{"id":8273,"date":"2026-02-07T09:08:00","date_gmt":"2026-02-07T14:08:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/?p=8273"},"modified":"2026-02-06T14:08:40","modified_gmt":"2026-02-06T19:08:40","slug":"celebrating-black-history-month","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/2026\/02\/07\/celebrating-black-history-month\/","title":{"rendered":"Celebrating Black History Month"},"content":{"rendered":"\n[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/17\/2024\/04\/bayer1.jpeg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Senator Bayer Email Banner&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Senator Bayer Email Banner&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; force_fullwidth=&#8221;on&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Dear Neighbor,\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Happy Black History Month! This February, I encourage you to join me in recognizing the diverse contributions and histories of African Americans in our state and nation. I am attending the West Bloomfield Black Expo on Saturday, Feb. 21st, and I would love to see everyone there! There are also other events and ways you can celebrate around the district and state:\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.org\/blackhistory\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">be sure to check those out here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">. Lastly, I want to also encourage folks to check out their local libraries, which have compiled great resources and books to commemorate this month.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Our work in the legislature is well underway for the year, and as always, I\u2019m honored to continue serving you and our community in the state Senate. Read on to learn more about the solutions we\u2019re working to deliver for District 13 residents and our entire state.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">As always, if you need assistance of any sort, or have any questions or concerns you\u2019d like to share, please feel free to reach out to my office. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">You can reach me and my t<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">eam by calling (517) 373-2417 or emailing <\/span><a href=\"mailto:SenRBayer@senate.michigan.gov\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">SenRBayer@senate.michigan.gov<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Sincerely,<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/17\/2024\/11\/Bayer_Rosemary_Signature.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Senator Bayer Signature&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Senator Bayer Signature&#8221; width=&#8221;34%&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Rosemary Bayer<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">State Senator<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">District 13<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/17\/2024\/11\/EnewsHeaders_Recent-Highlights.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;If you&#8217;re in a rush&#8230; recent highlights Senator Bayer&#8221; title_text=&#8221;If you&#8217;re in a rush&#8230; recent highlights Senator Bayer&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"83\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">The official Black history commemoration effort turns 100-years-old in 2026! This Black History Month, join me in exploring the many historic, cultural, and economic contributions of African Americans in Michigan and beyond.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"83\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Join me for my upcoming community conversation event at the Novi Civic Center on Thursday, Feb. 26 at 6:30 p.m.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"83\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Need help accessing utility assistance this winter? Read on to learn more.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/17\/2024\/11\/EnewsHeaders_Legislative-Updates-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Legislative Updates Senator Bayer&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Legislative Updates Senator Bayer&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<h3>Protecting Michiganders\u2019 Personal Information\u00a0\u00a0<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Last week, Data Privacy Day was recognized on January 28. I recently spoke on the Senate floor on the importance of data privacy, and highlighted my legislation, Senate Bill <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/documents\/2025-2026\/billintroduced\/Senate\/pdf\/2025-SIB-0359.pdf\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">359<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. Though we passed it out of the Senate last term, unfortunately it didn\u2019t make it to Governor Whitmer&#8217;s desk to be signed into law. After years of working in the technology and computer space, this issue is near and dear to my heart, and I\u2019m hopeful to get it to the governor this year! <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_video src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=edrI4z4ff8U&#038;feature=youtu.be&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_video][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<h3><span data-contrast=\"none\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" lang=\"EN-US\" class=\"TextRun SCXW57440898 BCX4\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW57440898 BCX4\">100 Years of Celebrating Black History<\/span><\/span><\/h3>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/17\/2026\/02\/BlackHistoryMnth_1.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;100 Years of Celebrating Black History &#8221; title_text=&#8221;BlackHistoryMnth_1&#8243; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">This year, the official Black history commemoration effort turns 100-years-old! In 1926, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/michiganadvance.com\/2026\/02\/02\/black-history-month-turns-100\/#:~:text=The%20annual%20acknowledgement%2C%20first%20celebrated%20in%201926%20as%20Negro%20History%20Week%2C%20was%20created%20by%20founder%20Carter%20G.%20Woodson.%20The%20son%20of%20slaves%2C%20Woodson%20was%20born%20in%20Virginia%20and%20raised%20in%20West%20Virginia.%20He%20earned%20a%20doctorate%20degree%20from%20Harvard%20University.%20Woodson%20died%20at%20age%20of%2074%20in%201950.\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Dr. Carter G. Woodson<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> \u2014 a graduate of Harvard University and son of slaves \u2014 created Negro History Week to encourage the study of African American history and lives in public schools across the nation. In 1976, Michigan\u2019s own President Gerald R. Ford <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/whitmer\/news\/proclamations\/2026\/02\/02\/february-2026-black-history-month#:~:text=WHEREAS%2C%20after%20being%20expanded%20to%20a%20month%20in%201976%2C%20every%20U.S.%20president%2C%20beginning%20with%20Michigan%E2%80%99s%20own%20President%20Gerald%20R.%20Ford%2C%20officially%20designated%20the%20month%20of%20February%20as%20Black%20History%20Month%20every%20year%3B%20and%2C\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">expanded the commemoration to a full month<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> to be observed every February.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">A century after the first official Black history celebration effort, Black History Month continues to serve as an annual celebration of the many cultural, historical, and economic contributions and sacrifices of African Americans. Our state <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">has long been home to a diverse range of Black leaders and trailblazers whose legacies and accomplishments have changed our world for the better, from abolitionist Sojourner Truth and \u201cmother of the freedom movement\u201d Rosa Parks to Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Stevie Wonder and \u201cQueen of Soul\u201d Aretha Franklin.<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Democrats have worked hard to ensure Michigan is a place where everyone has an equitable opportunity to thrive, no matter the color of their skin. Together, we\u2019ve successfully:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"88\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/anthony\/2023\/12\/19\/anthony-recognized-for-championing-crown-act\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Banned race-based hair discrimination<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"88\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/blog\/2024\/03\/20\/hate-crimes-legislation\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Strengthened our laws against hate crimes<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"88\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/blog\/2025\/04\/18\/michigan-senate-passes-historic-momnibus-bill-package-to-improve-maternal-health-outcomes\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Fought to mitigate racial and ethnic health disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"88\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/santana\/2023\/05\/17\/senate-passes-santana-bill-to-make-juneteenth-officially-a-michigan-state-holiday-with-bipartisan-nearly-unanimous-vote\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Designated Juneteenth as an official state holiday<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"88\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/blog\/2024\/09\/17\/protect-ballot-access\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Ensured every voter can safely exercise their fundamental right to vote<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">; and<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"88\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/blog\/2025\/10\/03\/bipartisan-state-budget\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Centered equity in our state budget investments<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\"> <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">My Democratic colleagues and I will continue to uplift communities that have been historically marginalized and fight for justice and equality for all Michiganders.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/anthony\/2026\/01\/30\/ice\/\">Michigan Senate Dems Urge Congress to Rein in ICE, DHS Brutality<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; column_structure=&#8221;1_2,1_2&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/17\/2026\/02\/Civil-Rights-Hearing-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;  \nMichigan Senate Dems Urge Congress to Rein in ICE, DHS Brutality &#8221; title_text=&#8221;Civil Rights Hearing&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/17\/2026\/02\/Sen.-Bayer-Plymouth-ICE-Protest.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;  \nMichigan Senate Dems Urge Congress to Rein in ICE, DHS Brutality &#8221; title_text=&#8221;Sen. Bayer Plymouth ICE Protest&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Left: Sen. Chang hears testimony on legislation she\u2019s championing to increase transparency and accountability for federal immigration enforcement officers.\u00a0Right: Sen. Bayer joining in protest with Plymouth residents to voice opposition to ICE raids and increased presence across the country. Additionally, my office participated in the national strike on Jan. 30th.\u00a0<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:2,&quot;335551620&quot;:2,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">In response to a disturbing uptick in unchecked, violent tactics used by federal immigration enforcement officers in Minnesota and across the nation, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/2026\/01\/30\/michigan-senate-dems-urge-congress-to-rein-in-ice-dhs-brutality\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Michigan Senate Democrats<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> passed <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/legislature.mi.gov\/Bills\/Bill?ObjectName=2026-SR-0092&amp;QueryID=186018572\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Resolution 92<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> with bipartisan support last week to urge Congress to restore and strengthen accountability in the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency and Dept. of Homeland Security (DHS).<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/17\/2026\/02\/ICE-Bills-Hearing.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;On Jan. 29th, Michiganders filled three rooms to listen to testimony in the Senate Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety on legislation to restrict the reckless tactics used by ICE and DHS officers.&#8221; title_text=&#8221;ICE Bills Hearing&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">On Jan. 29th, Michiganders filled three rooms to listen to testimony in the Senate Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety on legislation to restrict the reckless tactics used by ICE and DHS officers.<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">We&#8217;re also <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/chang\/2026\/01\/20\/immigration-enforcement\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">working to advance legislation (Senate Bills 508-510) that would better protect the safety of all Michiganders<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> by reigning in the dangerous tactics used by ICE and U.S. Customs and Border Patrol officers and condoned by our federal administration. Discussed in a packed committee room this past week, these commonsense bills would ensure the safety and dignity of all those who call our state home by:\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"90\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Protecting schools, hospitals, courthouses, places of worship, and other sensitive locations from immigration enforcement; <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"90\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Prohibiting government entities from sharing personally identifying information for the purposes of immigration enforcement; and <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"90\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Preventing law enforcement officers from wearing masks to conceal their identity.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">The brutality and corruption of the Trump administration\u2019s immigration crackdown is anti-American, and our nation\u2019s leaders must demand greater transparency and oversight in ICE and DHS operations <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u2014 because <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">no one<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> is above the law.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Senate Democrats Champion Legislation to Protect Michiganders of All Ages\u00a0<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In the first month of 2026, Senate Democrats have been busy working across the aisle to deliver solutions to the challenges facing Michiganders and keep them safe from a growing number of safety concerns, including human trafficking and telephone scammers. Included in the bills advanced is legislation to:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"89\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Reduce cell phone usage in schools: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">To address the growing issue of cell phone use in schools and protect kids\u2019 uninterrupted learning environment, the Michigan Senate <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/2026\/01\/22\/michigan-senate-passes-bipartisan-polehanki-bill-to-reduce-student-cell-phone-use-in-schools\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">recently passed bipartisan legislation<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> to ban cell phones during instruction time in Michigan\u2019s K-12 public schools. These bills would help ensure our educators can teach, and our students can learn without distraction.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\"> <\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"89\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Prevent human trafficking:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> In 2024, the National Human Trafficking Hotline received over 750 tips of human trafficking in Michigan, with 340 of them being confirmed cases. As Michigan shares an international border, Michiganders, especially children, are uniquely vulnerable to falling victim to this heinous crime. To help us protect our most vulnerable, my colleagues and I recently <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/2026\/01\/30\/human-trafficking\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">passed bipartisan legislation<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> to increase criminal penalties, particularly for those who traffic minors.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\"> <\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"89\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Crack down on scam calls and texts:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> As folks navigate the stressors of everyday life, the last thing you need is a constant stream of phone calls and texts harassing you and attempting to deceive you out of your hard-earned money. That\u2019s why, last week, the Senate <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/cavanagh\/2026\/01\/29\/deceptive-robocalls\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">unanimously passed bipartisan legislation<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> to tackle this issue head-on, ensuring both our residents and the Attorney General\u2019s office have the tools they need to hold scammers accountable.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>New Year, New Legislation! Senate Dems Introduce Legislation to Tackle Rising Energy Costs\u00a0<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">With the new year here, my colleagues and I have hit the ground running to introduce new legislation.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"89\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tackle rising energy costs:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> While the costs of everything from gas and groceries continue to put a squeeze on Michiganders, utility costs are only adding to the burden. To combat outrageous energy rates \u2014 which have gone up 11% since Jan. 2025 \u2014 <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/01\/15\/utility-costs\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">legislation recently introduced by Senate Democrats<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> would establish a multiyear rate plan to set utility prices for multiple years, preventing surprise spikes in monthly bills and improving financial planning and stability for families in the state.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/17\/2025\/01\/EnewsHeaders_Upcoming-Events-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Upcoming Events Senator Bayer&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Upcoming Events Senator Bayer&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<h3>Community Conversation in Novi\u00a0<\/h3>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">WHEN: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Thursday, Feb. 26, from 6:30 &#8211; 7:30 p.m.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<br \/><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">WHERE: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Novi Civic Center, 45175 W. 10 Mile Rd., Novi, MI 48375<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/17\/2024\/11\/EnewsHeaders_Community-Connections-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Community Connections Senator Bayer&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Community Connections Senator Bayer&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<h3><span data-contrast=\"auto\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" lang=\"EN-US\" class=\"TextRun SCXW40794777 BCX4\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW40794777 BCX4\">Connecting with Constituents in Farmington Hills<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW40794777 BCX4\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/17\/2026\/02\/Sen.-Bayer-Farmington-Hills-Coffee-Hour-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Connecting with Constituents in Farmington Hills &#8221; title_text=&#8221;Sen. Bayer Farmington Hills Coffee Hour&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" lang=\"EN-US\" class=\"TextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\">It was great to see all <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\">the<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\"> constituents who <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW168368520 BCX4\">braved<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\"> the weather to attend my recent coffee hour at the Farmington Hills Library! We talked about so many of the issues that matter<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\">,<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\"> from data centers <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\">and <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\">the federal issues that are weighing so heavy on our hearts and minds, <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\">to<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\"> my bill to codify firearm suicide prevention measures (S<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\">enate Bill<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\"> 539 <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\">\u2014<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\"> Donna&#8217;s Law<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\">)<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\">.<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\"> <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\">I&#8217;m<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\"> looking forward to my next opportunity to chat about the issues <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\">impacting<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\"> you<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\"> <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\">on<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\"> <\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW168368520 BCX4\" href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/event_wp\/community-conversation-7\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" lang=\"EN-US\" class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW168368520 BCX4\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">Feb<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">.<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\"> 2<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">6th<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\"> in Novi<\/span><\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" lang=\"EN-US\" class=\"TextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW168368520 BCX4\">!<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW168368520 BCX4\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/17\/2024\/11\/EnewsHeaders_News-Resources.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Helpful News and Resources Senator Bayer&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Helpful News and Resources Senator Bayer&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<h3>2026 State of the State Art and Writing Contests\u00a0<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">For the first time ever, Michigan K-12 students have the opportunity to be a part of the governor\u2019s State of the State address!<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"86\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Art Contest<\/span><\/i><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">K-12 students are encouraged to come up with a creative art design for the program cover on the theme of \u201cMichigan\u2019s Bright Future.\u201d Answer the question of what our state\u2019s future looks like, and submit designs <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/somgovweb.state.mi.us\/ArtContest\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\"> <\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"86\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Writing Contest<\/span><\/i><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">:<\/span><\/b> <span data-contrast=\"none\">Students should write their best short story or essay on what they love most about Michigan. Submit your student&#8217;s writing <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/forms.office.com\/pages\/responsepage.aspx?id=h3D71Xc3rUKWaoku9HIl0QRcyYltdldPnIKAF5qu6ltUMFc1OEdEQUFWSVM5Ulc0N1E3M0NXTzNNRC4u&amp;route=shorturl\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Submissions for both contests are due no later than <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">. The governor\u2019s State of the State address is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026. Learn more <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/whitmer\/news\/press-releases\/2026\/01\/29\/whitmer-announces-art-and-writing-contests-for-2026-state-of-the-state\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Utility Assistance Programs\u00a0\u00a0<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Winter can become stressful with high utility costs. Depending on your household income, you may qualify for assistance:\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"87\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/en\/mdhhs\/assistance-programs\/emergency-relief\/overview\/ser\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">State Emergency Relief:<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"none\">State Emergency Relief is a crisis intervention program that provides assistance for energy-related expenses like heating fuel, electricity, and home repairs. Those who can demonstrate need are encouraged to apply online through <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/newmibridges.michigan.gov\/s\/isd-landing-page?language=en_US\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">MI Bridges<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"87\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/en\/mpsc\/consumer\/energy-assistance\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP):<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"none\">The Michigan Public Service Commission administers the MEAP, helping establish and administer statewide programs that provide energy assistance and self-sufficiency services to eligible low-income households. To seek help, contact <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/mi211.org\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">2-1-1<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> or your utility company to find programs in your area.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"87\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/mdhhs\/doing-business\/weatherization\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Weatherization Assistance Program:<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> The Weatherization Assistance Program provides free home energy-conservation services to low-income Michigan homeowners and renters. These services can reduce energy use and lower utility bills. Some of the services include insulation, air leakage reduction, smoke detectors, and dryer venting. You can contact <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/helpinghand\/housing\/weatherization\/state-map-of-weatherization-operators\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">your local Community Action Agency<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> to start the application process.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Dear Neighbor,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Happy Black History Month! This February, I encourage you to join me in recognizing the diverse contributions and histories of African Americans in our state and nation. I [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":17,"featured_media":8276,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","twitterCardType":"","cardImageID":0,"cardImage":"","cardTitle":"","cardDesc":"","cardImageAlt":"","cardPlayer":"","cardPlayerWidth":0,"cardPlayerHeight":0,"cardPlayerStream":"","cardPlayerCodec":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8273","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-email"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.5 (Yoast SEO v27.7) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Celebrating Black History Month - Senator Rosemary Bayer<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/2026\/02\/07\/celebrating-black-history-month\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Celebrating Black History Month\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Dear Neighbor,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Happy Black History Month! This February, I encourage you to join me in recognizing the diverse contributions and histories of African Americans in our state and nation. I [&hellip;]\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/2026\/02\/07\/celebrating-black-history-month\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Senator Rosemary Bayer\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-02-07T14:08:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/17\/2026\/02\/BlackHistoryMnth_1.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1080\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1350\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"jlindsay\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"jlindsay\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"10 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/bayer\\\/2026\\\/02\\\/07\\\/celebrating-black-history-month\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/bayer\\\/2026\\\/02\\\/07\\\/celebrating-black-history-month\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"jlindsay\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/bayer\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/45d5eb060d7edbcdc7627afd6f26c534\"},\"headline\":\"Celebrating Black History Month\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-07T14:08:00+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/bayer\\\/2026\\\/02\\\/07\\\/celebrating-black-history-month\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":3273,\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/bayer\\\/2026\\\/02\\\/07\\\/celebrating-black-history-month\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/bayer\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/17\\\/2026\\\/02\\\/BlackHistoryMnth_1.png\",\"articleSection\":[\"Email\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/bayer\\\/2026\\\/02\\\/07\\\/celebrating-black-history-month\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/bayer\\\/2026\\\/02\\\/07\\\/celebrating-black-history-month\\\/\",\"name\":\"Celebrating Black History Month - 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Senator Rosemary Bayer","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/bayer\/2026\/02\/07\/celebrating-black-history-month\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Celebrating Black History Month","og_description":"Dear Neighbor,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Happy Black History Month! This February, I encourage you to join me in recognizing the diverse contributions and histories of African Americans in our state and nation. 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