In contrast, rather than continuing to grow a state corporate welfare empire, Gov. Snyder would mostly replace this with across-the-board business tax cuts. These are wrapped into a comprehensive tax system overhaul, including the repeal of a state income tax exemption for pension income.

The latter is a striking example of the governor not hesitating to challenge a politically powerful interest, senior citizens and the AARP. The governor's willingness to pursue this reform is nevertheless unfortunate, since it would be unnecessary if the state's political elites had the will to cut-back excessive government employee benefits.