Dear Neighbor,
From the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community in the northern part of the state to the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians in the south, Michigan’s 12 federally recognized tribes are vast and diverse, enriching our communities in invaluable ways. This November, I hope you’ll join me in honoring the histories, cultures, and contributions of tribal communities here in our state and nationwide in recognition of Native American Heritage Month.
As the holiday season approaches, Senate Democrats have been working hard to advance issues that Michiganders care about. Read on to get the latest legislative updates, helpful news, and resources. (Oh, and if you take part — happy firearm deer hunting season!)
Although my office will be closed on November 28th and 29th for the Thanksgiving holiday, I am committed to addressing your concerns about our district. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any feedback regarding what’s happening in Lansing or require assistance. 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.
Have a safe and warm Thanksgiving!
Sincerely,
John Cherry
State Senator
District 27
- Last week, Senate Democrats introduced legislation to expand access to childbirth classes for expectant parents, enhance public safety and trust through greater police accountability measures, and protect Michigan consumers by ensuring greater transparency in the insurance industry.
- Join me for my upcoming Community Conversation at the Brennan Senior Center in Flint on Monday, December 2 from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.
- Firearm deer hunting season is officially underway! Click here to find helpful resources and learn how Senate Democrats have been working to protect Michigan’s hunting traditions and our great outdoors that makes it all possible.
Enhancing Public Safety
Just last week, Senate Democrats introduced a large-scale bipartisan bill package to improve police accountability and build community trust. Incorporating extensive feedback from stakeholders, law enforcement professionals, and legislators on both sides of the aisle, Senate Bills 1091–1101 seek to reform how police officers handle interactions with community members to strengthen the profession and prevent the use of excessive force and abuse of power by bad actors. Some of the proposed reforms include issuing a verbal warning before using physical force, exhausting other alternatives before using deadly force, and limiting use of no-knock warrants.
Strengthening Retirement Benefits for Officers
I am pleased to announce that the Michigan Senate recently passed Senate Bills 165–167, sponsored by myself, Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet, and Sen. Sue Shink. This legislation would allow new corrections, conservation, and other state officers to become members of the Michigan State Police hybrid retirement system and would allow current officers to elect to move retirement systems. This legislation now advances to the House for consideration.
10 Ways Senate Democrats Have Been Tackling Hunger in Michigan
As the holiday season approaches, there’s a lot to reflect on and be grateful for. Along with this season of giving thanks, it’s important to also recognize the difficulties many in our community are having making ends meet, from struggling to put food on the table to ensuring bills are paid on time. With about one in eight Michigan households dealing with the devastating effects of food insecurity, it goes without saying — hunger is a serious problem in our state. And it comes with serious consequences, impacting an individual’s health, financial stability and overall well-being.
From continuing the free school meals program for our students to ensuring seniors across our state can access food assistance, my colleagues and I have made significant groundwork in combating food insecurity in Michigan. Click here to learn more about the different ways Senate Democrats have been tackling hunger across the state.
My final Community Conversation for 2024 is quickly approaching, and I hope you can join us! These gatherings are a great opportunity to discuss the issues that matter to you, answer any questions, and share legislative updates on the exciting activities happening at our state Capitol. Please find more information about my upcoming event below and on my website.
Community Conversation in Flint
WHEN: Monday, Dec. 2, from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
WHERE: Brennan Senior Center, 1301 Pingree Ave., Flint, MI 48503
Firearm Deer Hunting is Underway!
The opening day of Michigan’s 2024 firearm deer hunting season began on Friday, Nov. 15. Whether you have a first-time hunter in the household or are a seasoned sportsman yourself, I wish you a safe and successful firearm season. The Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources has compiled numerous resources you may find helpful in the days and weeks ahead — find licenses, regulations, maps, and more here.
Recognizing the significance and tradition of hunting here in Michigan, my colleagues and I have been working to reduce red tape for hunters and restore our game species, while also protecting Michigan’s many outdoor spaces, which offer ample opportunities for residents to explore, unwind, and enjoy nature. Click here to learn more about these efforts as well as other work that has been underway to protect this much-cherished sport and ensure our great outdoors are protected for years to come.
If you’re planning on taking part in this tradition this year, good luck and remember to stay safe!
Tribute Request Form
I’m excited to share an opportunity to celebrate and honor the incredible members of our community who have demonstrated remarkable skills, commitment, and dedication. I want to recognize the contributions of anyone who has spearheaded a community project, provided essential services, or simply been a supportive friend and neighbor. Additionally, I’d love to hear about individuals celebrating significant life milestones, such as anniversaries, retirements, or personal achievements that have inspired others.
To help me pay tribute to these deserving individuals, please take a moment to fill out the form attached to this link. Share their stories, accomplishments, and why they mean so much to you and the community. Let’s come together to show our appreciation and ensure their efforts do not go unnoticed! Thank you for being a part of this wonderful celebration!