Michigan Governor Rick Snyder delivered another of his special messages Wednesday, this time addressing the issue of public safety. Stating that Michigan would be unable to reach its full potential as a state until violent crime is significantly reduced, the Governor called for a federal, state and local government partnership specifically targeting four of Michigan’s cities.
The FBI’s top 10 list of violent cities includes four from Michigan – Detroit, Flint, Pontiac, and Saginaw. The Governor’s plan, which has resulted in significant positive response from Republicans and Democrats alike, calls for a strengthened Michigan State Police (MSP) to coordinate a joint effort by all law enforcement agencies in and between the four communities.
Among the highlights, the proposal includes $15 million in fiscal year 2013 for 180 new state troopers and $5 million for 20 new scientists in the forensic science division of MSP.