Dear Neighbor,
Michigan’s real winter weather is here! As temperatures drop, I hope you are staying safe and warm. Be sure to take extra care when going outside or traveling in these conditions: bundle up, watch out for ice, and pay attention to the changing weather. If you, a loved one, or a neighbor need a place to escape the frigid temperatures, you can find a list of warming centers across South-Central Michigan here. You can also find a Jackson-specific list here.
Below, you’ll find updates on how my colleagues and I have hit the ground running during the first weeks of Michigan’s 103rd Legislature. I’m excited about what the new year holds and am committed to serving our community by working on the issues that matter most to you.
If you or anyone you know would like to provide feedback about what’s happening in Lansing, or needs any assistance, please feel free to reach out to my office. You can contact me by sending an email to sensshink@senate.michigan.gov or calling (517) 373-2426. Also, please visit my official Facebook page for the latest updates.
Sincerely,
Sue Shink
State Senator
14th Senate District
- As we began Michigan’s 103rd Legislature earlier this month, my colleagues and I wasted no time in introducing legislation to increase government transparency, improve access to affordable health care, and support working families.
- With freezing temperatures and dangerous wind chills, make sure you take proper safety precautions such as limiting your time outdoors on colder days, checking on others, and preparing for travel emergencies.
2024 Year in Review
I’m proud of what I accomplished in 2024 for the residents of District 14 and all Michiganders. Thank you to my many partners in the community and the legislature who helped to make good things happen. Let’s do even more in 2025!
Honoring Martin Luther King, Jr. Through Action
I’ve been working hard alongside you to make Michigan a state where you and your loved ones can live the lives you choose, no matter the color of your skin, your zip code, who you love, or the amount of money in your wallet. The policies we put in place and budget decisions we make here in the legislature should support all of us being treated with dignity.
I’ve been joining our community to remember and pay respect to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. whose courage, tenacity, and leadership, along with the efforts of many others, resulted in changed laws that required that all people be treated more fairly.
From banning race-based hair discrimination and expanding historic protections for our LGBTQ+ community to passing legislation combating hate crimes and permanently establishing Michigan’s Black Leadership Advisory Council, my Senate Democratic colleagues and I have been focused on work inspired by Dr. King’s legacy. This year, we remain committed to championing legislation and investments to continue that work.
Michigan’s 103rd Legislature Kicks Off with Focus on Accountability and Affordability
As we began Michigan’s 103rd Legislature earlier this month, my colleagues and I wasted no time in introducing legislation to address the issues important to you. These bills would increase government transparency, improve access to affordable health care, and support working families.
- Senate Bills 1 and 2 would expand the state’s Freedom of Information Act to include the Michigan Legislature and governor. Similar legislation passed by the Senate in the 102nd Legislature garnered widespread and bipartisan support. I anticipate voting on these bills soon.
- Senate Bills 3-5 aim to establish a Prescription Drug Affordability Board in Michigan — an independent body designed to lower prescription drug costs and hold Big Pharma accountable. These bills build on Michigan Senate Democrats’ efforts during the 102nd Legislature to lower costs for working families here in Michigan. I am pleased to sponsor one of the bills in this package.
- Senate Bills 6-8 and 15 focus on strengthening protections for Michigan workers. These bills would raise the state’s minimum wage, protect service workers’ tips, require employers to offer paid sick leave, and crack down on illegal wage theft.
Throughout this legislative term, Senate Democrats are committed to building on previous successes and delivering real, lasting benefits for families across the state.
Waterloo Rec Area Public Hearing
Planning for the future of Waterloo Recreation Area is ongoing. Nancy, B, and I attended a public input meeting where I listened and spoke up for constituents who’ve contacted me with their concerns about a proposed new horse campground. The Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources committed to further conversations on that. I also appreciated talking afterward with so many people who share a love for Waterloo, the largest state park in the Lower Peninsula! You can review the draft plan and give your own feedback online here.
MLK Day Events
On January 20, we honored Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a leader whose dream inspires us to fight for fairness, unity, and opportunity for all. During MLK weekend, I had the privilege of participating in several events around our district to remember and celebrate Dr. King.
The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce hosted an inspiring 2025 MLK Diversity Breakfast. I loved connecting with community members, business leaders, and students. It was wonderful to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy together!
Jackson College hosted a Saturday night MLK Dinner Celebration. The Men of Merit and Sisters of Strength were recognized for their accomplishments, and Jackson’s own Antonio Bass inspired us with his speech on the Power in Unity.
The University of Michigan People and Provost’s Breakfast honored Dr. King’s birthday. Then I soaked in more inspiration at the Ministers’ Alliance service. It was wonderful to be with so many who believe in justice and are doing real work to increase access to housing, legal representation, education, and health-justice.
Eastern Michigan University’s MLK Jr. President’s Luncheon brought inspiration from Dr. Mary Frances Berry, as well as Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Ruth Mella, Rev. Moshod Evans Sr., Sherry Young, Sasha Greer, and Chuck Stokes. It felt great to gather with people with whom I have been working for the betterment of our community for many years.
Washtenaw County Conservation District Awards
It was great to join WCCD’s many supporters for a dinner and celebration. Congratulations to Slow Farm and Kim Bayer for receiving the 2024 Small/Beginning Conservation Farmer of the Year Award! Other honorees included Megan DeLeeuw, Maren Sande, Terry and Sheila Calhoun, and the Henes Family. We enjoyed a keynote presentation on permaculture by Bridget O’Brien of Gateway Farm.
Chelsea Housing Solutions Conference
Thank you, Chelsea Mayor Jane Pacheco, for hosting the Western Washtenaw Housing Solutions Town Hall and thanks to special guest, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell. I’m excited and energized looking at the future of housing accessibility in Washtenaw County!
Agroecosystem Research Summit
MSU Kellogg Biological Station is part of a Long-term Agroecosystem Research Network. It is about creating a means of agricultural production that improves the environment and helps farmers to prosper. My Chief of Staff, Jeffrey Hillman, was there to learn about the latest advances in this area of research.
Save the Date! 2025 State of the State Address
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer will be delivering the 2025 State of the State Address on the evening of Wednesday, Feb. 26. In the speech, the governor will address members of the Legislature as well as Michiganders across the state as she lays out plans for the year ahead to create good-paying jobs, fix our roads, invest in our students, and more.
Over the past two years, we’ve had a strong partner in Governor Whitmer as we worked to lower costs, drive change, and create opportunities for the people of our state. As we dive deeper into a new legislative session with new colleagues in the Michigan House, I look forward to another productive term and seeing all that we can accomplish together for the people of Michigan.
On February 26 you can watch the address on your local TV channel, online here, on Facebook, and YouTube.
Cold Weather Safety Tips
With sub-zero temperatures, dangerous wind chills, and ice in the forecast, the Michigan State Police is urging residents and visitors to take the below precautions to stay safe.
- Limit time outdoors. If you must go outside, wear several layers of warm clothing and watch for signs of frostbite or hypothermia.
- Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Use generators and grills only outdoors and away from windows. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home.
- Avoid overexertion. Shoveling snow can put extra strain on your heart, so take it easy and avoid sudden bursts of activity.
- Check on others. Older adults, young children, and pets are especially vulnerable to extreme cold and should be checked on regularly. Keep pets indoors.
- Prepare for travel emergencies. If you must drive, ensure your gas tank is full and your vehicle is stocked with an emergency kit, including warm clothing, blankets, gloves, hats, and a phone charger.
To find warming centers across Michigan, please visit this website.
Play It Nice and Safe Around Ice This Winter
With cold temperatures becoming more consistent throughout the state, more people are enjoying ice fishing, skating, hockey, and other outdoor adventures. The Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources urges everyone to have fun but always use caution when venturing onto or near ice. We don’t want to lose you!
Ice is often unstable around river mouths and near lake and river currents. Reservoirs with changing water levels also require great caution. Frozen bodies of water should be checked very carefully before braving the ice. While there is no perfectly reliable method to determine if ice is safe, you can use a spud, needle bar or auger to test the thickness and quality of ice.
Additional ice safety tips include:
- If there’s ice on the lake but water around the shoreline, use extra caution.
- If you are visiting a new area, ask locals at bait shops, restaurants, or stores about ice conditions, but always check conditions for yourself before going onto the ice.
- If you’re walking on the ice, wear a pair of ice cleats to help with traction.
- Wear bright colors to increase your visibility. White clothing and gear are difficult to see.
- Use the buddy system and tell someone who is staying on shore where you will be and when you plan to return.
- If you’re operating a snowmobile or off-road vehicle, ride in a staggered line. This makes it easier to maneuver in case a rider ahead of you breaks through the ice.
For more information, visit Michigan.gov/IceSafety. For snowmobile safety tips, go to Michigan.gov/RideRight.