Rick Snyder in State of Michigan Archives
On Budget & Economy:
Government sets stage for business success
We have created over 540,000 private sector jobs, we rank number one in the Great Lakes States, number six in the nation and to put that number in perspective for you, that is more than the populations of Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights,
Marquette, Traverse City and Muskegon combined; that's how many jobs we created. We as government don't create the jobs, we create the environment for success.
Source: 2018 Michigan State of the State address
Jan 23, 2018
On Drugs:
Enforce prescription law, but Good Samaritans get treatment
A problem area we have is Opioid Abuse. Since 2009, we have seen a doubling of heroin overdoses; that is unacceptable. We need to do better. I want to thank the Legislature for passing Good Samaritan legislation that encourages people to seek help for
themselves or others without fear of prosecution.We are making an investment in Michigan's automated prescription system, which will make a big difference in preventing drug diversion, whether it be prescribers, pharmacies,
or at the patient level. MSP has launched an angel program at their Gaylord post. Literally, people can now come to the Gaylord post and ask for help. MSP, the Michigan State Police, will actually help them get treatment.
That is the kind of outreach we should have. We are going to expand that program.
Source: 2017 Michigan State of the State address
Jan 17, 2017
On Education:
CCSTEP: capital equipment for training in community colleges
We should be really proud of CCSTEP. It was about providing capital equipment to our community colleges to upgrade their career tech education programs. So if you're an auto technician looking to do auto repair you didn't go on 10 year-old equipment,
you're using the same equipment you're going to walk on the job and use. If you're doing machining the same thing. It was an outstanding investment that we helped 18 community colleges. I went around and toured a number of these community colleges.
The results are outstanding. Places like Bay College are doing emergency medical technician.One of the most exciting programs I heard of was at Washtenaw Community College at the Auto Show. They are literally doing mobility technicians to
understand how to do lidar vision systems, all these new systems that are going to be going on vehicles. It's cutting edge. That's the kind of attitude we need to bring to career connectedness and we are going to invest more in programs like this.
Source: 2017 Michigan State of the State address
Jan 17, 2017
On Energy & Oil:
Protect our environment while meeting our energy needs
One of the big accomplishments this last year was energy legislation. Some of us even pulled an all-nighter on that one, but it was worth it because it's going to achieve three outcomes.
It's going to help protect our environment, it's going to help us meet our energy needs, and it's going to save Michiganders money.
Source: 2017 Michigan State of the State address
Jan 17, 2017
On Environment:
Pure Michigan: promote tourism like U.P. and brewery trail
Tourism: thanks to Pure Michigan we are showing America just how beautiful we think our home state is. I am a huge fan of kayaking, rock hunting, I even tried elk bugling last year. One of my favorite experiences was biking the brewery and wine trail in
the Thumb. It was absolutely beautiful. We have so many awesome things to do in our state and we should be proud. One of the great things was what Lonely Planet did for us. They named the U.P. one of the top 10 value destinations for
2017 and it was in a category the only place in the United States along with Venice, Morocco, Belize and Nepal. The U.P. is right up there with the best in the world.
To give you more perspective though, Michigan had the highest growth in incoming international visitors of any state in the nation from 2014 to 2015. The secret is getting out and I couldn't be happier about it.
Source: 2017 Michigan State of the State address
Jan 17, 2017
On Environment:
More resources to fight invasive species in Great Lakes
On wetlands: They are vital to our wildlife and infrastructure. We have lost an estimated four million acres of wetlands over the last few decades. We're going to do something unique this year. The DNR is going to create a public private partnership on
state land to work with local landowners to say we can use state lands as a mitigation bank to help encourage development and at the same time protecting our environment. Invasive carp [is] one of the greatest threats to our state.
We need to do more. We've invested resources, but we need to catalyze all the Great Lake states on doing more, and our nation. One of the ways we are going to do this is: we're creating an international crowdsourcing challenge.
On the topic of environmental justice, I'm going to announce a work group on the issue of environmental justice to make sure all Michiganders have a clean, safe, healthy environment no matter who they are or where they live.
Source: 2017 Michigan State of the State address
Jan 17, 2017
On Environment:
Work tirelessly, plus $27M, to make Flint's water safe
Make no mistake, Flint was a sad chapter in the history of our state. Last year the people of Flint suffered an unacceptable crisis. I made a commitment to the people of Flint to fix it. We took immediate action and in the following days and months
we've worked tirelessly to make Flint's water safe to drink again and improve the entire city of Flint. We're making progress but our work is not yet.
We all owe the people of Flint a solution and we've worked hard to deliver that, we are going to continue to be committed to that. In terms of progress, though, on the water front we have new test results and by June of
2016 this last year we provided $27 million to help with lead pipe replacements to the city of Flint. To date we've seen progress, over 600 pipes have been replaced and we look forward to working with the city on accelerating the progress of that.
Source: 2017 Michigan State of the State address
Jan 17, 2017
On Jobs:
People now moving to Michigan for good jobs
We are at the lowest unemployment in 15 years, 10 points below our high of June 2009 and it's a broad-based comeback. With respect to population, we have had five years of population growth in a row. Do you remember what it was like when we heard
about our kids having to leave the state? [Usually people] who had to leave Michigan because there was not a job opportunity in the last decade or so. Those days have changed. They no longer have to leave Michigan; we are creating opportunities.
To give you a fact you might be amazed by, but we should be really proud, our state has the highest net-bound inward migration of people with bachelor's degrees of any state in the Great Lakes region. We are winning the national and international
competition for quality minds, for career opportunities for quality people and we are going to keep it up. Business in Michigan is growing with exciting expansions and new investors. We are growing a more diverse, vibrant and healthier economy.
Source: 2017 Michigan State of the State address
Jan 17, 2017
On Technology:
Invest billions to address risk of aging infrastructure
We know infrastructure is a huge challenge not just in Flint, but we saw what happened in Fraser with the sink hole. We are at risk in every corner of Michigan for aging infrastructure and we cannot take this for granted. Michigan residents deserve
safe, reliable, sustainable infrastructure. That's why I created the 21st Century Infrastructure Commission last year. The commission did tremendous work, they looked for best practice not just in our country but around the world.
They concluded that we need to invest more. We need to literally invest billions of dollars of new investment over the next several decades. We need to look at all public and private sources for this,
including fees, taxes, grants, bonds. We need to start now working on this issue and we need to stay committed to it.
Source: 2017 Michigan State of the State address
Jan 17, 2017
On Local Issues:
$28M to deal with Flint water treatment crisis
In addition to the $9 million supplemental appropriation for Flint made in October 2015, the request today is for $28 million. It includes:- Additional bottled water, filters, and replacement filters for anyone who needs these resources.
-
Assistance for the City of Flint to help with its utility related issues.
- Testing and replacing fixtures in schools, day care facilities, and other higher risk locations.
- Treatment of children with high lead levels, including diagnostic testing,
nurse visits, and environmental assessments.
- Treatment of potential behavioral health issues such as ADHD for those who have or could have had an elevated blood lead level.
- We will also work with local primary care providers and hospitals to
educate the community about toxic stress and how to identify early developmental delays.
- Additional support for children's health care access
- An infrastructure integrity study for pipes and connections, using outside, independent experts
Source: 2016 State of the State speech to Michigan legislature
Jan 19, 2016
On Civil Rights:
Add LGBT anti-discrimination to civil rights law
[While declining to appeal a court ruling that legalized] 300 same-sex marriages conducted in 2014, Gov. Snyder called on his fellow Republicans in January to keep up efforts to end discrimination against LGBT individuals by amending the state's
Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, which protects citizens against discrimination based on race, age, sex and religion, but doesn't protect against discrimination based on sexual orientation. "Let's keep up that dialogue and
let's show that we can deal with issues of discrimination in our state," he said during his fifth State of the State address.
However, that same month, Snyder remained silent as the state's attorney general argued for Michigan's gay marriage ban. The governor's own position on gay marriage has been described as "head-spinning."
Source: Huffington Post on 2015 Michigan State of the State address
Feb 4, 2015
On Families & Children:
Adoption rate in Michigan is up 25 percentage points
We've done an outstanding investment in preschool education in the state of Michigan to make it so every Michigan child will have the opportunity to have a preschool education. And we're leading the nation in the investment in our young.
The adoption rate in the state of Michigan is up 25 percentage points, and we're now supporting young foster kids in higher education. We've gone from being the bottom to being a leader, and we should be proud of helping those in need.
Source: State of the State address at 2015 Michigan Inauguration
Jan 20, 2015
On Homeland Security:
24/7/365 service to our veterans for benefits
Before we took office, we were ranked 53rd in how we helped our veterans in certain categories. Over the last four years, we've seen an over 20% increase in the average benefits veterans are getting in the state of Michigan, and we are now leading
the country with services such as 1-800-MICHVETS, a cutting-edge way we can give 24-7, 365-day service to our veterans. You deserve that, and we're going to keep up supporting our veterans."
Source: State of the State address at 2015 Michigan Inauguration
Jan 20, 2015
On Local Issues:
Detroit has a bright future, but more work to be done
Look at the city of Detroit. We have a city that now has less debt, we have a city that's safer, and we have a city that's got better services. Detroit has a bright future, and I'm committed to supporting the city and achieving that goal.We've
created over 300,000 private sector jobs in the state of Michigan. In Dec. 2010, our unemployment rate was 11.3%. Recently, our unemployment rate is 6.7%. We have more work to be done, but Michiganders are working again, and in good, well-paying jobs.
Source: State of the State address at 2015 Michigan Inauguration
Jan 20, 2015
On Immigration:
50,000 skilled worker visas to repopulate Detroit
Snyder unveiled a proposal that calls for the US government to allocate 50,000 special visas over the next five years to lure highly skilled immigrants to live and work in the bankrupt city of Detroit. Snyder's plan, which would need to be implemented by
the US government, is aimed at bringing jobs to the city while stemming an exodus of residents. Detroit's population has fallen to about 700,000 from a peak of 1.8 million in 1950. The EB-2 visas would be aimed at individuals with advanced degrees and
exceptional skills in fields like the auto industry and life sciences, Snyder said. EB-2 visas allow individuals with special talents to enter the country without a job offer. There is no precedent for special visas to be issued for a specific geographic
area, Snyder said. But he compared the program to a current one that grants visas to physicians who agree to work in under-served areas.
"Where else could you find a house for the prices you're going to find here? It's a good deal," Snyder said.
Source: Reuters on 2014 Michigan Governor's race
Jan 23, 2014
On Budget & Economy:
Create an environment that encourages job growth
Continuing the administration's laser focus on creating an environment that encourages job growth and prosperity includes supporting small businesses through creative partnerships.
Under the Pure Michigan Micro Lending Initiative, Huntington Bank has committed $5 million for a pilot program in Detroit to help small businesses grow.
Upon its successful completion, Huntington will commit $20 million more to be distributed through lines of credit to community micro lenders. Under another initiative, the
10,000 Small Businesses program, Goldman Sachs announced a $20 million partnership to help entrepreneurs in Detroit by providing access to education, financial and business support services.
Source: 2014 State of the State Address to Michigan legislature
Jan 16, 2014
On Jobs:
MAT2: Michigan Advanced Technician Training for skills gap
Continuing the administration's laser focus on creating an environment that encourages job growth and prosperity includes:- Making Michigan even more welcoming to immigrants with advanced academic degrees or entrepreneurial aspirations, allowing
the state to benefit from their countless contributions, including job creation.
- Stepping up efforts to connect job providers and talent.
- Expanding the Michigan Advanced Technician Training (MAT2) program, an employer-driven initiative that helps
employers bridge the "skills gap" through a statewide system for training and educating skilled technicians to fill high-paying jobs.
- Continuing the successful Community Ventures program, a public/private/nonprofit partnership created to hire at
least 1,000 structurally unemployed residents from distressed neighborhoods, initially in the cities of Flint, Detroit, Pontiac and Saginaw. First-year goals have been met, resulting in jobs for over 1,400 structurally unemployed residents.
Source: 2014 State of the State Address to Michigan legislature
Jan 16, 2014
On Abortion:
Vetoed total abortion ban; signed abortion restrictions
Perhaps the most defining moment in Rick Snyder's tenure came when the Legislature voted for Right to Life's (RTL) initiative banning abortion coverage in standard health care plans, with no exceptions for rape, incest or the mother's life. Last year,
Snyder put his foot down and vetoed legislation doing just that. He's always said social issues aren't on his agenda, but he's tried to work with RTL.The governor did sign highly controversial legislation to restrict abortion that's likely to shut
down providers. But that wasn't good enough for RTL. They saw an opportunity with GOP majorities in the House and Senate. So they launched a petition drive for the abortion insurance ban, which, it should be noted, is an interesting interpretation
of free market principles. After collecting more than 300,000 signatures, the measure went before the Legislature and passed this month. It cuts the governor completely out of the process--his signature isn't required; this is now the law of the land.
Source: Michigan Live on 2014 Michigan gubernatorial race
Dec 31, 2013
On Drugs:
Supports medical marijuana
Legislative Summary: - Added to Schedule 2 list: Marihuana, including pharmaceutical-grade cannabis, if it is manufactured, obtained, and dispensed in compliance with this act and as authorized by federal authority.
- Marihuana can
only be obtained for the purpose of treating a debilitating medical condition
- Marihuana must be dispensed under a license issued under this article, with required restrictions.
OnTheIssues definitions:- "Schedule 1" drugs
have a high potential for abuse, & no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States.
- "Schedule 2" drugs have a high potential for abuse, but has accepted medical treatments, or currently accepted medical use with severe restrictions
- This bill legalizes marijuana only for medical purposes, by making a new "Schedule 2" rule.
Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 22-16-0 on Nov. 13; passed House 87-22-1 on Dec. 12; Signed by Gov. Snyder on Dec. 31
Source: Michigan legislative voting records: SB 660
Dec 31, 2013
On Jobs:
Quietly signed law making Michigan a right-to-work state
As thousands of union members protested outside his office building, Snyder unceremoniously signed a law one year ago making the organized labor bastion of Michigan a right-to-work state.When Snyder backed the law making workplace union membership
optional after long saying the contentious issue was not on his agenda, it reshaped his persona as an apolitical chief executive focused on fixing the state's problems. But the Republican governor's supporters say the fervor of right-to-work was
overblown by Democrats and their union allies who stand to lose the most from a prohibition of compulsory union dues.
The law went into effect on March 28, so it is too early to calculate its effect on statistics for union membership statewide and dues
collections by Michigan unions. But it has reinvigorated labor and Democratic opposition to Snyder. The Snyder administration has argued the governor is staying focused on creating an environment for more and better jobs.
Source: The Detroit News on 2014 Michigan Governor race
Dec 11, 2013
On Government Reform:
Vetoed voter identification bill
Tea party conservatives criticize the first-term governor for vetoing a voter identification bill, proposing higher fees and taxes to fix Michigan roads, and supporting an Obama administration bailout of the auto industry early in the term.
Snyder, finishing the third year of his first four-year term in the only political office he's ever held, says he's neither
RINO nor radical, but a governor who's doing what he can to turn the state's economy fully to the positive. "I'm a person that doesn't get overly focused on politics,"
Snyder said. "I don't spend time worrying about what the far right or the far left thinks. It's really a case of, 'Here's a problem, here's common sense, here's a solution.'"
Source: Macomb Daily on 2014 Michigan Governor race
Dec 10, 2013
On Local Issues:
Detroit bankruptcy is an opportunity to stabilize Detroit
Q: It had been expected, but it still came as a shock this week when the city of Detroit filed for the largest municipal bankruptcy in history, a record $19 billion. Once the city of 2 million people, Detroit's population has plummeted to 700,000.
It takes an hour for police to respond to calls. Almost half of the city's schools have closed in the last three years. What does this mean for the people of Detroit?SNYDER: This was a very difficult situation, but it's the right one.
we looked through every other viable option. We worked in good faith towards many other courses of action. And this has been 60 years in the making. Ultimately, this is an opportunity to stabilize Detroit and grow Detroit, because you have to get back
to the fundamentals--not just the debt question. But even more important than the $18 billion in debt is the accountability to the citizens of Detroit. They're not getting the services they deserve. Enough is enough and now is the time to turn it around.
Source: Face the Nation 2013 on 2014 Michigan gubernatorial race
Jul 21, 2013
On Corporations:
Pure Michigan Business Connect: match-making for purchasing
On the jobs front, I want to mention a program that many people don't know about. It's called Pure Michigan Business Connect. It was an idea that I just viewed as common sense.What's the concept? It's not about the government spending money, it's
about asking Michiganders to do more business with Michiganders. Simply doing match-making. Getting people signed up and working together.
We started it a couple years ago, on the buying side, in terms of purchasing more with our two big utilities.
Happened on the lending side with two banks. Since 2010, there has been over $800 million more purchasing done in the state of Michigan than was otherwise done and there has been almost $2 billion of additional loans made in the last two years because
of these programs.
It's going so well and so exciting that I was proud yesterday to announce that Ford and Chrysler are also joining the program. Let's keep this going; let's get Michiganders buying more from Michiganders, because that's more jobs.
Source: 2013 State of the State Speech to Michigan Legislature
Jan 16, 2013
On Families & Children:
Healthy Kids Dental: coverage for 440,000 kids in need
One area we did that I am really proud of is Healthy Kids Dental. It's about giving kids in need better dental coverage. We now have over 440,000 people in Michigan in this program. But, I am proud to say in this current budget year we are adding another
90,000 and we should just continue until we get all the kids in Michigan covered in some fashion, because materially, it affects their life. But, thank you for adding those extra 90 thousand kids. It will make a difference in their lives.
Source: 2013 State of the State Speech to Michigan Legislature
Jan 16, 2013
On Free Trade:
Took 24 attempts to get New International Trade Crossing
Huge infrastructure projects are only beginning. The first one, it's a bridge. We are moving forward with the New International Trade Crossing. We are awaiting on a Presidential permit, but it's a great opportunity. There are no taxpayer dollars
involved. A huge accomplishment of something that had been 40 years in the making, this was attempt 24, and success happened. It is known as the Regional Transit Authority for Southeastern Michigan and it was a great effort of people working together
Source: 2013 State of the State Speech to Michigan Legislature
Jan 16, 2013
On Health Care:
Get communities more involved in mental health courts;
On Mental Health: We need to do better. We started investing in that and we've done some good work with mental health courts. But, the issue is, we should be doing more to help people before they show up before a judge.
So what I am saying, we need to work together in partnership.
We'll put additional budget resources towards, but we need to partner on coming up with great demonstration budgets on how to engage mental health issues more effectively.
And get communities more involved creating more public/private partnerships and take care of people that deserve better attention that will benefit all of us. So, let's work on mental health.
Source: 2013 State of the State Speech to Michigan Legislature
Jan 16, 2013
On Homeland Security:
There is a cost to sending our military into harm's way
In April of last year, I made a trip to Kuwait and Afghanistan. On that trip, it was one of the most moving trips of my entire life. It was special to see the service that these fine people give our country. One special thing happened: I was on Forward
Operating Base, Kunduz, in Afghanistan. It was with the 125th Infantry, a Michigan National Guard Unit. When I arrived they asked me to do a re-enlistment ceremony. So, I had the opportunity to swear people in to re-enlist in the
United States Military, in the Michigan National Guard on the Forwarding Operating Base in harm's way. To give you some perspective, we had well over 1,000 Michiganders serve and come back this year, and there is a cost and we need to understand that.
This last year we lost nine service people that were Michiganders. So, I think it is only fitting that we send out thoughts and prayers at anyone in the Armed Services and all their families.
Source: 2013 State of the State Speech to Michigan Legislature
Jan 16, 2013
On Local Issues:
Reform no-fault auto insurance: We have largest claims in US
About auto insurance. In terms of no-fault, in terms of claims coming in, the severity of claims, we far exceed every other state in how expensive our claims are. The average claim in Michigan is $44,000. The next two states are $17,000 and $10,000.
That leads to high auto insurance costs for our citizens.It's time for some reforms, folks. And, the two reforms I am talking about are first we should reform no-fault. It is time to do that in a thoughtful way.
The second one is in the area of insurance fraud. We should create an Insurance Fraud Authority to address issues there, so that we can bring benefits to our citizens.
The insurance industry and the financial service industries continue to be
more and more important in Michigan. Because of that, I have signed an Executive Order to create the Department of Insurance and Financial Services and I think it's a great opportunity.
Source: 2013 State of the State Speech to Michigan Legislature
Jan 16, 2013
On Government Reform:
No photo ID for absentee voting
Legislative Summary:A person who applies in person to register to vote shall identify himself or herself by presenting an official state identification card issued to that person. The secretary of state shall develop a voter registration
training program for third-party voter registration organizations that teaches the proper procedure for taking a voter registration application.Veto Summary:SB754 precludes voter registration groups from receiving and delivering
registration applications until at least one member of their organization has received training. While our current Secretary of State would be very proactive on offering training, it is important to ensure that future officials provide proper training.
Voting rights are precious and we need to work especially hard to make it possible for people to vote.
Legislative Outcome:Passed Senate 26-11-1, Feb. 14; passed House 66-43-1, June 12; vetoed by Gov. Snyder, July 3
Source: Michigan Legislative voting records on SB754 & SB803
Jul 3, 2012
On Welfare & Poverty:
No welfare benefits for people with felony warrants
New bills require the state to develop an automated system that will facilitate information sharing. Soon cross-checking the names of people receiving public assistance against a database of outstanding felony warrants in order to make sure only
those who are eligible are able to receive public assistance will be possible.It is already illegal for anyone with a felony warrant to collect welfare benefits, but the state does not currently have a good system in place.
Source: Michigan 2011 gubernatorial press release, #264222
Oct 18, 2011
On Crime:
Improve legal representation for poor
A new commission will investigate how to improve legal representation provided to low-income criminal defendants in Michigan. This is needed because the quality of legal representation provided to defendants who are unable to pay for their own
legal defense varies greatly across the state. A core principle of our criminal justice system is to guarantee that an individual charged with a crime be entitled to legal representation, even if they are unable to hire private counsel.
Source: Michigan 2011 gubernatorial press release, #264039
Oct 13, 2011
On Free Trade:
Open new doors to global markets
Michigan is a clear winner with the free-trade agreements approved by Congress. As one of North America's top producer states, Michigan will benefit greatly by opening new doors to global markets.
This is our chance to show the world what we already know: Michigan's farmers and workers are the best in the world. As more foreign consumers see what Michigan has to offer, demand for our products will continue to climb.
Source: Michigan 2011 gubernatorial press release, #264012
Oct 13, 2011
On Abortion:
Signed partial-birth abortion ban into law
Legislation banning the procedure referred to as partial-birth abortion was signed into law. Michigan people have repeatedly spoken on this issue and this legislation reaffirms the value of human life. This brings Michigan in line with federal law.
SB 160 prohibits partial-birth abortion except when necessary to protect the life of the mother. HB 4110 makes performing a partial-birth abortion or assisting in the procedure a felony. A woman who undergoes the procedure would not face criminal charges
Source: Michigan 2011 gubernatorial press release, #263970
Oct 12, 2011
On Abortion:
Make partial-birth abortion a criminal offense
Legislative Summary:The partial-birth abortion ban act: An individual who knowingly performs a partial-birth abortion and kills a human fetus is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment for up to
2 years, or a fine up to $50,000.00, or both. It is not a violation if, in the physician's reasonable medical judgment, a partial-birth abortion is necessary to save the life of a mother whose life.
The spouse of the mother at the time of the partial-birth abortion, or either parent of the mother if the mother has not attained the age of 18, may file a civil action against the physician.Legislative Outcome:
Passed Senate 29-8-1, Sept. 21; passed House 75-34-0, Sept. 28; signed by Gov. Snyder, Oct. 11
Source: Michigan Legislative voting records on SB160
Oct 11, 2011
On Technology:
Take leadership role in cyber defense and development
The benefits of online technology are enormous. Unfortunately, attacks on our personal safety and economic security through the Internet continue to grow and expand. Michigan is taking a leadership role with regard to protecting the vulnerable ecosystem
in the cyber world, and in accelerating the economic development and growth of the cybersecurity industry. Our new action plan will help defend Michigan against cyber attacks allow us to look into opportunities in the growing cybersecurity industry.
Source: Michigan 2011 gubernatorial press release, #263758
Oct 7, 2011
On Civil Rights:
Against benefits for domestic partners
The Civil Service Commission was informed on Wednesday that preliminary numbers show that fewer than 100 people will take advantage of domestic partner benefits. The price tag is estimated to be less than
$600,000--a far cry from the $6 million to $8 million the Gov. Rick Snyder administration and legislative Republicans claimed it would be.
Source: Susan Demas on MLive.com (Michigan News)
Sep 22, 2011
On Crime:
Collect prisoner DNA samples to help solve cold cases
Prisoners will be required to provide DNA samples at the beginning of their sentence instead of just before being released.Senate Bill 346 requires collection of a prisoner's DNA sample within three months of incarceration, which will help police
solve cold cases sooner by giving them the ability to match samples to other unsolved crimes, identify suspects and then interrogate prisoners while they are still in custody. This will bring relief to victims of violent crimes and their families.
Source: Michigan 2011 gubernatorial press release, #259717
Jul 21, 2011
On Drugs:
Reduce supply, combating production of meth
There is new legislation stepping up the state's efforts to combat the production of illegal methamphetamine. Current efforts to prevent the sale of these legal medicines to people who use it to manufacture the illegal drug are insufficient.
This will give law enforcement the ability to better detect patterns and block sales to people who buy up large quantities of cold & allergy medicine. We will make our communities safer by preventing access to the ingredients needed to manufacture meth.
Source: Michigan 2011 gubernatorial press release, #259269
Jul 15, 2011
On Tax Reform:
Simplify the tax code; end job-killing Business Tax
These [new tax reform] bills bring greater fairness and simplicity to Michigan's tax structure while aggressively positioning the state to be economically competitive. The new laws eliminate the job-killing Michigan Business Tax, simplify the tax code,
level the playing field among taxpayers and protect low-income families. We will encourage entrepreneurship & spur investment in Michigan. The changes take Michigan from 30th to 16th in the nation in terms of lowest state and local business tax burden.
Source: Michigan 2011 gubernatorial press release, #256823
May 25, 2011
On Education:
Mandatory school choice for every school; remove boundaries
School funding should follow the student. This includes mandatory school choice for every public school district.
Providing open access to a quality education without boundaries is essential. We must minimize all state and local barriers that hinder innovation at the local level.
Source: 2011 Michigan gubernatorial press release, "Special Message"
Apr 27, 2011
On Social Security:
Maintain generous pension benefits for existing retirees
It is important to leave retirement pensions as they are for our citizens age 67 and older. Upon passage of this plan, Michigan will have the 14th best income tax--and the 8th most generous treatment of retirement income--among states with income
taxes.The new Individual Income Tax plan will provide for long-term structural stability in the budget while minimizing the impact on current senior citizens.
Source: Michigan 2011 gubernatorial press release, #254191
Apr 12, 2011
On Jobs:
Extend unemployment benefits; plan for future
About 35,000 Michigan residents will continue receiving extended unemployment benefits under new legislation.These benefits are a lifeline for many Michigan families who are struggling. Cutting them off so abruptly would have jeopardized the well-bein
of those who are trying hard to find work. Now we must renew our focus on improving Michigan's economic climate. We will continue driving forward with our job-creating reforms so that fewer people need to rely on unemployment benefits.
Source: Michigan 2011 gubernatorial press release, #253317
Mar 28, 2011
On Technology:
Census figures reinforce need for aggressive administration
The 2010 census figures clearly show how crucial it is to reinvent Michigan. Our expectations need to reflect today's realities. This is why my administration has aggressively laid out an agenda based on fiscal discipline, meaningful tax reform and
regional cooperationWe cannot successfully transition to the 'New Michigan' if young, talented workers leave our state. By the same token, Michigan will not succeed if major cities don't succeed. We all must be partners in Michigan's reinvention.
Source: Michigan 2011 gubernatorial press release, #253071
Mar 22, 2011
On Environment:
Voluntary pollution prevention program for farmers
Snyder established a voluntary pollution prevention program that helps Michigan farmers maintain their economic viability while being environmentally responsible.Our journey to the 'New Michigan' requires that government, industry and stakeholder
groups work together toward common goals. Putting this program into statute secures its place as a model for addressing environmental challenges in a way that also allows our agriculture-based businesses to expand.
Source: Michigan 2011 gubernatorial press release, #252449
Mar 8, 2011
On Crime:
Parole decisions by Dept. of Corrections, not Governor
Responsibility for parole decisions is now out of the governor's office and back to the Department of Corrections. The move is aimed at streamlining government and allowing more efficient implementation of corrections policies by the department
director. We need to let the professionals in the corrections department determine whether it's appropriate to release prisoners. This change will remove an unneeded layer of bureaucracy and save taxpayers money.
Source: Michigan 2011 gubernatorial press release, #251086
Feb 7, 2011
On Free Trade:
Increase Canada trade with new Detroit River bridge
To achieve success in today's world, it requires that we look beyond our borders. We must open ourselves to the promises and potential of the global marketplace. We must increase exports from Michigan farmers, manufacturers and entrepreneurs. Last year,
Canada was the top market for our products. In 2009, Michigan did roughly $4 billion in trade with Canada. We also know that one out of every eight jobs in Detroit is in the export industry. [We] widened approaches to the international bridge and major
improvements to ease the traffic flow in Port Huron. Global demand for our ports of entry is expected to increase steadily with no signs of slowing.
To satisfy growing demand, we must move forward towards building a new bridge from Detroit to Windsor, The Detroit River International River Crossing.
Source: 2011 Michigan State of the State Address
Jan 19, 2011
On Government Reform:
Michigan Dashboard: measure progress & present it publicly
We are creating a means by which to actually measure Michigan's progress. I find it curious that we've had State of the State addresses for decades. Yet I don't know of one where we actually had a report card to gauge our success. Government tends to
avoid measures and metrics, since it could lead to criticism. It is time for that attitude to disappear. True success is based on achieving real results for real people. We're going to have tough, hard measurements. Our achievements or lack of progress
will be evident, so tonight I'm presenting the Michigan Dashboard.I will present a summary of this dashboard in every State of the State address I give. It is composed of 21 different measures in five key areas. The measurable areas are economic
growth, health and education, value for government, quality of life and public safety. These areas align with how we've organized the executive branch into the group executive structure.
Source: 2011 Michigan State of the State Address
Jan 19, 2011
On Health Care:
Improve cost, quality and access with wellness & prevention
We will vigorously pursue improvements in our health care system in terms of cost, quality and access. We must emphasize wellness and preventative care. All of our citizens need access to preventative care from primary care providers. It's critical to
prevent routine ailments from becoming severe conditions requiring emergency room treatments. We will look to build a system that encourages all of us to have an annual physical to reduce obesity and encourage a healthier, active lifestyle in our state.
Source: 2011 Michigan State of the State Address
Jan 19, 2011
On Immigration:
Openly encourages innovators and entrepreneurs to immigrate
We will encourage immigrants with advanced college degrees to come to Michigan to live and work. We need to be a place that openly encourages innovators and entrepreneurs to come to our state. The evidence is clear that advance college degree immigrants
make a tremendous difference in creating a positive economic activity environment that benefits us all. Half of the startups in Silicon Valley have a foreign national as a founder. It is time we embrace this concept as a way to speed our reinvention.
Source: 2011 Michigan State of the State Address
Jan 19, 2011
On Environment:
Protect natural resources; user fees contribute $3B/year
Michigan is blessed with an abundance of natural resources and we need to be a leader and innovator in protecting these resources. Recreational fishing, hunting and boating activities alone contribute more than $3 billion annually to our economy.
We are separating the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and Department of Natural Resources (DNR) so we can better address these key priorities.
Source: Michigan 2011 gubernatorial press release, #248895
Jan 4, 2011
On Abortion:
Firmly pro-life, which begins at conception
Q: You've said that you're pro-life?A: I am firmly pro-life. I understand that this is a very personal and passionate issue for many of us. At the same time, in today's society it has become a very divisive issue.
Good people can and have drawn different conclusions. I have a strong belief in the value of human life, which I believe begins at conception and includes human embryos.
Source: Campaign website, rickformichigan.com, "FAQ"
Nov 2, 2010
On Abortion:
Embryos are human life; but support stem cell initiative
Q: You've said that you're pro-life, but why did you support the stem cell initiative and how do you reconcile the two?A: I have a strong belief in the value of human life, which I believe begins at conception and includes human embryos.
I also believe that the sanctity of life should be upheld. As I struggled with my personal choice on this issue, I ultimately decided that stem cell research and its possible life-giving potential would be a better alternative than discarding unused
embryos. It is also my hope that scientific advances in the use of adult stem cells will soon make embryonic stem cell research unnecessary. I understand that not everyone can agree with my position on this issue.
Ultimately, the voters have decided this issue and as Governor I would uphold the voters' wishes, regardless of my personal opinion. As Governor, my primary focus would be on the economy.
Source: Campaign website, rickformichigan.com, "FAQ"
Nov 2, 2010
On Corporations:
One Tough Nerd: venture capitalist & high-tech executive
Nerds have active, curious minds. They seek input from many sources. Nerds pay attention to what's going on around them. Nerds don't take "no" for an answer--and they quickly tire of those who say "this is the way we've always done it." Nerds aren't
concerned with taking credit. While still in public school in Battle Creek, Rick knew he wanted to acquire the education necessary to succeed in a variety of endeavors. How has he done?- Rick was named President and COO of Gateway, an upstart computer
company.
- As a successful venture capitalist, Rick led investments in a wide variety of technology-based start up companies.
- First Chairman of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation
An outstanding, driven student. A successful executive.
A leader and mentor responsible for substantial job growth in the very industries that Michigan needs for a brighter future. A man with a strong sense of civic responsibility. A man devoted to his wife and family. One tough nerd indeed.
Source: Campaign website, rickformichigan.com, "One Tough Nerd"
Nov 2, 2010
On Gun Control:
Absolutely uphold the 2nd Amendment
Q: Would you uphold the 2nd Amendment and support the rights of gun owners as well as the hunting industry?A: In one word: absolutely. I actually own three guns myself. I have a 12 gauge shotgun and two .22 rifles that I use for target shooting.
I believe the 2nd amendment also protects the right of citizens to have a gun in their home to protect their family and property. I also support the rights of gun owners to responsibly carry their gun, as long as they have attained the legal permit.
While I'm not an avid hunter, I support the industry and believe it plays an important role in our economy and quality of life. It also can have a valuable environmental conservation impact and I would work to streamline the processes so that hunters get
better customer service from the state and local governments. We have a long tradition in our state of supporting gun rights and the hunting industry in Michigan and I would continue to support that tradition as Governor.
Source: Campaign website, rickformichigan.com, "FAQ"
Nov 2, 2010
On Principles & Values:
Refuses to answer political organizations' questionnaires
Q: Why did you decide not to fill out any questionnaires for endorsements from political organizations?A: It's because I've decided to run an unconventional campaign that doesn't adhere to the traditional political norms and the status quo. My decisio
to not take any special interest contributions is why we have also decided not to fill out any questionnaires from organizations looking to make a political endorsement in this election--regardless of intent, membership or their agenda. While there are
many good groups that have very good goals, we have decided that the fair approach is to apply this policy across the board to all organizations without any exceptions. I am not making a negative evaluation of any organization or their members and
I'm happy to discuss the substantive issues and concerns citizens have as I travel across the state. While it may not be the most politically convenient thing to do, it's important to me that I make a principled stand and stick by it.
Source: Campaign website, rickformichigan.com, "FAQ"
Nov 2, 2010
Page last updated: Oct 13, 2021