Dear Neighbor,
I hope you are enjoying the fun of a pure Michigan winter before the snow melts — even if that means from the comfort of your home. If you haven’t had a chance already, be sure to catch up on the many showstopping Michigan athletes who represented the great state we call home in the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics over the last few weeks!
As February comes to a close, the legislative and budget season is kicking into high gear. The governor recently delivered her final State of the State address and unveiled her recommendations for the 2027 state budget, officially setting the stage for the months ahead. In both presentations, she emphasized priorities I share including making life more affordable for Michiganders, investing in our students and schools, and lowering the cost of housing so more folks have the ability to build and raise their family here in Michigan. Read on to learn more.
If you or someone you know would like to provide any feedback about what’s happening, or needs assistance of any sort, please feel free to reach out to my office. You can reach me and my team by emailing SenDPolehanki@senate.michigan.gov or calling 517-373-7350.
Sincerely,
Dayna Polehanki
State Senator
District 5
- Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered her final State of the State address this week, outlining priorities for her last year in office, while also reflecting on the great progress we’ve made together over the last several years. Read more about this below.
- Please join me at my upcoming Community Conversation in Westland on Thursday, March 5. Get more details below.
- In response to the recent uptick in reckless immigration enforcement actions here in Michigan and around the country, Attorney General Dana Nessel has launched a new form for residents to report alleged misconduct by federal immigration agents in their communities. Learn more below.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer Delivers Her Final State of the State Address
This week marked the governor’s final State of the State address, and it was especially meaningful to be there for my eighth time. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made for students, teachers, and families across Michigan, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come together. As we look forward to the year ahead, I’m feeling optimistic and energized about what’s still possible, and I’m committed to continuing the work that moves our state forward.
To read my statement on the State of the State, please click here.
Budget Season Begins!
Earlier this month, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer released her recommendations for the 2027 state budget, officially kicking off the start to the budget process here in the Senate and across the chamber. With Michiganders continuing to feel the pinch from ongoing inflation, rising health care costs, and other impacts of the reckless actions of our federal administration, the governor’s plan aims to mitigate the pressures residents across the state are facing while also addressing the $1.8 billion shortfall largely caused by those same actions.
From saving Michiganders money and setting our students up for success to growing the economy and improving public safety, I am encouraged to see that her spending plan reflects many of the Senate’s own priorities. Along with continuing to invest in proven programs we have long championed — universal school meals, targeted tax relief for working families and retirees, free pre-K, and more — I’m particularly thrilled to see her budget recommendation include:
- Property tax relief for about 335,000 seniors to help them age with dignity in their own homes;
- Significant investments to combat the state’s literacy crisis;
- A $250 per student boost to our per-pupil funding, for a total of $10,300 per student;
- Additional support for at-risk and special education students, student mental health and safety needs, before- and after-school programs;
- The continuation of free school meals for Michigan students;
- A new “back to school” tax holiday to help families save money on clothes, school supplies, and more; and
- Expansion of the Michigan Reconnect program to include adult learners ages 21 and older.
While this new revenue landscape presents some unique challenges this year, my commitment to delivering real solutions for the people of Michigan remains stronger than ever. My Senate Democratic colleagues and I are looking forward to collaborating with our colleagues both across the aisle and across the chamber to craft a balanced state budget that is passed on time and provides meaningful relief for those who need it most.
Putting Kids First in the Digital Age: Kids Over Clicks Town Hall
This past week, I was proud to host a Kids Over Clicks Virtual Town Hall, bringing together parents, advocates, and experts to talk honestly about what our kids are facing online. Week after week, I hear from families across Michigan who are deeply concerned about how social media platforms and emerging technologies are designed without children’s safety as the priority. This conversation was about listening, learning, and focusing on real solutions that put Kids Over Clicks. I’m grateful to the Michigan Parent Alliance for Safe Schools (MiPASS) and our panelists for sharing their insight and for helping push this important conversation forward — because our kids deserve digital spaces designed with their well-being in mind.
Putting Students First: Signing My Cell Phone Bill into Law
I was proud to stand with Gov. Whitmer as she signed my school cell phone bill into law — a meaningful step toward creating healthier, more focused learning environments for our students. This moment shows what’s possible when we work across the aisle and across chambers to do what’s right for kids. As a former teacher, I know how important it is for students to be present, engaged, and supported at school, and this law helps put learning and well-being back at the center of the classroom.
Standing Together to Protect Our Communities from the Arbor Hills Landfill Expansion
I joined Sens. Bayer and Shink, along with Reps. Morgan and Koleszar, to testify before the Washtenaw County Commission about an issue our communities have felt for far too long. We presented our letter urging the commission to help stop the proposed expansion of the Arbor Hills landfill in Salem Township, a project that would only worsen the noxious odors already impacting Northville Township residents. Our neighbors deserve clean air and a healthy environment, and I’m grateful to stand with my colleagues and our community to push for real accountability and meaningful action.
Celebrating Momentum and Renewal at Inkster’s State of the City
Inkster is truly moving in the right direction! I was grateful to join Mayor Byron Nolen for his annual State of the City address, where his pride in the community and the progress underway was unmistakable. From new investments to strengthened partnerships, there’s so much for Inkster residents to look forward to. It was wonderful to stand alongside state Rep. Matt Koleszar and Mayor Nolen as we celebrated the city’s accomplishments and the bright future ahead.
Honoring Leadership and Community Impact in Livonia and Westland
Congratulations to all the incredible honorees recognized at the Livonia Westland Chamber of Commerce 2026 Leadership and Awards Celebration Dinner. It was an honor to be part of an evening that truly celebrated leadership, service, and community pride. I was especially proud to present an award to Livonia Mayor Maureen Brosnan in recognition of her leadership on the Senior Center revitalization, a project that will have a lasting impact for so many residents. I also enjoyed spending time with Wayne County Commissioner Glenn Anderson and state Rep. Matt Koleszar as we celebrated the people and partnerships strengthening our region.
Westland Community Conversation
WHEN: Thursday, March 5, 2026, from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
WHERE: Veterans of Foreign Affairs, 6440 N. Hix Rd., Westland, MI 48185
Michigan Athletes Bring Home Hardware from 2026 Winter Olympics
As some of the best athletes in the world headed to Italy for the 2026 Winter Olympics, Michigan was proud to send more than a dozen to compete in activities such as figure skating, ice dancing, bobsledding, skiing, and hockey. Over the past few weeks, these athletes put their skills and talent to the test, and in the end, our Michigan competitors made our state proud — bringing home some serious hardware, including 11 gold medals.
Some of the most exciting moments from Milan came from the U.S. women’s and men’s hockey teams who put up a great fight against Canada to snag gold in each division, with Michigan players being the ones to score the game-winning goals! On the women’s team, it was Farmington Hills native Megan Keller who was the hero in sudden death overtime. And the men’s team had Canton Township’s Jack Hughes to thank for securing their gold medal as he also scored a sudden-death overtime goal.
To learn more about all of the Michiganders who competed — and won — in this year’s Olympics, click here.
New Tool to Report Immigration Enforcement in Michigan
Attorney General Dana Nessel has recently launched a new reporting form for Michiganders to report alleged misconduct by federal immigration agents in their communities. Crafted in response to concerns from residents across the state on the uptick of harmful enforcement tactics happening in Michigan and nationwide, this new tool provides Michiganders an avenue to document any concerning behavior they are witnessing at the hands of federal officers. The form allows residents to submit specific incident details, including descriptions of the actions witnessed, the number of individuals involved and their group or agency affiliations, tools and weapons observed, and the time and location of the incident. Learn more here, and click here to access the form.
Resources to Help Make for a Smooth Tax Filing Season
The 2026 tax filing season is well underway, with the deadline to file Wednesday, April 15, 2026!
Senate Democrats have been focused on cutting taxes and making it easier to raise families here in Michigan. That’s why we worked to deliver the biggest tax break for working families in Michigan history, which cut taxes by $1 billion. Click here for a few quick tips to help you maximize your return this year!
During the last legislative session, we quintupled Michigan’s match of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) from 6% to 30% to help families save an average of $3,800 when combined with the federal credit. Check if you qualify for the federal EITC here.
Remember, do not share your tax documents or earnings statements via phone or social media. The IRS will only contact you via official U.S. Postal Service mail. View the IRS’ guide to stay safe from scams, and find free tax-filing resources and preparation near you here.
Utilize Michigan 211 to Get Connected with the Resources You Need
Michigan 211 is a toll-free service that provides residents with information. Specialists trained to assist community members will connect you with the proper resources. From utility payment assistance to household needs, 211 is a great tool for you and your loved ones to use.
Michigan 211 supports about seven regions in the state of Michigan. You can text, email, or call for help. For more information, 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.
Michigan’s High School Graduation Rate Reaches Another Record High
Last week, the Michigan Dept. of Education announced that Michigan’s 2025 four-year graduation rate once again improved to the highest level since 2008! The graduation rate increased to just over 84%, up by 1.2 percentage points from the previous year, while the state’s four-year dropout rate decreased. This new data represents real progress toward increasing the number of students who graduate from high school.
These new findings are thanks to significant investments the state has been making in Career and Technical Education. Programs like these expand secondary learning opportunities to provide students with work-based learning in career paths such as skilled trades, agriculture, public safety, information technology, and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, among many others.
To learn more about what CTE programs you or your children may be able to take advantage of, click here.