The Small Business Briefing – July 21, 2025

In this edition of the Small Business Briefing, Kelli Saunders and Jacob Manning provide updates on key policy issues affecting Michigan’s small businesses, including ballot proposals, tax changes, unemployment insurance developments, economic indicators, and recent political endorsements. They discuss the implications of proposed legislation, recent setbacks in economic development projects, and the importance of small business advocacy in ongoing public comment periods and regulatory processes.

Covered Topics:

• Updates on the “Invest in My Kids” graduated income tax ballot proposal and its impact on small businesses
• Overview of 2026 Michigan ballot proposals, including property tax elimination, minimum wage changes, and voting requirements
• Early endorsement of Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan for governor by the Detroit Regional Chamber
• Cancellation of a major chips factory project in Genesee County and its economic implications
• Announcement of $34 million in unemployment insurance back payments and upcoming benefit changes
• Michigan’s latest unemployment rate and comparison to national trends
• State revenue projections and ongoing state budget negotiations
• Status of the Line 5 pipeline tunnel permit and public comment process
• Recognition of small business as the most trusted voice in America, according to a Gallup poll