The Berrien County Board of Commissioners on Thursday heard a legislative update from its liaison in Lansing.

Consultant Michael Krombeen told commissioners with the primaries now over, the attention of lawmakers has shifted to November, meaning probably not a lot will get done when they reconvene in September. He does see momentum in favor of legislation that would give tax breaks to large data centers. It got delayed earlier this year, despite broad support.

“Part of the hiccup there has been environmental groups that have raised concerns about electric use and water use,” Krombeen said. “It sounds like they’re trying to work through some guardrails and protections for local ratepayers, so guarantees that if you’re a residential customer that your rates can’t go up because of the usage at the commercial side. Some conversations about what to do on the water issue and how that can potentially be mitigated.”

Krombeen said short-term rental legislation also remains a priority. Action could take place on that at any time.

Also, Krombeen predicted the Legislature will make some adjustments to the minimum wage law reinstated by the Michigan Supreme Court this summer. He’s not expecting major changes, but possibly a “softening of the edges” on paid sick leave and tipped worker wage rules.

Krombeen said if Democrats lose their majority in the House in November, we can expect to see them push through several bills in the waning months of the year before Republicans take over.