2008 House Bill 6611 / Public Act 580

Subsidize manufacture of electric cars

Introduced in the House

Nov. 6, 2008

Introduced by Rep. Lee Gonzales (D-49)

To authorize a refundable Michigan Business Tax for makers of plug-in traction battery packs used in electric cars. “Refundable” means that the state will send a manufacturer a check for the amount that the credit exceeds the firm’s tax liability.

Referred to the Committee on Tax Policy

Dec. 4, 2008

Substitute offered by Rep. Steve Bieda (D-25)

To replace the previous version of the bill with one that bases the amount of the subsidies on the battery capacity of the units produced, and research and development expenses.

The substitute passed by voice vote

Amendment offered by Rep. Lee Gonzales (D-49)

The amendment passed by voice vote

Passed in the House 100 to 0 (details)

To authorize refundable Michigan Business Tax credit for makers of plug-in traction battery packs used in electric cars. Additional credits would be available for research and development expenses. “Refundable” means that the state will send a manufacturer a check for the amount that the credit exceeds the firm’s tax liability Altogether the bill authorizes some $500 million in subsidies for automakers over seven years.

Received in the Senate

Dec. 10, 2008

Referred to the Committee on Commerce and Tourism

Dec. 11, 2008

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the bill pass.

Dec. 19, 2008

Substitute offered

To replace the previous version of the bill with one that revises details of the proposed subsidies and lowers their overall size to around $300 million.

The substitute passed by voice vote

Passed in the Senate 31 to 3 (details)

To authorize refundable Michigan Business Tax credit for makers of plug-in traction battery packs used in electric cars. Additional credits would be available for research and development expenses. “Refundable” means that the state will send a manufacturer a check for the amount that the credit exceeds the firm’s tax liability Altogether the bill authorizes some $335 million in subsidies, including $100 million for the construction of a battery plant.

Received in the House

Dec. 19, 2008

To concur with the Senate-passed version of the bill, which authorizes some $300 million in subsidies.

Passed in the House 94 to 0 (details)

Signed by Gov. Jennifer Granholm

Dec. 31, 2008