The Michigan Economic Jumpstart Plan was kicked off last week with the focus on re-engaging the workforce and investing in small businesses.
The Plan relies on incentives to boost wages to attract those who might not be currently working. Unemployment policies are tightening up with recipients needing to do weekly job searches. Making childcare more accessible is also part of the plan.
Michigan’s plan is funded by the federal Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, with Michigan having about $2 billion left to spend. The massive influx of federal money has helped to move Michigan from a $3 billion deficit to a $3.5 billion surplus. The race is on to allocate the funds, which Governor Whitmer calls “once-in-a-lifetime economic opportunities”.
Part of the plan is to subsidize pay to bring it up to a minimum of $15 per hour for at least three months and to continue the Futures for Frontliners and Michigan Reconnect programs.
There is also $370 million allocated to expand access to no-cost or low-cost childcare for families that are currently not working due to lack of childcare.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
