MIDLAND, Mich. — The Mackinac Center for Public Policy has released its 2020 Policy Recommendations. These recommendations serve as guide to lawmakers and the public on the top policy priorities they should consider this coming year.

In this guide, Mackinac Center experts explain recommendations on critical policy issues facing Michigan. The guide features actionable, timely recommendations on issues that are likely to be brought before the Legislature this year.

One priority that continues from last year is a fiscally responsible state budget. This means that resources are devoted first for voters’ top priorities, such as infrastructure repair, and not used for ineffective programs, such as corporate handouts. Another is government transparency, as Michigan is still one of the only states in the country that exempts its Legislature and governor from public documents disclosure.

Reforms to the criminal justice system are highlighted, as are changes to arbitrary occupational licensing regulations. These policies combine to put needless hurdles in the way of people trying to finding a job.

Many Michiganders are faced with increasing electricity rates, and energy policies that help reduce the cost of electricity for all consumers are also featured in the report. Also highlighted are policies that help families find and attend great schools and policies that tackle the rising costs of health care.

“The Mackinac Center’s recommendations will always be rooted in solid principle. We have also sought out angles in our policy areas that can win support across the political aisle and philosophical spectrum,” said David Guenthner, senior strategist for state affairs. “We are eager to work with Gov. Whitmer and legislators in both parties to build on our shared successes of 2019, which included long-overdue action to fix our state’s auto insurance crisis and ending the abuse of civil asset forfeiture.”

You can view the complete list of policy recommendations here.