St. Joe-Benton Harbor News

Senator John Damoose introduced an amendment on Tuesday to increase funding for the Pure Michigan campaign as the Michigan state Senate began voting on the annual budget. The proposed amendment aimed to boost the current $21 million allocation to $50 million.

"Pure Michigan represents the single greatest marketing effort of any state in the union. The message perfectly encapsulates what Michigan stands for and what we can offer to those who wish to experience our great state," stated Damoose, R-Harbor Springs. He highlighted Michigan's natural resources and outdoor activities such as camping, skiing, boating, golfing, hiking, and fishing.

The Pure Michigan campaign, launched in the early 2000s, has gained national attention for its advertising success and is credited with attracting millions of out-of-state visitors. It has also provided economic benefits to small businesses and local communities across Michigan.

Damoose expressed disappointment over declining support for the campaign in recent budgets. "Sadly, despite the massive success, Michigan has pulled away from Pure Michigan in recent years — slashing the annual investment over and over again," he said. He emphasized that Pure Michigan effectively draws tourists and new residents.

During discussions on the upcoming fiscal year budget, Damoose's amendment failed to secure approval from the full Senate. He argued that increased funding would benefit tourism, business attraction, population retention, and return on investment for Pure Michigan expenditures.

"From the standpoint of tourism, business attraction, the retention of our existing population, and the proven track record in terms of return on investment for Pure Michigan expenditures, I think we should have included this funding measure and further showcased to the world how truly great our state is," Damoose commented. Despite this setback, he indicated that efforts to support Pure Michigan will continue.