Battle Creek Times

House Republicans in Michigan have introduced a set of six bills aimed at limiting the use of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria in state financial and education systems. The legislation seeks to ensure that investment decisions for taxpayer and retirement funds are based on financial performance rather than social or political factors.

Representative Ann Bollin (R-Brighton Township), who is sponsoring one of the bills, stated: “Taxpayer and retirement funds should be invested to achieve the best possible financial return. This plan ensures our state’s resources are invested responsibly and based on merit and results. Michigan’s financial decisions should serve people, not politics.”

The legislative package includes House Bill 5237, which would ban the investment of state retirement funds in ESG initiatives. Other bills—sponsored by Representatives Jerry Neyer, Luke Meerman, Sarah Lightner, Cam Cavitt, and Tim Kelly—would prohibit banks from restricting services to farmers based on environmental or political reasons, prevent companies contracting with the state from boycotting certain industries for political purposes, and require accrediting agencies to consider non-academic factors in college accreditation.

Sarah Lightner (R-Springport), a co-sponsor of one bill, emphasized support for rural communities: “Our farmers work hard every day to feed Michigan families and support our economy. They should have reliable access to banking and credit services without being judged by political or environmental standards. These bills make sure their livelihoods are protected.”

Cam Cavitt (R-Cheboygan) addressed fairness in state contracts: “Companies that partner with the state should be evaluated on the quality of their work and their ability to deliver results. My goal is to ensure businesses are treated equally and that government contracts are always awarded based on performance and never politics.”

Bollin noted growing concerns about ESG policies among Michigan residents: “Whether in the classroom, the boardroom, or the field, decisions should be guided by what benefits Michigan families and communities. This plan ensures fairness, protects free enterprise, and keeps public institutions focused on their true purpose, looking out for our pecuniary interests.”

The bills—numbered 5237 through 5242—have been referred to the House Economic Competitiveness Committee for further consideration.