Governor Whitmer announces New Initiatives to Help Working Families in the State of the State Address

Last week, Governor Whitmer delivered the 2022 State of the State address outlining recent accomplishments and directed at working families, educators, and childcare providers.

The policies implemented in 2021 included:

  • Expanded access to free or low-cost childcare to 1 in 3 Michigan kids ages 0-12.
  • Delivered $1,000 bonuses to nearly 25,000 full-time childcare professionals.
  • Made investments to ensure 100% of eligible four-year-olds can attend free, high-quality preschool under the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP).
  • We invested $565 million to support over 7,000 childcare providers with emergency federal relief through the Child Care Relief Fund and Child Care Stabilization Grant.

But the work is not yet done. The governor put forth new proposals to put Michiganders first by lowering costs for families, cutting taxes, creating jobs, and growing Michigan’s economy.

For Working Families: Increase Michigan’s Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

The governor proposes increasing Michigan’s Earned Income Tax Credit. Tripling the tax credit for working families would deliver an average combined tax refund of $3,000 to 730,000 Michigan residents. It will lift more than 22,000 people out of poverty and put money back in their pockets to use for everyday expenses. Nearly one million kids—almost half the kids in the state will benefit by raising the EITC. It means new backpacks, warmer coats, and more hot meals.

Read more about Gov. Whitmer’s Plan to Cut Taxes for Working Families. 

For all Michiganders: Expand Access to Mental Health

Governor Whitmer wants every person in Michigan to access the quality, affordable mental and physical care they need. She is calling for expanding the Michigan State Loan Repayment Program (MSLRP) program for behavioral health providers and increasing funding for mental health professionals in schools. This investment in mental health will extend into next year’s school aid budget to continue helping schools hire more nurses, counselors, and social workers.

Read more about Gov. Whitmer’s Plan to Lower Costs and Expand Access to Mental Health.

As you know, we still have more work to do, and I hope you will join me in continuing our efforts to force a path for early childhood success through affordable and equitable access to quality services, resources, and education.

Posted on January 31st, 2022 | View All Posts