URGENT: Take Action Today To Support Revenue

Please call, email or fax your own representative and the representatives listed below. The state House is considering revenue right now! This is the only way to undo the damage that will be done by the devastating budget cuts passed last week. Act now!

-- Please call the representatives below TODAY and urge them to vote to support revenue enhancements; a bill with some revenue enhancements is scheduled to go to the floor today.

-- The revenue enhancements being presented are not enough; representatives should be encouraged to continue to work on additional revenue enhancements. If they are supportive, thank them!

-- Tell them their votes are being watched closely. Support for these measures reinforces their commitment to values of social and economic justice. Those who oppose these revenue enhancements must know that other political measures are being prepared to deal with representatives who are not supporting the needs of the state's children, community health and public safety.

WHIP LIST:

Mark Corriveau -- 20th District -- Tel 877-208-4737 -- marccorriveau@house.mi.gov

Lee Gonzales -- 49th District -- 800-354-6849  -- leegonzales@house.mi.gov

Dan Scripps -- 101st District -- Tel 888-642-4101 -- DanScripps@house.mi.gov

A call to your own representative cannot hurt and may help if they are a Democrat; they may need the encouragement to stay the course.

SAMPLE LETTER TEXT FOR EMAIL/FAXES:

    October 6, 2009

    The Honorable Representative [Name Here]
    Michigan State Legislature
    Lansing, MI 48909

    RE:  Michigan State Budget

    Dear Representative [Name Here]:

    Please show your spine by voting to support revenue enhancements.

    In doing so you’ll be voting for the interests of your constituents – especially those most vulnerable who need your help -- and not special interest or minority groups.

    At a minimum, these enhancements should include:

          o 15 percent reduction in Michigan Business Tax credits, equal to $116.1 million;
          o Raising the state’s other tobacco products tax by $41 million;
          o An extended hours liquor license fee to raise $13.7 million;
          o Freezing some personal exemptions to the income tax to save $55 million;
          o Raising the earned income tax credit by less than the scheduled level to save $120 million.

    One of your colleagues says “there's no money” for revenue enhancements. This isn't true; the only thing lacking is political will. We, the citizens of Michigan, have that will; we don't want to sacrifice our children's education, community health or public safety for a lack of will in the legislature.

    It takes integrity and personal grit to demonstrate backbone under pressure from the opposition and at times, even members of your own caucus in order to do the right thing by your constituents and your state. Show us what you’ve got.

    With sincere thanks,

    Your Name Here