MI Democrats Unveil First Set Of Bills: Here's What They Are

MICHIGAN — After capturing both of Michigan's legislative chambers for the first time in nearly 40 years, Democratic lawmakers wasted no time unveiling their first set of bills Thursday.

Democratic lawmakers announced the legislation aims to repeal the state's right-to-work law, the retirement tax and the state's 1931 abortion ban.

"These initial bills represent our collective commitment to expanding rights and opportunities for the people of Michigan," Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks said. "Our first and only order of business is to tackle the real challenges that folks are facing by implementing an agenda that makes Michigan an even better place to call home."

Democrats hold slim majorities in both the state House of Representatives and the Senate. In the House, Democrats lead 56-54. In the Senate, Democrats lead 20-18.

Michigan's Right to Work law was signed by former Gov. Rick Snyder in December 2012, prohibiting unions and other labor groups from forcing workers to become union members or pay the union a fee as a condition of their employment. Under the law, employees who choose not to join the union is still given the same benefits as members within a union.

State Republican lawmakers considered the law a one of their most successful achievements, while Democrats have long voiced opposition.

Other legislation Democrats revealed Thursday includes:

• Repealing the retirement tax on Michigan seniors
• Increasing the Earned Income Tax Credit
• Expand Michigan’s Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act to include anti-discrimination protections for sexual and gender identity
• Restore the state’s prevailing wage law
• Repeal Michigan’s 1931 law that criminalizes abortion care