MLA Connect Advocacy Hour: Understanding Headlee

February 17, 2022
10:00 - 11:00 AM

On Thursday, February 17 at 10:00 AM, we are excited to welcome representatives from three statewide local government organizations to discuss the Headlee Amendment. MLA Advocacy and Legislative Chair Jessica Keyser will moderate a panel discussion with special guests Chris Hackbarth, Director, State & Federal Affairs, Michigan Municipal League; and Judy Allen, Director of Government Relations, Michigan Townships Association.

The effect of Headlee and Proposal A together means that millage rates are permanently reduced (or “rolled back”) during periods of economic growth, which achieves the desired outcome of protecting taxpayers from taxes that are too high. However, during periods of economic recession, when property values decline, there is currently no mechanism to restore millage rates to the amount voters originally.

It is the position of MLA that in an economic downturn when values are decreasing, millage rates should be allowed to go up at the same rate of inflation. MLA supports legislation to reform Headlee and help to stabilize library revenues during an economic downturn.

With the majority of funding for public libraries (approximately 80% overall) coming from property tax revenues in the form of dedicated millages, we invite you to come and hear how MLA will work in partnership with MML, MTA and MAC in defense of the proposed legislation that will create sustainable funding for libraries.

Mark your calendars now and click the button below to register for upcoming MLA Advocacy Hours! After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

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MLA Connect On Demand