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Michigan lawmakers OK more funds for local roads

Coping with the seemingly unyielding need for revenue to pay for transportation projects throughout the state, Michigan lawmakers have approved a bill that would add funds for local roads. Another bill would also boost funding options.

The House voted unanimously to sign off on Senate changes to a bill that would let county road commissions use more money from the Michigan Transportation Fund on the county local road system. The bill – HB4848 – now moves ahead to Gov. Jennifer Granholm. She can sign it, veto it or let it become law without her signature.

State law now limits to 30 percent of a county road commission’s primary road system the funds that can be used on the county local road system. Sponsored by Rep. Joel Sheltrown, D-West Branch, the bill would increase that threshold to 50 percent.

Made up mostly of revenue from fuel taxes and vehicle registrations, $593 million from the transportation fund is allotted to county road commissions in the current two-year fiscal period.

Another bill, which is also intended to boost road funding options for local governments, would repeal a ban on counties using general property tax revenue for road construction and maintenance. Counties with a surplus of money in their general fund would be allowed to use a portion of the revenue for road work.

House lawmakers have already given the bill overwhelming support. The bill – HB5141 – awaits further action in the Senate Local, Urban and State Affairs Committee.

To view other legislative activities of interest for Michigan, click here .

Editor’s Note: Please share your thoughts with us about the legislation included in this story. Comments may be sent to [email protected] .

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