News

LANSING – The House's New Economy and Quality of Life Committee, which was created to help prepare Michigan for the realities of the 21^st century economy, convened its first meeting today.

"The New Economy and Quality of Life Committee will draw up a bold road map for Michigan to become an economic leader in a high-tech, 21^st century world," said House Speaker Andy Dillon (D-Redford). "To move Michigan forward, we must have a highly skilled and highly educated workforce to attract 21^st century jobs providers to our state. We're committed to building a workforce that is second to none. Our goal is to make Michigan a great place to live, work and raise our families."

The New Economy and Quality of Life House Committee will examine ways to:

• Build a highly skilled workforce that will attract 21^st century jobs in high-tech fields.
• Expand educational opportunities and training in cutting-edge technologies.
• Lower the cost of health care.
• Create a transferable 401(k) program administered by the state that provides mobility and flexibility for a young workforce.
• Promote the state as an attractive place to live and work to help keep Michigan's best and brightest in the state.

State Representative Ed Clemente (D-Lincoln Park), who was named Chair of the committee, said it will focus on how to promote Michigan's best features to draw a young and talented workforce to our state. "For example, Michigan has a lot to offer those who love to hike, kayak and enjoy the outdoors – we need to promote our state's natural beauty so young 20- and 30-somethings choose to locate here, rather than in other states," Clemente said.

The committee also will examine areas of the state that need improvement, such as urban centers that lack the vibrancy of other major cities like Chicago that ultimately draw talent out of Michigan.

"We need to mobilize all the tremendous resources that Michigan has to offer and make our state a center for the new economy," Clemente said. "We can make Michigan a magnet for young people to stay in Michigan and to come to Michigan."