State Rep. Julie Rogers (D-Kalamazoo) was joined by Superintendent Darrin Slade of Kalamazoo Public Schools at the Michigan Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024.
LANSING, Mich., Jan. 24, 2024 — Before a joint legislative session today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered this year’s State of the State address. In her speech, the governor discussed her agenda for the new term, which includes uplifting Michigan’s education system, growing our economy and protecting people’s hard-earned money. State Rep. Julie Rogers (D-Kalamazoo) issued the following statement on Whitmer’s address:
“After two years of historic state budgets investing in infrastructure, including preK-12 education, I am looking forward to building on the foundation we have established. Gov. Whitmer’s announcement of free, universal pre-K for 4-year-olds to prepare our children for future academic success is revolutionary,” said Rogers.
“Joining me at the State of the State where Gov. Whitmer reaffirmed the importance of providing every student in Michigan with a high-quality education were two educators: Dr. Darrin Slade, Superintendent of Kalamazoo Public Schools, and my sister, Dr. Diane Owen-Rogers, an education professional. 2024 promises to be a transformational year as we invest in many exciting public programs including economic development. I am proud to sponsor legislation to establish a research and development tax credit for Michigan businesses to invest and recruit high-wage employees and attract new talent to our state.”
Since gaining control of the House, Senate and governor’s office last year, Michigan Democrats have laid a strong foundation for our state by putting people first. The fundamental building blocks include repealing the retirement tax, increasing the working families tax credit (EITC), funding free breakfast and lunch for public school kids, ensuring better access to reproductive health care, improving public safety and so much more. With efforts including codifying important elements of the Affordable Care Act, and ensuring Michigan is a healthy and desirable state to live and work in, House Dems will continue to move our state forward.
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