On Aug. 23, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer presented a proposal to use $2.1 billion in one-time federal funding to grow Michigan's middle class, support small businesses, and invest in communities. MCAN supports the governor’s proposed postsecondary education investments, which include a $215 million expansion of Michigan Reconnect and Futures for Frontliners, a $70 million investment in growing the pipeline of talented workers to industry, and a $100 million influx for the Going PRO credential program.
“Gov. Whitmer’s proposed investment reaffirms the state’s commitment to its Sixty by 30 goal and would provide Michigan residents with the resources they need to pursue their education and career goals,” said Ryan Fewins-Bliss, MCAN executive director. “We are thrilled to see priorities that we put forth as part of our American Rescue Plan Act recommendations included in the governor’s proposal, and know they will directly impact education equity in Michigan. By expanding Reconnect and Futures for Frontliners, increasing scholarship funding, and improving career pathways, thousands of students — especially low-income students, first-generation college-going students, and students of color — would have fewer barriers to accessing postsecondary degrees and certificates.”
MCAN urges the legislature to consider these proposals and their critical role in Michigan's economic recovery as they negotiate the distribution of American Rescue Plan Act funding.
Read the governor’s press release →
Read additional proposal details from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity →
In response to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's proposed funding to grow Michigan's middle class, support small businesses, and invest in communities, MCAN shared the following statement from its executive director, Ryan Fewins-Bliss.