LANSING, Mich.- State Senator Glenn S. Anderson hosted a town hall meeting in Livonia last night alongside state and local officials to discuss job strategies during these tough economic times with workers and job seekers. The meeting included presentations by officials who then allowed attendees the opportunity to meet on an individual basis to discuss their specific situation and what assistance is available during these difficult times.

“Today’s job market is extremely challenging and now more than ever our citizens need help and guidance on how they can succeed in the global economy,” said Anderson. “It’s essential that we address this issue and continue our legislative efforts to bring jobs and businesses to Michigan. Economic growth has and will remain my number one priority as I continue to pursue every opportunity that supports Michigan workers, including passing Hire Michigan First to ensure that state incentives go toward putting Michigan residents to work.”

The town hall meeting included representatives from local and state agencies including: The Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Michigan Works, the Michigan Department of Human Services and the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.

"The Michigan Economic Development Corporation gave me some good information about Michigan's small business technology development centers that have funding available for small business start up,” said Bob Moreo, one of nearly 200 town hall attendees. “The event was very useful.”

Senator Anderson has been at the forefront of several economic development initiatives including Hire Michigan First, a package of bills that would give Michigan workers priority for jobs on state-funded projects and call for stronger penalties for those who hire undocumented workers. Anderson has also fought for funding for No Worker Left Behind, a job training program that helps outsourced workers train for new careers in the 21st Century Economy.

“It was very informative, I was able to find out all the different services that are available to me, which I could personally use given my situation,” said local worker Marty Nash. “I am interested in No Worker Left Behind and this gave me a good idea of what I needed to do to be involved in that program.”

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