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Question 12:

Do you OPPOSE proposals to increase the Michigan Corporate Income Tax (MCIT)? (Currently 6%) Do you OPPOSE efforts to implement a graduated income tax (GIT) in Michigan? Would you OPPOSE making services subject to the sales tax? Please answer yes or no. You may provide an explanation if you so choose.

SBAM Policy Position: To ensure the continued success and future growth of Michigan’s economy, lawmakers must guarantee that the state’s tax structure and economic development strategy support, not hinder, small businesses. To promote economic growth and prosperity while cultivating an environment friendly to entrepreneurs and innovation, Michigan’s policies should support homegrown business expansion, attract entrepreneurs, and instill a simple, yet equitable taxation system.

Jocelyn Benson (D)

I have no plans to raise taxes on middle and working class families or small businesses. My focus is lowering costs, growing Michigan’s economy, and helping small businesses create well-paying jobs. I look forward to working with residents and business leaders to craft responsible budgets that support economic growth, strengthen communities, and deliver results for Michiganders.

John James (R)

Yes. Michigan should be reducing the tax burden on job providers, not increasing it. My plan focuses on economic growth, workforce development, and lowering the cost of living by reducing the corporate income tax and creating targeted incentives that address Michigan’s workforce shortages.

That includes a Retention and Relocation Worker Tax Credit for Americans already working in critical shortage occupations and for those who move to Michigan to fill them, as well as a 100 percent corporate income tax credit for businesses that invest in scholarships for students pursuing careers in the skilled trades, health care, manufacturing, information technology, and education. Every Michigan business should have access to these opportunities, not just those with political connections. Higher business taxes make it harder to attract investment, create jobs, and grow wage.

Yes. I oppose a graduated income tax. Such a tax is explicitly prohibited by Michigan’s constitution. Michigan families need relief, not higher taxes. My goal is to lower the cost of living, cut wasteful government spending, and ultimately eliminate the state income tax altogether. States with no income tax consistently attract more people, more businesses, and more investment, and Michigan should be competing to win.

Yes. Expanding the sales tax to services would increase costs on consumers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses across Michigan. We should be reducing taxes and regulatory burdens, not creating new costs that make it harder for businesses to grow and families to make ends meet.