Lansing, MI – The 102nd Michigan Legislature officially adjourned this week, bringing an end to the Democratic trifecta in the state government and ushering in a new House majority under Republican leadership. With the gavel’s final strike in the Senate chamber on Monday and the House chamber the following day, the transition marks a shift in legislative priorities for Michigan’s lawmakers.
As the 103rd Legislature prepares to take office on January 1 and hold its ceremonial swearing-in on January 8, both parties are already setting the stage for the upcoming session. Republicans, now in control of the House, are focused on issues they believe will benefit Michigan residents, such as reducing costs, enhancing community safety, and addressing labor concerns, particularly with tipped wages and earned sick time.
Incoming Republican House Majority Floor Leader Bryan Posthumus emphasized the GOP’s commitment to addressing issues affecting the state’s working families. “Our priorities are clear—cutting costs, improving safety, and tackling the tipped wage and earned sick time issues that we believe are crucial for the wellbeing of Michigan’s workers,” Posthumus said. The Republican Party had previously walked out of a House session in mid-December in protest of the lack of action on these issues, and they are expected to push for immediate attention to these bills as their first orders of business in the new year.
In contrast, the Democratic minority, led by John Fitzgerald, plans to continue advocating for legislation aimed at improving the lives of Michigan residents. Fitzgerald pointed to ongoing priorities, including reforms in guardianship, education, and cost reduction for working families. “There are still important bills that Michiganders want to see come to fruition, and we will continue working to advance those in the 103rd Legislature,” Fitzgerald stated.
Though the Republicans now hold a six-seat majority in the House, both sides agree that bipartisanship will be crucial for achieving progress in a divided government. Posthumus expressed a willingness to work across the aisle with Democratic lawmakers. “We are committed to reaching across the aisle, having conversations, and working together for the benefit of our neighbors across the state,” he said.
Similarly, Fitzgerald underscored the importance of cooperation between the parties to avoid gridlock. “In a divided government, if both sides aren’t willing to negotiate in good faith, we risk getting stuck in gridlock. We must work together for the good of Michigan,” Fitzgerald explained.
As the state prepares for the 103rd Legislature’s swearing-in, attention will soon turn to the critical issues that lawmakers will tackle in 2025. The new session promises to be a pivotal moment for Michigan’s future, with both parties facing the challenge of balancing competing priorities while addressing the needs of the state’s residents.
