Michigan Set to ‘Dominate’ U.S. Battery Manufacturing

Michigan Set to ‘Dominate’ U.S. Battery Manufacturing

by | Jan 9, 2023 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

January 9, 2023

Contact: [email protected]

 

ICYMI: Michigan Set to ‘Dominate’ U.S. Battery Manufacturing 

CNBC reports that Michigan is among the three states that will lead electric vehicle battery manufacturing in the U.S. by 2030 

 

LANSING, Mich. – In a new report from CNBC, Michigan is named one of three states poised to “dominate” electric vehicle battery manufacturing in the United States by 2030.

 

“For generations, Michiganders have stepped up to get the job done by embodying the kind of grit, determination and work ethic needed to keep the world moving forward,” said Governor Whitmer. “As we work to make an electrified future a reality, it’s no surprise that once again, Michigan is being recognized as a leader in shepherding in this new evolution. We’re ready to build on our proud legacy and automotive heritage here in Michigan to once again usher in a greener, more sustainable and electrified future in 2023 and beyond.”

 

According to the article, based on a November 2022 report from the Argonne National Laboratory, Michigan, Georgia and Kentucky “will be able to manufacture between ‘97 and 136 gigawatt hours’ worth of EV batteries per year by 2030,” thanks to plans currently in place. The U.S. Department of Energy noted that electric vehicle battery manufacturing capacity in North America in 2030 is projected to be close to 20 times greater than in 2021, with production capacity capable of supporting 10 to 13 million all-electric vehicles per year.

 

Michigan is leading the charge to position the U.S. as a global electric vehicle competitor through this increased manufacturing capacity. Last year, the state attracted over $14 billion in electric vehicle and battery investments while developing programs to train and employ the next generation of talent in the electric vehicle and mobility sector.

 

“2022 was a year like no other, as Michigan welcomed transformational investments that further demonstrated our leadership in the mobility industry,” said MEDC CEO Quentin L. Messer, Jr. “It should come as no surprise that Michigan is being recognized as a leader and serious competitor as we move toward an electrified future. We realize that Team Michigan, from Governor Whitmer to bipartisan legislative leaders to local elected officials and economic development partners, must earn daily the ability to dominate. In 2023 and beyond, we must and will get better, together across both peninsulas, and we will continue putting the world on notice that Michigan aims to dominate the sector that it created.”

 

Electric Vehicle and Battery Project Wins

Transformational electric vehicle and battery investments in Michigan in 2022 include:

  • In January 2022, General Motors announced a historic investment of $7 billion, creating 4,000 and retaining 1,000 jobs, to convert Orion Township assembly plant to build full-size electric vehicle pickups and build Ultium’s third U.S. battery cell plant in Lansing.
  • In March 2022, LG Energy Solution announced a $1.7 billion expansion creating 1,200 jobs in Holland manufacturing batteries.
  • In June 2022, Ford Motor Company announced an investment of $2 billion, creating more than 3,200 jobs in plants across Michigan to support electric vehicle manufacturing growth and secure internal combustion engine portfolio in the state.
  • In June 2022, Canadian electric vehicle charging network operator FLO announced an investment of $3 million for the company’s first-ever U.S. manufacturing facility in Auburn Hills.
  • In October 2022, Michigan-based Our Next Energy announced a $1.6 billion investment to establish its first cell and electric vehicle battery pack gigafactory in Van Buren Township, creating up to 2,112 jobs.
  • In October 2022, Gotion announced a $2.36 billion investment for a new manufacturing facility in Big Rapids, creating up to 2,350 jobs.

 

Michigan’s Got Talent 

Michigan is also making investments to support the growth of the state’s high-tech talent pipeline. Growing Michigan’s economy and investing in Michigan’s workforce were focus areas of the bipartisan state budget passed in July 2022. The MEDC also put an emphasis on talent initiatives with the development of the Talent Action Team.

 

Led by MEDC Executive Vice President and Chief Talent Solutions & Engagement Officer Kerry Ebersole Singh, the TAT works across the public sector, industry partners and training institutions to provide talent solutions. The TAT’s goal is to train thousands of workers in the first year by delivering professional development programs where people improve their skills and competencies in line with in-demand roles.

 

In 2022, the MEDC convened the Electric Vehicle and Mobility TAT to launch the first focused effort on supporting the talent transition in the electric vehicle and mobility sectors. At the end of the year, Governor Whitmer announced the Semiconductor TAT, the second group MEDC formed as part of its commitment to providing concierge-level support to businesses looking to grow and expand in Michigan.

 

To further support high-tech career paths and strengthen Michigan’s global competitiveness in the automotive, mobility and technology industries, Governor Whitmer announced a $2 million grant to MICHauto’s High Tech Talent Strategy to strengthen Michigan’s global competitiveness in the automotive, mobility and technology industries. The grant was funded through the state of Michigan’s Mobility Futures Initiative with a goal of growing of high-tech talent in Michigan and bringing to life the Michigan Office of Future Mobility and Electrification’s MI Future Mobility Plan.

 

The Road Ahead 

With its legacy of automotive innovation and forward-thinking approach toward investment attraction and talent development, Michigan will be in the driver’s seat on the road to 2030 and beyond.

Learn more about Michigan global leadership in transportation mobility and electrification at www.michiganbusiness.org/mobility/.
Gilchrist Leads Delegation at Consumer Electronics Show

Gilchrist Leads Delegation at Consumer Electronics Show

by | Jan 6, 2023 | Regional News

LG Header 2022

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 6, 2023
Contact: [email protected]

Lt. Governor Gilchrist Leads Delegation at Consumer Electronics Show 2023
Promotes Michigan as the leader in innovation, talent, and technology on a global stage

LANSING, Mich. – Yesterday, Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist led a Michigan delegation to the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), promoting the state’s leadership in technology, future mobility, workforce talent, and innovation, and highlighting how Michigan is the best place to design, build, and manufacture the future. During CES, the world’s business leaders and pioneering thinkers come together to showcase new technologies and address relevant issues.

“Michigan is and always has been a state of innovators,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “We are proud to be the best place for dreamers, doers, and problem-solvers to build the future and make a difference. We are here at CES to engage with world-leading companies and tell Michigan’s story: of tough, hardworking people who are ready to grow our economy, bring supply chains home, and compete for every good-paying job. Let’s get to work paving the way for a stronger Michigan.”

Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist meets with executives and companies during the Silicon Foundry Roundtable

Lt. Governor Gilchrist held meetings with high-level executives from foreign and domestic companies, many Michigan-based, ranging from startups to Fortune 500 members. He also participated in a Silicon Foundry roundtable discussing the role of mobility in smart cities and infrastructure, where he highlighted how Michigan has continued to create public-private partnerships to address these challenges in communities throughout the state.

Joining Lt. Governor Gilchrist at CES were Quentin L. Messer Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Corporation (MEDC) and Trevor Pawl, Michigan’s Chief Mobility Officer, as well as additional delegates from the MEDC, the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME) and other state partners.

Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist and MEDC CEO Quentin Messer tour CES 2023

Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist and MEDC CEO Quentin Messer tour CES 2023

Lt. Governor Gilchrist also met with key international business partners, including the UK, Israel, and others, as the global stage becomes important in the future mobility revolution.

To close out the day, Lt. Governor Gilchrist attended the OFME-GENIVI matchmaking event and had the opportunity to speak at the event’s evening reception, the pre-eminent mobility-focused networking event at CES. The event features business-to-business matchmaking sessions to connect mobility-focused startup companies with OFME, strengthen investment in Michigan-based startups, and attract startup companies to Michigan.

Michigan Chief Mobility Officer Trevor Pawl appears on a panel at the Consumer Electronics Show 2023

“Michigan remains proud of its heritage as a state of innovation, and we remain focused on building upon that proud legacy to drive the future of technology as we know it,” said Trevor Pawl, Michigan’s Chief Mobility Officer. “This is our time to promote Michigan as the preeminent place for the leaders of the future to build their businesses, leverage Michigan’s world-class talent, and push the boundaries of the innovations of the future. The 2023 Consumer Electronics Show is the place to do just that.”

The Whitmer Administration is helping Michiganders compete for high-tech jobs through the Michigan Reconnect and Michigan Achievement Scholarship programs, which lower the cost of higher education for families. Since 2019, Michigan has announced over 30,000 new auto jobs, expanded investments in critical industries manufacturing chips and batteries, and revamped our economic competitiveness with a bipartisan plan to attract businesses to the state.
Take Advantage of Health Care Savings During Enrollment  

Take Advantage of Health Care Savings During Enrollment  

by | Jan 5, 2023 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

January 5, 2023

Contact: [email protected]

Consumer Hotline: 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/HealthInsurance  

 

Governor Whitmer Encourages Michiganders to Take Advantage of Health Care Savings During Open Enrollment

More than 1.8 million Americans have already enrolled in a comprehensive Marketplace plan

 

Lansing, Mich – With 10 days left until the Health Insurance Marketplace open enrollment period ends, Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) Director Anita Fox are reminding Michiganders who need health insurance to purchase a health plan on the Health Insurance Marketplace before the January 15 deadline. Nationally, 1.8 million consumers have signed up so far, an 18% increase compared to this time last year, underlining the strong demand for this vitally important protection.

 

“Access to quality, affordable health insurance improves health outcomes overall, and that’s why it’s vital for Michiganders who need health insurance for 2023 to pick a plan before the January 15 open enrollment deadline,” said Governor Whitmer. “This year, Michiganders have more time, more support, and more resources to get covered. I will continue to work with anyone to cut costs for Michiganders and build a healthier Michigan where families can thrive.”

 

“If you need health insurance, the biggest mistake you could make is to wait and miss the January 15 deadline, leaving you without insurance unless you later qualify for a special enrollment period due to a qualifying life change,” said Director Fox. “Even if you are happy with your current health plan and do not want to make a change, you should consider updating your HealthCare.gov application to make sure you are getting all the savings to which you are entitled. You can find more information about health insurance, including a pre-recorded DIFS health insurance town hall, by visiting Michigan.gov/HealthInsurance.”

 

As of December 7, 2022, 112,146 Michiganders have enrolled in a Marketplace health insurance plan. Several factors have made buying a Marketplace health plan both easier and less expensive for consumers, including:

 

  • Extended savings to help more Michiganders qualify for low- or no-cost health insurance. Thanks to the increased savings that were recently extended under the Inflation Reduction Act, nearly 80% of enrolled Michiganders qualified to help reduce their monthly premium costs in 2022, with many consumers able to find a health plan for less than $10 per month. Before applying, Michiganders can visit HealthCare.gov/Lower-Costs to estimate whether they may qualify for these or other savings.

 

  • Increased competition thanks to new health plans: Michigan consumers can choose from 233 approved health plans from 10 insurers on the Health Insurance Marketplace, which is available at HealthCare.gov or by calling 800-318-2596.

 

  • $4 million in grants have been awarded to three Michigan organizations to expand access to qualified Navigators. These trained professionals provide free, local assistance to consumers who need help signing up for health coverage. For assistance, visit LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov or call 800-318-2596.

 

  • Recent federal action has fixed the so-called “family glitch.” More members of working families can now qualify for a subsidy to purchase health insurance.

 

To review available plans and rates, visit HealthCare.gov today and apply before Sunday, January 15 for coverage that begins on February 1. For questions about health insurance and information about the DIFS health insurance town hall series, visit Michigan.gov/HealthInsurance or call DIFS 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at 877-999-6442.

 

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS or follow the Department on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.
Whitmer State of the State Address on Jan. 25

Whitmer State of the State Address on Jan. 25

by | Jan 3, 2023 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

January 3, 2023

Contact: [email protected]

Gov. Whitmer to Deliver 2023 State of the State Address on January 25th 

LANSING, Mich – Governor Gretchen Whitmer will deliver her fifth State of the State Address on Wednesday, January 25th. The address will be held in the Michigan House Chambers in front of a joint session of the Michigan House of Representatives and the Michigan Senate and broadcast live throughout the state.  

 

“The State of the State address is an opportunity to talk about the issues that make a real difference in people’s lives and focus on what we’re going to get done this year,” said Governor Whitmer. “I can’t wait to share my vision for our state as we move towards our bright future, and lay out my plans to lower costs, bring supply chains and manufacturing home to Michigan, and ensure Michiganders have unparalleled economic opportunity and personal freedom.”

 

During her 2023 State of the State address, Governor Whitmer will lay out her plans to tackle the challenges Michiganders are facing right now. Her proposals will lower costs, make Michigan more competitive, expand opportunity, and protect people’s fundamental rights. Together, they represent the future and will move Michigan forward.

 

HOW TO WATCH THE 2023 STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS 

 

  • Local TV Channel
Final Bills of 2022 Boosting Economic Development

Final Bills of 2022 Boosting Economic Development

by | Dec 29, 2022 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

December 29, 2022

Contact: [email protected]

Gov. Whitmer Signs Final Bills of 2022 Boosting Economic Development, Other Legislation 

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Senate Bills 1222 and 1223 to advance economic development in Michigan. She also signed legislation to increase access to local courts, strengthen marketplace regulations, and more. Today is the final bill signing of the legislative season and brings the total number of bipartisan bills signed by Governor Whitmer to 1,026.  

“These bills will help us build on our economic momentum,” said Governor Whitmer. “Since I took office, I am proud to have signed over 1,000 bipartisan bills and delivered 4 balanced budgets. Our work across the aisle in Michigan on economic development has helped us bring home supply chains of cars, chips, and clean energy, and I will continue working with anyone to build on our efforts. Let’s stay focused on solving problems and moving Michigan forward.”  

Senate Bills 1222 and 1223 amend different acts related to convention facilities. Specifically, SB 1222 allows for additional bond issuances and capital expenditures associated with Huntington Place in downtown Detroit, so the convention facility may be expanded to accommodate more convention business and development in the area.  

Among other things, the bills allow a regional convention facility authority to enter a public private arrangement, make other changes related to the powers of such an authority, and revise the distribution of money from the Convention Facility Development Fund. SB 1222 and 1223 were sponsored by Sen. Wayne Schmidt, R-Traverse City, and a copy can be found here and here.  

Other Legislation 

Senate Bill 1047 adds circuit court judgeships to Allegan County and Kalamazoo County by amending the Revised Judicature Act. The legislation allows the 9th and 48th Judicial Circuit Courts to have one additional judge effective January 1, 2025. SB 1047 was sponsored by Sen. Sean McCann, D-Kalamazoo, and a copy can be found here.

Senate Bill 1085 extends the deadline for a Multiple Employer Welfare Arrangement (MEWA) to submit audited financial statements from a certified public accountant. This would extend this deadline from 90 days to 180 days after the end of each fiscal year. SB 1085 was sponsored by Sen. Kimberly LaSata, R-BainBridge Township, and a copy can be found here. 

Senate Bill 1059 boosts consumer protection at the gas pump and makes general amendments to the Weights and Measures Act. The legislation requires gas stations to adopt at least one more effective method of pump security in addition to pressure sensitive tape. Previously, gas stations could be compliant by only adding pressure sensitive tape over credit card boxes. SB 1059 was sponsored by Sen. Kevin Daley, R-Lum, and a copy can be found here. 

Senate Bill 450 permits family and other patient representatives to have access to qualified health care facilities under certain circumstances during a declared health emergency. SB 450 was sponsored by Sen. Jim Stamas, R-Midland, and a copy can be found here. 

 
Moving Forward with Key Investments Made in 2022

Moving Forward with Key Investments Made in 2022

by | Dec 29, 2022 | Regional News

Oakland County is in All Ways, Moving Forward with Key Investments Made in 2022

Pontiac, Michigan – Innovation and transformation sums up 2022 in Oakland County. From voters deciding the county should be all-in on transit to General Motors announcing the investment of billions of dollars in expanding electric vehicle production at its Orion Township plant to the start of major parks and recreation improvements in Pontiac and southeast Oakland County, the county was in all ways, moving forward this past year.

“We’ve put a lot of energy and capital into kicking off a five-year strategic plan announced during my 2022 State of the County speech that commits Oakland County to ‘all ways, moving forward,'” County Executive Dave Coulter said. “We want to make a real and measurable impact in three primary areas – a strong economy, healthy and safe communities, and opportunities for residents to live their best lives.”

Coulter’s five-year strategic plan has seven strategic goals: a thriving and inclusive economy, healthy residents, a skilled and educated workforce, livable neighborhoods, sustainability, public safety and fairness in the criminal justice system, and organizational excellence.

Oakland County voters approved a countywide transportation millage in November. After the New Year, the county will begin filling three positions – a manager and two transit planners – in the new Transit Division of the Economic Development Department to oversee the implementation of transit solutions throughout the county. Bolstering regional transportation has been Coulter’s long-time goal since he was first elected to represent Ferndale on the Oakland County Board of Commissioners in 2002.

The county will develop plans in 2023 for expanding transit services in all parts of the county, securing more state and federal funds to support transit services, and long-term capital improvements that contribute to accessibility for our residents. To ensure these plans meet the needs of residents, businesses, and communities, the county will provide opportunities for people to provide feedback and suggestions for new transportation services. Oakland County’s four current transit providers – SMART, North Oakland Transportation Authority (NOTA), Western Oakland Transportation Authority (WOTA), and the Older Persons’ Commission (OPC) – are making recommendations on immediate improvements and expansions they can make to local services and identifying issues of common concern.

GM’s $4 billion investment to overhaul its Orion Township plant in Oakland County to build EV pick-up trucks adding more than 2,300 jobs, announced at the close of the year in 2021, aligned with Coulter’s sustainability, skilled and educated workforce, and thriving and inclusive economy goals. Our Next Energy also opened its new global headquarters in Novi while building an EV battery plant in Van Buren Township, a win for the region.

Other noteworthy job creation achievements in 2022 that supported Coulter’s strategic goals include:

  • The World Economic Forum, in partnership with Oakland County and Automation Alley, launched the U.S. Centre for Advanced Manufacturing in Troy during an announcement with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer at the Mackinac Policy Conference in June.
  • Oakland County and Business Sweden signed a joint statement of cooperation to “promote innovation and sustainable growth in the mobility and advanced manufacturing industries” during a November business attraction mission to Sweden and Germany.
  • The county invested $18 million of its American Recovery Plan Act (ARP) funds to launch Business Forward, an innovative program to help small businesses and entrepreneurs grow and thrive by engaging the county’s 36,000-plus small businesses with expertise and resources in the communities where they are located.
  • More than $10 million in ARP dollars supported Coulter’s strategic goal of increasing the county’s skilled and educated workforce, $2.8 million of which is funding the Oakland80 Navigators Career and education navigators are helping individuals find paths to meaningful careers, get into and complete college or training programs, and reduce obstacles to education such as the cost of books, registration fees, and childcare options.

Oakland County invested millions of dollars in sustainability and livable neighborhoods in 2022. The county partnered with the Parks and Recreation Commission to invest $20 million in the Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan. The goals of the plan include revitalizing and enhancing parks located in or servicing residents of communities most impacted by the pandemic; improving physical and mental health, social connectivity, and quality of life of residents; and addressing barriers to equitable access and use of quality park and recreation opportunities for residents of all ages and abilities.

The county Board of Commissioners also approved $3.9 million in planning grants to help cities, villages, and townships with infrastructure improvements and $10 million for the north Oakland sanitary sewer connection championed by U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin this past year. Plus, a grant helped to remove a contaminated tank at the former Webster Elementary School in Pontiac which is being redeveloped by Micah 6 Community, a Pontiac-based non-profit which is investing $21 million to transform the building into the Webster Community Center which will provide social and recreational services.

In addition, the county designated $20 million to improve housing which included the creation of a $10 million Housing Trust Fund, $5 million to increase shelter capacity, and $2 million for critical home repairs.

Initiating a fairer criminal justice system in Oakland County got a boost in 2022. It began with the county executive administration and Board of Commissioners supporting Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald’s creation of the Conviction Integrity Unit for fiscal year 2022 to examine cases where there are claims of innocence and determine whether there is clear and convincing evidence of that innocence. The Board of Commissioners also approved funding for indigent defense that will enable the county to establish a hybrid model consisting of a public defender’s office, staffed by Oakland County employees, and the current roster of independent contractor attorneys, for 6th Circuit Court and 52nd District Court indigent defense appointments beginning in 2023.

Finally, Oakland County allocated more than $29 million towards its strategic goal of enabling healthy residents in 2022, especially in mental health. Programs that have provided mental health resources to more than 50,000 residents include $10 million to non-profits to improve and expand access to mental health services, $10 million to place mental health professionals in schools, $2 million for emergency room grants to expedite mental health patients to more appropriate treatment, $2.5 million for Corktown Health, and $1.7 million for food assistance for residents in need.