakers to return to Lansing. He stated, "Republicans have been calling for lawmakers to come back to Lansing now because there are a lot of issues we should be working on." However, with Democrats controlling the House, they determine when sessions occur and which issues are addressed.

One pressing issue involves a proposed sales tax holiday on school supplies. Republicans introduced legislation to eliminate sales tax on these items for one weekend in August to ease financial burdens on parents. "Costs are going up on just about everything right now due to inflation," Bezotte noted, emphasizing the need for financial relief during back-to-school time.

Another concern is a recent Michigan Supreme Court ruling mandating all employees receive at least minimum wage, affecting tipped restaurant workers. Lawmakers from both parties worry this could harm small restaurants by necessitating price increases. Bezotte highlighted the potential job losses and called for compromise: "We need to find a compromise that protects people’s jobs."

Bezotte also supported President Trump's stance against taxing tips, suggesting it would benefit restaurant workers financially: "No taxes on tips!"