Earliest legislative adjournment in the 21st Century

Last Thursday, Democrats voted to adjourn the legislature historically early for the remainder of 2023. Every year, the legislature adjourns near Christmas; but this year, legislative Democrats decided to pack their bags and shut down the House and Senate for two months. This means that, unless the governor calls for a special session dedicated to one of her priorities, the legislature will not be able to meet and work until the middle of January 2024.

If I could describe this past year in a couple of words, it would be “missed opportunity.” And with this Democrat majority pushing to start their Christmas break early it seems my description will remain accurate.

The hardworking people of Michigan elected this 102nd Legislature expecting us to work together. I came into this year hopeful; it seemed like we could work together. But that just wasn’t the case. At every opportunity to work toward commonsense, middle 70% solutions, the Democrat majority made the conscious choice to sprint to the far left.

From billion-dollar handouts to corporations, rigging the system for union bosses, shoving through a Michigan Green New Deal to raise electric rates, or fighting to increase taxes on workers and small businesses, Democrats have shown the people of Michigan where their loyalties lie. I guess the silver lining in this historically early adjournment is that they can’t impose any more harmful policies on struggling Michigan families — a small, but needed, respite.

Should you have any questions or concerns about the legislature or state government, please do not hesitate to contact my office by going to www.SenatorAricNesbitt.com. You may also reach out by calling (517) 373-0793 or by email at SenANesbitt@senate.Michigan.gov. My staff would be happy to assist with issues you may be having with state government agencies, and I look forward to listening and learning about your priorities and concerns for our state.