Legislative Update, Community Resources and Upcoming Events

Sep 30, 2023 | Email

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Dear Neighbor,  

Fall is officially here! It’s an exciting time filled with bonfires, cozy sweaters, warm apple crisp, the jaw-dropping Pure Michigan fall colors and football of course. Remember to prepare for cooler weather and ensure your heating system is working properly. Stay warm! 

As always, if you need any assistance please contact my office team by phone at 517-373-7800 or by email at SenEGeiss@senate.michigan.gov.  

 

IN THIS EDITION 

    • Legislative Update
      • Senate Democrats Take Action to Address Rising Prescription Drug Costs 
    • Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month 
    • National Voter Registration Day: Confirm Your Status 
    • Resources for Michiganders Potentially Affected by the UAW Strike 
    • Apply for the MI Future Educator Fellowship 
    • Animal-Proofing Homes Ahead of Colder Weather 
    • Community Update
      • Gordie Howe Bridge Update
      • Hallowpalooza 

Sincerely,

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Erika Geiss
State Senator – 1st District
517.373.7800

 

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 

Senate Democrats Take Action to Address Rising Prescription Drug Costs

The Senate Committee on Finance, Insurance and Consumer Protection recently passed Senate Bills 483–485, which would establish an independent Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) in Michigan. The PDAB aims to address this issue by implementing measures to regulate prescription drug costs, ensuring that essential medications are accessible and affordable for everyone.

In 2020, the prices of 500 prescription drugs in Michigan increased at a rate twice that of inflation. Michigan Senate Democrats are committed to alleviating the burden of prescription drug costs on Michigan residents and employers — and they are taking meaningful action to combat this persistent problem. To view the committee hearing on PDAB, click here. 

 

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month .

Hispanic Heritage Month, observed annually from September 15 to October 15, celebrates the rich culture and histories of Latin Americans in the United States. The month-long observance also commemorates the independence days of Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Mexico, Chile, El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala.  

During this month it is important that we acknowledge the generations of Latin Americans and leaders who have and continue to contribute to the betterment of our societies. Their contributions to history, diversity, culture, and achievements should not go unnoticed. This month is also a great reminder that we must continue to fight for equity and justice for the Hispanic communities across our district, Michigan, and the country. To learn more about the positive impact of Latinx people in the Michigan Legislature, read the full news story here.   

 

National Voter Registration Day: Confirm Your Status

Voting is a powerful way Michiganders can preserve and protect our democracy. On September 19, 2023, we recognized National Voter Registration Day to encourage all citizens of voting age to register to vote or update their registration status. Registering or updating your registration status is simple and can be done in less than ten minutes. You can do it online, by mail or in-person at your local clerk’s office or Secretary of State branch.    

Michigan Senate Democrats are committed to expanding access to the ballot box and removing barriers that make it difficult for Michiganders to cast their vote. Read more here about the work we’re doing to build a more equitable and accessible electoral process that protects and empowers voters. 

 

Resources For Michiganders Potentially Affected By The UAW Strike  

For those who may be potentially impacted by the UAW strike, it is important to be prepared as the negotiations continue.   

In light of the recent events, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) has offered their assistance to all affected state business owners and workers — including the following resources:  

To connect with your local Michigan Works! service center for career services, call (800) 285-WORKS (9675) or visit Michigan.gov/MichiganWorks.  

For additional assistance, workers can schedule appointments at Michigan.gov/UIAor call Customer Service at (866) 500-0017. 

 

Apply for the MI Future Educator Fellowship  

The MI Future Educator Fellowship offers $10,000 scholarships to up to 2,500 future educators every year. It is now accepting applications for the 2023-2024 academic year!  

To be eligible, the student must fulfill the following requirements:  

  • Complete the annual MI Future Educator Fellowship application.  
  • File a current-year Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  
  • Be a high school graduate.  
  • Be admitted into an eligible Educator Preparation Program (EPP) approved by Michigan’s State Board of Education.  
  • Be working on their initial teacher certification.  
  • Be enrolled in enough coursework to be considered enrolled full-time during the academic year, or its equivalency for individuals enrolled in an alternative certification program.  
  • Have reached Junior grade level according to the institution’s definition.  
  • Have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.  
  • Be a Michigan resident since July 1 of the previous calendar year.  
  • If you are a dependent student, your parent on your FAFSA must also be a Michigan resident since July 1 of the previous calendar year.  
  • Complete a Commitment to Teach in Michigan Agreement, which requires that the recipient teach in Michigan in a public school or qualifying public preschool program for a specific number of years, depending on the number of years the recipient has received the MI Future Educator Fellowship. This will be issued to applicants when the institution confirms eligibility.  

For more information, visit here.

 

Animal-Proofing Homes Ahead of Colder Weather  

As the summer ends and fall begins, colder temperatures are expected. Animals will eventually begin to hibernate in the winter, so this is a great time to become aware of how to secure your home and prevent wildlife nuisances. Here are some tips that may be useful:   

  • Remove food sources like pet food and ensure that garbage is securely tucked in an animal-proof container.  
  • Put garbage out the morning of garbage pick-up rather than the night before.  
  • Use fencing to protect gardens or individual plants from wildlife.  
  • If a non-domesticated animal gets into an attic, use noise (loud radio, banging pots and pans) or ammonia-soaked rags.  
  • Cut any tree limbs that overhang the roof.  
  • Be sure to cap your chimney to keep animals from climbing in your fireplace.  
  • Seal pet doors at night.  

For animal control resources, please review the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) nuisance animal control directory here.  

 

COMMUNITY UPDATE 

Gordie Howe Bridge Update 

Get involved: Established in 2019, the Local Community Group works with Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority and Bridging North America as informal partners in the delivery of the Gordie Howe Bridge Community Benefits Plan. This group includes 16 members that represent the communities of Delray/Southwest Detroit, Sandwich/West Windsor, Windsor-Essex County and the Greater Detroit Area, providing valuable input and linkages to help the project team better understand community and stakeholder perspectives.  

Learn more and apply now: Gordie Howe International Bridge | Local Community Group 

Public meeting: If you missed last week’s public meeting, materials are available here.  

Hallowpalooza

All you goblins and ghouls, get ready for HALLOW~PALOOZA!  

WHEN: Friday, October 27, 2023 at 4 p.m. 
WHERE: Heritage Park, 12111 Pardee Rd, Taylor, MI 48180 

Join us on Friday, October 27 at 4 p.m. for tons of family-friendly fun. This event is FREE for Taylor resident children and $5 per non-resident child. PLEASE NOTE: Pre-registration is required, no walk-ups will be taken due to supply purposes. 

Register here to ensure your spot.