As we close out another busy week, I?m reflecting on all the transformational change we?ve been able to achieve by putting Michiganders first. This week and every week, I?m working hard for my girls and all Michigan kids?to build a future where they can thrive.?
Today, I announced that by taking action to implement the goals of the MI Healthy Climate Plan, we have already saved taxpayers $53 million and reduced energy consumption of state buildings by 60%. ?
This work is for kids like Sophia and Mason, who wrote me postcards about the importance of protecting the environment. For Sophia, Mason, and the rest of our young Michiganders, I am committed to protecting our Great Lakes, tackling climate change, and creating jobs in industries of the future. That means improving our drinking water and water infrastructure, going carbon neutral by 2050, and ensuring communities benefit from the transition to a future that is more sustainable and equitable. ?
 Earlier this week, I also signed an executive directive to determine how to lower the cost of insulin and explore manufacturing this crucial medication in-state. This is the latest of my efforts to expand access to healthcare, which include extending Healthy Michigan to over 1 million people and expanding dental care for Michiganders covered by Medicaid or Healthy Michigan plans. I know how important this issue is to Michiganders like Marilyn, an eighth grader passionate about helping people access healthcare.
 By the end of this year, we will have fixed more than 16,000 lane miles of road and 1,200 bridges, supporting over 89,000 . The projects this week include M-63 concrete repair and patching in Berrien County, repairs on the Vernon Road overpass at US-127 in Isabella County, and the next phase of work to rebuild M-3 (Gratiot Avenue) in Macomb County. For kids like Mason, fixing our roads means he and other students don?t run into bumps and potholes on their way to school.?
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These students and their classmates are our future. That?s why I?ve worked to ensure all students across the state have the resources they need to thrive by closing the funding gap between districts and providing the highest investment in education in Michigan?s history. Not only does the investment increase per-pupil funding, but it also includes funding for mental health, school infrastructure, student safety, and teacher training ? all crucial aspects that contribute to a well-rounded student experience.??
Our kids deserve a bright future. I will continue to advocate for our environment, expand healthcare, fix our roads, invest in our education, and so much more to ensure they have every opportunity to thrive. I look forward to making even more progress together in the weeks ahead!?
 Gretchen Whitmer
Governor of Michigan
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