Dear Neighbor,
Happy Women’s History Month. This March, join me in recognizing the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of the bold, brave women who have paved the way for progress here in Michigan and nationwide. I’m proud to be a part of Michigan’s first female-majority legislative caucus, where we’re not just breaking barriers from within, but working hard to ensure all women across the state have the resources and opportunities they need to shatter glass ceilings and secure their own prosperous futures.
As always, please feel free to reach out to share your thoughts or seek assistance with any challenges you may be facing with state departments. You can email us at SenDPolehanki@senate.michigan.gov or call 517-373-7350.
Sincerely,
Dayne Polehankni
State Senator
District 5
- This week, the Senate Oversight Committee heard testimony from leaders of early childhood education programs, health and nutrition experts, disability advocates, and other nonprofits and institutions who have faced challenges providing crucial services to Michiganders. To watch the hearing, visit the Michigan Senate Democrats’ Facebook Page.
- Join me for my upcoming coffee and conversation event at Booker T. Dozier Recreation Center in Inkster on March 18 at 6:00 p.m. See more details here.
- Don’t forget that Daylight Saving Time starts this weekend, with clocks springing forward one hour at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, March 9. Though you’ll lose an hour of sleep, on the positive side — you’ll gain an hour of daylight!
Community and State Organizations Share Local Impact of Federal Funding Freeze on Michiganders
This week, the Senate Oversight Committee heard testimony from leaders of early childhood education programs, health and nutrition experts, disability advocates, and other nonprofits and institutions who have faced challenges providing crucial services to Michigan children, seniors, students, families and more as a result of the Trump administration’s January memo ordering a pause to funding for federal grants and loans.
Though the order was temporarily blocked by a federal judge, who also decided last week to extend the block, the effects of the administration’s initial announcement caused confusion and chaos in the days that followed and ongoing uncertainty. This has resulted in devastating consequences for organizations around the state and for the Michiganders who rely on them. This committee hearing was an opportunity to hear firsthand about the on-the-ground impact this directive has had here in Michigan.
To watch the hearing, visit the Michigan Senate Democrats’ Facebook Page.
Michigan Senate Wins Lawsuit, Upholding Integrity of Constitution & Securing Wins for Teachers, First Responders, & Corrections Officers
We won! Last week, Court of Claims Judge Sima Patel ruled in favor of Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks and the Michigan Senate in Michigan Senate v. Michigan House of Representatives, making it abundantly clear that the Michigan Constitution says every bill passed by the Legislature is required to be presented to the governor — and no one — especially an elected public servant in legislative leadership — is above the law.
The lawsuit was brought forth by Leader Brinks after House Speaker Matt Hall failed to present nine bills that passed both chambers to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. The bills — House Bills 4177, 4665-4667, and 4900-4901 of 2023 and House Bills 5817-5818 and 6058 of 2024 — improve retirement benefits for state corrections and conservation officers as well as lower health care costs for firefighters, teachers, and other public sector employees.
We Rise: Black History Icons of Inkster
It was an honor to attend Inkster’s “We Rise: Black History Icons of Inkster.” The highlight of the evening was Inkster Historian Robert Turley, who shared insights from his book of memoirs, “Inktown,” and his movie, “For the Love of Inkster.” Thank you to Crystal Linton for organizing such a meaningful event!
Champions of Change Gala
I had the privilege of presenting an official government tribute on behalf of the state of Michigan and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to Pastor Velma Overman of Inkster. The event was a heartwarming celebration with numerous dignitaries, friends, and family members gathering to honor her lifetime of philanthropy.
Livonia Leadership and Awards Celebration
It was a pleasure to present certificates of recognition on behalf of the state of Michigan at the Livonia Leadership and Awards Celebration Dinner. This event, sponsored by the Livonia-Westland Chamber of Commerce, recognizes individuals and businesses for their outstanding contributions to the Livonia community which makes our city such a great place to live, work, learn, and play.
Inkster Community Forum
My office’s Constituent Services Aide, Maci, attended the Inkster Community Forum to provide valuable resources on tax tips, senior services, and veteran benefits to our constituents. A big thank you to Councilwoman Dee Richardson for organizing this important event!
Legislative Update in Garden City
It was great to be back in Garden City to provide a legislative update to the city council.
I’m thrilled to share that the $2,500,000 secured by my office for sidewalk gap repair and walkable communities was approved at the meeting. Exciting times are ahead as we work towards making our community more accessible and pedestrian-friendly!
Community Conversation
WHEN: Tuesday, March 18, from 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
WHERE: Booker T. Dozier Recreation Center, 2025 Middlebelt Rd., Inkster, MI 48141
Celebrating Free School Meals for Michigan Students
I’m proud that in the last two state budgets we passed, my colleagues and I were able to secure funding to provide free breakfast and lunch for all public school students, saving Michigan families approximately $850 a year on food costs, and keeping kids fed and focused in the classroom.
As one of only eight states that offers a statewide free meal program for all public school students, the Michigan Dept. of Education is recognizing this week, March 3-7, as National School Breakfast Week, an opportunity to highlight this widely popular and successful program. Since the start of Michigan School Meals in the 2023-24 school year, 31% more students are eating breakfast at school and 25% more are eating lunch there as well. And the program doesn’t just benefit students and their families, but it also provides a boost to local farmers and food producers. I’m glad to see Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has called for its continuation in the 2026 state budget — I’ll be fighting to make sure that happens!
Tick Tock, Time to Change the Clock!
Here’s your reminder that starting this weekend, be prepared to lose an hour of sleep and gain an extra hour of daylight in return! Yep, Daylight Saving Time is upon us. This Sunday, March 9, clocks will spring forward one hour at 2:00 a.m. and reset to 3:00 a.m. While cell phones will automatically reset themselves, make sure to change any manually controlled clocks ahead of time before heading to bed on Saturday night, March 8, to avoid any confusion or a last-minute morning scramble to get out the door.
That lost hour of sleep? Don’t worry — we’ll get it back on Nov. 3, 2025, when standard time resumes.
Stay Protected and Slam the Scam
With National Slam the Scam Day happening this Thursday, March 6, the Social Security Administration wants to spread awareness about Social Security-related scams and tips on how to stop scammers from stealing your money and personal information. Help protect yourself and your loved ones by:
- Learning about the most recent scams. Signs of a scam include:
- An unexpected problem or offer of a prize or benefit increase,
- Pressure to act immediately, and
- A request for an unusual payment like cryptocurrency, gift cards, gold bars, and wire transfers, potentially along with the promise of keeping your money “safe.”
- Reporting scams as soon as possible. Everyone is vulnerable — victims shouldn’t be embarrassed.
- Sharing their Scam Alert fact sheet and helping inform others on how to protect themselves.
Report Social Security-related scams to the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General.