DETROIT (AP) — A lawyer is warning that local governments in Michigan could face a financial calamity if forced to repay surplus cash from the sale of tax-foreclosed properties. The Michigan Supreme Court heard arguments Thursday over a law that allows treasurers to keep any surplus after overdue property taxes are paid from a property sale. Christina Martin, an attorney for two people in Oakland County, calls it "stealing." But John Bursch, arguing for Oakland County, says lawmakers can always change the law.
The Associated Press is one of the largest and most trusted sources of independent newsgathering, supplying a steady stream of news to its members, international subscribers and commercial customers. AP is neither privately owned nor government-funded; instead, it's a not-for-profit news cooperative owned by its American newspaper and broadcast members.