Hello neighbors,
The end of summer means the start of legislative session, and I could not be more honored to be in Lansing to represent the needs of everyone in our community. In just the first half of this year alone, we expanded civil rights, protected reproductive freedom and delivered on programs that will save families money — such as universal free breakfast and lunch for public school students.
I plan to keep just as busy in the Senate this fall, working with other legislators and the Governor on bills that continue our fight for an equitable, representative and supportive Michigan.
As always, it is my honor to work for you, the people of District 29, to deliver honest, diligent representation in Lansing on the issues that matter most.
Sincerely,
Winnie Brinks
Senate Majority Leader
29th District
In This Issue
Legislative Update
- Reproductive Health Act
- Governor Whitmer’s “What’s Next” Speech
District News & Updates
- Backpacks to Godfrey Elementary
- Celebrating Labor Day
- An Award from the Pipefitters Union
- Upcoming Coffee Hour
Helpful Information
Contact Us
Legislative Updates
Protecting Reproductive Rights
Last fall, Michiganders overwhelmingly turned out to vote and enshrine reproductive rights in our state constitution. For decades, however, anti-choice politicians have restricted access to basic healthcare like abortion. I commend my colleagues for introducing legislation that will make it easier for women to choose for themselves. Senate Bills 474 –479, introduced by Senators Anthony, Chang, Geiss, Cavanagh, McMorrow and Polehanki, will:
- Require insurance coverage for abortions;
- Amend our public health code to reflect abortion restrictions we have repealed and eliminate references to criminal punishment for abortions in our state laws; and
- Protect those providing referrals to abortions.
I look forward to supporting these updates and many others that will guarantee anyone who needs reproductive care can receive it, as well as continuing to eliminate chilling effects that discourage women from seeking the care they need.
What’s Next Address
On August 30, I had the pleasure of listening to Governor Whitmer outline her priorities in partnership during our fall legislative session. 40 years of pent-up policy will take us more than the first six months to get through, and I applaud Governor Whitmer for highlighting plans to further strengthen our economy by putting our people first.
I am eager to work with my fellow Senators, State House colleagues and the Governor to work towards:
- Paid family and medical leave so that no worker falls behind for the choice of starting a family or having to care for a loved one;
- A 100% clean energy standard for the health of Michiganders and the planet;
- A nonpartisan Prescription Drug Affordability Board to tackle the skyrocketing cost of medications;
- Codifying commonsense, cost-saving measures of the Affordable Care Act;
- Eliminating dangerous barriers to abortion care;
- Enhancing election security, integrity and access; and
- Advancing economic opportunity by streamlining permitting processes for manufacturing, infrastructure, housing, etc.
District News and Updates
Celebrating Organized Labor
I had the privilege of joining with community union members at the West Michigan Labor Fest on Labor Day. Michigan has long been a hub of workers organizing for better conditions and opportunities, and I am happy to stand in solidarity with our labor unions.
Our Majority for the People recognizes the importance of workers and the need to protect their right to organize. I am proud that we were able to restore workers’ rights in Michigan and bring back prevailing wage. Read more hereabout the legislation we’ve already passed to protect and strengthen workers’ rights.
Putting Students First
It’s always great getting the opportunity to return to Godfrey Elementary School (where I worked before serving in the legislature!), but it’s even better when AT&T donates 50 backpacks to ensure every Godfrey student has what they need to make it a great year!
It was a pleasure to meet Superintendent Thompson, Principal Rodriguez-Quist and some of the many hardworking staff who help make Godfrey Elementary such a special school.
Supporting West Michigan Trades
In more labor news, I had the honor of accepting the West Michigan Plumbers, Fitters and Service Trades Douglas Bennett Legislator of the Year Award last week. It’s always a pleasure to catch up with my friends at the Michigan Pipe Trades Association.
The men and women of the pipe trades raise their hands every day to do the tough work of building our state’s infrastructure. Our majority will keep fighting to ensure that Michigan is a place where workers have a voice — and where their voice is valued.
Helpful Information
Free Well Water Testing Available Through EGLE
The Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) is excited to announce a special program to provide Michigan residents with free well water testing and help families know the quality of their well water.
Most wells get checked when they are first built; however, EGLE and local health departments know water wells should be checked more frequently, as water quality may change over time. If you have a private well and want to know the quality of your water, here’s what you can do:
Contact your local health department. They can tell you about the water in your area and recommend any specific tests to perform.
Visit the EGLE website gov/EGLEPrivateWells. Here, you can add your information to ask for a water test. You will also learn more about how to collect your own water sample to send in to the lab.
Don’t worry if you’re not sure what the results mean. EGLE and local health department officials are available to help you understand the results and will guide you on next steps, if necessary.
Learn more here.
September is National Recovery Month
National Recovery Month (Recovery Month), celebrated throughout September, is a time to honor the resilience and strength of individuals who have embarked on the journey of recovery from addiction or mental health challenges. It is a month dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma and promoting understanding of the recovery process.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is hosting several events throughout September to commemorate National Recovery Month. A list of events, times, locations and registration information can be found here.
SAMHSA also offers additional resources, including:
- National Recovery Month Tool Kit
- Ways to find support
- Resources to find treatment
- Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Mini-Grants Available to Address PFAS Testing Efforts
The Great Lakes PFAS Action Network is providing mini grants to impacted communities to directly fuel local, grassroots efforts to organize and test for PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), as well as promote educational information about the pollutant.
Organizations, community groups and individuals are eligible to apply for the mini-grants program. Project proposals should fit under one or more of the three funding areas: PFAS Education and Awareness Raising, PFAS Research and Testing, or Community Organizing. Applications will be accepted through September 12.
For more information, click here. To access the grant application, click here.
Upcoming Coffee Hour
Join me and Rep. Skaggs (House District 80, which includes East Grand Rapids, parts of Kentwood, and Cascade Township) in-person in Grand Rapids to discuss the issues that are important to you!
WHEN: Friday, September 29, 2023, from 10:15-11:15 a.m.
WHERE: You can register for this coffee hour here or call our office at (517) 373-1801 to RSVP. You will receive the location details and an email reminder before the event.
Hope to see you there!
Contact Us
The Office of Senate Majority Leader Brinks values input from all Michiganders but prioritizes District 29 constituent concerns. If you have questions or concerns but are not a resident of District 29, contact your local State Senator. Click here to find who represents you in the Senate.
Comment on Legislation: You can stay updated on legislative advancements through my biweekly e-newsletters or by clicking here. Given the high volume of messages my office receives daily, please note that it may take time for your inquiry to receive a response.
If You Need Help: If you have a problem dealing with any department of state government, such as accessing unemployment benefits, my office is available to help resolve it. While we usually cannot assist with local or federal issues, we will always do our best to help direct you to the appropriate person or organization for help.
You may always feel free to call my office at (517) 373-1801 or email me at SenWBrinks@senate.michigan.gov.
Helpful Links