Sen. Mike Switalski (D-Roseville) appears to out there all on his own with his SB 888 to cut the number of election days in Michigan by half — eliminating February and May and leaving just the August primary and the November general election dates.
What undoubtedly prompted this proposal is the wont of those who favor tax increases — especially school districts — to bring their proposals on the most inconvenient, lowest voter-turnout election dates in hopes that the far smaller number of those with a vested interest in the outcome will prevail over the majority. (For a more detailed analysis see: School Millage Fatigue.)
Unsurprisingly, Sen. Switalski doesn’t have so much as a single cosponsor for his bill. As usual, the special interest lobbyists (i.e., the teachers unions) will hold sway in Lansing. Unless long-suffering taxpayers flex their own political muscle. Call your legislators today and tell them you support SB 888 to not only save the cost of special elections but also ensure that proposals to increase taxes are put to the largest possible referendum.
Besides, two shots at your wallet per year ought to be more than enough.
