Michigan Opens New Agency Focused on Economic Growth

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth, a new agency focused on growth,is now open for business. Governor Jennifer M. Granholm has issued an executive order that combines most workforce development and economic development functions into one department.

This action is expected to improve linkages among economic and workforce development initiatives, streamline services now provided by programs in different departments, and ensure more efficient administration.

Contact: Neil Ridley
Social, Economic and Workforce Programs Division

http://www.nga.org/center/frontAndCenter/1,1188,C_FRONT_CENTER%5ED_6246,00.html

Among the many programs that now become part of the new agency are:

* Employment and training services provided under the Workforce Investment Act and the Wagner-Peyser Act, as well as employment services for welfare recipients funded by Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.

* Adult education services, vocational-technical education services and higher education assistance.

* State economic development and job growth programs.

* Unemployment insurance, workers compensation administration and an independent and autonomous workers compensation appellate commission.

Related Links:

* Governor’s Press Release http://www.michigan.gov/cis/0,1607,7-154–82484–,00.html

* Executive Order http://www.michigan.gov/gov/0,1607,7-168-21975-76905–,00.html