The loss of jobs is without a doubt the major problem facing the people of Michigan.  Our economy has suffered through a multi-year decline with little evidence that things are improving.  This job loss has lead to a myriad of other related problems that has affected every aspect of life in the state.  Population growth is among the lowest in the nation which directly affects all aspects of retail business and sales.  The lowering of economic activity has also adversely affected our educational system.

Altering this decline is a complex problem without a single best solution; it will take a concerted non-partisan collaborative effort of government, education, business and labor to turn the economic tide.  I believe it will be the legislature’s role to assure that Michigan’s business climate is conducive to job growth.   Our tax structure must be fair and competitive with surrounding states and our regulatory climate must not be overly burdensome.

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