Democratic House Speaker Joe Tate of Detroit presided over an empty House chamber before adjourning Wednesday.
The end of this legislative term is unlikely to be productive, with boycotts staged by House Republicans, Democratic State Rep. Karen Whitsett, and State Sen. Sylvia Santana.
Santana, who represents Detroit, told Local 4 in a statement, “Every election cycle, Democrats seek votes from urban areas, and the Black community consistently delivers. Yet, once in power, Democrats often neglect our concerns.”
She cited issues such as water affordability, the Public Safety Trust Fund, rehabilitative redemption, expansion of the prison ombudsmen, and Black maternal health.
Whitsett, who also represents Detroit, could not be reached for comment by Local 4.
Democrats in the Senate and House can’t pass any legislation along party lines with their members absent.
The Democratic governing trifecta is set to end this term, so the window for Democrats to move on any remaining priorities is closing.
House Republicans will be in the majority next year. They’re accusing Democrats of ignoring their concerns.
Now, they’re refusing to attend the session.
Republicans would like to address tipped wages, earned sick time, and road funding before the legislative term ends.
“Our voice has been shut out for almost two years, and I think this is an opportunity for the Republicans to let the sunshine in on and what is happening in the House of Representatives here in Michigan, and that is the voices of the people we represent are not being heard,” said Republican State Rep. Ann Bollin, who district includes parts of Livingston and Oakland counties.
Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024, is the final day of the House calendar. The Senate is set to meet Monday for the last time.