{"id":1944,"date":"2025-04-30T08:57:47","date_gmt":"2025-04-30T12:57:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/?p=1944"},"modified":"2025-04-30T08:57:49","modified_gmt":"2025-04-30T12:57:49","slug":"lowering-drug-prices-protecting-seniors-and-more","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/2025\/04\/30\/lowering-drug-prices-protecting-seniors-and-more\/","title":{"rendered":"Lowering Drug Prices, Protecting Seniors, and More! \u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2024\/03\/shink1-2.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Senator Sue Shink Email Banner&#8221; title_text=&#8221;shink1&#8243; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Dear Neighbor,<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Between severe weather hitting northern Michigan and continued chaos at the federal level hitting our entire state\u2019s economy, there are a lot of events making people, me included, feel concerned about the road ahead. Please know that we are all in this together, and your 14th Senate District team in Lansing is working diligently with and for our community through the challenges we face.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">In this newsletter, you can find information about our efforts to lower prescription drug prices, protect seniors from abuse and financial exploitation, improve health outcomes for moms, and more. Also, Happy Earth Day!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">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 me at <\/span><a href=\"mailto:sensshink@senate.michigan.gov\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">sensshink@senate.michigan.gov<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> or call (517) 373-2426. Also, please visit my official <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SenSueShink\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Facebook page<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> for the latest updates.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Sincerely,<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2024\/03\/shinksignature.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Senator Shink Signature&#8221; title_text=&#8221;shinksignature&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; width=&#8221;47%&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><strong>Sue Shink<br \/><\/strong><span data-contrast=\"none\">State Senator<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">14th Senate District<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2024\/10\/EnewsHeaders_Recent-Highlights.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;If you&#8217;re in a rush \u2014 Recent Highlights&#8221; title_text=&#8221;EnewsHeaders_Recent Highlights&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">If you are a farmer, grow, process, or sell food, please join me for my upcoming Farmer &amp; Agricultural Listening Session at Ann Arbor Township Hall on Tuesday, May 6, at 4:00 p.m.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">At a Senate committee hearing last week, former and current federal workers shared powerful testimony about their experiences being caught in the crossfire of the Trump administration&#8217;s drastic slashing of federal agencies, the toll it has taken on their mental health and financial security, and how Michiganders are being impacted.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">With gun violence devastating schools, families, and communities in our district, the state and country, Senate Democrats took action to pass gun safety legislation and prevent tragedy from occurring. Now over a year since these changes went into effect, I\u2019m grateful to highlight that recent data demonstrates this legislation is fulfilling its intended purpose \u2014 saving lives.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2024\/10\/EnewsHeaders_Legislative-Updates.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;EnewsHeaders_Legislative Updates&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Displaced Federal Workers Speak to Reckless DOGE Firings &amp; Impact on Michiganders<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">From disrupting care for veterans to interfering with the monitoring of severe weather on our Great Lakes, the effects of recent mass federal workforce terminations carried out by the Dept. of Government Efficiency (DOGE) are rash, reckless, and demand attention, as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/cherry\/2025\/04\/17\/doge\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">highlighted by testifiers in last week\u2019s Senate Labor Committee hearing<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Andrew, a Marine who works at a VA hospital in Ann Arbor, spoke about how these cuts could reduce quality of care veterans would receive from their VA hospital. Nicole, a former employee of the U.S. Dept. of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), highlighted NOAA\u2019s vital role in protecting public health and safety in the Great Lakes region and discussed how the haphazard downsizing of her agency would interrupt life-saving weather predictions and notifications among other vital work. And, as someone whose role was instrumental in identifying fraud and misuse of government funding within the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Leslie emphasized how the chaotic firings carried out by DOGE were anything <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">but <\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">fiscally responsible and effective at serving Michiganders.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Federal workers are public servants who do the work so that the critical programs of our federal government operate efficiently and effectively, safeguarding the wellbeing of the people and places we call home. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Like Andrew, Nicole, and Leslie, they ensure our neighbors are housed, our waterways are clean, and veterans receive the health care they need. While our nation\u2019s top officials shamelessly mischaracterize their work as \u201cwasteful\u201d to justify tax cuts for corporations and the wealthiest Americans, my Senate Democratic colleagues and I are committed to highlighting these stories and addressing the impacts of these actions on workers, families, and communities across the state. To watch the hearing and listen to the full testimonies of the brave Michiganders who shared, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/cloud.castus.tv\/vod\/misenate\/video\/680106d1ed5523000890abdc?page=HOME\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">click here.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you or someone you know is a federal worker who has been impacted by these terminations, be sure to <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/leo\/bureaus-agencies\/uia\/tools\/fed-employee-guidance\"><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">take a look at these helpful resources<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> from the Michigan Dept. of Labor and Economic Opportunity.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Michigan Senate Advances Bills to Lower Prescription Drug Costs for Michiganders<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">While the pharmaceutical industry raked in over <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.protectourcare.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/GREEDWATCH_2024_Q1_Summary.pdf\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">$29 billion in net profits<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> during a recent three-month period, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/-\/media\/Project\/Websites\/Whitmer\/Documents\/Misc\/RX_FINAL.pdf?rev=fe55e9b792574ada86c342374d7abdd0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">nearly a third of Michigan residents<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> stopped taking their prescriptions because of cost and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aarp.org\/content\/dam\/aarp\/research\/surveys_statistics\/health\/2022\/michigan-prescription-drug-prices-legislation-policies-report.doi.10.26419-2Fres.00571.001.pdf\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">60% of older adults<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> reported concerns over not being able to afford their essential medications. This is unacceptable.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">People struggling to afford their medications is the issue I hear about most here in our district.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">To make sure all Michiganders, no matter their age, income, or zip code, have access to affordable, life-saving medication, my Senate Democratic colleagues and I passed legislation this week to establish a Prescription Drug Affordability Board in Michigan (PDAB) \u2014 an independent body designed to lower prescription drug costs and hold Big Pharma accountable. Made up of experts in health care, economics, and supply chain management, the PDAB would be able to analyze and recommend ways to lower drug costs in Michigan. The PDAB could also set upper payment limits \u2014 maximum amounts that can be charged for prescription drugs \u2014 on prescription drugs sold in the state.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This legislative package, Senate Bills <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/Bills\/Bill?ObjectName=2025-SB-0003\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">3<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">&#8211;<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/Bills\/Bill?ObjectName=2025-SB-0005\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">5<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, now heads to the House for consideration. Learn more <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/blog\/2025\/04\/24\/prescription-drug-costs\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Michigan Senate Passes Legislation to Protect Seniors and Vulnerable Adults<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Older people and vulnerable adults are at higher risk of being abused and exploited at the hands of family members, friends, or other close associates. According to the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/ag\/initiatives\/elder-abuse\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Michigan Dept. of Attorney General<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, more than 73,000 older adults in the state are victims of these crimes which can lead to serious physical and psychological effects such as depression, increased hospitalization, and premature death.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">To protect older and vulnerable Michiganders from these threats, I joined my colleagues last week to pass Senate Bills <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/Bills\/Bill?ObjectName=2025-SB-0111\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">111<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">&#8211;<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/Bills\/Bill?ObjectName=2025-SB-0114\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">114<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, which would increase protections by:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Creating an elder and vulnerable adult personal protection order (PPO).<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Increasing the amount of time prosecutors have to recover property in embezzlement cases where criminals have taken advantage of vulnerable adults.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Protecting vulnerable adults even after death, treating those offenses the same as if the exploitation had occurred during the victim\u2019s lifetime.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Taking an all-in approach to preventing, intervening, investigating, and prosecuting abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation of older and vulnerable adults by bringing together local teams of experts.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This legislation now heads to the Michigan House for their consideration \u2014 read more about it <a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/klinefelt\/2025\/04\/16\/protect-vulnerable-adults\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2024\/10\/EnewsHeaders_Upcoming-Events.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Upcoming Events&#8221; title_text=&#8221;EnewsHeaders_Upcoming Events&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Farmer &amp; Agricultural Listening Session at Ann Arbor Township Hall<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">If you are engaged in agriculture in any way, or just interested, please join me for<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\"> a Farmer &amp; Agricultural Listening Session to discuss important issues in our rural and agricultural community.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2025\/04\/farmer-and-ag.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;farmer and ag&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">WHEN: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Tuesday, May 6, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559731&quot;:720,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\"><br \/><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">WHERE: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Ann Arbor Township Hall, <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">3792 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor, MI 48105<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559731&quot;:720,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2024\/10\/EnewsHeaders_Community-Connections.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Community Connections&#8221; title_text=&#8221;EnewsHeaders_Community Connections&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><strong><span data-contrast=\"none\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" lang=\"EN-US\" class=\"TextRun SCXW53797942 BCX0\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW53797942 BCX0\">Prescription Drug Affordability Town Hall<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong><span class=\"EOP SCXW53797942 BCX0\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\"><\/span><\/strong><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2025\/04\/PDAB-1-1.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;PDAB 1 (1)&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2025\/04\/PDAB-2.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;PDAB 2&#8243; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Prescription drug affordability impacts all our families. I am working with my Democratic colleagues to make lifesaving prescriptions more affordable. Thank you to Drs. Beekman and Fivenson and Rep. Rheingans for joining me in this vital discussion.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Grow Jackson Earth Day Clean Up<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2025\/04\/Grow-Jackson-1.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Grow Jackson 1&#8243; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2025\/04\/Grow-Jackson-2.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Grow Jackson 2&#8243; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Many hands made light work at Grow Jackson&#8217;s Earth Day cleanup at the MLK Center garden. My team was happy to participate!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Webster Township Coffee and Conversation<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2025\/04\/Webster-1-1.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Webster 1 (1)&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2025\/04\/Webster-2.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Webster 2&#8243; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Thank you to all who joined me in Dexter at Webster Township Hall for a coffee and conversation event. I appreciated talking with you about the things that concern you. From making sure road funding formulas are fair and lowering prescription costs to protecting our right to vote and not imprisoning people without due process, we covered a lot!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">MLK Corridor Improvement Authority<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2025\/04\/MLK-CIA.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;MLK CIA&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" lang=\"EN-US\" class=\"TextRun SCXW244146771 BCX0\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW244146771 BCX0\">Reinvestment and revitalization of Jackson&#8217;s Southside are <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW244146771 BCX0\">top<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW244146771 BCX0\"> goals of the MLK Corridor Improvement Authority. Nancy Smith, <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW244146771 BCX0\">my <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW244146771 BCX0\">Constituent Services Aide, <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW244146771 BCX0\">regularly attends<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW244146771 BCX0\"> their meeting<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW244146771 BCX0\">s<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW244146771 BCX0\">.<\/span><\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2025\/02\/EnewsHeaders_News-Resources-1.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;EnewsHeaders_News &amp; Resources (1)&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Preventing Gun Violence in Michigan<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Gun violence has taken too many loved ones and hurt too many of us. Here in Michigan, death due to gun violence has increased by 25% from 2014, taking a devastating toll on families and communities.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">That\u2019s why <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/blog\/2024\/06\/21\/gun-violence-awareness-month\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">my Senate Democratic colleagues and I acted quickly to secure budget investments and pass commonsense gun safety legislation<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> to address this continuing crisis. The laws we passed have been in effect since February of last year \u2014 new laws to strengthen background checks for firearm purchases, require the safe storage of firearms around kids, and allow courts to issue Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs) to<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"none\">temporarily intervene and suspend a person\u2019s access to firearms if they show clear warning signs of violence and pose an immediate threat to themselves or others.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Officials in every county in our state have used these commonsense safety laws to save lives.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">In recognition of Gun Violence Prevention Advocacy Day this month (April 22), I want to highlight that data released earlier this year points not only to the <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">need <\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"none\">for the ERPO law here in Michigan, but also its <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">effectiveness <\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"none\">in intervening before tragedy occurs. In the first year since the law went into effect, 391 ERPO complaints were filed and nearly three-fourths of those requests were granted by Michigan judges. Among those ERPOs filed, 30% mentioned current or past threats of self-harm or suicide. What this report demonstrates is that <\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Michigan&#8217;s new gun safety legislation is fulfilling its intended purpose \u2014 saving lives.<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">For more information on <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Michigan\u2019s safe storage law<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">, click <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/mdhhs\/safety-injury-prev\/firearm-injury-prevention\/firearm-safety?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=secure_25&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjw8IfABhBXEiwAxRHlsM8ItydYeJ0iOj44xSP3NGFdRTd8ALYiOqKEo0gCA5m3EGpZb-AHTBoCRacQAvD_BwE\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">For information about the <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">ERPO petition process<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> in Michigan, click <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/firearminjury.umich.edu\/michigan-erpo-info\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">To obtain a <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">free gun lock<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">, visit a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/mdhhs\/inside-mdhhs\/county-offices\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Michigan Dept. of Health and Human Services office<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> to request one, or you can check with your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/mdhhs\/inside-mdhhs\/county-offices\/lhd\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">local health department<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/projectchildsafe.org\/get-a-safety-kit\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Project ChildSafe police partner<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">New Sweepstakes Opportunity for First-Time FAFSA Filers<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">To encourage Michiganders who are enrolling in college for the first time to take advantage of financial aid opportunities available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid \u2014 commonly known as the FAFSA \u2014 Gov. Whitmer recently announced the Ticket to Tuition FAFSA sweepstakes. This new statewide contest offers a chance for forty first-time FAFSA filers to win $10,000 and ten winners to receive $50,000.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">The FAFSA is an important tool for students to lower the cost of college, helping them take advantage of valuable tuition savings opportunities like the Michigan Achievement Scholarship and Community College Guarantee, programs that my Senate Democratic colleagues and I have proudly supported in recent years.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Contest details:<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">To enter the sweepstakes, complete the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/fafsa.gov\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">FAFSA online<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> or by submitting a paper form and text CASH to 855-50K-TICKET by 11:59 p.m. Friday, May 16, 2025. To be eligible, participants must be Michigan residents who completed the FAFSA for the first-time to use during the 2025-26 academic year.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Prizes will be awarded in Michigan Education Savings Program accounts, which can be used for a variety of qualified educational expenses such as tuition and fees, living expenses, and computers and textbooks.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">For full contest details, visit <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/tickettotuition.com\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">TicketToTuition.com<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Addressing Health Care Disparities Among Black Mothers<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2025\/04\/BMHweek_4.11-17.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;BMHweek_4.11-17&#8243; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Black mothers too often face unfair challenges when seeking health care due to discrimination and systemic barriers, leading to higher risks and life-threatening complications. To raise awareness of this problem and shine a light on efforts that would ensure Black women have fair access to a healthy start with their new baby, Senate Democrats joined the Black Mamas Matter Alliance in recognizing April 11-17 as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/geiss\/2025\/04\/11\/black-maternal-health-week-2\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Black Maternal Health Week<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Already, my colleagues and I have passed legislation to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/michiganadvance.com\/briefs\/bill-banning-discrimination-against-pumping-or-expressing-breast-milk-passes-michigan-senate\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">support breastfeeding and nutrition<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">, as well as funded <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/rxkids.org\/dashboard\/city-of-flint\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">RxKids<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">, an innovative pilot program in Flint (and soon Ypsilanti) that provides cash payments to mothers and their babies to set them up for a lifetime of better health and opportunity. Looking ahead, we\u2019re working to continue breaking the cycle of childhood poverty by <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/building-blocks\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">expanding RxKids statewide,<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> helping give new Michigan moms and their babies a fair shot at a good life.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">This month, our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/geiss\/2025\/04\/18\/maternal-health-2\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">comprehensive \u201cMomnibus\u201d legislation passed the Senate floor<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">, a bill package that would <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">enhance prenatal and maternal care<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\"> for Black moms through equitable data requirements, antidiscrimination measures, patient protections, and more.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Michigan\u2019s Expanded Unemployment Benefits Now in Effect<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2025\/04\/MI_Unemployment-1.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;MI_Unemployment (1)&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Unemployment benefits have long been a critical lifeline for Michigan workers \u2014 helping them put food on the table, pay their rent, and afford other essential items in times of difficulty. Unfortunately, our state\u2019s unemployment system has too often prevented people from accessing those benefits at the time they need it most. That&#8217;s why my colleagues and I worked to improve Michigan\u2019s unemployment system by removing barriers that claimants have commonly experienced, boost the maximum number of weeks workers could receive benefits, and increase the maximum dollar amount of weekly benefits.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">I\u2019m excited to share that earlier this month, many of these improvements took effect. To learn more about this new law, click <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/leo\/news\/2025\/03\/27\/increased-unemployment-benefits-and-added-weeks-go-into-effect-april-2\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">. And if you or a loved one are currently needing to apply for unemployment benefits while in search of a new job, please click <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/leo\/bureaus-agencies\/uia\/tools\/claimant-roadmap\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> to find a six-step guide to applying for and understanding benefits.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Michigan Vietnam Veteran Recognition Certificate<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">The Michigan Vietnam Veteran Recognition Certificate is a prestigious honor acknowledging the bravery and sacrifices of our Vietnam veterans. If you or someone you know fits the criteria below, you may be eligible for this special recognition:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Citizenship:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> You must be a citizen of Michigan or have been one while serving in the Armed Forces of the United States \u2014 this includes the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard, as well as the Michigan National Guard and reserve components.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Honorable Service:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> To qualify, you must have received an honorable discharge or been released under honorable circumstances.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Service Period:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> Your service must have occurred during the Vietnam War era, from February 28, 1961, to May 7, 1975.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In addition to this recognition, there is an opportunity for a special designation specifically for veterans who were exposed to dioxin or phenoxy herbicides during their service.<\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">To submit for consideration, complete the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dmva.state.mi.us\/vrs\/Survey\/35\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Michigan Vietnam Veteran Recognition Certificate Form<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">If you have questions about filling out your application or questions regarding the Vietnam Veteran Recognition Certificate, please contact 1-800-MICH-VET or email <\/span><a href=\"mailto:MVAAResourceCenter@michigan.gov\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">MVAAResourceCenter@michigan.gov<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Join my Team!<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/shink\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/18\/2025\/04\/Internship.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Internship&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" lang=\"EN-US\" class=\"TextRun SCXW156375757 BCX0\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW156375757 BCX0\"><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" lang=\"EN-US\" class=\"TextRun SCXW156375757 BCX0\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW156375757 BCX0\">Are you a college student looking for <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW156375757 BCX0\">meaningful<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW156375757 BCX0\"> work experience this summer in the Michigan Senate? You can apply to join my team as an intern!<\/span><\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Dear Neighbor, Between severe weather hitting northern Michigan and continued chaos at the federal level hitting our entire state\u2019s economy, there are a lot of events making people, me included, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":1946,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","twitterCardType":"","cardImageID":0,"cardImage":"","cardTitle":"","cardDesc":"","cardImageAlt":"","cardPlayer":"","cardPlayerWidth":0,"cardPlayerHeight":0,"cardPlayerStream":"","cardPlayerCodec":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[12],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1944","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-email"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.5 (Yoast SEO v27.7) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Lowering Drug Prices, Protecting Seniors, and More! 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