State Rep. Joe Bellino today expressed excitement in regard to General Motors’ announcement that it will invest $6.5 billion at two Michigan sites for electric vehicles and battery production.

“This is a huge win for Michigan workers and our economy,” said Bellino, of Monroe. “The tax incentives created for businesses and shovel-ready sites formed due to swift action taken by the Legislature will result in more jobs, and strengthen our state’s overall economy.”

Bellino participated in a news conferences on Tuesday with GM officials to announce the projects. A $2.5 billion investment will be made at a site in Lansing, while a $4 billion investment will be made at a site in Lake Orion. The proposed investment in Lansing will create an estimated 1,700 jobs when it is fully operational.

“It was an honor to participate in this event, and learn first-hand where GM will be investing in our state,” Bellino said. “Although we notched a win, it’s important to note that the Legislature’s work is not yet done. Hopefully we continue to see companies investing in our state.”

Bellino voted in favor of creating new economic development funds to help Michigan land business expansions. This came in the form of House Bills 5602-5604, which created the Strategic Outreach and Attraction Reserve (SOAR) Fund, where the Legislature had set aside funding to compete for large-scale economic development projects. Bellino helped sponsor House Bill 5602, which specifically creates the SOAR Fund in the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity.