Vote NO on Proposal 2

What is Proposal 2 really about?

Proposal 2 is an attempt by government employee unions to enshrine their agenda in Michigan’s constitution, which would result in higher taxes, a fundamental lack of fairness, and fewer jobs. Moreover, it would take away local control and forever eliminate the flexibility our elected representatives have to make decisions that move Michigan forward. It could also overturn as many as 170 laws and reforms that have already been enacted by our elected leaders.

Will Proposal 2 impact my taxes?

Proposal 2 gives a sweetheart deal to government workers – even during tough economic times. While other workers face layoffs, government workers would receive higher pensions and better benefits – and struggling families and small businesses would be forced to foot the bill. To avoid a crippling deficit, lawmakers would be forced to roll back many of the recent tax cuts that have started to fuel our state’s turnaround. The dreaded Michigan Business Tax, which was only just repealed, could be one of the first taxes to be re-implemented.

What are some of the laws Proposal 2 will overturn if it passes?

The proposal is so vaguely written that we are still learning how it might impact our present laws, but experts have already identified over 170 laws that would be overturned. The Teacher Tenure Act, which allows the discipline and removal of underperforming teachers, would be one of the laws that would be gutted by this proposal. The result? Poorer performing schools that would put our children at a disadvantage for years to come.  School bus driver safety training and background checks for teachers could also become a thing of the past.

What’s so unfair about Proposal 2?

This constitutional hijacking scheme codifies the unfair practice of forcing Michiganders to join and finance unions. Just as no one should be forbidden from joining a union, Michigan workers should not be forced to join a union or pay dues to a political organization they do not support – and this proposal would make that a constitutional mandate for many Michiganders.

Don’t we need to make collective bargaining a constitutional right?

Collective bargaining is already protected in Michigan and protected by federal law.  The Detroit News reported that “Proposal 2 has almost nothing to do with collective bargaining.” What this proposal does is prevent our elected officials from enacting any legislation that deals with labor issues.

Why is it important to fight Proposal 2?

Michigan is making progress, but Proposal 2 would stop our legislators from enacting policies that will move Michigan forward, slowing economic growth and hurting our small businesses, students, and taxpayers. We have been forced to watch too many of our sons, daughters and neighbors leave Michigan because no jobs were available.  We can’t afford to go back.

What can I do to help?

The most important thing you can do is vote NO on Proposal 2 in November – and tell your friends and family why they should do the same! You can also visit www.ProtectingMichiganTaxpayers.com for more information.