- Senate Democrats advance legislation to protect Michigan workers and build a healthier future for residents.
- Join me for my upcoming Coffee and Conversation event in Williamston on Dec. 2 at 6:00 p.m. Find more details here.
Protecting Michigan Workers of All Ages
- Improving Michigan’s Unemployment System: Unemployment benefits have long been a critical lifeline for Michigan workers — helping them put food on the table, pay their rent, and afford other essential items in times of difficulty. A couple of weeks ago, the Senate Labor Committee voted to advance a package of bills that would make updates to Michigan’s Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA), improving system processes for unemployed workers in the state. These bills now head to the Senate floor.
- Bolstering Child Labor Laws: My colleagues and I recently passed Senate Bills 963–965, which would increase penalties and fines for businesses found employing minors illegally or subjecting them to unsafe working conditions. These are now up for consideration in the House.
- Strengthening Retirement Benefits for Officers: The Michigan Senate recently passed Senate Bills 165–167, sponsored by Sens. John Cherry, Kristen McDonald Rivet, and Sue Shink. This legislation would allow new corrections, conservation, and other certain state officers to become members of the Michigan State Police hybrid retirement system and would allow current officers to elect to move retirement systems. These bills now advance to the House for consideration.
Building a Healthier Michigan
- Improving Breast Cancer Detection Standards: Too many families in Michigan and across the country know the pain of losing a loved one to breast cancer — whether it’s a mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, or friend. Recognizing the immense benefits of early detection, Sen. Sarah Anthony introduced Senate Bill 1042 to improve the quality of information and the way in which it is provided to women following their mammograms. Senate Bill 1042, which was voted favorably out of the Senate Committee on Health Policy, will now head to the Senate floor for a vote by the full chamber.
- Preventing Youth Tobacco Use: The Senate Committee on Regulatory Affairs recently advanced legislation that would require tobacco retailers to be licensed and repeal the penalties against minors for tobacco use, purchase, or possession — which have shown to be ineffective. Vaping and other tobacco use is a leading cause of preventable death in Michigan and across the country, and my colleagues and I are dedicated to protecting Michigan’s youth from its serious health risks. I’m proud to work on this legislation alongside Sens. Cavanagh and Wojno.
Community Conversation in Williamston
WHERE: Monday, Dec. 2 from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
WHEN: Capital Area Public Libraries, 3845 Vanneter Rd., Suite 1, Williamston, Michigan 48895
Virtual Community Conversation
WHEN: Friday, Dec. 20 from 8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
WHERE: Virtual – Register here.
Honoring Community Leaders at the MAPAAC 7th Annual Leadership Appreciation Dinner
I had a wonderful time at the 7th Annual Leadership Appreciation Dinner hosted by the Michigan Asian Pacific American Affairs Commission (MAPAAC). Alongside my Senate and House colleagues, it was truly an honor to shine a light on our community partners who do the reputable work of serving, supporting, and advocating for members of our Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.
Engaging Michigan’s Next Generation of Climate Leaders
Launched earlier this year, the MI Healthy Climate Corps will be an important part of accelerating the MI Healthy Climate plan to achieve 100% economy-wide carbon neutrality in Michigan by midcentury. I am grateful to have been invited to speak at their member orientation earlier this month, where I was able to engage with these up-and-coming environmental leaders who will be providing critical support to communities combating climate change. Learn more about their current members and the locations they’re serving across the state by using this interactive map.
Recognizing and Celebrating Diwali at the State Capitol
A couple of weeks ago, I joined fellow Senate colleagues in passing a Senate Resolution recognizing the historic, cultural, and religious significance of the Diwali holiday celebrated here in Michigan and all over the world. For all who celebrated — I hope you had a joyous holiday filled with light and loved ones.
As always, if you or someone you know would like to provide feedback about what’s happening in Lansing or needs assistance, feel free to contact my office. You can email us at SenSSingh@senate.michigan.gov or call (517) 373-3447.
Sincerely,
Sam Singh
State Senator
District 28