Michigan lawmakers working to stop Governor from using taxpayer money for new public bridge

DETROIT (WXYZ) - With word that Governor Rick Snyder will soon announce an agreement with Canadian government officials on a new bridge, Michigan lawmakers are rapidly working on legislation that would prevent taxpayer money from being used on the project without their approval.

No one from Governor Snyder's office will confirm or comment on the deal that is expected to be announced Friday.

Many lawmakers in Lansing believe Snyder could attempt to use the Michigan Strategic Fund to get a deal done.

On Wednesday, the House Appropriations Committee approved a supplemental budget amendment, introduced by Rep. Dave Agema, a Republican from Grandville, that would stop Governor Snyder from using taxpayer money in the fund without legislative approval.

The Morouns, who own the Ambassador Bridge, have been locked in a bitter battle with the Governor and supporters of a new bridge that would compete with their span across the Detroit River.

Chrysler CEO, Sergio Marchionne, has expressed the automaker’s strong support for a new international crossing at the Detroit-Windsor border.

“This new bridge is vital to the economic well-being of Michigan, and the future of our company and many other Michigan businesses," said Marchionne.

Chrysler executives tell 7 Action News that delays at the border add cost to each of of their vehicles.