The Detroit News is highlighting ideas from various groups to promote discussion on reform, restructuring government and the economy.
Change Michigan-only rules
Idea: Reforming Michigan-only rules that drive jobs and business to other states.
Why: Michigan likes to create separate rules on areas that the federal government already regulates, which creates an extra cost burden on businesses. An example is a Michigan-only rule covering mercury emissions. With a new, more stringent, federal rule pending, state bureaucrats devoted countless hours to developing a separate rule that will result in new expenses for Michigan businesses to stay in compliance. In the case of a separate law regulating ballast water discharges from freight carrying ships, ships can avoid Michigan's rules by calling on ports in neighboring states. This negates any projected environmental benefit.
Benefits: Eliminating Michigan-only rules reduces a layer of regulation, lowers costs and makes the state a more attractive place for businesses.
How: Repeal Michigan laws and regulations that create them.
Obstacles: Well-meaning state legislators and officials who do not view the big picture and our position in the global regulatory competition.
Source: Detroit Regional Chamber
Join the Conversation
The Detroit News aims to provide a forum that fosters smart, civil discussions on the news and events that we cover. The News will not condone personal attacks, off topic posts or brutish language on our site. If you find a comment that you believe violates these standards, please click the "X" in the upper right corner of the post to report it.