For Immediate Release
Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2009
Contact:
Michael D. Jahr
Director of Communications
989-631-0900

MIDLAND - Mackinac Center Fiscal Policy Director Michael D. LaFaive on Tuesday will continue his tradition of counting and categorizing new initiatives offered by Michigan governors in their annual State of the State addresses. Mackinac Center analysts will compare the total number of proposed government expansions and limitations in this year’s address to gubernatorial speeches dating to 1969.

“Based on what we’re hearing, tonight’s address holds the promise of more government limitations than in past years,” said LaFaive. “Gov. Jennifer Granholm has indicated that a number of recommendations made by Mackinac Center analysts are under consideration. If she’s serious about reining in the scope of state government, it could be a good beginning toward reversing Michigan’s economic spiral. But if it’s merely rhetoric, our decline will only continue.”

According to news reports, the governor is considering closing the state fair and returning wetlands permitting to the federal government, both policies long recommended by Mackinac Center analysts.

The 2009 “scorecard” will be posted on the Center’s Web site shortly after the completion of Gov. Granholm’s speech Tuesday night. LaFaive and Mackinac Center Senior Legislative Analyst Jack McHugh will be available for comment and analysis before and after the speech.

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