Governor Whitmer Focuses on Economy, Education in State of the State Address
'The state of our State is strong and ready to go.' Governor Gretchen Whitmer
Zachariah Wheaton
Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered the first State of the State Address of her new term Wednesday night calling for lawmakers to approve a whole host of items on her administrations agenda.
State of the State 2023 Governor Gretchen Whitmer stands with Lieutenant-Governor Garlin Gilchrist (back), first Black Speaker, Joe Tate (right), and first woman Majority Leader, Winnie Brinks (left)
It was a State of the State unlike any for Governor Whitmer so far. Her party holds control of the Michigan House and Senate. That means the majority of her audience in the joint session of the State Legislature Wednesday can actually turn her proposals into bills that will become law.
Governor Whitmer announced proposals that include plans to lower costs for families and boost the state's economy. She also unveiled plans to repeal the 1931 Abortion Ban and enact stricter gun laws for Michiganders.
State of the State 2023 Governor Gretchen Whitmer speaks to joint session of Michigan Legislature at State of the State Address
She began the State of the State Address by asking lawmakers to repeal the retirement tax and reinstate the Working Family Tax Credit.
"These two tax changes will right a wrong inflicted on Michiganders 12 years ago," Governor Whitmer explains. "In 2011, seniors and hardworking families had the rug ripped out from under them when the retirement tax was enacted and the Working Families Tax Credit was gutted. It was wrong. Now, we can make it right."
She proposed plans to give tuition free associate degrees to anyone above the age of 21 as well as give every elementary through high school students a tutor. She also called for free Pre-K.
State of the State 2023 Governor Gretchen Whitmer gives fifth State of the State Address
"The investment will ensure children arrive at Kindergarten ready to learn and saves their families upwards of $10,000 a year," Governor Whitmer claims.
She also called for a repeal of the 1931 Abortion Ban and expanding civil rights protections
"States with extreme laws are losing talent and investment because bigotry is bad for business," Governor Whitmer states. "We should build on our reputation as a welcoming beacon of opportunity where anyone can succeed."
Lastly, she touched on gun laws. She wants to enact universal background checks, safe storage laws and red flag laws. She says Michigan has to step up and make some tough decisions in order to create a successful and safe economy for businesses and children.
"As the world grapples with big challenges and asks itself tough questions, our responsibility as Michiganders is to roll up our sleeves and do the work," Governor Whitmer says.