Rep. Jack O’Malley today introduced a plan to restore funding for the Pure Michigan advertising campaign, saying allowing the program to end would harm the entire state.

O’Malley’s legislation would provide $37.5 million to fully restore funding vetoed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer as the new state budget year began Oct. 1.

“From tourism to business location decisions, we want people to come to our great state – and the Pure Michigan campaign brings them here,” said O’Malley, of Lake Ann. “Pure Michigan has been a fantastic way to promote everything our state has to offer – from the Upper Peninsula to Detroit and everywhere in between. It benefits every region of our state, and this funding must be restored to help continue Michigan’s economic comeback.”

Sen. Wayne Schmidt of Traverse City said the measure will have his support.

“Travel and tourism — one of Michigan’s biggest industries – relies on Pure Michigan,” Schmidt said. “Jobs at hotels, restaurants, golf courses and countless other locations depend on the business Pure Michigan helps deliver. Our state can’t afford to let this program end.”

Established in 2008, Pure Michigan has become the familiar and functional way to let the world know about the state’s preeminent attractions, O’Malley said. Several tourism and business groups from across the state have warned against ending the campaign, saying jobs will be lost if funding is not restored.

“If you don’t live in the Great Lakes State, the Pure Michigan campaign is a gateway to learning about all the wonderful opportunities here,” O’Malley said. “For those of us who already live here, Pure Michigan is a great source of pride. This campaign is an integral part of our state’s identity, and I look forward to making sure it continues.”

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