In 2006, Governor Jennifer M. Granholm initiated Buy Michigan First to encourage Michigan businesses to register with the State as vendors and bid on state contract opportunities. Since that time, 90 percent of Michigan tax dollars spent on state contracts have gone to Michigan businesses.
Pursuant to Public Act 540 2008, a school board may adopt and implement a local policy that gives preference to a Michigan-based business. In that regard, the Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB) has drafted a Local Purchasing policy which may be edited by a Board/District (please contact MASB regarding policy #3690).
The state recognizes that many school districts are already making the effort to buy from instate or local businesses and support district efforts by providing communication materials (including the Buy Michigan First logo and a sample press release) to help you express your support of businesses in your community. (Available electronically at www.michigan.gov/buymichiganfirst)
What’s the benefit in establishing Buy Michigan/Buy Local policies? According to the state Department of Management and Budget, buying from locally owned firms results in increased tax expenditures in the community. In addition, local vendors will spend a percentage of contract dollars in the local area, enhancing job creation and incomes. Keeping contracting dollars in Michigan has a multiplier effect, as the money continues to re-circulate in the local economy.