Dear Neighbor,
Thank you for taking the time to read this newsletter. I wanted to take a moment and share some brief updates from Lansing this month. As our office explores new ways of sharing information with our community, we want to hear from you! Do you prefer one big monthly update? Would you rather see more frequent brief blurbs like what you’ll see below? If you have feedback for us, or if you’d just like to share a concern, question, or request for legislation, please do not hesitate to reach my office at senkhertel@senate.michigan.gov or by phone at 517-373-7315.
Sincerely,
Kevin Hertel
CAPITOL UPDATES
Gun Safety
This month, the Senate passed a package of common-sense gun reform legislation that is supported by the majority of Michiganders, regardless of political affiliation. I was proud to be the sponsor of Senate Bill 76, which closes the background check loophole for the private sale of guns. I am grateful to every person who reached out to our office with feedback on this bill—the final Senate-passed version includes provisions to ensure our statewide legacy of hunting and sport shooting is protected.Worker Protections
March was a busy time in Lansing! In addition to passing gun safety legislation, the Senate voted to repeal anti-worker legislation and ensure that all employees contracted by the State of Michigan receive a full and fair wage. I had a great time seeing my brothers and sisters in the labor movement who have worked so hard to restore these needed protections.March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
The Senate adopted my resolution, Senate Resolution 23, to designate March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Each year, more than 50,000 people die of this disease, making it the third leading cause of cancer-related fatalities. But there’s hope: colorectal cancer is one of the few types that can be prevented by early screening and intervention to remove pre-cancerous polyps. These screenings can also detect cancer early, helping to ensure the best outcomes. If you are 45 or older, please talk with your healthcare professional to ensure you are on track for screening.New Legislation
Not only did we pass great legislation this month, but we also introduced Senate Bill 149. This is a reintroduction of Teddy’s Law, a bill which would require research facilities to adopt dogs and cats following their time in the lab. I am excited to get this legislation across the governor’s desk this term and find these animals a loving home.How to Watch
If you’re ever curious about what’s happening in Lansing on any given week, you can check out Senate TV by visiting senate.michigan.gov.
On the right side towards the center of the screen, you will see a link to Senate TV. There are three channels which broadcast session and committees in real time. They are also how you can view archived legislative footage.
SAVE THE DATE
I hope to see you at one of our upcoming events! See below for details on upcoming coffee and office hours:WHEN: Monday, April 10, 2023, at 10 amWHERE: Tucker Senior Center, 26980 Ballard St, Harrison Twp, MI 48045
WHEN: Monday, April 17, 2023, at 10 amWHERE: The Helm Life Center, 158 Ridge Rd, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236WHEN: Thursday, April 20, 2023, from 3 – 7 pm, or by appointmentWHERE: District Office, 28800 Harper St, Clair Shores, MI 48081WHEN: Friday, April 21, 2023, at 11 amWHERE: District Office, 28800 Harper St, Clair Shores, MI 48081Thank you again for taking the time to read this update! I hope to see you at a community event soon.