© 2026 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Selected stories from the WKAR NewsRoom in your morning email. SUBSCRIBE HERE

Filing Deadline Invites Tax Debate

WKAR file photo

This week’s tax filing deadline has sparked a new round of arguing between Democrats and Republicans about taxes with an eye toward elections later this year.

Democrats hope to use the issue of taxes to their advantage in the November elections. State House Democrats called attention to Michigan’s new tax on pension income and the loss of deductions and credits for charitable donations, raising children, and low-income households.

Representative Mark Meadows says some of those tax breaks should be restored and funded with a projected budget surplus. 

“I think what’s fair is to return that money right now to them that we’ve shown we do not need it,” he says.  “We’re moving toward a system where everyone is going to be paying more fairly and more equally across the board.”

Ari Adler is the spokesman for state House Republicans. He says the tax overhaul is more fair because it treats all income the same, and that a tax cut to many businesses is already spurring new jobs.

Rick Pluta is Senior Capitol Correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He has been covering Michigan’s Capitol, government, and politics since 1987. His journalism background includes stints with UPI, The Elizabeth (NJ) Daily Journal, The (Pontiac, MI) Oakland Press, and WJR. He is also a lifelong public radio listener.
With federal funding eliminated, WKAR relies more than ever on community support to sustain essential services that remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan. Your support helps shape what comes next for public media in our region. The best way to support WKAR is by becoming a sustaining member today or by upgrading your current gift. Support WKAR TV Here | Support WKAR Radio Here.