Dear Friend,
Whether you’re exploring your local outdoors, gearing up for some yardwork, or even attending a Tigers or Lugnuts game, I hope you and your loved ones are getting outside to enjoy the many spring activities our beautiful state has to offer!
I’m thrilled to report that Senate Democrats have just passed our 2027 state budget recommendations that aim to deliver meaningful relief and stability for the people of Michigan. Read more about the investments we have proposed for Michigan families, communities, and workers below, and find a recap of my time connecting with community members at Ele’s Place in Lansing recently.
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 don’t hesitate to reach out. 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
- I had a great time chatting with constituents at Ele’s Place in Lansing last week, where we had the opportunity to talk about the state budget and how it affects their everyday lives.
- My Senate Democratic colleagues and I passed our 2027 state budget recommendations this week, advancing proposals that would make life more affordable for Michiganders, invest in our workers, protect residents from federal chaos, and more. Learn more below.
- In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month this May, I wanted to shine a light on the ways my Senate colleagues and I have worked hard to address the mental health crisis here in Michigan. Keep reading for more info.
Connecting with Community at Ele’s Place
Left: Sen. Anthony speaking with constituents at Ele’s Place; Right: Sen. Anthony alongside Lisa Nielsen, Director of Ele’s Place – Capital Region.
Last week, I had the opportunity to spend time with constituents at my Community Conversation at Ele’s Place in Lansing. I’m so grateful to those who came out to engage in this important discussion, which included one of my favorite topics: how the state budget impacts the everyday lives of Michiganders — from the schools your kids attend, the roads you travel, and your ability to access needed health care. Thanks to all who joined, and a special thanks to Ele’s Place – Capital Region for sharing their space with our neighbors.
Michigan Senate Passes 2027 Budget Recommendations — A Quick Rundown
Sen. Anthony speaking to the passage of the 2027 state budget on the floor. Watch her speech here.
I’m proud to report that my Senate colleagues and I just passed the Fiscal Year 2027 state budget, proposing investments to deliver meaningful relief for Michiganders, protect residents from the impact of reckless federal decisions, and support the people across our state who need it most, from our students and seniors to families and farmers.
At a time when Michiganders are feeling their budgets stretched thin, we’re using ours to invest in programs that work — universal school meals, free pre-K for all, tax relief for families and seniors, Rx Kids, and more.
While the Trump administration’s cruel cuts threaten your fundamental right to health care, we’re protecting it — ensuring Medicaid remains accessible to all while also working to lower prescription drug costs.
And for our workers in some of the state’s most challenging professions — direct care workers, teachers, and corrections officers — we’ve ensured better benefits and higher wages were a part of the plan as well.
For the fourth consecutive year, Senate Dems’ education proposal prioritizes Michigan students and teachers, delivering another per-pupil funding increase and securing resources to bolster school safety and mental health efforts and ensure every child can become a confident, capable reader.
We’re also expanding scholarship programs for our adult learners, fighting for price transparency to protect Michigan consumers, and safeguarding our right to fair and free elections.
No matter what happens at the federal level, here in Michigan, we have your back. Stay tuned for another eNews, where we’ll dive a little deeper into the investments we passed. In the meantime, and as we engage in negotiations with the House, you can read more about our proposal here.
Honoring Mental Health Awareness Month with Action
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to raise public awareness, reduce stigma, and promote compassion for those struggling with their mental health. My Senate colleagues and I have worked hard to address the mental health crisis here in Michigan by:
- Expanding access to mental health care coverage – Signed into law in 2024, my legislation, Senate Bill 27, requires insurance companies to cover treatments for mental health and substance use disorders at the same level as physical health services.
- Preventing suicide through commonsense gun safety legislation – Firearms account for over half of all suicide deaths, and 90% of suicide attempts with firearms are successful. That’s why my colleagues and I passed an 11-bill gun violence prevention package in 2023, including a “red flag” law that helps temporarily remove firearms from the homes of people who pose an immediate threat to themselves or others. In the first year since this law took effect, 30% of the Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs) filed mentioned threats of self-harm or suicide.
- Banning conversion therapy for minors – The practice by mental health professionals attempting to change someone’s gender identity or sexual orientation has long been discredited, as it has been consistently linked with negative mental health outcomes and greater risk of suicide. Michigan became the 22nd state to ban conversion therapy when the legislation to eliminate this harmful practice was signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in 2023.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health crisis, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a 24/7 toll-free nationwide hotline for compassionate care and accessible support, available via call, chat, or text. People can also dial 988 if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.