Studies [Mackinac Center]

Keeping Michigan on Track:

A Blueprint for a Freer, More Prosperous State

By Lawrence W. Reed, published on May 6, 2002

New legislative opportunities will come with the fall elections for the Michigan House, Senate, and governorship. Read the Mackinac Center's policy recommendations for the next Legislature and governor below. … more

Keeping Michigan on Track

A Blueprint for Governor Engler and the 90th Legislature

By Lawrence W. Reed, published on Jan. 1, 1999

The close of the twentieth century finds Michigan in a position that seemed impossible barely a decade ago: record low unemployment, a thriving economy, growing educational opportunities, and a sense of accomplishment and high spirits. But much can be done to make Michigan an even better place to live and work.
This report's five sections offer the Governor and the Legislature 41 specific recommendations that will strengthen property rights protection, reform labor law to protect worker rights, improve education for Michigan children, spur economic growth and development, and enhance the state's transportation infrastructure. … more

Fixing the Roads: A Blueprint for Michigan Transportation Infrastructure Policy

By Dr. John C. Taylor, published on April 1, 1995

This comprehensive study is the only one available that documents Michigan's road needs, illuminates the diversion of hundreds of millions of Michigan road dollars to nonroad and non-Michigan use, demonstrates how Michigan can save over $170 million annually, and shows that a gas tax increase is not needed if funding diversions are stopped and modest savings measures are enacted. Several of its recommendations have been implemented. 40 pages. … more

Road Map For a Michigan Renaissance

By Lawrence W. Reed, published on Nov. 14, 1990

In the aftermath of the 1990 gubernatorial election, innovative proposals for a new incoming administration and legislature were needed. In a 20-point program, The Mackinac Center calls for a Michigan Grace Commission, welfare reform, trucking deregulation, privatization, repeal of the Prevailing Wage law, and specific tax and spending cuts. … more

Detroit Metropolitan Airport: A Case for Privatization

By John M. Kost, published on Oct. 1, 1988

The nation's first comprehensive proposal to privatize a commercial airport was inspired by Britain's successful 1987 effort to privatize eight airports, including London's Heathrow. If Detroit Metro were properly privatized, it would benefit county finances, air travelers, and area economic development. … more

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