Advocacy News – Dec. 14, 2023
What’s happening: Earlier today, the Growing Michigan Together Council (GMTC) released its final recommendations on Michigan’s next steps to tackle the state’s declining population, which ranks 49th for slowest growth rate among the 50 states.
In May, Governor Whitmer created the GMTC to put forth recommendations on how the state reimagines our education system, our infrastructure and how to attract and retain the talent the state needs to generate a thriving economy. Michiganders are aware of the struggles we face as a state, and we should all be appreciative of the time and effort put in by council members to further the debate regarding possible policy options.
The three recommendations: The final report contains three overarching recommendations with a shared sentiment focused on an array of economic strategy, K-12 and secondary education and community revitalization recommendations. The outlined suggestions include developing an economic growth “innovation hub” plan, incentivizing efforts to attract and retain young talent, reimagining the state’s teaching and school day structures, “future-proofing” our state’s roads and developing regional transit systems, and increasing Michigan’s affordable housing stock.
How do we fund these ideas? The goals set forth in the report are laudatory, unfortunately, “how” the state implements the recommendations was not stated. Funding mechanisms and structural policy reforms necessary to accomplish the recommendations are of significant concern and will need to be thoroughly analyzed.
What we’re saying: The Chamber agrees that we need to work together to build a Michigan that is growing and flourishing. It’s especially key to improve performance within our education and workforce development systems and to address our crumbling infrastructure; however, the Council’s report is light on important details, including costs and funding, and demands further dialogue and discussion to ensure solutions are affordable and can deliver on the promises. We cannot expect to grow Michigan’s population without stable and thriving employers generating good-paying jobs and opportunities. Ensuring our Great Lakes State is home to a favorable business climate and resilient economy must be at the heart of public debate as we work to create a stronger Michigan for all.
Go deeper: Click here to read the full report. Check out our recent guest viewpoint in the Detroit News about how businesses must be an instrumental part of any solution to growing Michigan’s population.
For questions or more information, please contact Leah Robinson at lrobinson@michamber.com.