{"id":3863,"date":"2026-06-04T10:57:34","date_gmt":"2026-06-04T14:57:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/?p=3863"},"modified":"2026-06-04T10:57:39","modified_gmt":"2026-06-04T14:57:39","slug":"securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/","title":{"rendered":"Securing the Future of Selfridge + Other Legislative Updates"},"content":{"rendered":"\n[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/01\/2026-Hertel_Header-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;2026 Hertel Header Senator Hertel&#8221; title_text=&#8221;2026 Hertel Header  Senator Hertel&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Dear Neighbor,<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">I hope\u00a0you\u2019re\u00a0soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the warm weather as spring\u00a0winds\u00a0down and the official start of summer approaches.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Up in Lansing, our team has been busy working to take everything we hear from folks on the doors, at community events, and office hours and translating that into policy solutions.\u00a0From tackling the rising costs of healthcare and childcare, to protecting fundamental freedoms like the right to vote, to securing critical investments for Selfridge, I am focused on delivering results for our lakeshore community.\u00a0Read all about this and more in my newsletter below.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As always, please feel free to reach out to share your thoughts or seek assistance with any challenges you may be facing with state departments \u2014 we are here to serve you.\u00a0You can reach my office by emailing\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"mailto:SenKHertel@senate.michigan.gov\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">SenKHertel@senate.michigan.gov<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, calling our Lansing office at (517) 373-7315, or calling our district office at (586) 252-2157.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Sincerely,<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2024\/03\/hertelsignature.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Senator Hertel Signature&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Senator Hertel Signature&#8221; width=&#8221;30%&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Kevin Hertel<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">State Senator<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">District\u00a012<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/01\/2026-Hertel_Recent-Highlights-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;If you&#8217;re in a rush \u2013 Recent Highlights Senator Hertel&#8221; title_text=&#8221;If you&#8217;re in a rush \u2013 Recent Highlights Senator Hertel&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"144\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Up in Lansing, my colleagues and I have been busy advancing legislation to make healthcare more affordable, address our childcare crisis, and protect kids from abuse and neglect.\u00a0Learn\u00a0about\u00a0these\u00a0policies\u00a0and more below.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"144\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Our office has been fielding concerns\u00a0regarding\u00a0a delay in the Michigan Dept. of Treasury\u2019s processing of folks\u2019 state tax returns. If\u00a0you\u2019re\u00a0experiencing\u00a0an issue, please contact our office \u2014 we are here to do what we can to help.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"144\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Join me for my upcoming Coffee Hour event on June 12th at 10:00 a.m. at the Pink House Tea Room in New Baltimore. RSVP\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/event_wp\/coffee-and-conversation-with-sen-kevin-hertel\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/01\/2026-Hertel_Legislative-Updates-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Legislative Updates Senator Hertel&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Legislative Updates Senator Hertel&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<h3>Introducing\u00a0Our\u00a0<i>Healthcare\u00a0You Can Afford<\/i>\u00a0Agenda\u00a0<\/h3>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Status:\u00a0Multiple bills are at various stages of the legislative process<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Every Michigander deserves to see a doctor and fill their prescriptions without breaking the bank. But\u00a0Washington Republicans are continuing their assault on American\u2019s healthcare \u2014 from raising insurance costs to striping folks of their coverage.\u00a0That\u2019s\u00a0why\u00a0I\u2019m\u00a0laser-focused on\u00a0counteracting these attacks to ensure\u00a0people here in Michigan can access the healthcare they deserve.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/06\/Hertel-HealthCare-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Senator Hertel speaking in committee and at a podium at the Health Care You Can Afford press conference. He is surrounded by other Senators at the podium&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Hertel-HealthCare&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Back in April, I joined Senate Majority Leader Winner Brinks to lay out a bold\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Healthcare You Can Afford<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0agenda.\u00a0This would help\u00a0lower healthcare costs by:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"Cambria\" data-listid=\"209\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335551671&quot;:1,&quot;335552541&quot;:0,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Cambria&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[65533,0,46],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;%1.&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Creating a state-based health care exchange, lowering premiums, and giving Michiganders more options and more control over their health insurance.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"Cambria\" data-listid=\"209\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335551671&quot;:1,&quot;335552541&quot;:0,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Cambria&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[65533,0,46],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;%1.&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Increasing options for small businesses to shop for better, more affordable health insurance for their employees through\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/05\/26\/lower-healthcare-costs\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">association health plans<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"Cambria\" data-listid=\"209\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335551671&quot;:1,&quot;335552541&quot;:0,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Cambria&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[65533,0,46],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;%1.&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Holding Big Pharma accountable by\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/camilleri\/2025\/04\/28\/prescription-drug-costs\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">capping the price of essential drugs through a Prescription Drug Affordability Board<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0and\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/singh\/2025\/03\/06\/affordable-prescription-drugs\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">prohibiting drug manufacturers from denying access to low-cost medications.<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"Cambria\" data-listid=\"209\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335551671&quot;:1,&quot;335552541&quot;:0,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Cambria&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[65533,0,46],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;%1.&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/anthony\/2026\/03\/11\/senate-passes-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-michiganders-burdened-by-medical-debt\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Capping interest and late fees on medical debt and ban it from appearing on credit reports<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"Cambria\" data-listid=\"209\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335551671&quot;:1,&quot;335552541&quot;:0,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Cambria&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[65533,0,46],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;%1.&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tackling the crisis in rural healthcare head-on, ensuring hospital doors in rural communities stay open.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">A key part of this agenda is the creation of a state-based health insurance exchange, which would transition Michigan away from the federally managed health insurance marketplace and give us the enhanced flexibility to be more creative, more inclusive, and\u00a0ultimately more\u00a0cost-effective in the types of insurance products available to Michiganders. This week, the Senate Health Policy Committee heard\u00a0testimony on this set of\u00a0bills, and\u00a0we\u2019ll\u00a0be taking them up for a vote soon.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">To learn more about this agenda, click\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/04\/24\/lower-health-care-costs\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Protecting Kids from Abuse and Neglect with Wyatt\u2019s Law\u00a0<\/h3>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Status:\u00a0Passed by the Senate\u00a0and sent to the\u00a0House<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/04\/52236345588_33234d8392_o-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Sen. Hertel\u2019s Legislation to Strengthen Wyatt\u2019s Law Passes Senate with Bipartisan Support&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Sen. Hertel\u2019s Legislation to Strengthen Wyatt\u2019s Law Passes Senate with Bipartisan Support&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">During my six years in the Michigan House, I worked alongside a local mom to turn unimaginable tragedy into meaningful change and empower parents across our state with the information they need to better protect their kids. But even\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/housedems.com\/hertel-celebrates-wyatts-law-taking-effect\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">after passing Wyatt\u2019s Law back in 2022<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">, I knew\u00a0our work\u00a0couldn\u2019t\u00a0stop there. I continued working with parents, advocates, and stakeholders to evaluate the effectiveness of the legislation and find ways to further improve it.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">After working with the Michigan Dept. of Health and Human Services, who found that the current definition of \u201cconfirmed serious abuse or neglect\u201d does not encompass the full range of cases they encounter, I introduced legislation that would strengthen Wyatt\u2019s Law to close that gap and\u00a0ensure\u00a0all violators are included on the registry. This legislation recently passed the Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support and awaits further action in the House.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Read more\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/04\/21\/wyatts-law\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Making Childcare More Affordable for Working Families\u00a0<\/h3>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Status:\u00a0Passed by the Senate and sent to the House<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/06\/Hertel-ChildCare-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Senator Hertel speaking with child care providers at a round table and taking a group photo&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Hertel-ChildCare&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">As the father of two young boys, I know accessing\u00a0quality,\u00a0affordable childcare is no easy feat. Far too many parents across our state\u00a0have to\u00a0choose between paying their grocery bills or paying their\u00a0childcare\u00a0bills \u2014 and some make the difficult decision to leave the workforce altogether to become a full-time caregiver.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">To\u00a0tackle\u00a0the affordability crisis facing\u00a0parents\u00a0statewide, my colleagues and I\u00a0recently\u00a0passed a bold package to lower the cost of childcare for Michigan parents and increase avenues\u00a0for childcare providers.\u00a0Senate Bills\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.legislature.mi.gov%2FBills%2FBill%3FObjectName%3D2025-SB-0310&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMVatter%40senate.michigan.gov%7C9ff5335821c64b99843f08deb691883d%7C78e3c702d3a14260a3a77ffc88b9b8f7%7C0%7C0%7C639148933410328621%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=wdduD6ZB9FO0reYcW%2FbgKD3n%2B1tgsGDCPLOPe5M3Dt8%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">310<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u2013<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.legislature.mi.gov%2FBills%2FBill%3FObjectName%3D2025-SB-0313&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMVatter%40senate.michigan.gov%7C9ff5335821c64b99843f08deb691883d%7C78e3c702d3a14260a3a77ffc88b9b8f7%7C0%7C0%7C639148933410392026%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=EPcsKh5yEuBnR%2BFfwjCedhR4ZijRcPuvpcKh4%2BRU0BU%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">313<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0would make childcare more affordable for families and more sustainable for childcare professionals and entrepreneurs by:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"208\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Codifying the innovative bipartisan program,\u00a0Tri-Share, that splits the cost of childcare equally among employers, the state, and employees;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"208\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tying the Childcare Reimbursement Rate to inflation to provide certainty and consistency to providers; and<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"208\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Updating licensing requirements for childcare centers and removing burdensome barriers to opening and operating centers.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">By passing this legislation out of the full Senate, we are one step closer to\u00a0codifying this\u00a0critical\u00a0programming\u00a0for Michigan families and childcare providers.\u00a0This legislation now heads to the House for\u00a0further consideration.\u00a0In the meantime, you can read more about these bills\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/blog\/2026\/05\/20\/cut-childcare-costs\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Fighting Back Against National Attacks on Voting Rights\u00a0<\/h3>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Status:\u00a0Moving through the committee process<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/06\/Hertel-Voting.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Senator Hertel and family posing in front of a Vote Today sign&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Hertel-Voting&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">After months of reports detailing the Trump administration\u2019s efforts to\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftime.com%2F7366147%2Ftrump-nationalize-voting-federalize-elections-fraud-republicans%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CJLindsay%40senate.michigan.gov%7Cfbf5e9ade07b40f7b47e08deb5d2985a%7C78e3c702d3a14260a3a77ffc88b9b8f7%7C0%7C0%7C639148113483625658%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=32u01vk5%2Bi0OLAum9Ctn6zff58SOOszQWkWrAhUqqf0%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">nationalize\u00a0elections<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">,\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.the-independent.com%2Fnews%2Fworld%2Famericas%2Fus-politics%2Ftrump-elections-midterms-ice-polling-stations-b2975317.html&amp;data=05%7C02%7CJLindsay%40senate.michigan.gov%7Cfbf5e9ade07b40f7b47e08deb5d2985a%7C78e3c702d3a14260a3a77ffc88b9b8f7%7C0%7C0%7C639148113483646931%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=8PEDUh5wkYGNqUzOjCT2HZSfbRbH%2BI%2FnApV5UPennUI%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">send military officers to polling locations<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">, and\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.brennancenter.org%2Four-work%2Fresearch-reports%2Fanalyzing-presidents-executive-order-mail-voting&amp;data=05%7C02%7CJLindsay%40senate.michigan.gov%7Cfbf5e9ade07b40f7b47e08deb5d2985a%7C78e3c702d3a14260a3a77ffc88b9b8f7%7C0%7C0%7C639148113483660370%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=LlZmLd%2Fl4UDj2i9h7iFPc%2Bp8MLYbegkkl%2BLTSM%2FZlNA%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">restrict access to mail-in voting<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0\u2014\u00a0the latest blow to election\u00a0integrity\u00a0came\u00a0last\u00a0month as the\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.brennancenter.org%2Four-work%2Fanalysis-opinion%2Fafter-louisiana-v-callais-heres-proof-just-how-bad-voting-rights-america&amp;data=05%7C02%7CJLindsay%40senate.michigan.gov%7Cfbf5e9ade07b40f7b47e08deb5d2985a%7C78e3c702d3a14260a3a77ffc88b9b8f7%7C0%7C0%7C639148113483671126%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=7ZhnLDT6kUuihF4OC4biyDUA36DRke7T8%2FQJ8v7Gtm8%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">U.S. Supreme Court eviscerated key protections of the 1965 Voting Rights Act<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.\u00a0But my colleagues and I are fighting back, recently reintroducing legislation that would\u00a0establish\u00a0a state-level Voting Rights Act to ensure every eligible voter has access to the ballot box.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Building on\u00a0our\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/moss\/2023\/07\/18\/votingrights\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">previous efforts<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0to<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0uphold the integrity of the state\u2019s election process, the Michigan Voting Rights Act would protect against voter intimidation, provide transparent election data, and offer language services and more to make our elections more accessible for eligible voters.\u00a0These bills\u00a0are currently moving through the committee process in the Senate.\u00a0Read more\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/camilleri\/2026\/05\/19\/senate-democrats-outline-michigans-plan-to-counteract-national-attacks-on-voting-rights\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Other Legislative Updates\u00a0<\/h3>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/04\/Hertel-LegislativeUpdates-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Collage of 3 images. First is Sen Hertel sitting in the Appropriations room during committee. The second is the Senator speaking to a group of people on the captiol steps. The third is Senator Hertel presiding over the Senate&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Collage of 3 images. First is Sen Hertel sitting in the Appropriations room during committee. The second is the Senator speaking to a group of people on the captiol steps. The third is Senator Hertel presiding over the Senate&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"205\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">L<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">egislation to\u00a0<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">ban surveillance pricing for e-commerce and dynamic pricing<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0for retail stores is moving through the committee process. Used by airlines, rideshares, online retailers, hotels, and grocery stores, these deceptive practices work to\u00a0benefit\u00a0businesses\u2019 bottom line at the expense of consumers like you.\u00a0By banning businesses from setting these custom\u00a0prices\u00a0based\u00a0on personalized algorithms, we can protect both\u00a0your\u00a0peace of mind and\u00a0your hard-earned money.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"205\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">As the weather warms up, more folks across our community are getting out to enjoy everything Lake St. Clair has to offer.\u00a0For many, golf carts are a convenient and\u00a0popular way\u00a0to get around. But under current state law, communities like St. Clair Shores are restricted from allowing them on local roads because of outdated population limits.\u00a0That\u2019s\u00a0why I\u00a0<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">introduced legislation to give local communities more flexibility<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0to decide what works best for their residents. St. Clair Shores Mayor Kip Walby recently joined me before the Senate Local Government Committee to testify on why this legislation would\u00a0benefit\u00a0communities like ours.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"205\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As we rapidly accelerate into the age of digital and AI advancements, our youth are\u00a0bearing the brunt of\u00a0the harmful consequences of Big Tech\u2019s exploitive algorithms.\u00a0That\u2019s\u00a0why my colleagues and I introduced legislation to\u00a0<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">implement stronger safety measures and prevent social media companies and AI platforms from targeting and exploiting minors<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. In exciting news, this package passed the Senate with bipartisan support and now heads to the House for their consideration.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/02\/2026-Hertel_Budget-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;2027 State of the Budget Update Senator Hertel&#8221; title_text=&#8221;2027 State of the Budget Update Senator Hertel&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<h3><span data-contrast=\"none\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" lang=\"EN-US\" class=\"TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW146358286 BCX0\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW146358286 BCX0\">Gov. Whitmer Signs $152 Million Selfridge Funding into Law<\/span><\/span><\/h3>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/04\/Hertel-Selfridge-1-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Senator Hertel Selfridge Speaking to officials&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Senator Hertel Selfridge Speaking to officials&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">In the Senate, I have the honor and pleasure of\u00a0representing\u00a0Harrison Township, which is home to\u00a0Selfridge\u00a0Air National Guard Base. The base is not only important to our national security \u2014 it\u2019s essential to our economy. Selfridge supports an estimated 5,000 jobs on base, another 30,000 jobs across the state, and generates over $850 million in economic activity each year.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Currently, Selfridge houses the 127th Wing, including the A-10 Warthogs and KC-135 Stratotankers.\u00a0However, a few years back, the Air Force announced that both the Warthogs and Stratotankers were scheduled for decommission.\u00a0This news was devastating to the men and women who are currently stationed there, to the veterans who once served and built their lives around Selfridge, and to our whole community who looks to the base with pride and depends on the economic stability it provides.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/06\/Selfridge-Signing-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Governor Whitmer signing the Selfridge funding bill surrounded by legislators&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Selfridge-Signing&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">That\u2019s\u00a0why as\u00a0chair of the committee responsible for the Dept. of Military and Veterans Affairs\u00a0budget, I have worked across the aisle as well as with local, state, and federal\u00a0leaders to deliver the funding needed to attract a new fighter mission to the base. Over the past few budget cycles,\u00a0we\u2019ve\u00a0invested\u00a0over $60 million for these efforts, which helped us\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2025\/04\/29\/selfridge-2\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">successfully secure\u00a0a new fleet of F15-EXs<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, as well as a\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2024\/01\/11\/us-air-force\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">KC-46A refueling mission<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0But before\u00a0we can officially welcome these\u00a0planes to the base, there is one final piece we needed to secure to ensure the runway, the hangars, and supporting infrastructure are fully prepared for the mission.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">That\u2019s\u00a0why\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/05\/20\/selfridge-3\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">I\u00a0helped work to secure the\u00a0final $152 million\u00a0needed to finish the project<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0and ensure the\u00a0timely\u00a0arrival of the\u00a0base\u2019s\u00a0new mission.\u00a0Just last week, the\u00a0governor signed this funding bill into law\u00a0\u2014 putting us on track to make Selfridge a premier 21st-century\u00a0military \u201csuper base\u201d whose impact will support our community for decades to come.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Read more about this exciting\u00a0news\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/michiganadvance.com\/2026\/05\/27\/whitmer-signs-selfridge-airbase-repair-funding-bill-locking-in-new-f-15ex-fighter-wing\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/01\/2026-Hertel_Helpful-News-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Helpful News and Resources Senator Hertel&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Helpful News and Resources  Senator Hertel&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<h3>Insight and Action from Our Small Business Roundtable\u00a0<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">From family-owned restaurants and caf\u00e9s to neighborhood shops and service providers, small businesses create jobs and economic\u00a0opportunity\u00a0while bringing people together. But right now,\u00a0they\u2019re\u00a0being squeezed from every direction, and the current economic climate is making it harder for them to keep their doors open.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">To learn more about how everything from tariffs and trade barriers are\u00a0impacting\u00a0their operations, employees, and long-term growth,\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/05\/19\/small-business-owners\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">I sat down with a group of local small business owners<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.\u00a0While\u00a0we\u2019ve\u00a0already\u00a0accomplished\u00a0several wins for our small businesses \u2014 including\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2025\/02\/21\/increasing-minimum-wage\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">protecting servers\u2019 tips<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0and securing investments to\u00a0help small businesses get off the ground\u00a0and\u00a0grow their operations\u00a0\u2014 there\u2019s still more work to do.\u00a0And this\u00a0roundtable discussion will help inform future policy conversations and ongoing efforts to ensure Michigan\u00a0remains\u00a0a place where small businesses can succeed.<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/06\/Hertel-SmallBusiness-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Sen Hertel speaking with small business owners at a round table event&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Hertel-SmallBusiness&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">One topic that was brought up was the rising\u00a0cost\u00a0of providing healthcare to their employees.\u00a0And this is not a concern just for folks here in our lakeshore community, but for people across the state and the country. For four decades, the\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nfib.com\/news\/analysis\/new-research-about-small-businesses-offering-and-not-offering-health-insurance\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">cost of health insurance has remained the number one\u00a0issue<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0for small businesses \u2014 and as\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/05\/26\/lower-healthcare-costs\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">costs have increased upwards of 23% over the last few years<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">, this is becoming even more challenging and unsustainable.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Hearing their concerns, I got to work and introduced another\u00a0component\u00a0of our Healthcare You Can Afford agenda; one that is targeted towards reducing insurance costs for both small business\u00a0owners and their workers.\u00a0Currently, small businesses often lack the leverage needed to negotiate lower insurance costs unlike larger corporations.\u00a0To enhance small\u00a0businesses&#8217;\u00a0power, this\u00a0legislation\u00a0would\u00a0allow them\u00a0to band together, pool resources, and put together insurance options that reduce costs.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Read more about this legislation\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/05\/26\/lower-healthcare-costs\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Update on State Tax Returns\u00a0<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Our office has been fielding concerns\u00a0regarding\u00a0a delay in the Michigan Dept. of Treasury\u2019s processing of folks\u2019 state tax returns. I am sorry that some across our lakeshore district and across our state are experiencing this frustrating\u00a0situation.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">The department has been transitioning from a 40-year-old legacy system to a more modernized system, and\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/taxes\/iit\/tax-guidance\/tax-year-info\/ty2025\/message-to-taxpayers\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">during this transition, they have been experiencing some difficulties<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.\u00a0Throughout this process, our office has been in constant contact with Treasury, doing everything we can to flag\u00a0problem cases and resolve them as soon as possible.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">If you have experienced a delay in getting your\u00a0state\u00a0tax return, please don\u2019t\u00a0hesitate\u00a0to reach out to our team.\u00a0We\u2019ll\u00a0continue to stay in close contact with the department and keep pressure on them to\u00a0get\u00a0your refund back.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Stay Protected at the\u00a0Gas\u00a0Pump\u00a0<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Right now, Michigan drivers are paying an average of $71 for a full tank of gas, as the Iran war has disrupted global oil markets. According to\u00a0the\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/gasprices.aaa.com\/?state=MI\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">AAA<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, Michigan drivers are paying 70 cents more per gallon of gas than a month ago and $1.66 more per gallon of gas compared to this time last year.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Below are some\u00a0consumer protection\u00a0resources\u00a0to ensure\u00a0you are\u00a0filling up with quality,\u00a0more\u00a0affordable gas:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"210\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/mdard\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">The Michigan Dept. of Agriculture and Rural Development<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0(MDARD) is a useful resource for staying safe at the pump. If you have concerns about fuel quality or received a short\/incorrect measure, you may file a complaint\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flinks-1.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Fwww.michigan.gov%252Fmdard%252Flab%252Fmotor%252FGasoline-Information%2F1%2F0100019e27a00ad9-298e70af-8041-4778-b1d9-e9eecbbbf883-000000%2FDH7MO1baKbfMeoYDsM8a2asIr2lJJBeJ_fiNjZgsgA4%3D452&amp;data=05%7C02%7CSEckles%40senate.michigan.gov%7Ce8a0b3e8f6ea42c674f208deb5c85f56%7C78e3c702d3a14260a3a77ffc88b9b8f7%7C0%7C0%7C639148069455811490%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=gJYaxx9N9cqv9fcyZW%2B61mcQtmEcxUoihggJn8RMenE%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">online<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0or call the motor\u00a0fuels\u00a0quality hotline at\u00a0(800)\u00a0632-3835.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"210\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you suspect or have information\u00a0about\u00a0potential unfair gasoline pricing practices, please call the Attorney General\u2019s Office at 8(77)\u00a0765-8388 or file a gasoline price gouging complaint\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flinks-1.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Fsecure.ag.state.mi.us%252Fcomplaints%252Fconsumer.aspx%2F1%2F0100019e27a00ad9-298e70af-8041-4778-b1d9-e9eecbbbf883-000000%2FriicO8ZpVpl71MDawan5UFUCsacTKqf9_kRLDfvTh6E%3D452&amp;data=05%7C02%7CSEckles%40senate.michigan.gov%7Ce8a0b3e8f6ea42c674f208deb5c85f56%7C78e3c702d3a14260a3a77ffc88b9b8f7%7C0%7C0%7C639148069455841821%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=QvAORb%2B4ORRqBht%2FS%2Fq3n%2BLJOwpge8NLfwVHSHy59Fc%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">online<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"210\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">To find cheaper gas in their area, Michiganders can use popular tools from\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flinks-1.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Fcluballiance.aaa.com%252Fpublic-affairs%252Fgas-information%2F1%2F0100019e27a00ad9-298e70af-8041-4778-b1d9-e9eecbbbf883-000000%2FUz4GZ_rkvOcNZlW6x9KHnQC4VSBVe8DxtwtOaWQYra4%3D452&amp;data=05%7C02%7CSEckles%40senate.michigan.gov%7Ce8a0b3e8f6ea42c674f208deb5c85f56%7C78e3c702d3a14260a3a77ffc88b9b8f7%7C0%7C0%7C639148069455865951%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=bPMuzLI8Ps%2FOGDoOVyDkCTSPIwi4fVMDAZKcFIfnjfo%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">AAA<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0and\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flinks-1.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Fwww.gasbuddy.com%252Fgaspricemap%253Flat%3D44.5164670107828%2526lng%3D-84.5851143112735%2526z%3D4%2F1%2F0100019e27a00ad9-298e70af-8041-4778-b1d9-e9eecbbbf883-000000%2FyvSKIgQksvIteY6SAi5cFJTQHuLbhDaHeNq7jCDQRmM%3D452&amp;data=05%7C02%7CSEckles%40senate.michigan.gov%7Ce8a0b3e8f6ea42c674f208deb5c85f56%7C78e3c702d3a14260a3a77ffc88b9b8f7%7C0%7C0%7C639148069455892147%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=HDkx7MBn515vvWF9FY3UMmlwRTao06JZW3Tt0kEHbeg%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">GasBuddy<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0For additional resources, call 211 or visit\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flinks-1.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Fwww.uwmich.org%252F%2F1%2F0100019e27a00ad9-298e70af-8041-4778-b1d9-e9eecbbbf883-000000%2Fo_TP6hu0Vl35lGWV3NT9uhJOpN9W5wziVyVASaWPiOE%3D452&amp;data=05%7C02%7CSEckles%40senate.michigan.gov%7Ce8a0b3e8f6ea42c674f208deb5c85f56%7C78e3c702d3a14260a3a77ffc88b9b8f7%7C0%7C0%7C639148069455915307%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=ljvcHeYaf1isbVuMYHGLW7hBem0MEhFqtmNb1YQDzik%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Michigan Association of United Ways<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/01\/2026-Hertel_Upcoming-Events-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Upcoming Events Senator Hertel&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Upcoming Events  Senator Hertel&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It is one of my top goals as your\u00a0State Senator to have myself and my office\u00a0be\u00a0as accessible to you as possible. To share your thoughts on legislation or seek\u00a0assistance\u00a0with an issue, please join me at one of our upcoming district events:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Coffee Hour with Sen. Kevin Hertel\u00a0<\/h3>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/05\/Hertel-CoffeeHour-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Sen. Hertel Community Conversations&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Hertel-CoffeeHour&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">WHEN:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Friday, June 12\u00a0from 10:00\u00a0a.m.\u00a0\u2013 11:00 a.m.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<br \/><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">WHERE:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Pink House Tea Room,\u00a036341 Front St., New Baltimore, MI 48047<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Community Office Hours\u00a0with Team Hertel\u00a0<\/h3>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/01\/Hertel-OfficeHours-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Community Office Hours with Team Hertel&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Community Office Hours with Team Hertel&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><b><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Weekly Office Hours in St. Clair Shores<\/span><\/i><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">WHEN:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Every Thursday from 1:00 p.m. \u2013 5:00 p.m. and by appointment.\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">(Please note: no office hours will be held on\u00a0Thursday, Feb. 19)<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<br \/><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">WHERE:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0District Office, 22424 Greater Mack Ave., Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Harper Woods Office Hours<\/span><\/i><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">WHEN:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0Tuesday, June 9, from 1:00 p.m. \u2013 3:00 p.m.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<br \/><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">WHERE:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0Harper Woods Public Library, 19601 Harper Ave., Harper Woods, MI 48225<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">New Baltimore Office Hours<\/span><\/i><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">WHEN:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0Tuesday, June 16, from\u00a010:00 a.m. \u2013 12:00 p.m.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<br \/><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">WHERE:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0MacDonald Public Library, 36480 Main St., New Baltimore, MI 48047<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Algonac Office Hours<\/span><\/i><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">WHEN:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0Tuesday, June 23, from\u00a010:00 a.m. \u2013 12:00 p.m.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<br \/><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">WHERE:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0Algonac Public Library, 2011 St.\u00a0Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Mount Clemens Office Hours<\/span><\/i><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">WHEN:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0Tuesday,\u00a0July 7,\u00a0from\u00a010:00 a.m. \u2013 12:00 p.m.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<br \/><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">WHERE:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0Mount Clemens Public Library, 150 Cass Ave., Mount Clemens, MI 48043<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_button button_text=&#8221;RSVP for Upcoming Office Hours&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; button_url=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/office-hours\/&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; button_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221;][\/et_pb_button][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><span data-contrast=\"auto\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" lang=\"EN-US\" class=\"TextRun SCXW222667740 BCX0\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW222667740 BCX0\">Please note that these office hours are hosted by staff.<\/span><\/span><\/em><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/01\/2026-Hertel_Stay-in-Touch-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Stay in Touch Senator Hertel&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Stay in Touch Senator Hertel&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.5&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<h3>If You Need Help\u00a0<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you have a problem dealing with any department of state government, such as accessing unemployment benefits, my office is available to help resolve it. While we usually cannot\u00a0assist\u00a0with local or federal issues, we will always do our best to help direct you to the\u00a0appropriate person\u00a0or organization for help.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">You may always feel free to\u00a0email me at\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"mailto:at%C2%A0SenKHertel@senate.michigan.gov\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">SenKHertel@senate.michigan.gov<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0You can also call our Lansing Office at\u00a0(517) 373-7315 or our District Office at (586) 252-2157.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Keep Up to Date\u00a0<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Our bi-weekly newsletters are full of updates\u00a0on what Team Hertel has been working on both in\u00a0Lansing and District 12\u00a0to deliver results for Michiganders.\u00a0To keep up to date with\u00a0what\u00a0we\u2019ve\u00a0been up to\u00a0\u2014\u00a0sign up\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/enews-signup\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0to receive my bi-weekly newsletter, or access\u00a0previous\u00a0editions online\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/newsletters\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For more frequent updates,\u00a0I also encourage you to follow our team on\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SenKevinHertel\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Facebook<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/Hertelforsenate\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Twitter<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/senkevinhertel\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Instagram<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0and\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/bsky.app\/profile\/senkevinhertel.bsky.social\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">BlueSky<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Dear Neighbor,\u00a0\u00a0 I hope\u00a0you\u2019re\u00a0soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the warm weather as spring\u00a0winds\u00a0down and the official start of summer approaches.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Up in Lansing, our team has been busy working [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":17,"featured_media":3864,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","twitterCardType":"","cardImageID":0,"cardImage":"","cardTitle":"","cardDesc":"","cardImageAlt":"","cardPlayer":"","cardPlayerWidth":0,"cardPlayerHeight":0,"cardPlayerStream":"","cardPlayerCodec":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[12],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3863","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-email"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.5 (Yoast SEO v27.7) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Securing the Future of Selfridge + Other Legislative Updates - Senator Kevin Hertel<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Securing the Future of Selfridge + Other Legislative Updates\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Dear Neighbor,\u00a0\u00a0 I hope\u00a0you\u2019re\u00a0soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the warm weather as spring\u00a0winds\u00a0down and the official start of summer approaches.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Up in Lansing, our team has been busy working [&hellip;]\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Senator Kevin Hertel\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-06-04T14:57:34+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-06-04T14:57:39+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/06\/Selfridge-Signing-scaled.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2560\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1707\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"jlindsay\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"jlindsay\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"16 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/04\\\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/04\\\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"jlindsay\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/45d5eb060d7edbcdc7627afd6f26c534\"},\"headline\":\"Securing the Future of Selfridge + Other Legislative Updates\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-06-04T14:57:34+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-06-04T14:57:39+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/04\\\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":5162,\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/04\\\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/16\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/Selfridge-Signing-scaled.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Email\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/04\\\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/04\\\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\\\/\",\"name\":\"Securing the Future of Selfridge + Other Legislative Updates - Senator Kevin Hertel\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/04\\\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/04\\\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/16\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/Selfridge-Signing-scaled.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-06-04T14:57:34+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-06-04T14:57:39+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/45d5eb060d7edbcdc7627afd6f26c534\"},\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/04\\\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/04\\\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/04\\\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/16\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/Selfridge-Signing-scaled.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/16\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/Selfridge-Signing-scaled.jpg\",\"width\":2560,\"height\":1707,\"caption\":\"Governor Whitmer signing the Selfridge funding bill surrounded by legislators\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/04\\\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Securing the Future of Selfridge + Other Legislative Updates\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/\",\"name\":\"Senator Kevin Hertel\",\"description\":\"Michigan Senate Democrats\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/45d5eb060d7edbcdc7627afd6f26c534\",\"name\":\"jlindsay\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/80b5c9b8370739af8018d04b8c23e9d262ea73bcd1387d0fa969c4a4a97561c4?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/80b5c9b8370739af8018d04b8c23e9d262ea73bcd1387d0fa969c4a4a97561c4?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/80b5c9b8370739af8018d04b8c23e9d262ea73bcd1387d0fa969c4a4a97561c4?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"jlindsay\"},\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/senatedems.com\\\/hertel\\\/author\\\/jlindsay\\\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Securing the Future of Selfridge + Other Legislative Updates - Senator Kevin Hertel","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Securing the Future of Selfridge + Other Legislative Updates","og_description":"Dear Neighbor,\u00a0\u00a0 I hope\u00a0you\u2019re\u00a0soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the warm weather as spring\u00a0winds\u00a0down and the official start of summer approaches.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Up in Lansing, our team has been busy working [&hellip;]","og_url":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/","og_site_name":"Senator Kevin Hertel","article_published_time":"2026-06-04T14:57:34+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-06-04T14:57:39+00:00","og_image":[{"width":2560,"height":1707,"url":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/06\/Selfridge-Signing-scaled.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"jlindsay","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"jlindsay","Est. reading time":"16 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/"},"author":{"name":"jlindsay","@id":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/#\/schema\/person\/45d5eb060d7edbcdc7627afd6f26c534"},"headline":"Securing the Future of Selfridge + Other Legislative Updates","datePublished":"2026-06-04T14:57:34+00:00","dateModified":"2026-06-04T14:57:39+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/"},"wordCount":5162,"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/06\/Selfridge-Signing-scaled.jpg","articleSection":["Email"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/","url":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/","name":"Securing the Future of Selfridge + Other Legislative Updates - Senator Kevin Hertel","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/06\/Selfridge-Signing-scaled.jpg","datePublished":"2026-06-04T14:57:34+00:00","dateModified":"2026-06-04T14:57:39+00:00","author":{"@id":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/#\/schema\/person\/45d5eb060d7edbcdc7627afd6f26c534"},"breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/06\/Selfridge-Signing-scaled.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2026\/06\/Selfridge-Signing-scaled.jpg","width":2560,"height":1707,"caption":"Governor Whitmer signing the Selfridge funding bill surrounded by legislators"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/2026\/06\/04\/securing-the-future-of-selfridge-other-legislative-updates\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Securing the Future of Selfridge + Other Legislative Updates"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/#website","url":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/","name":"Senator Kevin Hertel","description":"Michigan Senate Democrats","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/#\/schema\/person\/45d5eb060d7edbcdc7627afd6f26c534","name":"jlindsay","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/80b5c9b8370739af8018d04b8c23e9d262ea73bcd1387d0fa969c4a4a97561c4?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/80b5c9b8370739af8018d04b8c23e9d262ea73bcd1387d0fa969c4a4a97561c4?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/80b5c9b8370739af8018d04b8c23e9d262ea73bcd1387d0fa969c4a4a97561c4?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"jlindsay"},"url":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/author\/jlindsay\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3863","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/17"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3863"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3863\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3873,"href":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3863\/revisions\/3873"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3864"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3863"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3863"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3863"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}