LANSING, MI (WTVB) – The phrase “River of Opportunity” is the theme of Governor Snyder’s fifth State of the State address. The governor laid out his vision to state lawmakers for a more efficient government that actually helps people get ahead. He says the state has over 130 programs to help people, and the number continues to grow.
Snyder said people are no longer being treated as “real people,” and in many cases, the state programs have taken away the dignity that people had. He also urged voters to approve a one-percent increase in the sales tax as part of a road funding fix during the speech, which clocked in at just under an hour.
In his opening remarks, Snyder said the state is in better shape, but it’s “not good enough.” As expected, the Governor announced a big merger with plans to bring together the Department of Community Health and the Human Services Department to create the state’s largest department. He can initiate the merger with an executive order so there will be no legislative delay.
