Gov. Rick Snyder prepares to address Michigan during 'State of the State' tonight
Preparations are under way for Lansing's 'biggest night of the year' as Gov. Rick Snyder prepared to give his projections for Michigan in his State of the State address at 7 p.m.
Many have wish lists for what Snyder will address in his speech, including public safety, jobs, education and welfare reform.
Melanie Maxwell | AnnArbor.com
In his 2011 State of the State address, Snyder presented a plan for economic reform and the memorable statement, "Job One is jobs," as he called for job-creation initiatives.
Tonight, employment is still at the forefront of peoples minds. In a recent Q&A Snyder told AnnArbor.com that Michigan has approximately 70,000 unfilled job openings, and Snyder will likely discuss these opportunities tonight.
Other proposals for Snyder's attention abound including lowering taxes on business equipment, investments in education and welfare reform. Some hope Snyder will reinstate taxes that helped provide benefits to welfare programs.
"Michigan has pulled the rug out from under our struggling citizens," said Eric Knott of Michigan Citizen Action, as reported in a previous article. "We call on the governor to begin restoring these cuts that are hurting our families."
Check back tonight for coverage of the address from AnnArbor.com reporters Nathan Bomey and Ryan Stanton.
Other related coverage:
Detroit Free Press: In state of the state address, Rick Snyder to call for ethics reform, improved customer service
MLive.com: Bing: State of relationship with Snyder is strong, but Detroit would welcome additional
Comments
John Q
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 10:23 p.m.
Another tax hike for the middle class Governor Snyder? I'm working on my state taxes for 2011 and ticking off all the areas where my tax liability will be going up next year thanks to Snyder and the Lansing Republicans. My taxes will be going up so Snyder can give a big tax break to businesses. I'm waiting for the next round of tax increases and fee hikes that Snyder is going to slam on the middle and working class to finance the next round of tax cuts for businesses.
cinnabar7071
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 8:38 p.m.
Whats with all the talk about Ricks wealthy buddies? Is that jealousy I smell?
Ron Granger
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 8:16 p.m.
I assume, since it is Snyder, any working class people who want to watch will be forced to pay some sort of extra tax or fee. Of course the fee would go to "revitalizing" his business buddies.