The Small Business Briefing – October 19, 2026

October 19, 2026

Michigan businesses depend on a predictable regulatory environment, a skilled workforce, and practical ways to guard against fraud. In a Small Business Briefing, SBAM’s Brian Calley and Kelli Saunders discuss workforce completion data before asking Attorney General candidate Doug Lloyd about his proposed approach to business regulation and consumer protection.

Michigan’s postsecondary completion rates and the 60-by-30 goal

For the class of 2019, just under 40% had earned a postsecondary credential within six years. The briefing reported that about 31.7% earned a bachelor’s degree, 6% an associate degree, and 1.39% a non-degree credential. About 27.5% had not enrolled in a postsecondary program, while roughly 33% had enrolled but had not yet earned a credential.

The discussion connected these results to Michigan’s 60-by-30 goal: having 60% of the population earn a post-high-school credential. Brian noted that smaller graduating classes make improving completion rates especially important for Michigan’s workforce and competitiveness.

A compliance-first approach to small-business regulation

Lloyd said he would ask Attorney General staff and department leaders to focus on facts and evidence, and to work with businesses seeking to correct compliance problems rather than treating punishment as the first response. He also said he would ask department leaders whether additional regulations are needed.

Fraud prevention: alerts, education, and local support

Lloyd proposed sharing information about current scams with citizens and businesses, including through partnerships with organizations such as SBAM. He also discussed community education and helping local prosecutors handle fraud cases when they lack the resources or expertise.

The Attorney General’s role and small-business concerns

Lloyd described the office as a public-service agency that should operate without partisanship. He said he would seek input from businesses and work with them as partners, while maintaining accountability for bad actors.

Conclusion

The briefing linked workforce readiness with a business environment where employers can operate, comply with requirements, and protect themselves from fraud. Visit SBAM’s election center for election information discussed in the briefing.

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