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State Representative Greg Alexander has cast his vote to support a shift from race-based to merit-based hiring within the state government. Alexander, representing Carsonville, co-sponsored a plan that aims to ensure the hiring of at-will state employees is determined by their qualifications rather than demographic characteristics.

Alexander elaborated on the intent behind the proposal, stating, "As elected state officials, one of our most important responsibilities is delivering people across our state with the best return possible for their tax dollars." He added, "That means getting rid of radical, left-wing hiring policies and pursuing the best candidates regardless of their gender, race or sexual orientation."

House Bill 4288, which was passed by an overwhelming majority in the House with a 105-1 vote, stipulates that hiring should be based solely on an applicant's merit. The bill mandates state agencies to focus on factors like relevant education and work experience of applicants. Agencies not complying with the law may incur civil fines of up to $10,000 per violation.

The initiative was introduced by Representative Erin Byrnes of Dearborn and garnered the co-sponsorship of over 30 House Democrats. Both parties supported the measure, reflecting a bipartisan acknowledgement of skills and experience as the foremost criteria for employment in state positions.

Alexander also expressed his gratitude towards his colleagues for their consensus, saying, "I am thankful House Democrats joined us in acknowledging that state employees should be hired on the skills and experience they possess over anything else." He looked forward to future collaborations that could further establish practical governance in the state.