JANUARY 2009 Capitol Update
Dear Friends,
Beginning this month, I will be sending out my e-newsletter biweekly in order to keep you better informed of my activities in Lansing.
Historic Legislation Makes Michigan an Energy Leader
This week the Governor signed into law a plan that I sponsored to provide a potential $335 million in refundable tax credits in order to encourage companies to develop and manufacture advanced battery technologies in Michigan. The initiative passed with overwhelming bipartisan support and is the first of its kind in the United States.
The Governor signed this historic plan on Jan. 14 at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. This plan will strengthen the domestic auto industry and make Michigan a leader in producing high-tech batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles. It provides business tax credits for companies manufacturing advanced batteries such as the ones used in electric plug-in vehicles, and will make it easier for these vehicles to be made right here in Genesee County.
Bridge Project to Protect Michigan Jobs
I was pleased to see that the U.S. Department of Transportation gave the final environmental approval this week to the Detroit River International Crossing, which will build a second bridge over the Detroit River. The Detroit-Windsor crossing is our nation's most important border crossing, and with nearly 225,000 Michigan jobs dependent on Canadian trade, we cannot allow Michigan's economic health to rest on the back of a single 80-year-old privately owned bridge. I'm very excited that this project is moving forward.
Michigan's Economic Forecast
On January 9, the Consensus Revenue Estimating Conference took place with forecasts on Michigan's economic future. As I am sure you are aware, the nationwide recession has hit Michigan hard and we are facing a budget shortfall. My main priority is to make sure any cuts we make to balance the budget will not threaten education, health care, public safety, and most importantly, our ability to create more jobs. I pledge that I will work tirelessly to resolve this budget shortfall and ensure Michigan never faces a crisis like this again.
Swearing-In Ceremony of the 95th Legislature
On January 14, friends and family gathered in Lansing for the Ceremonial Swearing-in of the 95th Legislature. Opening day included photo opportunities, legislative seat selections and voting for a Speaker of the House. It was an exciting time for all of those involved! If you have any suggestions for items in the e-newsletter, please e-mail me at leegonzales@house.mi.gov. Please click on the links above to get more news about my activities here in Lansing. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Lee Gonzales
State Representative District 49
