Dear Neighbor,
March marks another important celebration: Women’s History Month. And here in Michigan, we aren’t just celebrating women’s history — we are making it!
Our caucus is the first in Michigan’s history to be majority women. I am so grateful to serve with these bold leaders, women who come from different backgrounds and share different perspectives but are united in making sure that girls growing up today and women across the state experience the basic dignity and support that all people deserve.
When women lead, policy that impacts women gets better. From historic changes to the state’s antiquated women’s health policies, to quintupling of the Michigan Earned Income Tax Credit, to the expansion of the Elliot Larsen Civil Rights Act to protect LGBTQ+ Michiganders, to protecting kids from gun violence, our first year showed the impact that a legislature that represents Michigan’s diverse voices can make. We will continue to work for equalizing policies like affordable childcare and more support for educators. As your Senate Majority Leader, I am committed to listening to and uplifting the voices of other women.
As always, it is my honor to work for you, to deliver honest, diligent representation in Lansing on the issues that matter most. I hope this newsletter informs you of other exciting things happening in the Legislature and throughout District 29.
Sincerely,
Winnie Brinks
Senate Majority Leader
29th District
Included in This Newsletter
- District Events
- Legislative Updates
- Helpful Information
- Contact Us
District Events
Breakfast with Legislators for the Grand Rapids Chamber
Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to speak with members of the Grand Rapids Chamber about our Majority’s accomplishments and highlight how we can work together to strengthen our economy and our workforce. Our community is a sought-after place to live and work, and I’m committed to continue working together to ensure that the future remains bright for everyone who chooses to live and work and play and visit our beautiful region. Thanks to Gordon Food Service for hosting us and to all those who participated in our conversation!
Honoring Cesar Chavez
Many thanks to the members of the Committee to Honor Cesar Chavez who work tirelessly every year to plan a social justice march and community celebration. This year, rainy weather was no barrier for the energy of the many young people, organizers and community leaders who gathered to celebrate the legacy of Chavez as well as raise awareness about an important package of bills in the state legislature, the Drive SAFE bills. Rep. Rachel Hood spoke on behalf of this bill, which she is sponsoring this year, and the impact it would make on our community.
Legislative Updates
Supporting Students with Dyslexia
Children in Michigan schools will receive screening for dyslexia at least three times a year from kindergarten through third grade under Senate Bill 567 (sponsored by Sen. Irwin) which passed the state Senate this week. Senate Bill 568 (Sen. Polehanki) requires prospective teachers to go through training that would help them identify signs of dyslexia. Dyslexia affects up to one in five kids in every classroom, and early intervention helps ensure that support can come early-on, helping every Michigan student achieve literacy. Both bills will now head to the Michigan House.
Celebrating Sunshine Week
Transparency from elected officials is crucial to a democracy. Senator Jeremy Moss and Senator Ed McBroom, respectively, introduced Senate Bills 669 and 670. These bills will finally include the Legislature and Governor’s Office as institutions subject to the Freedom of Information Act. I am encouraged by the continued bipartisan interest in making our legislature and state government transparent and accessible to the people of Michigan.
Standing up to Predatory Lenders
Last week, the Senate Democrats passed a bipartisan bill to cap interest rates on payday loans in Michigan at 36% APR. Currently, there are no restrictions on these interest rates, and the average interest rate on these loans is 370% APR. In Michigan, 70% of payday borrowers fall into a cycle of debt, immediately taking out new loans after repaying their previous ones. Moreover, a substantial 75% of payday lenders’ profits stem from borrowers caught in a cycle of at least 10 loans per year.
Senate Bill 632 was supported by more than 100 organizations from around the state who believe the loans target and adversely impact communities of color, those in rural areas and other marginalized communities. The bill will now move to the House for further consideration.
Helpful Information
Tax Help and Resources
It’s tax season! Remember that the deadline to file state and federal taxes is April 15. If you have questions about filing your taxes or want to check your refund status, view account information and more, click here.
Michigan families began receiving Working Families Tax Credit supplemental checks earlier this month. If you are a qualified recipient and believe there was an issue with getting your check, the Michigan Tax Help Center may be able to provide additional help.
Call Michigan 2-1-1
Michigan 2-1-1 is a toll-free service that provides residents with information. Specialists trained to assist community members will connect you with the proper resources. From utility payment assistance to household needs, 2-1-1 is a great tool for you and your loved ones to use.
Though based in Lansing, MI, Michigan 2-1-1 supports about seven regions in the state of Michigan. You can text, email or call for help. For more information, click here.
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