Bill to create e-bike tax credits passed House Friday

State Rep. Ken Borton on Friday spoke out against a bill to use taxpayer dollars to help the wealthy buy e-bikes. The plan passed the House with only Democrat support.

“It’s absurd that Democrats are considering using taxpayer dollars to help their wealthy friends buy e-bikes just after a record number of Michigan taxpayers just rejected the liberal agenda and embraced common-sense conservative fiscal responsibility,” said Borton, R-Gaylord. “Elected officials should be listening to everyday people and ensuring our focus is on the economic issues that clearly matter most right now.”

House Bill 4491 would create the Michigan E-Bike Transportation Incentive Program. Qualified residents would be eligible to receive a tax credit worth up to 90% of the cost of a new e-bike. E-bikes purchased through the program must not exceed $8,000, have a minimum 1-year warranty, and have certain fire and electric safety certifications.

“Let’s not forget who will and won’t be purchasing these e-bikes; unless they’ve come up with a four-seat tandem bike with car seat capabilities, I’ll tell you it definitely won’t be working families,” Borton said. “Their plan would force those same working families to watch as their tax dollars – which they could’ve spent on groceries or the energy bill – are used to purchase an e-bike which will probably end up getting parked in the back of a garage for the duration of the Michigan winter.”

The state budget passed in the summer includes $2.95 million to fund the program. The plan now moves to the Senate for further consideration.

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