LANSING, Mich. (Jan. 29, 2025) — Today, the Senate Labor Committee heard direct testimony from individuals negatively impacted by House Republicans’ decision to unconstitutionally block nine bills, including House Bill 6058, that were passed by both chambers during the previous session. Among those who testified was a firefighter from Macomb County. In response to this announcement, Sen. Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores) issued the following statement:
“Our actions here in the Capitol have the power to lift up and create opportunities for Michiganders. When we saw the cost of health insurance rising for our teachers and public safety officers — individuals who dedicate their lives to serving our communities — we took action to keep those costs down.
“Actions made here in the Capitol also have the power to make it harder for everyday folks to get by. As we heard in today’s committee, Speaker Matt Hall’s deliberate decision to unconstitutionally block that legislation has serious and profound consequences for Michigan families. It’s time for House Republicans to knock off the political games and put the needs of Michiganders first.”
Today’s committee hearing was held one week after the Senate adopted Senate Resolution 3, which empowers the Senate Majority Leader to prepare legal action compelling the House of Representatives to fulfill its constitutional duty and present the nine remaining bills to the governor. This work also builds on a slate of legislation Sen. Hertel has championed to support public employees — from teachers to police officers and firefighters — including Senate Bill 911 to lower retirement costs for educators and Senate Bill 834 to double survivor benefits for public safety officers killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty.