Peri’s Public Policy Update: Jan. 23

Peri Weisberg Public Policy Associate United Way for Southeastern Michigan

As the state legislature and Congress get started in 2012, many decision-makers are reviewing and reevaluating the work of the past year. Namely, Gov. Rick Snyder delivered his annual “State of the State” address last week, and President Barack Obama plans to deliver the “State of the Union” tomorrow evening. Both of these addresses provide crucial indicators of our the executive branches’ priorities for the coming year. Click the links in the full policy update to learn more about what Snyder said or and what Obama is expected to say.

Here are some highlights of the past two weeks. They cover United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s three focus areas (Education, Income, and Basic Needs) as well as more general information about the political context that United Way and its partners must navigate to achieve our public policy goals.

Education

New York Times Op-Ed: A Poverty Solution That Starts With a Hug

Income

Bloomberg: Payday Lending Is Focus of Consumer Bureau Alabama Field Hearing.

Basic Needs

• House Committee plans hearing on Feb. 9, 2012 to examine FY2013 budget projections for the department that administers EFSP. Click here for more information

Other

• Gov. Snyder plans to present state budget proposal Feb. 9, 2012.
• Governor Snyder delivered the State of the State address. Read a summary or  read some commentary
• Huffington Post: State of the Union Address 2012: Obama Speech Scheduled for Jan. 24. Click here for more information.

You can see the full recap of recent public policy developments related to Education, Income and Basic Needs by clicking here.

And don’t forget to share your perspective on current events! One way to start a discussion is by leaving a comment below.