8 MiMfg Magazine July 2017
Q
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Conversations A Key
Interview with Governor Rick Snyder
Q : You ’ ve served the State of Michigan as Governor for six and a half years . In that time , how do you feel the role of manufacturing has changed in the state ?
Governor Snyder : I strongly believe that manufacturers play a vital role in a healthy economy . Michigan currently employs more than 600,000 residents in manufacturing — a 25 percent improvement from where we were when I took office . Those new jobs have allowed for businesses to grow and become more competitive , for our local communities to be stronger and for our state unemployment rate to drop to 4.7 percent — near its lowest point in 16 years . If these last six and a half years prove anything it is that manufacturing is and always has been a vital part of Michigan ’ s history and future .
Q : As you look back on your time in office , what are some of the accomplishments you are most proud of ?
Governor Snyder : I am proud that one of the significant accomplishments of my administration was signing into law the elimination of the burdensome Personal Property Tax on industrial equipment . That bill package alone is saving manufacturers more than $ 576 million annually — real savings that businesses can use to hire new talent , purchase new equipment , and reinvest in their local communities . In addition , reforming Michigan ’ s workers ’ compensation laws to provide both predictability , as well as meaningful cost savings , to the system was an important effort I was happy to help MMA accomplish .
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Rick Snyder became Michigan ’ s 48th Governor in 2011
Governor Rick Snyder
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With the self-proclaimed moniker “ one tough nerd ,” has focused on making government more efficient and effective for Michigan ’ s citizens .
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Under Snyder ’ s leadership , the state has passed six balanced budgets , eliminated a $ 1.5 billion deficit and reformed burdensome tax and regulatory codes that were stifling business growth and job creation .
Q : The concept of “ reinvention ” has been key for your Administration . How has Michigan reinvented itself over the last six and a half years ?
Governor Snyder : As Governor of Michigan , I ’ ve made the reinvention of our state a top priority . Along with Lieutenant Governor Brian Calley and our whole team , we have made fiscal responsibility , timely budgeting , and reasonable and fair tax systems a focus for getting our state ’ s fiscal integrity back on track . Caring for the health of our residents , educational achievement for our young people , and strong communities also have been key in making sure our residents are cared for , successful , and safe . Michigan ’ s comeback is reflected in a growing economy , urban centers on the comeback , and an influx of people moving to Michigan or , perhaps more important , moving back here .
Q : With more than a year and a half left in your term , there ’ s a lot you probably want to accomplish . What issues can manufacturers expect to see prioritized ?
Governor Snyder : You ’ re right , we are not done yet and we still have our foot on the gas ! We continue to work on reforms that will spur more economic activity and create more and better jobs for Michigan residents , as well as ensuring they have the education they need to put their talent to work in the careers of the future .
Our current priorities include focusing on a 21st Century Education system , a 21st Century Infrastructure , and reforms to improve the fiscal health of our local governments . I also established the Building the 21st Century Economy Commission to develop a strategy for growth that will help new and existing industries thrive in our state .
I am excited about the opportunities for continued success and want to thank the manufacturing industry for its continued commitment to Michigan . We remain committed to creating and maintaining an environment that allows you to continue your success now and well into the future . 6