Michigan Research Briefs

The series "Michigan Research Briefs" provides readers with a nonpartisan analysis of key policy topics facing Michigan today. The goal of these reports is to inform policy discussion throughout the state. The briefs do not represent original research, but rather aim to summarize the existing literature on the topic. When possible, the briefs combine findings from academic research with a description of comparable policies/issues in other states. Topics are selected to speak to important contemporary policy debates in Michigan. To ensure that the reports are factually correct, comprehensive and objective, we have each brief reviewed by at least two external experts prior to publication.

Five briefs have been released to date, available below. One remaining brief on the prison population and corrections expenditures is yet to be released later this fall:

Transportation Funding: Highways, Roads and Bridges This fifth brief in the series provides an overview of transporation funding for highways, roads and bridges, and offers information on possible policy options to modify that funding. Download the brief.

Economic Revitalization through College Scholarships: The Kalamazoo Promise This fourth brief in the series provides an overview of programs developed to spur economic growth through college scholarships and discusses the effects of such programs, with a particular focus on the Kalamazoo Promise. Note: On of Oct. 13, 2009 this report was revised with a corrected description of the Detroit College Promise. Download the brief.

Business Taxes This third brief examines potential reform of the business tax structure in Michigan. The brief describes the current Michigan Business Tax and other forms of business taxes, and analyzes each type of tax in terms of its advantages and disadvantages. The brief also situates Michigan's business taxes in both a historical and a national context. Download the brief. See the press release.

Regulation of the Individual Health Insurance Market This second brief examines potential reform of the individual health insurance market in Michigan. Attention is paid to how policy changes would affect both insurers and Michigan residents. Download the brief.

Smoke-Free Legislation This first brief examines a variety of policy issues related to smoke-free legislation including economic issues, public health issues, and questions of the role of government in the private market. Download the brief. Read the press release.

Quick List of Reports and Briefs

• Spring 2009 MPPS Key Findings Report

• Transportation Funding: Highways, Roads and Bridges
• Economic Revitalization through College Scholarships: The Kalamazoo Promise
• Business Taxes
• Regulation of the Individual Health Insurance Market
• Smoke-Free Legislation

• Reforming the System of Care: A Review of the Literature on Housing and Service Arrangements for Homeless Populations
• Survey of Michigan Residents on the Issue of Global Warming and Climate Policy Options: Key Findings Report
• Coming Together in Tough Economic Times: Workforce Development and Economic Development Move Closer Together in Michigan
• Michigan's Economic Transition: Toward a Knowledge Economy
• Detroit Area Study, 2001: Parks and Recreation
• Detroit Area Study, 2001: Public Services, Local Government, and Taxes
• The Homeless Population in Washtenaw County, Michigan
• Detroit Area Study, 2001: Travel and Transportation in Southeast Michigan
• Planning for Schools in Michigan
• Regional Planning in Michigan
• Growth Management in California Communities
• Policy Report on Privatization