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, increasing public safety, lowering costs for families, protecting fundamental rights, supporting Michigan workers, investing in early childhood education and attracting talent to Michigan. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement on Whitmer’s address:

“Early childhood education is a top priority of mine. The sooner we start to teach children, the better able they are to flourish. However, many families face massive financial barriers when trying to send their children to preschool. Annually, some families spend up to $10,000 on child care and preschool. It’s time we take action and help families and children succeed by making early childhood education free for everyone. I look forward to working with the governor on doing just that.”