10 state departments will receive federal stimulus funding to support programs
LANSING – The Michigan House of Representatives today passed a plan that will spread $2.1 billion of federal
stimulus funds across 10 state departments to create jobs, revitalize Michigan's economy and strengthen services that
the state offers to Michigan residents. The plan now heads to the Senate for approval.
"At a time when Michigan has been hit the hardest by the national recession, this plan provides much-needed relief to our state," said House Majority Floor Leader Kathy Angerer (D-Dundee). "This is not only a lifeline for our state, but for our businesses, our workers and our families who are struggling to keep their heads above water and put food on the table. This investment in Michigan will lay the foundation we need to get our economy moving in the right direction."
The funding, which is provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), will bolster Michigan's economy by directing federal funds to shovel-ready projects in order to create thousands of jobs, and by shoring up funding for necessary services to help more residents in need.
The plan that passed the Michigan House today will provide:
- $962.6 million to the Department of Education, which will focus on handicapped preschool initiative grants, special education, assisting at-risk children and school improvements.
- $435 million to the Department of Human Services for weatherization programs, food assistance and other community assistance.
- $344 million to the Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth to support energy efficiency programs, unemployment and employment services, and workforce training programs.
- $46.5 million to the Department of Community Health to support the crime victims fund, crime prevention programs and senior assistance.
An amendment to the plan offered by State Representative Dan Scripps (D-Leland) requires that the agencies post reports on a public Web site to detail how each dollar of the federal stimulus funding is spent.
"This is a one-time investment in Michigan, so we must make sure every cent is spent wisely," Scripps said. "These funds will strengthen our state now as we continue to work on the long-term goal of rebuilding our economy. I know that Michigan can be strong again. By no means will this investment solve all of Michigan's problems, but this plan is a big step toward getting our state back on track."