Dear Friends,
As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s take a moment to recognize the struggles, victories, and resilience of the brave women who have paved the way for progress in Genesee County, and throughout the nation. I’m proud to be part of Michigan’s first female-majority legislative caucus, a group dedicated to breaking down barriers from within. Together, we are committed to ensuring that all women in our state have access to the resources and opportunities they need to shatter glass ceilings and secure their own bright futures.
As always, thank you for subscribing to my newsletter for updates. Please feel free to contact my office if you have any feedback regarding what’s happening in Lansing or need assistance with a state agency. You can contact me at 517-373-0142 for the Lansing office, 810-233-9853 for the district office, or via email at SenJCherry@senate.michigan.gov.
Working for you,
John Cherry
State Senator
District 27
- During a press conference earlier this week, Senate Democrats unveiled a bold, transformative proposal that would provide the “Building Blocks” Michigan needs to uplift working families and ensure they have a fair shot at a better quality of life for themselves and their children. Watch the press conference here.
- To support federal workers who may have recently lost their jobs, the Michigan Dept. of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) has compiled several resources to offer support. Find more information and resources below.
- I am hosting a Prescription Drug Affordability Town Hall on Friday, April 11, 2025, from 2:30 to 4:00 p.m. The event will be held at the Gloria Coles Flint Public Library, 1026 E. Kearsley St., Flint, MI 48503.
Senate Democrats Unveil the “Building Blocks” Needed to Cut Costs, Improve Child Care and Create Opportunity for Parents and Kids
Earlier this week, Senate Democrats unveiled a bold, transformative proposal that would provide the “Building Blocks” Michigan needs to uplift working families and ensure they have a fair shot at a better quality of life for themselves and their children.
The plan takes a broad approach to cutting the cost of parenting by:
- Providing a significant income boost to working families through a targeted Working Parents Tax Credit;
- Expanding Rx Kids statewide, a first-of-its-kind program that provides cash payments to new mothers and their babies; and
- Tackling the childcare crisis from both the demand and supply side.
To watch the press conference, visit the Michigan Senate Democrats’ YouTube Page. Additional details about the proposals will be shared soon!
Community and State Organizations Share Local Impact of Federal Funding Freeze on Michiganders
Last week, the Senate Oversight Committee heard testimony from leaders of early childhood education programs, health and nutrition experts, disability advocates, and other nonprofits and institutions who have faced challenges providing crucial services to Michigan children, seniors, students, families and more as a result of the Trump administration’s January memo ordering a pause to funding for federal grants and loans.
Although the order has been temporarily blocked by a federal judge, the effects of the administration’s initial announcement caused confusion, chaos, and ongoing uncertainty. This has resulted in devastating consequences for organizations around the state and the Michiganders who rely on them. The Oversight Committee hearing was an opportunity to hear firsthand about the on-the-ground impact this directive has had here in Michigan.
To watch the hearing, visit the Michigan Senate Democrats’ YouTube Page.
Early Childhood Professionals
On Wednesday, I had the chance to connect with early childhood professionals and local parents, highlighting the crucial need for investment in early childhood education. We talked about the importance of ongoing support for child development initiatives, quality care for infants and toddlers, and programs that promote maternal and infant health. These efforts are vital for the well-being of families, and as your senator, I will continue these discussions to ensure your voices are heard in Lansing.
Legislator of the Year
I was honored to recently be recognized as Legislator of the Year. I thank the Michigan Townships Association for this acknowledgment, which reflects the support and trust of my colleagues and constituents. I sincerely appreciate those who have inspired me along the way and I am motivated to continue our important work to improve our community with integrity and dedication.
Prescription Drug Affordability Town Hall
Please join me in Flint on April 11, where I will be hosting a town hall discussion dedicated to addressing the important issue of prescription drug affordability. During this event, I will share the steps I plan to take to ensure that everyone can access essential medications at a reasonable cost.
WHEN: Friday, April 11, 2025, from 2:30 to 4:00 p.m.
WHERE: Gloria Coles Flint Public Library, 1026 E. Kearsley St., Flint, MI 48503
Celebrating Free School Meals for Michigan Students
I’m proud that in the last two state budgets we passed, my colleagues and I were able to secure funding to provide free breakfast and lunch for all public-school students, saving Michigan families approximately $850 a year on food costs, and keeping kids fed and focused in the classroom.
As one of only eight states that offers a statewide free meal program for all public-school students, we’re proud so say that since the start of Michigan School Meals in the 2023-24 school year, 31% more students are eating breakfast at school and 25% more are eating lunch there as well. And the program doesn’t just benefit students and their families but also provides a boost to local farmers and food producers. I’m glad to see Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has called for its continuation in the 2026 state budget — I’ll be fighting to make sure that happens!
District Office Hours
Did you know that in addition to our Lansing office, we also have a district office in Downtown Flint? You can reach our Flint district office at (810) 233-9853 or via email at SenJCherry@senate.michigan.gov. Constituents are invited to schedule appointments with my district staff for assistance with state issues or to discuss important legislation. Appointments are typically available on Mondays and Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. To schedule an appointment, please click here.
Help With a State Agency
If you are experiencing problems with a state agency, our office is available to assist you. For valuable resources and guidance, please click here.
Connect with Me on Social Media!
Connecting with me on social media is a great way to get timely updates on what’s happening in the Michigan Legislature, upcoming events, and helpful resources available to you. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and BlueSky. See you there!