Dear Neighbor,
Our work in the legislature is well underway for the year, and as always, I’m honored to continue serving you and our community in the state Senate. Read on to learn more about the solutions we’re working on delivering for Michigan.
I appreciate your feedback, so please feel free to reach out. You can contact me by sending an email to SenVKlinefelt@senate.michigan.gov, calling 517-373-7670, or visiting my website here.
Sincerely,
Veronica Klinefelt
State Senator
District 11
Resolution Urging Congress to Rein in ICE, DHS Brutality
In response to a disturbing uptick in unchecked, violent tactics used by federal immigration enforcement officers in Minnesota and across the nation, the Senate passed Senate Resolution 92 with bipartisan support last week to urge Congress to restore and strengthen accountability in the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency and Dept. of Homeland Security (DHS).
The brutality and corruption of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown is anti-American, and our nation’s leaders must demand greater transparency and oversight in ICE and DHS operations — because no one is above the law.
Legislation to Protect Residents of All Ages
In the first month of 2026, we have been busy working across the aisle to deliver solutions to the challenges facing residents and to keep them safe, including advancing bills to:
- Reduce cell phone usage in schools: To address the growing issue of cell phone use in schools and protect kids’ uninterrupted learning environment, the Michigan Senate recently passed bipartisan legislation to ban cell phones during instruction time in Michigan’s K-12 public schools. These bills would help ensure our educators can teach, and our students can learn without distraction.This legislation has passed both chambers and awaits a signature by the governor.
- Prevent human trafficking: In 2024, the National Human Trafficking Hotline received over 750 tips of human trafficking in Michigan, with 340 of them being confirmed cases. To help us protect our most vulnerable, my colleagues and I recently passed bipartisan legislation to increase criminal penalties, particularly for those who traffic minors.
- Crack down on scam calls and texts: As folks navigate the stressors of everyday life, the last thing you need is a constant stream of phone calls and texts harassing you and attempting to deceive you out of your hard-earned money. That’s why, last week, the Senate unanimously passed legislation to tackle this issue head-on, ensuring both our residents and the Attorney General’s office have the tools they need to hold scammers accountable.
Celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day with the Macomb County Ministerial Alliance
Attending Eastpointe State of the City
Community Conversation
WHEN: Monday, Feb. 23rd, from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
WHERE: VFW Post 6691, 17075 Anita Ave., Fraser, MI 48026
2026 State of the State Art and Writing Contests
For the first time ever, Michigan K-12 students have the opportunity to be a part of the governor’s State of the State address!
- Art Contest: K-12 students are encouraged to come up with a creative art design for the program cover on the theme of “Michigan’s Bright Future.” Answer the question of what our state’s future looks like and submit designs here.
- Writing Contest: Students should write their best short story or essay on what they love most about Michigan. Submit your student’s writing here.
Submissions for both contests are due no later than 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026. The governor’s State of the State address is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026. Learn more here.
Stay Warm During Winter Storms & Utilize 211 to Find Shelter Near You
If you or anyone you know needs help finding a place to stay warm and stay safe, you can contact 211 to find information on local warming centers as well as available resources to help with housing and utility bills. 211 is available for free for all residents 24/7 any day of the year. To find help for winter utilities, you can:
📞 Call 2-1-1
💬 Text your zip code to 898-211
🖥️ Visit mi211.org
For more winter preparedness tips, click here.
Utility Assistance Programs
Winter can become stressful with high utility costs. Depending on your household income, you may qualify for assistance:
- State Emergency Relief: State Emergency Relief is a crisis intervention program that provides assistance for energy-related expenses like heating fuel, electricity, and home repairs. Those who can demonstrate need are encouraged to apply online through MI Bridges.
- Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP): The Michigan Public Service Commission administers the MEAP, helping establish and administer statewide programs that provide energy assistance and self-sufficiency services to eligible low-income households. To seek help, contact 2-1-1 or your utility company to find programs in your area.
- Weatherization Assistance Program: The Weatherization Assistance Program provides free home energy-conservation services to low-income Michigan homeowners and renters. These services can reduce energy use and lower utility bills. Some of the services include insulation, air leakage reduction, smoke detectors, and dryer venting. You can contact your local Community Action Agency to start the application process.