By Staff
State Rep. Neal Nitz, R-Baroda, today released the following statement in response to Gov. Jennifer Granholm's State of the State response Tuesday evening.
"Governor Granholm once again promised us that this year she would make renewable fuels a priority. I appreciate her enthusiasm for this industry that is so important to the future of Michigan's economy, but it is time to do more than talk the talk – she must now walk the walk. Last year, she told us that we would have 1,000 E85 and biodiesel pumps across the state by 2008 but we currently have only a little over 100. That's a start, but it's nowhere near 1,000. In 2006, the governor told us Michigan will be the alternative energy epicenter of America, much like she did tonight. However, she let our most important alternative energy initiatives lapse, such as a lower tax for ethanol and biodiesel. A lot of gas station owners that put in E85 pumps and people who purchased a new Ford or GM flex fuel vehicle are wondering how many other programs will not see the light of day or fall by the wayside.
"I'm happy that Gov. Granholm has a full grasp of the poor economic conditions this state is facing now. She seems committed to working with the Legislature in a truly bipartisan manner, and I look forward to working with her. But she must realize that if we don't make Michigan an attractive place to live, people will continue to leave in record numbers. We have to reinstate the tax breaks that save people money on renewable fuels, cut wasteful spending, and ease the tax burden on families and job creators throughout the state. These are the things that will make Michigan competitive in the world market and lead to growth of our economy and our state. Tax increases won't do it, because what good are tax increases if there is no one left in the state to pay them?"