LANSING –State Representative Robert Kosowski (D-Westland) joined House Democratic Leader Tim Greimel (D-Auburn Hills) at a press conference today on the real state of the state, noting the problems facing Michigan despite Republican claims that Michigan is improving.
“Michigan residents’ priorities are financial stability for middle-class families and a good education for our children,” Kosowski said. “I support House Democratic Leader Greimel’s efforts to ensure that these priorities are reflected in legislative efforts in the coming year.”
Michiganders continue to struggle with unemployment, Greimel said in a presentation made before Snyder’s annual State of the State speech. Unemployment in the state stands at 8.9 percent, compared to 7.7 percent nationwide. Last week’s Consensus Revenue Estimating Conference estimated that Michigan’s general fund net revenue to be $8.79 billion for fiscal 2012-13, a 5.1 percent decline. The decrease in revenue has led to shortfalls in education spending, cuts to local services and the continued decline in Michigan’s road and highway system.
Greimel said the House Democrats will conduct a listening tour of the state starting next month to give residents a chance to talk about how they have been impacted by the Republicans’ radical agenda and to share ideas for real solutions to Michigan’s problems. The dates and times of the events will be announced soon.