Dear Neighbor,
The Michigan presidential primary happened earlier this week on Tuesday, and many of you took advantage of the increased access to absentee or early voting made possible through the legislative action taken last year. If you were unable to take advantage of it, early voting will be available to you in the future.
I hope this newsletter informs you of all the exciting things happening in recent news and in District 11.
As always, if you would like to provide any feedback about what’s happening in Lansing, or need assistance of any sort, please feel free to reach out to my office. You can email us at SenVKlinefelt@senate.michigan.gov or call 517-373-7670.
Sincerely,
Veronica Klinefelt
State Senator
District 11
In Recent News
Clean Energy Future Legislation Creates Community & Worker Economic Transition Office
As part of our Clean Energy Future legislative package, signed into law last year, a new state office was created — the Community and Worker Economic Transition Office. The new office will develop proactive strategies and deploy resources to help companies and Michiganders take advantage of economic opportunities as the state shifts to high-tech advancements.
Housed in the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), this office will lead the development of a statewide plan for advancement into high-tech EV manufacturing and clean energy opportunities. It will help strengthen the state’s workforce by connecting workers to quality jobs and assisting employers in accessing resources for equipment upgrades and training to meet the demand in these sectors.
Michigan’s Economic Transition Office is the first in the nation to address shifts to renewable energy in both the utility and auto sectors.
To learn more about the Community & Worker Economic Transition Office and to sign up for updates, visit Michigan.gov/EconomicTransition.
MPSC Public Hearing
On Monday, March 4, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., the Michigan Public Service Commission is hosting a public hearing on the implementation of the 2023 Energy Legislation. The event — held at Cass Technical High School in the Grand Theater, located at 2501 Second Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201 — will offer an overview of the new laws, insight into implementation plans and provide an opportunity for the public to provide comments.
EGLE Announces MI Recycling Grant Applications to Help Michigan Communities
As of February 12, 2024, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) Recycling Unit is offering grants enabled by the Renew Michigan Fund for recycling infrastructure projects. The grant period is set to end on May 17, 2024.
The following types of entities are eligible to apply:
- Nonprofit organizations;
- Tribal governments;
- School districts, universities/colleges;
- Local health departments;
- Regional planning agencies;
- Cities, villages, townships, charter townships, counties;
- Municipal solid waste authorities; and
- Resource recovery authorities
Michigan Green Schools Application Open Through March 3
The Michigan Green Schools program is a fun, educational initiative that encourages students and faculty to participate in activities that are good for the environment and promote energy efficiency and savings. Any K-12 public or private school in the state may apply. Visit the Michigan Green Schools Hub to submit your application by midnight on March 3.
If you need assistance with your application, check out their tutorial video or reach out to the statewide coordinator, Eileen Boekestein, at BoekesteinE@michigan.gov. EGLE Classroom will also be hosting a MI Green Schools Helpdesk at the Michigan Science Teachers Association annual conference from March 1-2, 2024.
Upcoming Events
When: March 18 @ 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Where: Recreational Authority of Roseville & Eastpointe, 18185 Sycamore St. Roseville, MI 48066
Resources
Tax Help and Resources
It’s tax season! Remember that the deadline to file state and federal taxes is April 15. If you have questions about filing your taxes or want to check your refund status, view account information and more, click here.
Michigan families began receiving Working Families Tax Credit supplemental checks earlier this month. If you are a qualified recipient and believe there was an issue with getting your check, the Michigan Tax Help Center may be able to provide additional help.
Call Michigan 2-1-1
Michigan 2-1-1 is a toll-free service that provides residents with information. Specialists trained to assist community members will connect you with the proper resources. From utility payment assistance to household needs, 2-1-1 is a great tool for you and your loved ones to use.
Though based in Lansing, MI, Michigan 2-1-1 supports about seven regions in the state of Michigan. You can text, email or call for help. For more information, click here.