CONTACT: Tim Minotas, tim.minotas@sierraclub.org, (248) 961-9610
Lansing, MI -- Today, Governor Gretchen delivered her fourth State of the State address, highlighting past accomplishments, her vision, and new initiatives to protect and put Michiganders first.
At the Detroit Diesel powertrain factory, Governor Whitmer put forward five new proposals to grow Michigan’s economy, including a $2,500 electric vehicle rebate that will help lower the costs of EVs in Michigan. She also took the time to call for investments in Michigan’s infrastructure after decades of neglect. Since taking office, Governor Whitmer has invested over $2 billion in water infrastructure supporting over 30,000 jobs.
In response to the governor’s speech, Sierra Club released the following statements:
"Michigan is the birthplace of the automotive industry. The vision for an all-electric future laid out tonight by Governor Whitmer represents an opportunity for Michigan to continue its leadership in the automotive industry and pave the way into a clean transportation future that saves consumers money, spurs economic growth, innovation, job creation, and protects public health. However, Michigan also needs to think more broadly to make the transportation system work for all residents. Providing access to more affordable transportation modes such as public transportation, walking, and biking should be a key goal for the future clean transportation system. We look forward to continuing our work with the Governor and her team in this important space." - Tim Minotas, Legislative and Political Coordinator for the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter
"Governor Whitmer delivered on her promise to clean up our water, and we must continue this investment in years to come. It is fiscally responsible to fix infrastructure before the costs of repair skyrocket, and Governor Whitmer is making the right choice by pushing for investments." - Christy McGillivray, Legislative and Political Director for the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter
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The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 4 million members and supporters nationwide and over 150,000 in Michigan. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org/Michigan.