LANSING, MI -- Gov. Gretchen Whitmer says front-line workers keeping Michigan running during the COVID-19 crisis should receive a tuition-free college education.

The plan, announced Wednesday by Whitmer, is known as the “Futures for Frontliners” program and would provide a tuition-free pathway to college or a technical certificate for those essential workers who don’t have a college degree. The program is inspired by legislation passed following World War II in which returning soldiers were provided educational opportunities.

“Historically when Americans put their lives on the line to defend the rest of us from a foreign enemy, we have shown our gratitude by giving them educational opportunities to improve their lives,” Whitmer said during her press briefing Wednesday. “Our enemy in this instance is a virus. But our frontline workers are just as heroic. And that’s why it’s important for us to extend some gratitude, and some opportunity, once we are beyond this moment.”

The release mentioned the types of workers who would benefit from the plan include those who are: staffing our hospitals and nursing homes, stocking the shelves at grocery stores, providing child care to critical infrastructure workers, manufacturing PPE, protecting public safety, picking up trash, or delivering supplies.

“The Futures for Frontliners program is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to those who have risked their lives on the front lines of this crisis. This program will ensure tuition-free college opportunities and give these dedicated Michiganders an opportunity to earn a technical certificate, associate degree or even a bachelor’s degree,” Whitmer said in a press release. “I want to assure all of our workers we will never forget those of you who stepped up and sacrificed their own health during this crisis. You’re the reason we’re going to get through this.”

Jeff Donofrio, Director of the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity said the program will be vital to ensuring the future economic success of the state.

“It’s going to be something we have to engage in because, making sure that they are successful over the long term for individuals who struggle, already to make family sustaining wages, will be critical to the future of our state,” Donofrio said. “By investing in them again we ensure our state’s future economic success.”

While she didn’t go into details, Whitmer said the program would be funded through federal available to the state in two separate programs. One source of funding is through the CARES Act, while another portion of the money will come through programs designed to improve the skills of workers. Information on who would be eligible and when the program would begin was not given.

In the press release announcing the plan, the governor said she was looking forward to working with lawmakers on the bipartisan legislative coalition that helped pass Michigan Reconnect, which provides grants for students over 25, last month.

The state budget is projected to take a hit due to the economic impact of the coronavirus.

PREVENTION TIPS

In addition to washing hands regularly and not touching your face, officials recommend practicing social distancing, assuming anyone may be carrying the virus. Health officials say you should be staying at least 6 feet away from others and working from home, if possible. Carry hand sanitizer with you, and use disinfecting wipes or disinfecting spray cleaners on frequently-touched surfaces in your home (door handles, faucets, countertops) and when you go into places like stores.

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