Fox 17’s Josh Sidorowicz will have live reports from Lansing on FOX 17 News at 5, 6 and 10.
LANSING, Mich. — Republican Governor Rick Snyder will set the table for his second and final term during Tuesday night’s State of the State address where the focus is expected to be on plans to re-envision government programs, expand jobs and skilled trades in the state, and promote a ballot initiative for road funding.
A spokesman for the governor confirmed to FOX 17 plans tonight to announce a merger of the Department of Community Health and Department of Human Services, two of the state’s largest departments. The goal is to improve how those most in need in Michigan receive benefits and services.
Among other items expected to be discussed tonight: Snyder has been big on stressing the importance of promoting more high-tech and skilled trades jobs in the state in an effort to retain young talent. It’s a themehe touched on during FOX 17’s coverage of the auto show in Detroit.
“Autos are a great thing to be involved with, period,” Snyder told FOX 17 at the auto show.
“If you want to be at the cutting edge of technology, the best place to do it is the auto industry, so I encourage our young people to really look at the auto industry as a career opportunity.”
With the May election looming, expect Snyder to use his statewide platform to encourage voters to vote “yes” on approving a ballot proposal to raise the state sales tax 1 percent to pay for roads. The issue of roads is one that’s been discussed at every State of the State since 2012.
But, with a budget shortfall of $324 million hanging over Snyder’s head, many Democrats are calling Republicans’ policies ‘irresponsible’ arguing Snyder’s economic policies aren’t paying off for everyone. Don’t expect to hear too much about that from the Governor.
Tuesday’s address begins at 7 p.m. and will be streamed live on FOX17online.com here.
