Resources

Workforce and Labor Market Information Briefing for the New Governor

Published on November 6, 2018
This white paper, part of the Michigan at a Crossroads policy guide, puts Michigan's labor market in context, comparing current conditions to recent laws and pre-recessionary peaks.
Infrastructure Investment and Financing for the Incoming 2019 Gubernatorial Administration

Published on November 1, 2018
This white paper, part of the Michigan at a Crossroads policy guide, analyzes the importance of infrastructure investment, a history of infrastructure in the state of Michigan, and policy options for infrastructure investment.
Michigan's Post-Recession Spending

Published on September 1, 2018
Over the past eight years, the state’s economy has seen significant improvements. Even with these increases, there remain significant concerns regarding funding for key public policy priorities in the state.
Michigan K-12 Education Policy Brief for the Incoming 2019 Gubernatorial Administration

Published on August 1, 2018
This brief is, at best, a 30,000-feet-fly-over of the significant structural and contextual components of that system, including how schools are organized, funded, and governed, and current issues and trends that impact their success.
A new approach to evaluating the fiscal health of Michigan local governments: Comparing fiscal performance relative to available resources

Published on June 1, 2018
The purpose of this report is to develop a scoring system for Michigan local governments that accurately reflects their fiscal condition.
Michigan's Local Financial Emergency Manager Law: Considering the Alternatives

Published on May 30, 2018
MSU Extension gathered stakeholder feedback on the feasibility of possible alternatives to PA 436 of 2012 to determine which alternatives have the most support within the group.
Michigan Cities and Michigan Cannot Thrive Without Major Changes in Our System of Financing Local Governments

Published on May 25, 2018
Local government finances are primarily driven by property value growth and state revenue payments. Cities with TV per capita below $20,000 are likely to experience financial problems, particularly in a recession.
Summary of Planning and Zoning Decisions 2018

Published on May 18, 2018
A policy brief on planning and zoning court decisions, attorney general opinions for May 2017 to April 2018.
Michigan Budget Policy for the Incoming 2019 Gubernatorial Administration

Published on April 1, 2018
This paper is intended to provide a general overview of key budgetary issues that incoming elected officials can expect to and should be prepared to tackle in the coming years.
Michigan Tax Policy for the Incoming 2019 Gubernatorial Administration

Published on March 6, 2018
This is paper one in the ongoing Michigan at a Crossroad Series. The purpose of this policy brief is to provide a concise summary of some of the most important features of the tax system in Michigan, along with a brief guide to some policy proposals.