Dear Neighbor,
Happy Fourth! Summer is officially underway, bringing extreme temperatures and severe weather with it. Be sure to take care of yourself, your loved ones, and your community during this heatwave and holiday weekend.
If you have questions, concerns, or need help navigating state resources, my office is here for you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out by email at SenSSantana@senate.michigan.gov or by phone at (517) 373-0990.
Sincerely,
Sylvia Santana
State Senator
District 2
- National CROWN Day is observed annually on July 3. Learn more about race-based hair discrimination and the CROWN Act championed by Michigan Senate Democrats below.
- Be prepared for the heatwave and upcoming holiday weekend by exploring some important safety tips and reminders below.
👑 Celebrating National CROWN Day
Millions of Black Americans have faced race-based hair discrimination in school or the workplace — leading to restricted economic mobility, educational disruptions, and heightened psychological stress. That’s why Senate Democrats passed the CROWN Act in 2023, expanding equity and opportunity by protecting Michiganders from discrimination based on hair texture or protective hairstyles.
While Michigan’s CROWN Act was signed into law three years ago, the fight to end hair discrimination continues at the national level. National CROWN Day is annually observed on July 3, calling for collective action to finally put an end to race-based hair discrimination nationwide. To find ways to get involved, click here.
Combatting Big Businesses, Creating A Michigan You Can Afford
Whether it be at the gas pump, grocery store, doctor’s office, or the monthly bills on our kitchen tables, we are all feeling the financial strain of careless decisions in Washington, D.C. That’s why Senate Democrats launched our A Michigan You Can Afford agenda, which works to provide Michigan residents real relief amid the record-high cost of living and protect you against predatory business tactics looking to profit at your expense. Most recently, my colleagues and I have taken steps to:
- Eliminate out-of-pocket costs for three of the state’s most high-volume, life-saving medical necessities, including Insulin, Epinephrine, and Inhalers. (Introduced)
- Create a state-based health care exchange, which would lower premiums and give Michiganders more options and more control over their health insurance. (Passed out of the Senate)
- Crack down on greedy price gouging practices to keep housing, essential goods, and energy affordable during an issued state of emergency. (Passed out of the Senate)
As we advance this legislative agenda through the Senate, I want to hear from you. Help shape this package by sharing your experience in the survey below, so we can work together to deliver a solution that works for you, your family, your community, and our state.
4th of July Firework Safety Tips 🎆
This Independence Day marks America’s 250th anniversary — and celebrations across the country are expected to be bigger than ever, with the highest projected consumer spending on fireworks in history. Keep you and your loved ones safe this holiday weekend by exploring these firework safety tips:
Do:
- Follow all local ordinances and safety instructions.
Supervise kids with sparklers closely. Keep fireworks away from children and away from your face. - Use fireworks only on a flat paved or gravel surface. Spray down the area with water before starting and when done.
- Toss used fireworks and sparklers into a bucket of water when finished.
- Keep a water source ready to spray embers from fireworks.
Don’t:
- Try to reignite “dud” fireworks that don’t go off. Wait 15 minutes, then place them in a bucket of water.
- Launch fireworks into forests or fields where dry grass or leaves could ignite.
Read through AAA’s insurance advice before using fireworks here and find additional fireworks safety tips here.
Staying Safe from Heat-Related Illness
This week, temperatures are expected to hit record highs with heat index values forecasted to reach triple digits. When it’s very hot and humid, there’s an increased risk of heat-related illness, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can worsen and cause heat stroke or even death.
To stay healthy during this heat wave, please keep these important safety tips in mind:
- Drink more fluids and avoid liquids with large amounts of sugar or alcohol.
- Limit outdoor activities to when it’s coolest in the morning and evening.
- Spend time indoors with air conditioning.
- Check to make sure your air conditioner filters are clean, and the unit is working properly.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
- Wear sunscreen, as sunburn affects the body’s ability to cool down.
- Check on your neighbors and relatives.
- Never leave children or pets unattended in cars, even with the windows cracked.
- Find a cooling center in your area here.
Protecting Your Voice and Your Vote
My Senate Democratic colleagues and I have worked hard to make casting your ballot as easy and accessible as possible — and our state leaders and law enforcement are determined to do their part to protect you at the ballot box. Ahead of the upcoming primary election on August 4, 2026, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has issued legal guidance to law enforcement agencies statewide, briefing them on our latest election laws and how to keep you safe from intimidation or threats at the polls. Read Attorney General Nessel’s recommendations in full here.
Michigan voters are also encouraged to stay informed about their voting rights and responsibilities by reviewing key election and polling place provisions. To review or update your voter information, such as your registration or designated polling place, visit the Michigan Voter Information Center.
Below are some upcoming election dates to keep in mind:
August Primary Election
Last day to register to vote by mail or online* – Monday, July 20
Primary election early voting begins – Saturday, July 25
Optional early voting period up to – Sunday, August 2
Primary Election Day – Tuesday, August 4
* You can still register to vote in person up to and including on Election Day with your local clerk.