Dear Neighbor,
I hope you are having a great start to the spring season and enjoying what the warmer weather brings to our state. As always, I hope this newsletter informs you of all the exciting things happening in the Legislature and District 27.
I am here to serve our community and if you have any questions or concerns, or if there’s anything my office can help you with, please reach out. You can contact me at 517-373-0142 (Lansing office), 810-233-9788 (District office), or via email at SenJCherry@senate.michigan.gov.
Working for you,
John Cherry
State Senator
District 27
Featured in this newsletter:
- Community Updates
- Legislative Updates
- Upcoming Events
- Helpful Resources
Community Updates
I am deeply honored to have received the 2024 Legislative Economic Development Champion award from the Michigan Economic Developers Association (MEDA). This recognition highlights the crucial importance of fostering economic growth and development within our communities. To me, this award represents not just a personal achievement, but also acknowledges the collaborative efforts dedicated to revitalizing Flint and Genesee County.
My dedication to securing $5.9 million in state site readiness funds for the Flint Commerce Center, located on the historic “Buick City” site, demonstrates my commitment to restoring prosperity to the 27th District. This funding will be instrumental in revitalizing the 400-acre brownfield site, once a thriving hub employing thousands, into a vibrant economic center once more.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Tyler Rossmaessler of the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance for nominating me for this award and for recognizing the significance of our endeavors. Together, we are tirelessly working to address challenges and unlock the potential of our region, ensuring a brighter future for all residents. I also offer my congratulations to my colleague, Sen. John Damoose, for his well-deserved recognition.
Beecher High School
It was a privilege to visit Beecher High School recently and witness firsthand the progress of vital renovations funded in part by resources I secured in last year’s budget. These renovations are transforming the Beecher Community School District, which currently houses both middle and high schools under one roof, promising to elevate the learning experience for all students.
Walking through the halls of the currently closed Beecher High School, I envisioned a future brimming with activity and enthusiasm. These renovations signify a commitment to our community’s prosperity and the educational opportunities we provide our youth.
Speaking with school administrators and construction teams, I saw how every detail of this project was meticulously planned for maximum student benefit. From modernized classrooms to upgraded facilities, Beecher High School is set to emerge stronger than ever.
Leaving Beecher High School, I felt a renewed sense of optimism and determination. The progress made thus far underscores the importance of collaboration and investment in our educational infrastructure. I will continue advocating for resources that empower our schools and nurture the future leaders of our community.
Legislative Updates
Equal Pay Day in Michigan!
My Senate colleagues and I recently passed Senate Resolution 101, designating March 12 as Equal Pay Day in Michigan — a day that symbolizes how far into the year women must work to earn what men earned in the previous year. Over a working lifetime, wage disparity costs the average American woman and her family, impacting retirement savings programs, Social Security benefits, and pensions.
It’s important to recognize that this day marked Equal Pay Day for all women, however, pay discrimination impacts women across ethnic backgrounds and racial groups — with significant disparities seen for Black, Native American, Latina, Asian American, and Pacific Islander women.
According to the American Association of University Women, these are the “equal pay” dates for 2024:
Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Women’s Equal Pay Day – April 3;
- LGBTQIA+ Equal Pay Awareness Day – June 13;
- Black Women’s Equal Pay Day – July 9;
- Moms’ Equal Pay Day – August 7;
- Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) Women’s Equal Pay Day – August 28;
- Latina Equal Pay Day – October 3; and
- Native Women’s Equal Pay Day – November 21.
In recent years, wage disparities for women have been further increased by significant shocks to the economy, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Senate Democrats are committed to strengthening the security of families, easing future retirement costs, and bolstering the economy.
Michigan Senate Democrats Pass Legislation to Tackle Predatory Payday Loan Practices
This week, the Senate Democrats passed a bipartisan bill to cap interest rates on payday loans in Michigan at 36%. Currently, there are no restrictions on these interest rates and these lenders have been charging residents up to 370% on payday loans. In Michigan, a concerning 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.
These predatory practices lead the people who use payday lenders to face a higher risk of bankruptcy than those in similar financial situations who do not borrow from such institutions. Studies also show that payday lending stores are more likely to operate in Black and Latino communities, which can contribute to long-term economic disparities. Senate Bill 632 addresses these issues and disparities by proposing a cap on interest rates for payday loans in Michigan.
During discussion of the legislation in the Senate Committee on Finance, Insurance, and Consumer Protection, testimony showed how financially and emotionally devastating predatory payday loan practices are to Michiganders. These lenders tend to target and adversely impact those in rural areas and marginalized communities. More than 100 organizations from around the state also indicated their support for the bill.
The bill will now move to the House for further consideration. If the bill passes in the House and the governor signs the legislation into law, Michigan would join 20 other states and the District of Columbia in implementing similar measures.
March Community Conversation
I’m excited about the upcoming community discussion scheduled for Monday, March 18th, at the Mundy Township Senior & Enrichment Center. During this event, I’m looking forward to hearing your questions about the district’s current happenings and sharing updates from the legislature. Let’s work together for a brighter future!
WHEN: Monday, March 18, from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
WHERE: Mundy Township Senior & Enrichment Center – 3478 Mundy Ave. Swartz Creek, MI 48473
E-Cigarette Town Hall
I’m hosting an E-Cigarette Town Hall to delve into critical discussions about e-cigarette legislation and explore strategies to address the concerning rise in youth e-cigarette usage. RSVP now to secure your spot and contribute to this pivotal conversation. Together, let’s make a difference in our community’s health and well-being.
WHEN: Thursday, April 4, from 6 to 8 p.m.
WHERE: Carman-Ainsworth High School, 1300 N Linden Rd, Flint, MI 48532
Helpful Resources
March is Women’s History Month
This month, we celebrate the contributions of women across various industries and throughout history. The women of the Michigan Senate Democratic Majority serve as trailblazers — asserting themselves and their voices, occupying more prominent positions and making a greater impact than ever before.
Their ability to shatter glass ceilings and hold the door open for other women is unparalleled. Take this month to acknowledge the women in your life — and continue to be a champion for gender equity. To learn more about the impact of women in the Michigan Legislature, click here.
March is Reading Month
Throughout March, we celebrate the joy of reading! Schools, libraries and communities come together to promote literacy and encourage everyone to pick up a book. From reading challenges to author visits, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the wonderful world of books. So, grab a book, find a cozy spot and let your imagination soar this March!