(The Center Square) – Michigan House Republicans have advanced a package of bills aimed at lowering costs for homeowners, including a proposal to eliminate the state property tax.
State Rep. John Roth, R-Interlochen, said the partisan legislation is designed to ease financial pressure on Michigan families facing rising living costs.
“People across this state are working hard, but too many feel like they’re falling behind as everyday expenses keep climbing,” Roth said. “Michigan families deserve policies that provide financial breathing room.”
House Bills 5872-5879, dubbed the HELP UP plan – the House plan to Effectively Lower Property Taxes and Utility Prices – would eliminate the state property tax. House Republicans say that would save Michigan families an average of $900 annually, while ensuring schools remain funded by transferring money from the state’s general fund.
The package would also freeze electric rates for at least two years, eliminate the state’s real estate transfer tax, and reverse rate increases approved by the Michigan Public Service Commission over the last three years.
State Rep. Ann Bollin, R-Brighton Township, applauded the package’s passage.
“For too long, people have watched their housing costs climb higher and higher even after they’ve already bought a home,” she said. “Families should be able to plan for the future without worrying about sudden tax spikes, higher utility bills, and extra fees driving them backward. This plan delivers meaningful relief and restores fairness for taxpayers.”
Republicans said the plan could save households as much as $1,400 annually when combining the utility and housing-related savings.
Roth said the proposal is especially important for Northern Michigan residents struggling with housing affordability.
“Too many people up north are being priced out of opportunities that should be attainable, including homeownership,” Roth said. “We need to focus on creating an environment where people want to stay, build careers and raise the next generation.”
House Republicans said passage of the bills sends the proposal to the Senate for consideration, calling on lawmakers there to negotiate on measures they say would make Michigan more affordable.
“Time for the Senate to work with us on making life more affordable for Michigan families,” Michigan House Republicans said following the package’s passage.
The Michigan House is currently held by Republicans, while the state Senate is controlled by Democrats. No Democrats voted in favor of the bills that are a part of the package, making passage in the Senate unlikely.
This package follows other similar bills passed by House Republicans in an effort to lower costs for Michiganders, including a package passed last week which would lead to a major overhaul of the state’s energy policies.
