January 13, 2006

Governor Says Work Already Under Way to Diversify Economy and Maintain Manufacturing Edge

LANSING – In her weekly radio address, Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today said that while automakers are exhibiting their latest designs at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, Michigan is showcasing its dedication to remain at the center of the auto industry and remain a manufacturing powerhouse for decades to come.
 
“The Auto Show in Detroit is more than a showcase for concept cars,” Granholm said.  “It’s also a showcase for Michigan, for our Michigan manufacturers, and for the fact that we are, without a doubt, the global center of the auto industry.”
 
The Granholm administration is working to implement a comprehensive plan that will move Michigan’s economy forward by investing in emerging high-tech industries and maintaining the state’s manufacturing edge.
 
The plan includes:

•  signing targeted tax cuts into law that will help employers like Delphi and Visteon keep jobs in Michigan;

•  establishing the $2 billion 21st Century Jobs Fund to maintain Michigan’s position as the automotive capital of the world by investing in alternative energy and advanced manufacturing businesses; and

•  using the 21st Century Jobs Fund to also build on the current strengths in the auto industry, such as the micro-technology used to develop vehicle airbags.

“Even after the crowds at Cobo Hall subside, the eyes of the world will still be on Michigan; they’ll be looking to see what the next great Michigan innovation will be,” Granholm said.  “Whatever form that innovation takes, it will be a source of Michigan pride – and we can all be proud that we’re investing in our economic future today.”

The Governor’s weekly radio address is released each Friday at 10:00 a.m. and may be heard on broadcast stations across that state through an affiliation with the Michigan Association of Broadcasters.  The address will also be available on the Governor’s Website on Mondays as a podcast for general distribution to personal MP3 players and home computers.

Broadcasters Note: Governor Granholm’s radio address can be accessed through Sunday evening exclusively through the Members Only page of the Michigan Association of Broadcasters website. 

Publishers Note: The text of today’s address is attached.

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