Dear Friend,
The first day of spring is right around the corner! Also, budget season is well underway, which is an exciting and busy time for me and my team as we work to develop the state budget and lead the appropriations process in the Senate. Recently, we met with local elected officials and community leaders from across the district to hear directly about the most pressing needs in our community. I encourage you to reach out at any point if you have questions or comments to share about the state budget.
While the balance sheet may be exciting for me, I recognize spring energizes people in countless ways. From March is Reading Month to Women’s History Month, my team and I want to stay engaged with you. Below you will find information about a few upcoming opportunities this month.
In Service,
Sarah Anthony
State Senator
District 21
Included in This Newsletter
- State of Women Town Hall
- March is Reading Month
- Wins for Mid-Michigan
- On the Legislative Radar
State of Women Town Hall
During Women’s History Month, it’s important to honor and celebrate the trailblazing women who have paved the way for us to succeed. It’s equally as important to uplift everyday heroes and experts in our community who are fighting to ensure women today and, in the future, have the best outcomes possible. Join us for my upcoming town hall on the state of women in Michigan. We will hear from a panel of experts on the state of women in business, women’s healthcare and women’s education. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and join the conversation. RSVP here!
WHEN: Wednesday, March 20, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Gier Community Center, 2400 Hall St, Lansing, MI 48906
Bring (optional): personal care products for donation to local nonprofits (tampons, sanitary pads, dental supplies, shampoo, conditioner, bodywash, deodorant, lotion)
March is Reading Month
Throughout March, we celebrate the joy of reading! Schools, libraries and communities come together to promote literacy and encourage everyone to pick up a book. Whatever you’re reading this month, I’m sure it pairs nicely with a personalized bookmark. Click this link for a downloadable PDF coloring page to make your own bookmark.
Wins for Mid-Michigan
Last year, I worked hard to secure $64 million in state funding for community center grants through the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. Community centers play a vital role in our state, offering services for all ages and building thriving neighborhoods that will last for generations. Today, I wanted to highlight one of the awardees in Lansing, the Refugee Development Center (RDC), which received $1 million for its Newcomer Center. The grant will help the RDC make important capital improvements, marking a significant milestone for RDC’s mission to uplift the community it serves. To learn more about the work of the RDC, click here. To view the complete list of grantees, click here.
On the Legislative Radar
Senate Bill 632 would cap payday lending interest rates at 36% APR. This bill has received support from over 100 organizations across the state including a range of non-profits and credit unions. This bill was reported favorably out of the Senate Finance, Insurance, and Consumer Protection Committee on March 6, 2024.
Additionally, Senate Bills 350 and 355 would modernize our existing promise zones to allow financial aid for housing expenses under the Promise Zone Authority Act. These two bills are supported by various stakeholders, including the Michigan College Access Network, the Detroit Regional Chamber and current Promise Zone authorities from across the state. These bills were favorably reported from the House Appropriations Committee on March 6, 2024.