LANSING –State Representative Robert Dean (D-Grand Rapids)today praised the driving message behind the State of the State address, which outlined plans to rebuild Michigan by diversifying our economy, expanding our stake in the rapidly growing field of renewable energy, offering significant tax incentives for emerging businesses and creating thousands of new jobs for our workers.
"Residents want an end to partisan politics, and they want their elected officials to work together to find bold solutions to the problems that have plagued us for too long," Dean said. "While Michigan is facing tough economic times, I know that we can create a brighter future by opening the doors of higher education to all students, fighting foreclosures and creating the good-paying jobs our residents need."
The State of the State address outlined a bold plan to rejuvenate Michigan's economy, create good-paying jobs and protect our residents' special quality of life. The House has already introduced and/or passed several packages that will make that vision a reality, including:
- Securing the state's place as a powerhouse of alternative energy by creating a Renewable Portfolio Standard, which requires that 10 percent of annual electricity sales come from renewable energy sources by 2015.
- Creating more good-paying jobs for our workers and retraining those who have lost their jobs to outsourcing and downsizing for the jobs of the 21st century global economy.
- Fighting the epidemic of foreclosures by establishing aggressive programs to protect at-risk homeowners from losing their homes.
- Strengthening education to give our students the tools they need to compete in the 21st century global economy.
- Ending the absolute immunity enjoyed by the big drug companies in Michigan and allowing consumers to hold big drug companies accountable when dangerous drugs such as Vioxx harm or kill.
"Michigan is well-positioned to be a leader in the 21st century global economy," Dean said. "Michigan's workers are the best in the world, and our state must act now to attract emerging industries to our communities and create good-paying jobs. In 2008, I call on the Senate to work with us to move Michigan forward."