The "Pure Michigan" Campaign

The current legislative session is barely three months old but the Michigan Legislature has already passed two key pieces of legislation that would improve the state's economic climate by boosting funding for tourism promotion via the "Pure Michigan" advertising campaign and reducing business costs by modernizing the state's item pricing law.

After many attempts over the years, House Bill 4158 would repeal the state's current item pricing law by requiring that retailers display the price of a product near where the item is located, rather than on each individual product. The legislation, which takes effect on September 1, would retain existing provisions for violations of the law while reducing regulations that raise the cost of doing business in Michigan.

In addition, the Michigan Legislature also passed legislation (House Bill 4160) that provides a more stable funding stream (through the 21^st Century Jobs Fund) for the award winning "Pure Michigan" tourism campaign. The "Pure Michigan" campaign promotes our state's third largest industry, showcasing our state's beautiful parks, beaches and golf courses but budget cutbacks over the past few years have reduced its advertising range. With the increase in funding, to a total of $25 million, the "Pure Michigan" campaign is expected to expand its reach, drawing much needed visitors and economic activity to our tourism hotspots.

Both of these important economic measures originated in either the House Commerce and Natural Resources, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation committees, of which I am a member of. Serving on these committees, as well as the House Regulatory Reform Committee, allows me to work on one of my biggest legislative priorities, enacting policies that create job growth for the state and for our district. I am also the Executive Director of the Bi-partisan Caucus and co-chair of the joint Senate-House Natural Resources Committee. It will be a busy year in the Michigan Legislature and as discussions over tax restructuring and the state budget heats up, I would like to hear your thoughts and concerns. Feel free to contact me at haroldhaugh@house.mi.gov or by phone toll-free at (866) 994-2844.

State Representative Harold Haugh represents the 42nd House District, which covers Roseville, Eastpointe and part of Fraser. To contact him, call (866) 994-2844 or e-mail haroldhaugh@house.mi.gov. To subscribe to his e-newsletter, visit his website, house.mi.gov/hhaugh.

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