Fall Legislative Session Updates and Upcoming Coffee Hours

Dear Neighbor,

As the legislative session kicks back into high gear, please know that my office and I are here to serve you. If you have questions about legislation or need help navigating state agencies, please do not hesitate to reach out to us via our website or by phone at (517) 373-7670.

I hope you find the following updates and resources helpful.

Featured in this newsletter:

• Legislative Updates
• Coffee Hours
• Helpful Resources

Sincerely,

Veronica Klinefelt
State Senator
District 11

Legislative Updates

Senate Democrats Take Action to Address Rising Prescription Drug Costs 

The Senate Committee on Finance, Insurance and Consumer Protection recently took up testimony and voted out Senate Bills 483–485, which would establish an independent Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) in Michigan. The PDAB aims to address this issue by implementing measures to regulate prescription drug costs, ensuring that essential medications are accessible and affordable for everyone. I am proud to sponsor Senate Bill 484, which would ensure that any insurance provider in the state that covers prescription drugs has to abide by an Upper Payment Limit (UPL) that has been set up the board and the rulemaking process.

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

Coffee Hours

Coffee hours are a great opportunity for residents to hear directly from me about district updates and current legislative priorities. One of the best parts of my job is connecting with you all, so I look forward to seeing you at an upcoming community conversation!

WHEN: Friday, October 13, 2023, at 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: City of Fraser, 33000 Garfield Road, Fraser, MI 48026

WHEN: Monday, October 23, 2023, at 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: Recreational Authority of Roseville & Eastpointe, 18185 Sycamore St, Roseville, MI 48066

Resources

National Voter Registration Day was Sept. 19: Confirm Your Status

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

My colleagues and I are committed to expanding access to the ballot box and removing barriers that make it harder for Michiganders to cast their vote. Read more here about our work to build a more equitable and accessible electoral process that protects and empowers voters.

Resources for Michiganders Potentially Affected by the UAW Strike
For those who may be potentially impacted by the UAW strike, it is important to be prepared as the negotiations continue.

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

• The Claimant Roadmap
• First-time filer coaching sessions
• UIA Community Connect
• Assistance with resetting account passwords
• Work Share
• Registration and Seeking Work Waiver
• Employer Filed Claims

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

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

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

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

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