LANSING, Mich., Jan. 25, 2023 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered the State of the State address tonight before a joint session of the Legislature at the Capitol in Lansing. In the speech, the governor discussed her legislative agenda for the new term, which includes bolstering the economy, supporting Michigan workers, investing in early childhood education, lowering costs for working families, improving public safety, protecting fundamental rights and attracting new talent to Michigan.
“Gov. Whitmer’s speech was a reminder to us all of the important work we have ahead of us. The governor’s remarks address many of the issues facing the people of my district, and I am motivated to work with her administration to affect real, positive change for them and their families,” state Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) said. “There is great work happening in local communities, in neighborhoods, and in schools — work that is preparing young people to be active and engaged residents of our great state. Here at home, we have a tight-knit community, and it is my great privilege to help support it, which means keeping our kids and community members safe. To that end, we need to put safe-storage legislation in place, and we need to do it immediately. I was very glad to hear this addressed by the governor.”
Fitzgerald was grateful to invite special guests, Michael Perez and Scott Smith, to attend the State of the State address with him in the House chamber. Perez is the principal of Burton Middle School in Grand Rapids. Smith is the city attorney for the city of Wyoming and has been engaged in important community-level work to grow the diverse city.
“The city of Wyoming has its own unique personality — one that is hard-working and tenacious. It is exciting to witness and support the efforts being made to revitalize our community,” Fitzgerald continued. “Economic development is essential to the prosperity and wellbeing of our local communities all across the state, prosperity which depends on robust investment in our students and lifelong learners. As chair of the Local Government and Municipal Finance Committee, I will work tirelessly to advocate for the municipal governments and public servants and support all they do to grow West Michigan.”