State Representative Bill G. Schuette on Wednesday voted for a series of bills that will lower costs for families and local job providers.

House Bills 5872-79 would eliminate the state property tax as well as personal property taxes and provide a mandatory rollback on utility rates. In total, the reforms would return nearly $5 billion to taxpayers statewide. When combining recently passed energy plans with the proposals advanced this week, an average Michigan family would save nearly $1,400 every year through actions taken by Schuette and House Republicans.

“We are taking serious steps to address affordability concerns here in Michigan,” said Schuette, of Midland. “Through these plans, it will be easier for families to buy and stay in their homes. It will be less stressful for people in our communities who are struggling to keep up with energy bills and other costs. A small business owner who wants to grow and hire more Michigan workers will have more freedom to do so. Instead of growing government through unsustainable taxes and fees, we’re putting more money back in people’s pockets so life is more affordable.”

One bill in the package eliminates the state’s real estate transfer tax, an often hidden and costly burden that arises when a deed or property is transferred from one owner to another. This transfer tax often adds to the cost for buyers, including many people looking to buy their first home, as it can get baked into a higher listing price. It also can make people, including seniors living on fixed incomes, more reluctant to sell.

Michigan’s real estate transfer tax is $3.75 per $500 of the sale price for property. For a home purchased for $300,000, the plan would save a new homeowner $2,250.

The plans also get rid of remaining personal property taxes for job providers. These taxes on equipment like machinery, computers, and other things operate as a counterproductive policy for growth for small businesses and create higher prices for consumers.

HBs 5872-79 now move to the Senate for consideration.