House Appropriations Chair Ann Bollin today released the following statement about the House’s approach to workforce development in the budget approved this week:

“The House budget invests in solutions that will truly grow Michigan’s workforce and strengthen our economy. We committed $3.4 billion to fixing roads and bridges, an investment that, according to Governor Whitmer’s own Department of Transportation, will support up to 21,000 additional jobs across our state. These are good-paying jobs that can’t be outsourced or sent overseas.

“We also created a new $20 million workforce training fund to expand skilled trades education, certification programs, and upskilling opportunities. These grants will directly support Michigan businesses that are struggling to find qualified workers – connecting people with the skills they need to step into high-demand careers.

“On top of that, we included a new research and development tax credit to encourage businesses to invest in Michigan’s future and keep jobs here at home. The federal government is committed to bringing good jobs back to America, and along with Governor Whitmer, I want those jobs in Michigan.

“These investments are a far better use of taxpayer dollars than the failed SOAR program, which has squandered billions on corporations that break promises and lay off Michigan workers. We remain focused on creating opportunities for workers, but the corporate handouts and earmarks for special interests with political connections don’t benefit Michigan taxpayers. They don’t belong in our budget.”