Friends and Neighbors,
As shared last month, I’m using my summer enewsletters to provide budget highlights in addition to our regular legislative, community, and resource updates.
I also want to relay this Michigan Secretary of State website, http://Michigan.gov/vote, where you can find helpful information including different ways to vote in the August 6 Primary Election, how to find your clerk’s office or polling location, sample ballots, and more.
As always, if you or someone you know would like to provide feedback about what’s happening in Lansing or needs assistance, don’t hesitate to contact my office.
Kristen McDonald Rivet
State Senator
District 35
(517) 373-1725
PO Box 30036, Lansing, MI 48909
SenKMcDonaldRivet@senate.michigan.gov
In This Edition
- State Budget: Public Health & Safety
- Legislative Updates
- Community Investments
- Community Connections
- Helpful Reminders, Resources, and Links
- Connecting with Us
State Budget: Safer, Healthier, More Prosperous Communities
Public health and safety are foundational for Michiganders to thrive. I’m proud to have helped pass a budget that makes smart, robust investments to reduce crime and improve health outcomes in every Michigan community. Here are some statewide highlights:
Public Safety
- $75 million to establish a Public Safety Trust Fund to provide cities, villages, and townships with additional resources dedicated for police services and supporting community violence intervention efforts.
- New Revenue Sharing Trust Fund— $75 million to help local governments fund essential services including police protection, fire service, roads, water and sewer service, garbage collection, parks and recreation.
- Boosting our Michigan State Police— Hire and train 120 troopers, and $5.5 million to support salary and equipment costs of the 145th state police trooper recruit school, anticipated to graduate 50 new troopers this summer.
- Upgrading our state’s safety communication system— $25 million for lifecycle upgrades on critical infrastructure supporting state and local emergency personnel.
- Supporting local prosecutors— $17 million to help reduce caseload per attorney in counties with the highest levels of violent crime.
- Reducing recidivism— $8.8 million toward equipping individuals with education, training, and reentry programs to prevent repeat offenses.
- Violence Intervention— $7.8 million for firearm injury and violence prevention grants, and community violence intervention services
- Disaster recovery— $3.2 million to help communities affected by natural disasters.
Public Health
- Supporting expectant parents and newborns— $20 million in new funds for communities that identify innovative approaches in this area.
- Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies— $18.1 million in funding to continue this program to reduce maternal mortality and improve health outcomes for new and expectant mothers and their babies.
- Ensuring every child has access to healthcare— $1.8 million for MIChild, saving families $120 a year per child.
- Family planning— $5.6 million toward expanding contraceptive coverage and family planning services.
- Raise for direct care workers— $28.7 million to fund a 20-cent an hour raise for nurse aides and home health aides providing care for the elderly, individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions.
- $8.1 million for a Medicaid rate increase for private duty nursing services.
- Increasing behavioral health services— $161.5 million to establish new Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics to serve as many as 35,000 additional individuals.
- Tackling substance disorders— $25 million for substance use disorder treatment to the Opioid Healing and Recovery Fund and $8.3 million to establish Medicaid reimbursement for hospital-based peer recovery services.
- $2 million to fund sexual assault victim services.
- Smoking cessation and tobacco prevention-– $2.5 million to address and prevent tobacco use among Michigan’s adults and youth.
- $1.5 million increase in the clothing and holiday allowances for children in foster care— In this first such increase in over 20 years, we’re increasing the clothing allowance by 40-50% (depending on the child’s age) and tripling the holiday allowance.
- Safe drinking water— $500,000 for technical assistance and equipment to ensure water is safe to drink in the state’s child care centers
Legislative Updates
Celebrating the Education Budget Signing
On July 23, I was excited to join Governor Whitmer and my legislative colleagues for the signing of Michigan’s FY25 Education Budget. With nearly $1 billion in new investments, including $20 million for schools in our Great Lakes Bay Region, this bipartisan, balanced budget supports students, provides for free school meals, and guarantees a high-quality, public education from pre-K through community college.
With my youngest son in school, teachers in my family, and a longtime passion to help every Michigan child thrive, I know the difference that smart investments in all levels of education can make. Watch my brief video message on the wins for kids and teachers in this coming school year’s budget.
Governor Signs McDonald Rivet Bill Aligning Medical Waste Requirements with National Standards
Michigan’s requirements for disposal of medical sharps containers were out of step with national standards, costly and wasteful. With unanimous support from both chambers and Gov. Whitmer’s signature on my Senate Bill 482, we’re acting in a practical way to reduce waste, save time, and lower costs for all entities using these containers. Sharps containers can now remain in use until they are three-quarters filled, or 18 months after the date of the first sharps disposal into the container, whichever is first. I’m glad to see this practical, cost- and environmentally-friendly measure signed into law.
Senate Votes to Expand Freedom of Information Act to Include Governor, Legislature
On June 26, the Senate took a historic vote in support of bipartisan legislation expanding the application of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to the Michigan Legislature and the governor’s office. This is a significant step toward increasing transparency within our state government. Senate Bills 669 and 670each passed with a 36-2 vote and await action in the House Committee on Government Operations.
Enacted in 1976, Michigan’s current FOIA law– exempting state lawmakers and the governor’s office from records requests– has contributed to Michigan receiving an F in government integrity from the Center for Public Integrity, ranking last among all states, and failing in 10 out of 13 categories, including public access to information, executive accountability, and legislative accountability. I’m encouraged by, and whole-heartedly support, these much-needed reforms.
Community Investments
State Grant Helps Dow Retain 5,000 Jobs, Invest Nearly $800 Million In Bay & Midland Sites
In late July, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation announced that its Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) approved several significant incentives to support Dow Chemical Company’s and Dow Silicones Corporation’s operations and continued growth in our Great Lakes Bay Region.
Among the approved incentives is a Critical Industry Program performance-based grant of $120 million. In turn, Dow has committed to modernize its operations in Midland and Auburn with a $785 million+ capital investment and keep 5,000 high-paying jobs right here in our backyard. As this incentive package still needs to be approved by the legislature, I’ll be advocating for its tremendous return on investment and how much it will benefit mid-Michigan families and our local economy. Read my full statement here.
MDOT Invests $434,000 for Full Traffic Signal at M-84/ Kochville Rd
I am pleased to share that the Michigan Department of Transportation is investing $434,000 to install a full traffic signal at M-84 and Kochville Road in Saginaw County– an intersection that has been the site of several vehicle-related fatalities. Work is slated to start August 1 and will include the removal of the existing flashing signal, new signage, sidewalk ramp upgrades and pavement markings. Expect lane and shoulder closures as this projectimproving local traffic safety moves forward.
Two Local Eateries Awarded Match on Main Grants
Two great places to get great eats in our Great Lakes Bay Region are getting even better! The Wanigan Eatery in Bay City and Baldwin’s Smokehouse BBQ in Buena Vista are two of 31 small businesses in Michigan awarded the latest Match on Main grants from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. The restaurants are receiving $25,000 each to help attract more customers with new and improved outdoor dining spaces. Helping small businesses launch and grow in core downtown areas and commercial districts attracts residents, spurs additional development, and strengthens local economies.
Protecting the Great Lakes from Invasive Species
Gov. Whitmer recently announced that Michigan signed an agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Illinois to cosponsor construction of the Brandon Road Interbasin Project. This milestone agreement unlocks $274 million in federal and $114 million in state funding for the first of three phases of this $1.15 billion project that will prevent invasive carp and aquatic nuisance species from entering the Great Lakes. Prevention of invasive species is far more effective and less expensive than trying to manage them in our Great Lakes region. EGLE’s press release has more.
How Reducing MPSERS Payments Helps Our School Districts
As noted in my previous enewsletter, when we reduced what schools owed the state to cover Michigan Public School Employee Retirement System (MPSERS) obligations, it freed up $598 million for school districts to invest directly into their classrooms. The equivalent per-pupil spending increase varies for each school district based largely on the size of their budget devoted to payroll. The chart below shows how each of our school districts is positively impacted from that change.
In addition to these per-pupil increases, the FY25 School Aid Budget provides schools with new and increased dollars through funding that targets at-risk students, literacy needs, mental health, and more.
Community Connections
August 17th Veterans & First Responders Recreation Day
Join me along with U.S. Congressman Dan Kildee and State Representative Amos O’Neal at the 8th year of this FREE event for veterans, first responders, medical staff, and their families. Enjoy fishing, kayaking, and more; equipment provided and all skill levels are welcome. Resources for veterans and first responders including caseworkers from Rep. Kildee’s office and veteran service officers will be on site. Lunch will also be provided.
DATE: Saturday, August 17, 2024
TIME: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
LOCATION: William H. Haithco Recreation Area, 2121 Schust Rd., Saginaw 48603
RSVP if you plan to join: michigan.rsvp@mail.house.gov
I helped secure $30 million in funding toward building this project in last year’s budget, and I am continuing to work with leaders from Central Michigan University Health, Saginaw Future Inc., the City of Saginaw, and others, to bring its potential to reality.
Constituent Pulse
Thanks to everyone attending our recent constituent hour for their thoughtful engagement, and to IBEW Local 692 for being great hosts. This was an excellent discussion including how our budget invests in people and improves education, and how we’re tackling housing, safety, and affordability issues for Michiganders.
If you missed us, or wish to connect with us before future events are scheduled, please use our online contact form, or request a meeting through our scheduling e-form.
Hot Potato Fun in Munger
The Munger Potato Festival Parade is a highlight of this annual spud-tacular weekend of events in Bay County. I hope everyone who celebrated at the festival had as much fun as Team McDonald Rivet did passing out popsicles to help parade watchers beat the heat.
Helpful Reminders, Resources, and Links
FREE Small Business Workshop Series
Michigan SBDC (Small Business Development Center) and the Saginaw Chapter of LLEAD (Latino Leaders for the Enhancement of Advocacy and Development) are partnering to offer a free workshop series for community members interested in starting or growing their small business. The classes take place in Saginaw on Thursday evenings through the end of August. LLEAD-Saginaw’s Facebook page has workshop details.
Virtual Town Hall on Midland’s Potential Flood Resiliency Projects
The City of Midland and Midland Business Alliance Advisory Committee on Infrastructure recently hosted a virtual town hall for community members to learn more about flood reduction projects being considered with the $40 million I helped secure for Midland in the FY24 State Budget. If you missed it, a video recording of the town hall will be available to the public soon. Check this Midland Business Alliance webpage for video access and related updates.
Free Summer Meals for Students
One in six kids in Michigan face food insecurity, and more than 850,000 Michigan children rely on free school lunches. Meet Up and Eat Up is a helpful program that provides youngsters 18 and under with delicious, nutritious, and free meals in the summer. No application necessary; all meals must be eaten on site. To find locations near you, use this interactive map or text “FOOD” or “COMIDA” to 304-304.
Human and Animal Safety in Hot Temperatures
When temperatures and humidity are high, there is an increased risk of heat-related illnesses including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Pay attention to the daily heat index, which gives a more accurate picture of how hot it feels outside than the temperature alone.
>> MDARD tips to keep animals cool and safe
Severe Storm, Power Outage and Utilities Assistance Resources
- MI READY (disaster, power outage, and emergency preparedness)
- Managing Storm Debris (EGLE resource for local officials)
- State Emergency Relief Program (extreme hardship threatening health and safety)
- Michigan Energy Assistance Program
- Weatherization Assistance Program
College and Career Training Resources and Scholarships
Mental Health Crisis Lines
- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988, or visit this Lifeline Chat, to connect with a trained crisis counselor at this free 24/7 nationwide confidential hotline.
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1 or text 838-255.
- The Trevor Project has counselors trained in the challenges young people in the LGBTQ community face. Call 1-866-488-7386, text 678-678, or click here for their 24/7 support.
Locating Mental Health Treatment Services
- Michigan 211: Call 211 or visit mi211.org to speak with a live person who can help you locate long-term mental health resources or talk through a problem. All conversations are confidential, can be made anonymously, and are available in 180 languages upon request.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: Visit FindTreatment.gov, a confidential and anonymous resource, to locate treatment facilities for mental and substance use disorders near you.
- Michigan Community Mental Health Services Programs: CMHSPs provide a comprehensive range of services and supports to children, adolescents and adults with mental illnesses, developmental disabilities and substance use disorders in all 83 Michigan counties. Find your local program here.
Connecting With Us
If You Need Help
If you have issues dealing with any state government department, including accessing unemployment benefits or tax information, my office is available to help resolve it. While we usually cannot assist with local or federal issues, we will always do our best to connect you with the most appropriate person or organization for help.
- Website Contact Form: This is the best, fastest way to reach us.
- Phone: (517) 373-1725
- Email: SenKMcDonaldRivet@senate.michigan.gov
Most Current Updates
Social media sites are neither official government websites nor are they well suited for constituent correspondence. However, since we post frequently, our social media accounts can be a very timely way to learn about legislative action, community news and impacts. Visit my Facebook page or my Threads page.
Our newsletters, website and constituent hours are also great ways to learn about our work.
Enewsletter Signup | Newsletter Archive | Press Releases | Sponsored Bills
My Senate website | Senate TV website | Michigan Senate website Upcoming Events: Includes our monthly constituent hours and more.