Dear Neighbor,
As we ease into August, I hope you are continuing to soak in all that summertime in Michigan has to offer — beautiful lakes, scenic parks and trails and abundant, fresh produce for your picnics and grilling. For me, just being able to sit outside for a bit in the morning sun before it gets hot is a pleasure I know I won’t be enjoying in November!
Grab a coffee or cold beverage and read on to learn about the many things our team has been working on both in Lansing and District 14.
If you or someone you know would like to provide any feedback about what’s happening in Lansing or needs assistance, please feel free to reach out to my office. You can email us at sensshink@senate.michigan.gov or call (517) 373-2426. And don’t forget to visit my official Facebook page for the latest updates.
Sincerely,
Sue Shink
State Senator
District 14
Legislative Updates
State Budget Dollars Coming to Washtenaw and Jackson Counties
In my last newsletter, you learned about the Fiscal Year 2025 State Budget that will build on last year’s transformative budget by continuing to invest in children and families, students and workers, public safety, community development, and more. I’m also proud the budget includes money for several projects in the district that will positively impact families and communities. Below are a few notable examples:
Under the leadership of Rep. Jennifer Conlin (HD-48) and a coalition of Washtenaw County-based legislators, we secured a $3 million appropriation for the Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative (HWPI) to support development of the Washtenaw County-wide Border to Border Trail (B2B Trail). The B2B Trail is something I’ve been working toward for many years, and I am grateful to be able to continue to contribute to its success.
The B2B Trail is a 45-mile non-motorized trail that connects communities and nature areas across Washtenaw County, connecting to trail networks in Jackson and Ingham Counties to the west and Wayne County to the east. Although only about 10 miles remain to complete this regional trail, expensive projects still need doing. The budget appropriation will play a significant part in completing the B2B Trail, creating an unparalleled community recreation asset for residents and visitors in Washtenaw County and beyond as the trail connects to the statewide Iron Belle Trail.
I also worked with Jackson Mayor Daniel Mahoney to get $4.5 million in funding for the Michigan Dept. of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) to revitalize the historic Hayes Hotel in Jackson. This allocation will support the $40-million restoration project, transforming the 10-story building into 84 apartments and event, retail, and restaurant spaces.
After years of efforts by the Jackson community to redevelop the vacant Hayes Hotel, I am excited to have secured funding to support the transformation of this vacant building into housing and commercial space. This investment will reinvigorate the Hayes Hotel from a vacant structure into a vibrant anchor in Jackson’s energetic downtown area. I appreciate the collaboration with Mayor Daniel Mahoney, the Jackson Chamber of Commerce and Consumers Energy to achieve this victory for Jackson.
In addition, Rep. Conlin and I were successful in winning $2 million in appropriations for development of the waterfront park on the western shore of Whitmore Lake. This is another project that the community has been working on for many years and it’s great to be part of its success.
Other local budget wins include a sound wall along M-14, eviction diversion in Washtenaw County, funding for teenagers supporting mental health in Dexter, a sidewalk in Brooklyn so kids can safely walk to school, funding for a community center in Jackson, Jackson County district court security improvements, an election center in Ann Arbor and road improvements and a firetruck in Scio Township.
Creating an Environment Where Workers and Businesses Can Thrive
Recently, CNBC ranked Michigan as No. 9 on their list of America’s Top States for Business in 2024 list. This marks the third time since the list was launched that Michigan has cracked the top 10. This announcement comes after Michigan’s unemployment rate fell below the national average, remaining at 3.9% for the fourth consecutive month in May. With all this news, the message to workers and businesses is clear: whether you’re looking for a good-paying job or a place to start a successful small business, Michigan is a state where you can thrive.
Since taking office, our Majority for the People has championed legislation to make this reality possible. Here’s just a few of our legislative highlights:
- Expanded the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), benefiting 750,000 Michigan workers and boosting local purchasing power to add an additional $553 million to our economy;
- Rolled back the unfair and unpopular retirement tax, putting an average of $1,000 back in the pockets of 500,000 seniors;
- Created a process for small businesses to claim a personal property tax exemption for a property with a true cash value between $80,000-$180,000, helping alleviate the financial strains small business owners may face;
- Expanded the Transformational Brownfield Plan program and made housing development projects eligible to receive tax increment financing (TIF) when transforming obsolete and vacant properties, helping to increase access to affordable housing; and
- Provided additional flexibility to businesses to establish Business Improvement Zones, increasing the tools that business owners have at their disposal to build more vibrant, cohesive community centers.
Additionally, in our 2025 State Budget, we secured the resources necessary to build up workers and small businesses throughout our state, including funding to:
- Continue Michigan Reconnect, providing a tuition-free pathway to adult learners 25 and older.
- Expand access to free community college for students in every part of the state with the Community College Guarantee. Beginning Fall 2024, students from the Class of 2023 and beyond are eligible for this funding.
- Support Michigan’s current and future workforce needs and population growth, including specialized economic assistance to businesses locating or expanding in Michigan to meet their talent and workforce needs.
- Uplift Minority Owned Businesses.
- Establish an Innovation Fund to invest in scalable startups and help launch hundreds of new Michigan-based companies, creating thousands of jobs.
In Recent News
New Renewables Ready Communities Program Set to Launch
On July 22, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded the State of Michigan $129.1 million from the Biden-Harris administration’s Inflation Reduction Act’s (IRA) Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) program to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy like wind, solar, and storage. The investment will help Michigan meet its 60% renewable energy and 100% clean energy standards set under the recently enacted clean energy laws. Getting this done will create good-paying jobs, drive down energy costs, and protect the state’s air, land, and water.
This funding will allow the state to launch Renewables Ready Communities (RRC). Administered by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), the program will incentivize the permitting of renewable energy projects through local processes. The RRC Program will help overcome barriers to siting renewable energy and help the state reach its goal of 60% renewable energy by 2030. Deploying renewable energy at scale is critical to meeting the state’s climate and energy goals, and siting is arguably the most important barrier we face to build more solar, wind, and so much more across Michigan.
Interested communities and stakeholders can reach out to EGLE-OCE@Michigan.gov for more information. Check out EGLE’s website to learn more about the ongoing Renewables Ready Communities Award pilot.
Recognizing People with Disabilities this Month and Always
Friday, July 26 is National Disability Independence Day, the 34th anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act in July 1990 — a historic milestone in advancing the rights of all people with disabilities. Since then, Disability Pride Month (recognized each July) has become a celebration of the unique experiences, strengths, and achievements of people with disabilities. It is also a time to recognize that people with disabilities often face discrimination or marginalization based on their disability, race, gender, sexual orientation, or other intersecting factors.
Disabilities are a beautiful and natural part of human diversity, and we strive to create an inclusive and accessible society that enables individuals with disabilities to live fulfilling lives and participate in their communities. Activities during Disability Pride Month are aimed at inspiring all citizens to celebrate the contributions of persons with disabilities, promote inclusivity, and foster greater respect and understanding.
Below are some activities and resources shared by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to recognize and celebrate Disability Pride Month here in Michigan:
- Learn more about Disability Pride Month in Michigan
- View the 2024 Breaking Barriers Art Exhibit
- Article: Navigating pregnancy with a disability, Mayo Clinic
- Podcast: Disability Advocacy and Inclusivity in Maternal Health
In the Community
Civics Bee
On June 17, the Michigan Finals of the National Civics Bee, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, was held at the Capitol. I’m very proud of all 15 eighth graders who competed, and thrilled that four of them were from Jackson County schools! Congratulations to Eleanor and Heather of Grass Lake Middle School, and Theresa and Shayan of Lumen Christi High School. Nancy Smith, my Constituent Services Aide, was there to cheer on the students.
Michigan Potato Growers
The Michigan Potato Growers set up farm visits with Kitchen Farms and Iott Seed Farm in northern Michigan for my Chief of Staff, Jeffrey Hillman. It was an informative visit, recognizing the vital potato industry and understanding the issues important to them, including responsible water use.
Dexter Forum
I recently participated in the Dexter Forum to discuss issues impacting the community. I explained the school aid budget that included a 5.06% overall increase in funding for Dexter Schools, and announced a grant to fund SRSLY Dexter whose work saves lives and improves the mental health of Dexter youth, prioritizing youth-led initiatives.
Taiwanese American Luncheon
I was honored to meet Taiwanese Legislator and Speaker of the Taiwanese Yuan, Vivian Huang Shan Shan. Our relationship with Taiwan is important for cultural, economic and national security reasons. I appreciate the friendships that have grown with members of the Taiwanese American community here in Michigan.
Upcoming Events
Senior Resource Fair in Jackson — Coming Soon: August 16
On Friday, August 16, I’m hosting my annual Senior Summit event at the Crouch Senior Center in Jackson. Please come anytime between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. to learn about your legal rights, services available to seniors, how to avoid scams, and how to avoid having your identity stolen, among other topics and free resources from several organizations and agencies.
This annual event is incredibly informative and a great way for you to ask questions and share updates on issues that are important to you. Hope to see you there!
WHEN: Friday, August 16, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
WHERE: Crouch Senior Center, 1715 Lansing Ave. #672, Jackson, MI 49202
Resources
Help Protect Yourself and Save Money During National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month
Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) is encouraging vehicle owners to take steps to protect their vehicles from theft. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than one million vehicles were stolen in the United States last year — a 25% increase in vehicle theft totals over previous years.
Here are some precautionary safety measures you can take to help protect yourself from auto theft:
- Take preventative measures. Park vehicles in a locked garage if possible. If vehicles must be parked in a driveway, make sure they are locked and consider installing motion sensor security lights. While lights may not provide complete security, they may make some thieves think twice, encouraging them to leave the area and your vehicle untouched. Call local law enforcement and your insurer if your vehicle is stolen.
- Consider purchasing comprehensive coverage. “Comprehensive” is an optional coverage you can buy that will pay for your car if it is stolen or for repairs if it is hit by a falling object, collides with an animal, or is damaged in a fire, flood or by vandals.
- Comprehensive insurance coverage also covers catalytic converter theft, which has risen in frequency across the country. Those who have not purchased comprehensive insurance coverage may end up paying out of pocket for repairs resulting from theft.
In addition to the safety measures to prevent vehicle theft, the following tips can help you to avoid catalytic converter theft:
- Install a catalytic converter anti-theft device. These are available from various manufacturers and can provide a level of security from theft.
- Etching the last 8 digits of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into the metal of the converter can help deter thieves from stealing the part and make it harder for them to sell stolen converters to legitimate scrap yards and metal dealers. This can be done at many dealerships and body shops.
If you purchase comprehensive insurance coverage and have certain anti-theft devices such as a car alarm, you may qualify for discounts on your policy. Contact your insurance agent or company for more information.
For more information about vehicle theft prevention or to discuss auto insurance questions, call DIFS at 877-999-6442, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Consumers can also file a complaint against an insurance agent or company by visiting Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints.
Important Dates for the August Primary
The Michigan State Primary is coming up on August 6, where Michiganders will determine which candidates will compete in the general election happening later this year. Voters will lend their support for candidates running for the U.S. Senate, U.S. House, Michigan House of Representatives, and other local offices. View the full list of candidates here and view your sample ballot here.
Below are important dates to be aware of for the Michigan State primary election.
- AV ballots available for voters June 27
- AV early processing locations
- Early voting period July 27 – Aug. 4
- In-person voter registration required July 23 – Aug. 6
- A primary election will be held on Aug. 6
Find more resources and information about elections and voting in Michigan here.
Free Summer Meals for Students
It can be a challenge for families to keep food on the table while school is out for the summer. One in six kids in Michigan face food insecurity, and more than 850,000 Michigan children rely on free public-school lunches. That’s why organizations and local school districts are working with Meet Up and Eat Up and providing those ages 18 and under with delicious, nutritious meals.
All summer long, children 18 and under can eat healthy, satisfying meals in their own communities at no cost. No application forms required, no registration needed, and no proof of residency asked for — just show up and enjoy a meal! All meals must be eaten at the site. Visit the interactive map for locations near you. You can also text “FOOD” or “COMIDA” to 304-304 to find free meals in your neighborhood.