June 15, 2005

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today toured the new C.S. Mott Engineering & Science Center for Fuel Cell Systems & Powertrain Integration at Kettering University and reiterated her call for Republican lawmakers to support the Jobs for Michigan Fund she has proposed to reshape Michigan’s 21st century economy.

“Michigan’s economy demands bold action,” Granholm said.  “The Jobs for Michigan Fund will ensure our economic greatness in the 21st century by making a bold investment that will diversify our economy, keep our kids in Michigan, and create 72,000 jobs, all without raising taxes.”

Granholm said the Jobs for Michigan Fund will invest $2 billion in competitive-edge technologies where Michigan already has an advantage:  the life sciences, alternative energy, advanced automotive, and homeland security sectors.  The fund will help generate growth in these industries, speeding up research and development and helping to commercialize new products.

During her tour of the new facility, Granholm talked with Kettering President Dr. James John and top researchers from around the country about the economic and technological potential of fuel cell development.  The Governor applauded Kettering and its community partners for providing critical support for new technology companies.

“In an increasingly competitive economy, we must build on our strengths as a state,” said Granholm.  “People in Flint know a thing or two about building engines.  If we are willing to take action now, we can ensure the technology that powers tomorrow’s car is developed and built in Michigan.”

To ensure that investments through the Jobs for Michigan Fund are made by experts, not bureaucrats, the fund will be outside the realm of politicking and audited by a transparent, independent source.  Unlike a counter proposal offered by Senate Republicans, the Granholm
Administration has proposed legislation that specifically prohibits the Jobs for Michigan Fund from levying or raising any taxes.

“This is a critical investment in Michigan’s future,” Granholm said.  “Today, Michigan’s biggest export is our talent and our young people.  Tomorrow, through this fund, we’ll create jobs that won’t be outsourced overseas and that will encourage young people to make Michigan their home in the 21st century.”
 
Granholm said the Republican-controlled Legislature can send a message to the world that Michigan is “open for business” by quickly passing several essential items of business, particularly legislation that would allow voters to approve the Jobs for Michigan Fund this November.

The Jobs For Michigan Fund is one part of the Governor’s five-part economic plan.  Granholm’s plan also includes growing Michigan’s economy by reforming business taxes so major job providers will keep jobs in Michigan; training thousands of unemployed workers for in-demand jobs; creating thousands of jobs today by accelerating infrastructure projects; and, making college accessible and affordable to all through a new Merit Scholarship.