- Legislative Update: February is Black History Month, and the Michigan League for Public Policy has a comprehensive list of events throughout the state so you can recognize and celebrate the contributions of Black Americans all month long.
- News You Can Use: We observed World Cancer Day on Feb. 4, spreading awareness on the global effects of cancer. Read here to explore various cancer resources and support efforts.
- In the Community: I visited Detect-It in Oak Park to learn about their AI technology and discuss how state government connects to innovation and business growth.
- In the Community: I joined Rep. Jason Morgan and Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans for the annual Transportation Riders United conference to discuss the importance of public transportation for Michigan’s economic opportunity, sustainability, and equity.
- Good News from the District: Stephanie Crawford was unanimously appointed to fill a vacancy on the Oak Park City Council.
2026 State Budget Proposal
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer presented her proposed state budget for Fiscal Year 2026 for the Legislature to consider. This proposal always takes place at the start of the year, immediately following the Consensus Revenue Estimating Conference (CREC), which provides an updated revenue forecast for the state. Here are some highlights of the governor’s proposal:
- Working Families Tax Credit: The budget proposal continues this credit, providing tax relief of over $3,500 for 650,000 families, helping to offset inflation costs.
- Universal Pre-K and Child Care: With $676.1 million for early childhood programs, Michigan would continue expanding access to pre-K, benefiting 57,100 children. This includes more funding for transportation and classroom startup grants.
- Free School Meals: $200 million would ensure all 1.4 million public school students continue receiving free meals, saving families an average of $850 per year.
- Job Creation and Workforce Support: The budget proposes $10 million for small business support and $25 million for affordable housing initiatives, helping both workers and employers thrive.
- Roads and Infrastructure: $4.9 billion would go toward improving Michigan’s roads and bridges, along with $10 million for electric vehicle charging stations, improving transportation and infrastructure across the state.
- Mental Health Support in Schools: $258 million would go toward supporting the mental health and safety of students, improving resources and services for 1.4 million students.
- Senior Support: The proposal includes $2.9 million to expand care for seniors, adding slots to the PACE program, and $2 million to support services for individuals with dementia.
- Water Infrastructure: With $80 million dedicated to clean water, the proposal would help replace lead service lines and upgrade stormwater systems, ensuring clean drinking water for Michigan residents.
To learn more about the governor’s proposed budget, you can read here.
Update: Paid Sick Leave and Minimum Wage Legislation
I joined owners and staff from Lily’s Seafood, Rock on Third, and Fifth Avenue to discuss pending state legislation affecting earned paid sick leave, minimum wage, and tipped credit.
In 2018, the One Fair Wage campaign gathered enough signatures for a ballot initiative to raise the minimum wage to $15/hour, eliminate the tipped credit (the sub-minimum wage restaurants can pay tipped workers when their total pay with tips meets minimum wage), and guarantee 72 hours of earned paid sick time. The Michigan Constitution allows the Legislature to either adopt such initiatives as written or send them to voters.
The then-Republican-led Legislature adopted the initiative but then amended it, weakening the minimum wage provisions and removing the tipped wage elimination and paid sick leave requirements. Last summer, the Michigan Supreme Court ruled this “adopt and amend” strategy unconstitutional, stating the Legislature could only adopt the original language without changes. The Court ordered the original initiative to take effect Feb. 21, 2025.
Our office has heard diverse perspectives on these issues. Many servers and bartenders want to keep the tipped wage credit, fearing its elimination could reduce their overall income through lost tips. Restaurant owners worry about implementation costs when many establishments are already struggling. Meanwhile, groups like labor unions, One Fair Wage, and Mothering Justice support the Court’s ruling, arguing workers deserve higher base wages and paid sick leave.
I appreciate our local restaurant owners who support the initiative’s spirit while raising practical concerns. They support higher wages but worry the combined cost of paid leave and losing the tip credit could force difficult decisions about staffing, hours, or prices.
Negotiations continue on implementing these changes in a way that ensures fair wages and sick leave while helping small businesses adapt. As a former bartender and proud Royal Oaker, I’m committed to finding a solution that protects both workers and local businesses.
Share your thoughts: If you’re a worker or business owner affected by this legislation, please email us at SenMMcMorrow@senate.michigan.gov.
White Shirt Day
Every year on February 11, labor members and supporters observe White Shirt Day to honor the General Motors workers who participated in the Flint Sit-Down Strike. Wearing white shirts on this day represents the belief that all workers, regardless of their job title, deserve the same level of respect. It is a way to recognize the efforts of those who fought for fair wages, better working conditions, and workplace dignity. White Shirt Day serves as a reminder of the progress made through solidarity and the importance of continuing to advocate for workers’ rights.
The Flint Sit-Down Strike was a key moment in labor history that led to improvements in wages, working conditions, and job protections. The efforts of these workers helped establish many of the rights employees have today. While workplaces have changed over the course of time, the need for fair treatment and job security is still relevant. White Shirt Day recognizes this history and solidifies the importance of solidarity and respect in the workplace, and I was proud to co-sponsor Sen. John Cherry’s resolution commemorating the day.
Senate Democrats Stand Strong for Michigan Teachers, First Responders, & Corrections Officers
On Dec. 20, 2024, House Bills 4177, 4665–4667 and 4900–4901 of 2023 and House Bills 5817–5818 and 6058 of 2024 were passed by the Senate and returned to the House for presentation to the governor. House Speaker Matt Hall took illegal action to block these nine bills, which lower health care costs for teachers and first responders and improve retirement benefits for corrections officers — from being presented to the governor.
The state Constitution states, “Every bill passed by the Legislature shall, before it becomes a law, be presented to the governor.” As written, the Constitution does not give the Speaker of the House the authority to withhold bills passed by the Legislature from the governor.
That’s why Senate Majority Leader Brinks has filed a lawsuit on behalf of the Michigan Senate against House Republicans for failing to abide by the constitution and rightfully sending this critical legislation, which was passed by both chambers, to the governor.
Celebrating Black History This Month and Beyond
February is Black History Month, a designated time to honor and appreciate the contributions, cultures, histories, and achievements of African Americans. Michigan has long been home to a diverse range of Black historical figures whose legacies have left an indelible mark on the world, from abolitionist Sojourner Truth and civil rights activist Malcom X to the “Queen of Soul” Aretha Franklin and the “mother of the freedom movement” Rosa Parks — whose birthday is annually celebrated on Feb. 4.
World Cancer Day: Resources and Support
World Cancer Day is annually observed on Feb. 4, and it’s a great opportunity to raise awareness about cancer and prevention efforts. The detrimental effects of cancer are felt in every corner of the globe, so World Cancer Day is the perfect time to share resources and support for all those impacted:
- Michigan Dept. of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) cancer resources for diverse communities;
- MDHHS Keeping Michigan Healthy cancer webpage;
- WISEWOMAN Program helps participants understand their chronic disease risk factors through a free health screening;
- American Cancer Society Michigan local resources and events.
Tips to Prepare for Icy Weather
With winter still in full swing, it’s important to stay prepared for icy weather to keep safe on the roads and at home. Make sure your car has the right tires and emergency supplies, and check that your home is staying warm and well-insulated. Taking these steps now can help you avoid problems when temperatures drop:
- Drive slowly and increase your following distance to account for icy roads;
- Use sand or salt on sidewalks to prevent ice buildup and reduce slipping; and
- Keep your headlights on during snowy or icy conditions to improve visibility.
If you need information or assistance during snowstorms or dangerous weather, you can call 2-1-1. This number will connect you to the Michigan 2-1-1 service, which can provide referrals for critical health and human services available in your community, including potential shelter options during a weather emergency. If you cannot dial 2-1-1, you can alternatively call +1 (844) 875-9211.
For more useful tips, you can refer to this Detroit Free Press article here.
Tour of Detect-It in Oak Park
I visited Detect-It in Oak Park, which is a company specializing in AI software and neural net technology. We talked about how their technology is evolving and the broader role state government plays in supporting innovation and business growth. It was a great opportunity to see their work firsthand and learn more about the impact of AI across different industries.
Public Transit Panel Discussion in Detroit
At the annual Transportation Riders United transit panel with state Rep. Jason Morgan and Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans, we discussed why public transportation is so important for Michigan, especially when it comes to economic opportunity, sustainability, and equity. Our panel discussion was mentioned on Fox 2 Detroit, which you can view here.
Oak Park City Council Appoints Stephanie Crawford
Congratulations to Stephanie Crawford on her unanimous appointment to the Oak Park City Council. We look forward to working with you in your new role in government!
Berkley Chamber of Commerce Berk Perk Card Is Out
The Berkley Chamber of Commerce has launched the Berk Perk Card, which is available for $35. The card offers discounts on groceries at Woodward Corner Market, dining at local restaurants, shopping at local boutiques, and services from various providers. It’s a simple way to support local businesses while saving on everyday expenses. To purchase the card, visit berkleychamber.com/berk-perk-card.
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.