[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ theme_builder_area=”post_content” _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2023\/03\/SenHertel-EmailBanner.png” _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” title_text=”SenHertel-EmailBanner” url=”www.senatedems.com\/hertel\/” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
Dear Neighbor,<\/p>\n
With fall officially in full swing, I hope you are able to take some time during these next few months to go outside and enjoy all the wonderful autumn festivities our state offers. From cider mills and apple picking to watching the leaves change color, there\u2019s no end of options to choose from.<\/p>\n
In this newsletter, I hope to share a few community resources and information on several upcoming events we have planned. I would also like to take a moment to recognize September as Suicide Prevention Month. If you or a loved one is struggling, please know that you are not alone and that help is available by calling or texting 988, the 24\/7 suicide and crisis lifeline.<\/p>\n
As always, I\u2019d love to know your thoughts on what topics you\u2019re interested in or what questions you\u2019d like to see answered. Please feel free to reach out to my office to share your perspective or seek assistance with any challenges you may be facing with state departments \u2014 we are here to serve you. You can reach my office by calling (517) 373-7315 or emailing SenKHertel@senate.michigan.gov<\/a>.<\/p>\n Thank you again for taking the time to read this newsletter \u2014 I hope to hear from you soon.<\/p>\n Sincerely,\u00a0<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”1_3″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2023\/07\/KHertel_Signature.png” _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” title_text=”KHertel_Signature” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”1_3″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”1_3″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Kevin Hertel<\/b> <\/p>\n Featured in this newsletter:<\/b><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Suicide Prevention Month<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2023\/09\/2023.09_suicidepreventionmonth.png” _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” title_text=”2023.09_suicidepreventionmonth” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” min_height=”817.7px”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n September is Suicide Prevention Month<\/a>, a time when we take a moment to raise awareness and destigmatize the topic. With one in five Americans and nearly 1.5 million Michiganders experiencing mental health issues each year, it\u2019s important to remind ourselves to care for our mental and emotional health.<\/p>\n The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a 24\/7 toll-free nationwide hotline that provides confidential and compassionate care for those struggling with behavioral health issues, emotional distress or substance use crisis. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988<\/a>or visit the Lifeline Chat<\/a> to connect with a trained crisis counselor.<\/p>\n For more information on how to spread awareness during Suicide Prevention Month, you can visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness\u2019 website here<\/a>.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Investments in Mental Health Care<\/strong><\/p>\n As Chair of the Senate Health Policy Committee, expanding access to quality, affordable behavioral health care is a top priority of mine. Throughout our state, communities are grappling with the issue of having too little access to mental health support \u2014 a crisis particularly affecting young Michiganders and our veterans. That\u2019s why the Michigan Legislature took action and made critical investments in the 2024 State Budget to address this gap in coverage and ensure all Michigan residents who need assistance can access it. A few highlights of the budget\u2019s investments in mental health care include:<\/p>\n $280 million for certified community behavioral health clinics to expand access to care.<\/p>\n $328 million in the education budget to address the mental health and safety concerns of students and teachers.<\/p>\n $40 million for the Macomb County Intake Facility to construct a new central intake and mental health unit, among other upgrades, allowing the county jail to provide better mental and physical health outcomes for those who come in contact with the criminal justice system.<\/p>\n $1.2 million for suicide prevention programs to help military veterans and their families.<\/p>\n This month, the Senate Health Policy Committee will also be hearing testimony on several pieces of legislation related to reducing the negative impacts of substance use. If you have personal ties to the issue or have thoughts you would like to share with our members, I invite you to reach out and follow the progress of these bills here<\/a>.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Standing in Solidarity with UAW Workers<\/b><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2023\/09\/WeStandWithWorkers.png” _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” title_text=”WeStandWithWorkers” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Unions built our middle class here in Michigan, and they continue to be instrumental in helping families achieve their version of the American Dream. Throughout my time in public service, I have fought to represent Michigan workers and ensure they are able to succeed. This past year, our Majority for the People has proudly fought to restore workers\u2019 rights<\/a> to collectively bargain and uphold unions\u2019 efforts to negotiate their wages and benefits.<\/p>\n As UAW workers use every tool at their disposal to earn a fair contract, I stand in solidarity with them. For too long, we\u2019ve seen automotive executives\u2019 pay checks reach higher and higher amounts, while workers have struggled to make ends meet. It\u2019s time for our workers to begin enjoying the benefits of the economic success they are helping to create.<\/p>\n Ultimately, when our workers succeed, Michigan succeeds. A fair contract will not only benefit workers but will strengthen our automotive industry and set our state up for economic success for years to come.<\/p>\n Resources for Michiganders Potentially Affected by the Strike <\/p>\n To connect with your local Michigan Works! service center for career services, call (800) 285-WORKS (9675) or visit Michigan.gov\/MichiganWorks<\/a>.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Upcoming Events Coffee and Conversation with Senator Hertel WHEN:<\/b> Monday, October 16 from 10:00 a.m. \u2013 11:00 a.m. WHEN:<\/b> Friday, October 20 from 11:00 a.m. \u2013 12:00 p.m Small Business Town Hall Join us in New Baltimore for a Small Business Town Hall to learn about opportunities for small business owners and budding entrepreneurs in our area. Guest speakers include representatives from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, U.S. Small Business Administration and Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses.<\/p>\n District Office Hours with Staff Community Resources <\/b><\/p>\n National Voter Registration Day is Sept. 19: Confirm Your Status<\/b><\/i><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/hertel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/16\/2023\/09\/F6bhJ-DXEAANkZC.jpg” _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” title_text=”F6bhJ-DXEAANkZC” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Voting is a powerful way Michiganders can preserve and protect our democracy. On September 19, 2023, we recognized National Voter Registration Day<\/a> to encourage all citizens of voting age to register to vote or update their registration status. Registering or updating your registration status is simple and can be done in less than ten minutes. You can do it online<\/a>, by mail or in-person at your local clerk\u2019s office or Secretary of State branch.<\/p>\n
State Senator
District 12\u00a0<\/p>\n\n
<\/b><\/i>To those individuals and families impacted by this strike, I encourage you to check out the assistance being offered by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO):<\/span><\/p>\n\n
<\/b>It is one of my top goals as your State Senator to have myself and my office be as accessible to you as possible. To share your thoughts on legislation or seek assistance with an issue, please join me at one of our upcoming district events:<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/b><\/i>WHEN:<\/b> Friday, September 22 from 10:00 a.m. \u2013 11:00 a.m.
<\/span>WHERE:<\/b> Saint Clair Shores Senior Center, 20100 Stephens St, Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080<\/span><\/p>\n
WHERE:<\/b> Tucker Senior Center, 26980 Ballard St, Harrison Township, MI 48045<\/span><\/p>\n
WHERE: <\/b>District Office, 28800 Harper, Saint Clair Shores, MI 48081<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/b><\/i>WHEN:<\/b> Monday, October 30, 2023, from 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (Doors open at 10:00 a.m.)
<\/span>WHERE:<\/b> New Baltimore Civic Club, 36551 Main St, New Baltimore, MI 48047<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/b><\/i>WHEN: <\/b>Every Thursday from 9:00 a.m. \u2013 5:00 p.m. and by appointment
<\/span>WHERE:<\/b> District Office, 28800 Harper, Saint Clair Shores, MI 48081<\/span><\/p>\n