Dear Neighbor,
October has arrived, and with that, the leaves are falling, temperatures are dropping, and autumn is fully underway! We hope you’ll take advantage of everything the Mitten State has to offer this month, whether that be trick-or-treating with the kids, visiting a local pumpkin patch or cider mill with some friends, or exploring our scenic state parks brimming with peak fall foliage.
My legislative colleagues and I have been hard at work in the Capitol advocating on your behalf and implementing more practical solutions to support both our local communities and the entire state. And just last week, the historic state budget that we passed over the summer took effect, delivering record investments that build up Michigan’s schools, families, infrastructure, and so much more.
If you or someone you know would like to provide any feedback about what’s happening in Lansing, or needs assistance of any sort, please feel free to reach out to 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
Featured in This Newsletter
- Legislative Updates
- Community Connections
- News and Resources
Legislative Updates
Historic State Budget Now in Effect with New Fiscal Year Underway
October 1 marked the beginning of a new fiscal year for the state of Michigan, meaning our transformative 2025 state budget has officially taken effect! From continuing the universal free school meals program to investing in affordable housing initiatives, this budget was intentionally crafted to support the needs and desires of Michiganders in every corner of the state. Find out what my top 10 favorite budget items are by clicking here or the photo above.
To learn more about the new budget now in effect, click here.
Michigan Senate Passes Resolution Designating October as Uterine Fibroid Awareness Month
Earlier this week, the Senate passed my resolution, SR 143, recognizing October as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month.
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus that cause pain and discomfort and can significantly interfere with women’s quality of life. Research consistently shows that uterine fibroids disproportionately impact women of color. This month, we in the Senate recognize this issue in hopes of encouraging more research, data collection, and systemic changes to address the inequities surrounding uterine fibroids.
You can watch my remarks following the passage of the resolution by clicking below.
Community Connections
We Want to Hear from You!
Hosting community conversations and town halls is one of the most rewarding parts of my role as your senator. These events allow me to connect with you directly, and I want to ensure they are as valuable to you as they are to me. Please take a moment to fill out this survey and share your thoughts.
Your feedback is essential in helping my team and me make these events more meaningful and resourceful for everyone. I look forward to hearing from you and using your input to plan future gatherings that better serve our community.
Building Up Michigan with Strategic Investments — Community Conversation Recap
Earlier this month, I hosted my Building up Michigan with Strategic Investments Community Conversation, where we discussed the new state budget that took effect. During the event, I took the time to provide updates and explain how this budget is designed to build up Michigan and strengthen our communities.
We covered a wide range of topics, from statewide investments in education and infrastructure to local budget wins that will directly benefit our communities here in the Greater Lansing area. I shared information on key initiatives aimed at improving public services, enhancing economic opportunities, and addressing the most pressing needs of our residents.
It was great to hear your thoughts on the budget and your hopes for future funding priorities. Together, we can ensure our budget reflects the needs of our communities and paves the way for a brighter future for all Michiganders. Thank you for being part of this important conversation!
Freedom to Plan Act Virtual Town Hall — Event Recap
This month, I had the privilege of co-hosting a virtual town hall with Sen. Mary Cavanagh to discuss Senate Democrats’ Freedom to Plan package— an important step toward breaking down financial barriers to contraception and protecting our right to bodily autonomy. We were joined by reproductive health experts who walked us through the details of Senate Bills 973, 974, 987, 988, and 1006.
Hearing from both healthcare providers and community members was educational and insightful. Their stories highlighted not just the legislative importance of this bill package, but the real-life impact it will have on families across Michigan. I’m grateful for the chance to engage directly with so many of you and gain a deeper understanding of how this legislation will shape our future. Your voices are critical as we continue this work.
To watch a recording of the Oct. 4 town hall, click here. To learn more about Senate Democrats’ efforts to champion reproductive freedom here in Michigan, click here. To take action and show support for our Freedom to Plan package, click here.
News and Resources
Michigan College Month — Free College Applications!
As part of the American College Application Campaign, October is Michigan College Month! During this month, many Michigan colleges and universities waive their application fee in an effort to provide every graduating high school senior the opportunity to apply to college and for financial aid. The Michigan College Access Network created a list of participating colleges.
Find more information, additional institutions waiving their fee for Michigan College Month 2024, and downloadable fee waivers here.