It's a simple idea really, something that when you first hear about it makes you wonder why we haven't always done it. Especially when it could save the state $600,000 a year.
The idea, from Michigan State Police Lt. Tim Gill, was simple.
You know all those programs, rulebooks, guidelines and brochures the Department of Natural Resources prints every year, at a cost of about $600,000 annually? Other states, like Alabama, sell advertising to make up the costs. Why don't we?
The answer is, Michigan will now.
Rep. Rick Jones, R-Grand Ledge, who forwarded Gill's suggestion to the DNR, estimated the ads could pay for the entirety of the printing operations or even turn a profit. DNR chief Rebecca Humphries said ad spaces will be incorporated into the printing immediately.
It might present as the "Michigan guide to trout fishing, presented by Dick's Sporting Goods", or a coupon for $2 off a box of ammunition at Cabela's inside your bow hunting rule book. What it could mean to you is more conservation officers in the field or quicker processing times for hunting and fishing licenses.
And no need to find more money to pay for it.
I can not believe it, common sence has prevailed, kudos to Rep. Jones for forwarding this info.
Now if other legislators would pull there heads out from the muck and listen to common sence suggestions like this one, we may actually be able to get down to the business of restoring Michigan.
Posted by: Victor Braatz | March 14, 2008 at 01:51 PM
Where is it being printed? I had heard it was NOT being printed in Michigan - which could use the jobs.
Posted by: albuilt51 | March 15, 2008 at 10:39 AM
The selling of naming rights and putting advertising on everything is getting way overdone. If this is such a good idea, then why doesn't the LSJ sell advertising on its opinion/editorial page?
Next, someone will propose selling the naming rights to the state capitol. Just think, we can all tour Michigan's beautiful state capitol sponsored by "let's make a deal lobbyists, inc."; or by "paparazzi and press corp, inc."
It is not all about the almighty dollar. Sometimes it is about doing the right thing.
Posted by: rukidding | March 15, 2008 at 12:12 PM