Hi, I'm State Representative Richard LeBlanc. Thanks for listening to my latest radio report.
Today's topic is going to be the "Hire Michigan First" plan which is a package of bills that will boost our economy
and capitalize on the skills that our state's residents currently have.
I voted in support of this legislation because it will immediately create jobs for
Michigan residents and ensure that they get the first crack at jobs that
are created by companies that benefit from our state economic development programs or tax breaks. The "Hire
Michigan First" plan will also crack down on companies that hire undocumented workers by canceling their state
contracts
and also canceling their tax incentives.
We know that downsizing and outsourcing has stolen one job after another from our communities and its residents.
Michigan working families have been hit hard - and we must do everything
that we can to protect and create jobs now for our residents.
The "Hire Michigan First" plan is going to reward Michigan
businesses that invest in our community and hire our workers today. Amongst the other things, this
comprehensive plan will give preference for tax breaks and also other economic development tools to companies that hire
the most Michigan residents.
Now, this rule would apply to projects handled by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and you might
often hear us say the "MEDC". That's what it is; the Michigan Development Corporation, and certain state-funded
programs, including the Renaissance Zone Act and several others.
The package requires companies that take economic development incentives to report on who they hire to ensure
that Michigan residents are put first, encouraging transparency and
accountability within government.
The bills also crack down on companies that hire undocumented workers by canceling their state contracts and
canceling those tax incentives. The plan would also require them to pay back the incentives that they already received
and bar them from future contracts.
The hard-working men and women of Michigan are second to none,
and we know that. This plan will support our communities by creating jobs and putting our residents –
the residents that have the skills and experience that companies need to stay competitive – into good-paying jobs
right now.
If you would like to learn more about this package please access the internet and go to www.hiremichfirst.com. That\'s hire, M-I-C-H first.com.
And for more information on legislation within the House of Representatives in general, you can visit www.housedems.com.
Now I've said it before and I will say it again, As always, have any questions, comments or concerns with
regard to this topic or any other topic, I hope that you'll choose to call us please call me toll free at my
office. That number is 888-737-5325.
It's a pleasure to serve you and I thank you for listening.
