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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 24, 2022
Coalition: Passage of $4.7 Billion Investment Package will Set Michigan on a Path to Prosperity and Growth
Lansing – Michigan lawmakers struck a bipartisan deal today that invests approximately $4.7 billion across several of the core pillars detailed in the Michigan Prosperity Roadmap, a comprehensive plan to allocate the state’s federal American Rescue Plan funds developed by the Coalition for a Strong and Prosperous Michigan.
The investment package was approved by both the House and the Senate today and includes funding for water infrastructure, roads and bridges, broadband internet, housing assistance and more. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signaled her support for the package and is expected to sign the bills when they arrive at her desk.
The transformational investments laid out in this funding package will address some of our state’s most urgent needs including aging water infrastructure, housing and broadband access. Through this legislation, Michigan is building a strong foundation that will position our state for long-term growth and prosperity.
Sen. Jim Stamas (R-Midland) and Rep. Thomas Albert (R-Lowell), in conjunction with the Governor and the State Budget Office, should be applauded for their efforts to find common ground on investments that will maximize these one-time dollars and leverage other resources, while amplifying and sustaining future returns. Their leadership is a sign of their commitment to making Michigan a magnet for talent, reviving and strengthening the economy now and into the future, and supporting thriving communities that can be enjoyed by all.
About $2.5 billion of the $4.7 billion within the investment package approved by the Legislature today aligns with the Coalition’s bold vision for Michigan’s future. It builds upon the work to invest in the state’s economic future at the end of last year and sets the stage to continue conversations on how to strategically invest the state’s remaining ARP funds. With over $2.5 billion in ARP funding left to invest, the Coalition for a Strong and Prosperous Michigan remains committed to continue working with legislators and Gov. Whitmer to equitably invest in the key areas of housing, economic development, public safety and job training in a way that provides shared prosperity for all.
We congratulate the legislature and Gov. Whitmer on coming together in a bipartisan manner to invest in Michigan’s future. Let us celebrate today’s success but keep an eye on the future and build on this momentum and ensure all available funding is leveraged for its fullest potential. Our coalition stands ready to be a resource and sounding board to ensure the job gets done.
The Coalition for a Strong and Prosperous Michigan was formed in the fall of last year, bringing together more than 60 organizations representing the business community, local elected leaders and statewide associations to create a united plan for leveraging the state’s ARP funding in the most strategic way possible. The coalition’s goal was to develop a spending plan that capitalizes on the economic value of thriving communities, advances equity, builds community wealth, supports entrepreneurship, prioritizes the need for talent, and spurs business development.
The group’s plan, titled the Michigan Prosperity Roadmap, recommends that state leaders use Michigan’s ARP dollars in five key areas: Infrastructure, Fiscal Health, Thriving Communities, Strong Economy, and Public Health and Safety.
Learn more about the Michigan Road Map and view the coalition’s ARP Investment Tracker at www.MiRoadmap.com.