By La’Niya Jones
A brand-new legislation has been signed by Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, Speaker of the House Joe Tate, and members of the Michigan Legislature. The new law is aimed at affordable housing, revitalization of communities, and supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs.
“Today, Michigan is taking a step forward to grow our economy,” Gov. Whitmer said in a press release.” “Invest in our communities, and build a bright future.” That is certainly what this new legislation does.
There will be an investment of $150 million in the Housing and Community Development Fund, which will be used to build and refurbish houses throughout the state, mostly in downtown areas. This money will help Michigan build or refurbish 2,000 houses, house 6,000 Michiganders, and create 1,600 construction jobs. This investment will also be used to fund the Missing Middle Housing Program. This program is designed to help middle-class families get affordable housing.
$100 million will go to Revitalization and Placemaking Grants, which will help turn underutilized places and spaces into places for people to enjoy many different activities. $75 million will also go toward the removal of blight.
Blight removal is the process of building or renovating places for a specific use instead of just bulldozing them or leaving them there unused. This will help improve the health, safety, and welfare of communities.
$75 million will go to the Michigan SmartZones Program, which helps the development of technology and business creation. It also promotes resourceful collaboration within the community.
This legislation will also make it easier for people to get jobs and get to their jobs by removing barriers such as childcare, transportation, and other obstacles, with $25 million going to apprenticeships. Law enforcement will also be funded for better and different training to keep communities safe.
Escanaba Paper Mill will receive $200 million to help expand and retain jobs in the Upper Peninsula. The project will support many high-paying jobs and help the whole Michigan community.
“This historic investment will allow us to retain jobs, make our economy more competitive, and combat climate change all at the same time,” said Jenn Hill, D-Marquette, 109th State House Representative.
Everyone that was a part of this discussion is excited and happy for these changes to take place and make Michigan better for the communities.
“These investments are just the beginning of creating a better future for all Michiganders,” said Senate Appropriations Chair Sarah Anthony. “And I look forward to continue working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to get things done for Michigan.”
This is only the beginning; many more things will continue to help Michigan grow.