Updates About Governor

Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced ambitious housing and energy initiatives at the Mackinac Policy Conference this year, increasing Michigan’s five-year housing production goal by 53% and securing federal funds to lower energy costs for 28,000 low-income households. The initiatives are part of the MI Healthy Climate Plan that aims to build 115,000 housing units and incorporate measures to drive energy efficiency, with the ultimate goals of making housing and utilities more affordable for Michiganders.

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) has already invested $1.23 billion to build and restore homes, creating 20,000 new jobs. The Governor also proclaimed that the state has received $367 million in federal funding to support the Michigan Solar for All initiative and the Home Energy Rebate programs. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) will head the project to cut utility costs, install solar equipment on roofs, and decrease the costs of energy-efficient appliances. Together, these programs aim to reduce energy costs and promote renewable energy for low-income Michigan homes.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Michigan Legislators are bracing for potential upheaval should the state’s minimum wage law be invalidated by the Michigan Supreme Court. If the court strikes down the existing law, which allows tips to count towards minimum wage, Michigan could see its minimum wage potentially rise to over $13 per hour. Advocates for the wage increase, such as One Fair Wage, believe an increased wage is essential to filling low-wage job vacancies. However, critics in the hospitality industry worry that the prices of food and beverages will rise and layoffs may occur due to restaurant labor costs increasing by 250%. The fate of Michigan’s paid sick leave law also hangs in the balance.

Whitmer and State Lawmakers are considering their options, weighing the need to uphold the spirit of voter initiatives while ensuring the viability of small businesses. Worker advocates are pushing for further increases in the minimum wage to $15 by 2027, while industry representatives emphasize the importance of retaining the tip credit system. The court’s decision, expected by the end of July, could have far-reaching implications for Michigan’s economy and political landscape.

The Detroit Regional Chamber unveiled the agenda for this year’s Mackinac Policy Conference, scheduled from May 28th to May 31st on Mackinac Island. This year’s event will showcase a U.S. Senate debate and panels with leaders in business, politics, and higher education. The debate will feature the top three Democratic and Republican candidates, all competing for the open seat. The vacancy arises as current U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow prepares to retire from her position following an earlier announcement that she will not be seeking reelection. Other notable items on the conference agenda include speeches from Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, Dan Gilbert of Rocket Companies, and more.

You can find more details on the Mackinac Policy Conference website.