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.
“Climate change has contributed to our state’s crumbling infrastructure,” said Speaker Pro Tempore Laurie Pohutsky (D-Livonia). “Detroit and much of southeast Michigan have experienced devastating floods that have damaged many people’s homes and our roads and bridges. We need to be proactive about building and improving our infrastructure to withstand the undeniable effects of climate change. I look forward to working with the governor and advancing legislation in the House that prioritizes Michigan’s environment and infrastructure.”
Earlier this month, Pohutsky was appointed chair of the House Committee on Natural Resources, Environment, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation. Her invited guest at the governor’s State of the State Address was Elayne Elliott, who is the Michigan chapter director of the Sierra Club.
“We are at a perfect inflection point to build a stronger and more prosperous and equitable state, as we take on the challenges currently facing Michigan,” Elliott said. “The moment we are in provides an opportunity for the state to advance clean energy jobs, clean drinking water, workers’ rights and a sustainable economy that benefits all Michiganders. We look forward to working with Speaker Pro Tempore Pohutsky, Gov. Whitmer and the rest of the Legislature to deliver on these issues for residents.”
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