FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                              May 19, 2025

LANSING, Mich. — 5/19/2025- State Rep. Steve Frisbie is happy to announce last week’s significant progress on bipartisan legislation designed to bolster Michigan’s aviation industry by removing sales and use taxes on aircraft fuel, infrastructure, and technology. Frisbie’s measures, House Bills 4119 and 4120, recently cleared the House Finance Committee with bipartisan support, marking a critical step toward enhancing the competitiveness of Michigan’s aviation sector.

“Aviation is vital for Calhoun County, particularly given our partnerships with Western Michigan University’s School of Aviation and the Battle Creek Executive Airport, as well as our state as a whole,” Frisbie said. “We’re currently the only state in the Midwest imposing a sales and use tax on aviation-related purchases, putting our communities at a distinct economic disadvantage. By passing this legislation, we’ll ensure that the next generation of pilots and aviation companies choose Michigan as their home.”

Frisbie, R-Battle Creek, stressed the direct benefits this legislation will bring to the local community, noting that Battle Creek’s economy is closely tied to the strength of its aviation sector. WMU’s School of Aviation, a national leader in aviation education, draws students from across the country, and the Battle Creek Executive Airport is an important hub for local and regional commerce, supporting hundreds of direct and indirect jobs.

“These bills aren’t just about cutting taxes—they’re about creating a sustainable future for our community,” Frisbie said. “When we remove these unnecessary barriers, we attract more business, more jobs, and greater opportunities for our local graduates right here at home.”

The bipartisan advancement of these bills highlights broad legislative recognition of aviation’s potential for economic growth across Michigan. Frisbie emphasized that maintaining competitive policies is key to ensuring aviation-related businesses and educational programs continue thriving in Calhoun County.

“With every aviation-related investment, we strengthen our local economy, support skilled jobs, and position our district as a leading center for aviation excellence,” Frisbie concluded. “I’m committed to delivering these crucial reforms for Battle Creek and all of Michigan.”

HBs 4119 and 4120 now advance for further consideration by the full House.

Rep. Steve Frisbie represents the 44th District, including the city of Battle Creek and parts of Calhoun County.

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