Cracking Down on Bridge Card Fraud, Improving Michigan's Economy

By Cindy Denby

Protecting hard-working taxpayers in the state is one of my top priorities as your state legislator. With that in mind I voted in committee to pass a bill that will crack down on the fraud and abuse that has become prevalent within the Bridge Card system. The state Bridge Card program provides families and people in need with essential goods and services

House Bill 4042 would require the state to perform a monthly check of the Social Security Death Index database. If a recipient is found to be deceased, the department would terminate Bridge Card access. The bill also would require the DHS to check if any recipients or applicants are currently in prison, in which case their access would likewise be terminated. 

Such common-sense efforts are crucial to eliminating welfare fraud, which costs hard-working taxpayers money and cheats those who need the program. 

Michigan's Economy

Michigan's economy continues to grow stronger and healthier. One way companies in the state are bouncing back is by tapping into foreign markets to increase revenue and create jobs here at home.  Last year, Michigan was among 11 states to post double-digit export growth and ranked eighth in total merchandise exports with $56.9 billion. 

Companies that aimed at diversifying their portfolio when the economy was down in 2008 are now seeing that decision pay off dividends. Many more companies around the state are looking to follow suit and are working tirelessly to increase their exports. Transportation equipment currently tops the list of exports from Michigan but there any many other products being exported including machinery, chemicals, and computer and electronics.

I am pleased to hear more positive reports about the economy in our state. It is my hope that the work we do will help Michigan continue to bounce back and become more competitive.

If you have any questions or need assistance with any state issues, please contact me toll free at866-828-4863 or via e-mail at cindydenby@house.mi.gov.