- The Senate honors International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, enacting bipartisan legislation and delivering budget investments that support and protect survivors of violence.
Wrapping Up the Waning Weeks to the 102nd Michigan Legislature
As we approach the end of the session and wrap up our legislative work for the year, it’s important to reflect on the results we’ve delivered for the people of Michigan. From safeguarding Michiganders’ rights and investing in the people of Michigan to protecting our state’s environment, water, and natural resources, I’m proud of the work my colleagues and I have done over the past two years.
While we’ll be here in Lansing until the end of the year, I’m already looking forward to the start of the 103rd Michigan Legislature and to another productive year delivering real solutions for our communities and our state.
I encourage you to stay informed about the legislation moving through the State Senate and House in the coming weeks. You can track legislation by searching for its bill numbers on the Michigan Legislature’s website.
Recognizing International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
According to the Citizens Research Council of Michigan, 41% of women have experienced Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) during their lifetime. In 2021, 70,564 incidents of domestic violence were reported to Michigan police, underscoring the serious public health concern plaguing our state, nation, and globe.
Nov. 25 is annually recognized as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The Senate passed bipartisan legislation and delivered budget investments that protect survivors of violence, ranging from:
- Allocating $1 million in the 2025 budget to support programs that serve survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking;
- Enacting Senate Bills 471 and 528, along with House Bill 4945, to prevent those convicted of domestic violence crimes from possessing, using, or purchasing a firearm in Michigan for eight years, protecting survivors of violence from further abuse;
- And championing an extensive, bipartisan bill package to bolster state laws regarding sexual assault and provide better, trauma-informed support for survivors.
Stay Healthy This Holiday Season — Get Your Flu Vaccine
As part of National Influenza Vaccination Week, Dec. 2-6, the Michigan Dept. of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is encouraging everyone to get their flu vaccine if they have not already done so. By getting the flu vaccine now, families will protect themselves and their loved ones against the flu throughout the holiday and flu seasons.
To ensure protection over the holidays, individuals should get their vaccine now before flu activity peaks in Michigan. To stay safe from other respiratory viruses, MDHHS also recommends getting the COVID-19 and RSV vaccines. All three of these vaccines can be given at the same time.
To find a vaccine location near you, visit Vaccine Finder. To learn more about seasonal respiratory illnesses and how to protect yourself, visit Michigan.gov/covidflursv.
Tips for Cancer Patients During the Holidays
The holiday season can be a particularly challenging time while living with cancer. Despite the joys of spending more time with family and loved ones, this time may bring anxiety, stress, mental and physical exhaustion, and the difficulty of coping with unwanted comments.
Here are some tips for navigating the holidays:
- Try to not overexert yourself. Give yourself grace and permission to decide which gatherings you are able to attend.
- Don’t be afraid to communicate your needs and boundaries. It’s okay to say “no.”
- Practice self-care. Whether that means enjoying a book with a cup of tea, or taking a walk, take some time to do something you love.
- Try to mentally prepare and have a way to cope with unwanted comments.
- If you feel like your mental health is struggling during this time, contact your healthcare provider and ask about support and resources.
Find more information and resources for Michiganders living with cancer on the MDDHS website.
Tackling Food Insecurity This Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving was observed on Thursday, Nov. 28, and I hope you were able to take some time to rest and gather with loved ones. There’s so much to reflect on and show thanks for this holiday season.
It’s also important to recognize that many families face distinct challenges during this time of year, from working hard to pay bills on time to struggling to put food on the table. With about one in eight Michigan households dealing with the devastating effects of food insecurity, it goes without saying — hunger is a grave problem in our state, and it comes with serious consequences, impacting health, financial stability, and overall well-being.
From continuing the free school meals program for our students to ensuring seniors across our state can access food assistance, my colleagues and I have made significant groundwork in combating food insecurity in Michigan. Click here to learn more about the different ways the Senate has been tackling hunger across the state, and here are some food assistance resources to keep in mind this season:
- The Michigan Dept. of Health and Human Services offers various food assistance resources and programs.
- Michigan 211 helps locate local programs to meet food and nutrition needs, from prepared meal programs to emergency formula and baby food assistance.
- Locate food banks in our local community, explore volunteer opportunities, and more at Feeding America – Michigan.
- Explore the Food Bank Council of Michigan’s website to find local food bank information, assistance with SNAP benefits, and more.
Shining a Spotlight on Small Businesses Last Saturday
Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, spurring job creation and growth, revenue, innovation, and community engagement. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses make up over 98% of Michigan businesses and employ half of all Michigan workers.
Small Business Saturday has been observed since 2010, encouraging consumers to support our invaluable local brick-and-mortar stores during the busiest shopping season of the year. While Small Business Saturday — recognized on Nov. 30 — is technically over, I hope you’ll join me in continuing to shop small right here in our community throughout this holiday season! One of my favorite small businesses that I’d personally recommend is Sidetrack Bookshop in downtown Royal Oak!
Enjoying The Start of Winter
My family and I took time to have the last visit of the season to Dairy Deluxe in Birmingham. It’s never too cold for ice cream!
Wayne County Treasurer’s Veterans Resource Fair
The 8th Annual Veterans Resource Fair was hosted by Wayne County Treasurer Eric Sabree, where public officials, local organizations, and companies came together to support our veterans. Dozens of vendors were present, offering exclusive perks and benefits tailored to veterans and their families. It was a great opportunity to connect, honor their service, and ensure they have access to the resources they deserve.
Ferndale Middle School Robotics Team Wins Qualifier
Ferndale Middle School’s Robotics team, the Giggle Pickles, claimed the top spot at the Royal Oak FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) qualifier. They competed against 36 teams from southeast Michigan.
They’re now heading to the Michigan FTC State Championship-SE at Macomb Community College from December 7-8, where they’ll compete against 71 other teams. Congratulations and good luck this weekend!
Thank you for staying connected with us through our biweekly e-newsletter. We’re committed to keeping you informed on our work in Lansing and the progress we’re making in our district. Whether it’s legislative updates or community initiatives, we want to ensure you’re engaged and aware of the ways we’re advocating for you.
Your input is vital, and we encourage you to reach out with any questions, concerns, or ideas that you may have. Our office is here to assist you with any state-related matters, and we value your feedback. Feel free to contact us at (517) 373-2523 or by email at SenMMcMorrow@senate.michigan.gov. We look forward to continuing our work together to make positive changes in our community.