Dear Neighbor,
Spring has sprung here in Michigan! I hope you are having a great start to the season and enjoying everything the warmer weather brings to our state. As we transition into spring, I encourage you to take advantage of the longer days and pleasant weather by spending time outdoors, whether it’s exploring our beautiful state parks, going for a hike, or simply relaxing in your backyard.
My team and I are using the longer days to get things accomplished on behalf of our community. Keep reading to learn more about the work we’re doing to support Michigan families, protect our children, and more.
If you or someone you know would like to provide any feedback about what’s happening in Lansing, or if you need assistance of any sort, please connect with my office. You can contact me by sending an email to SenSAnthony@senate.michigan.gov or by calling (517) 373-6960.
In Service,
SARAH ANTHONY
State Senator
District 21
- This month, Senate Democrats unveiled a bold proposal that would provide the “Building Blocks” Michigan needs to uplift working parents and ensure they have a fair shot at a better quality of life. Click here to learn more.
- Set a reminder to join our next Community Conversation on Monday, April 14, from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. at the Sam Corey Senior Center in Holt. Stay tuned for additional reminders.
- To support federal workers who may have recently lost their jobs, the Michigan Dept. of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) has compiled several resources to offer support. Find more information and resources below.
Unveiling the “Building Blocks” Needed to Cut Costs, Improve Child Care and Create Opportunity for Parents and Kids
This month, Senate Democrats unveiled a bold, transformative proposal that would provide the “Building Blocks” Michigan needs to uplift working parents and ensure they have a fair shot at a better quality of life for themselves and their children.
The plan takes a multi-angled approach to cutting the cost of parenting by:
- Providing a significant income boost to working families through a targeted Working Parents Tax Credit;
- Expanding Rx Kids statewide, a first-of-its-kind program that provides cash payments to new mothers and their babies; and
- Tackling the child care crisis from both the demand and supply side.
To watch the press conference, visit the Michigan Senate Democrats’ Facebook Page. And to sign on as a supporter of this game-changing proposal, click here.
Last year, I testified to the Senate Housing and Human Services Committee in support of similar legislation.
Standing Up for Michigan: Fighting Back Against Federal Funding Cuts
Last week, we held an important Senate Appropriations Committee hearing to investigate how the federal funding freeze is hurting Michigan schools, students, and families. We heard directly from Attorney General Dana Nessel, State Superintendent Dr. Michael Rice, and other experts about the real-life impact of these reckless federal budget cuts and executive orders from the Trump-Elon administration. With their push to dismantle the U.S. Dept. of Education, defund Medicaid, and wreak havoc throughout our federal government, this administration is threatening everything from classroom resources to accessible health and other critical resources.
On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, I listened to testimony from Attorney General Nessel, State Superintendent Dr. Rice and other experts discussing the real-life impacts of the Trump-Elon federal funding cut. Photo Credit: Jose Romero, Michigan Senate Democrats
That’s why, as Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I called this special hearing. We needed to get the facts, understand the challenges ahead, and figure out how Michigan can fight back. The Attorney General’s office also shared what they’re doing to protect critical programs that families across our state rely on.
This is just one piece of the larger battle we’re fighting. Over the past few weeks, we’ve also been sounding the alarm on how this federal funding freeze is putting health care and education access at risk, invading your personal data, and leaving community organizations scrambling to provide services. My Senate colleagues and I won’t stop pushing back — because Michiganders deserve better.
Thanks for Coming!
Thank you to everyone who joined me for our March community conversation at Capital Area District Libraries!
It was great to connect, share ideas, and hear directly about issues impacting our community. I look forward to more great conversations!
March is Reading Month!
I had a wonderful time reading with students in their classrooms this March during Reading Month!
I want to thank all the teachers and staff for welcoming me into their schools and classrooms. Although Reading Month is coming to an end soon, I will continue to focus on the policies and budget investments necessary to help every student succeed.
Make reading even more fun! Get a bookmark to color and keep your place, plus find your nearest Capital Area District Library branch here.
Save the Date! Community Conversation with Special Guest Rep. Kara Hope
Set a reminder to join our next Community Conversation with Special Guest Rep. Kara Hope on Monday, April 14, at the Sam Corey Senior Center in Holt.
These conversations are a wonderful opportunity for us to connect and discuss what’s happening in our community. It’s also a chance for me to provide updates from the Capitol and, most importantly, to hear directly from you about the issues that matter most.
When: Monday, April 14, from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Where: Sam Corey Senior Center, 2108 Cedar St., Holt, MI 48842
Support for Federal Workers in Michigan Impacted by Federal Layoffs and Funding Cuts
To support federal workers who may have recently lost their jobs, the Michigan Dept. of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) has compiled several resources to offer support. A new, comprehensive webpage, Michigan.gov/FederalWorkerHelp, provides impacted federal workers with easy access to unemployment, job search, and community resources.
Workers who recently lost their jobs through no fault of their own may also be eligible to apply for temporary financial assistance through the Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) as well.
UIA has resources in place to help any laid-off federal worker, including:
- UIA Claimant Roadmap: An easy-to-follow, six-step guide to applying for and understanding unemployment benefits.
- Online Coaching Sessions: Web-based guidance from UIA staff who walk users through the steps to complete an application and qualify for payments.
- UIA Community Connect: This program partners with local groups to provide guidance for workers from underserved groups who have faced barriers when filing for jobless benefits.
- Schedule an Appointment: Schedule either an in-person, phone or virtual appointment to speak with a UIA Customer Service Agent.
- Looking for Work: Tips to understanding your responsibilities when it comes to conducting and documenting your successful work searches.
- Assistance with Setting Up an Account: Workers must create a MiLogin account before setting up a MiWAM account.
For additional assistance, workers can find FAQs, videos, and other resources at Michigan.gov/UIA. To reach an agent or unlock a MiWAM or MiLogin account, you can reach a customer service representative at 866-500-0017.
In partnership with LEO’s Office of Employment and Training, Michigan Works! agencies are also available to assist affected federal workers. Services offered include:
- Basic Career Services, which are available to all workers seeking services.
- Individualized Career Services, which are designed for workers who are unable to obtain employment through basic career services alone.
- Training Services, which are necessary to equip workers with the skills needed to obtain and retain employment.
To connect with your local Michigan Works! service center, call 800-285-WORKS (9675) or visit Michigan.gov/MichiganWorks.
Happy Women’s History Month
This March, we’re coming together to recognize the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of the bold, brave women who have paved the way for progress here in Michigan and nationwide.
This Women’s History Month, I’m celebrating some of the remarkable trailblazers in Lansing- women who have led, inspired, and paved the way for future generations. I’m honored to have served alongside them, working together to drive meaningful change.
I’m proud to be a part of Michigan’s first female-majority legislative caucus, where we’re not just breaking barriers from within, but working hard to ensure all women across the state have the resources and opportunities they need to shatter glass ceilings and secure their own prosperous futures.