LANSING, Mich. — Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer introduced a plan today to provide a "tuition-free pathway" to college for essential workers.
At a coronavirus news conference, Whitmer shared plans for the Futures for Frontliners program.
The program would ensure those workers receive "tuition-free access no matter what" as a thank you for their work during the coronavirus pandemic.
It would help those workers without a college degree get a technical certificate, associate's degree or bachelor's degree.
The governor's office said Futures for Frontliners would cover a range of essential workers: those in hospitals and nursing homes; grocery stores; providing child care to critical infrastructure workers; manufacturing personal protective equipment; protecting public safety; picking up trash; or delivering supplies.
"You’re the reason we’re going to get through this," Whitmer said.
"Our state is eternally grateful for you."
Michigan would be the first state to offer this type of program, according to Whitmer.
She hopes other states follow Michigan's lead.
Watch the full news conference