A group of House Republican lawmakers in Michigan is working to address affordability issues for families in the state. State Representatives Bill G. Schuette, Kathy Schmaltz, and Nancy DeBoer have introduced House Bills 4055-59. These bills aim to tackle Michigan's affordability crisis by creating a state child tax credit, exempting infant and toddler items like diapers from sales and use taxes, and establishing Child Care Savings Accounts that allow parents to deduct childcare deposits from their taxable income.
"Michigan should be the best and most affordable state in the country to raise a family. If we want our state to thrive, that starts with taking care of our families," Schuette stated. "Giving Michiganders a break on the many expenses they face is a necessity. This package of bills will help hard-working families keep more of their hard-earned money and provide much-needed financial relief as many work to balance the family budget."
Schmaltz emphasized that their plan aims to ease life for parents striving to support their children. "The cost of diapers, childcare, and other essentials adds up quickly, and too many families are forced to make tough choices," she said. "By providing this much-needed relief, we’re helping parents focus on what truly matters – raising happy, healthy kids in a state that values and supports them."
The legislators had previously introduced these plans in October 2023; however, they were not considered by the Democratic majority at that time.
"Inflation has skyrocketed in recent years, and families need relief," DeBoer remarked. "As representatives, it is our job to fight for positive change in the lives of the people we represent, and that’s exactly what this plan does."
Schuette added that "House Republicans will continue to put the priorities of the people first." He expressed hope for bipartisan support: "This is a major issue for many in districts we all represent – whether it’s a Republican or Democrat legislator – and I’m hopeful we can move these bills forward so families can start seeing relief."
State Representatives Bill G. Schuette, Kathy Schmaltz, and Nancy DeBoer presented House Bills 4055-59 at the state Capitol in Lansing on January 30.
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