Freshman State Rep. Kevin Daley (R-Lum) and his wife Debbie are donating 10 percent of the salary he earns as a state lawmaker to eight Lapeer County charities (including Loving Hands).

82nd District Rep. Daley decided to make the donation after the legislature delayed cutting its own pay until 2011.

“I think lawmakers were trying to trick people a little bit by voting for a pay cut that doesn’t take effect for another two years,” Daley said. “Families across the state are being forced to tighten their belt; state government should do the same. I’m trying to do the right thing and lead by example.”

Rather than simply return a portion of his salary to the state treasury, where he wouldn’t have any control over how the money is used, Daley said it would be better to donate to local organizations close to home.

“The state has a $1.3 billion budget deficit; getting back $8,000 from me would just be a drop in the bucket. I’d rather my money go toward helping people with real needs here in Lapeer County instead of propping up more unnecessary government spending, like the $200,000 the state spends on car washes or the nearly half a million for the state archeological office,” Daley said.

Daley is making eight $1,000 donations to charities in Lapeer County, including: Children’s Advocacy Center; Family Literacy Center; Human Development Commission; Love Inc.; Columbiaville Food Bank; KIND - Kids In a New Direction; Loving Hands Clinic; and Holiday Depot.

Daley selected the organizations with the help of a citizen advisory board made up of county and school officials.

“People are struggling, and when times are tough a community should pull together to help take care of its neighbors. These groups are going above and beyond to make sure they can help as many people as possible with limited resources, and I’m proud to be able to contribute to such worthy causes,” Daley said. “I made the suggestion we all do it. We’re in a position.”

Daley plans to again donate 10 percent of his lawmaker salary next year, and is encouraging organizations that would like to be considered in 2010 to contact his office by calling (517) 373-1800 or e-mailing kevindaley@house.mi.gov.

In other state news, since his term started in January, Daley said he’s frequently asked what his biggest surprise has been. “There’s been no surprises. I thought I’d be a youngster (he will be 52 in August),” he said and estimated the average age is probably mid-40.

“The biggest thing right now is the budget. It has a $1.3 billion (shortfall) and has to be balanced…It’s tough — no matter what you cut, it will hurt somebody,” Daley said. “The revenue from the income tax is down 52% and sales tax (revenue) is down 22%.”

With the dwindling state economy and Michigan having the highest unemployment rate in the nation at more than 10%, Daley noted times are tough for everyone. “It’s a terrible time for everyone and tough for everyone across the board,” he said. “I take it as a challenge.”