Dear Neighbor,
We have a lot of updates to share this month! From exciting legislative news to the work and outreach we’ve done in the community and upcoming events we’re hosting — we are thrilled to continue engaging with you.
If you have questions or need assistance, email my office at SenSSingh@senate.michigan.gov or call us at (517) 373-3447, and we will assist you the best we can or get you in contact with someone who can.
Sincerely,
Sen. Sam Singh
State Senator
District 28
Featured in This Newsletter
- Legislative Updates
- In the District
- Community Updates
- Upcoming Events
Legislative Updates
Today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer presented her executive budget recommendations to the Senate and House Joint Appropriation Committee, outlining the executive office’s priorities for the Fiscal Year 2025 budget. My colleagues and I look forward to working with the Governor to pass a responsible budget that invests in education, infrastructure and health. You can review the Governor’s presentation, and follow along with the budget process by visiting the State Budget Office’s website here: Michigan.gov/budget.
As session and committee meetings get underway, we have a number of bills we’re excited to see move. Senate Bill 280, which I was proud to sponsor, was signed by the Governor this month. This new law will require the Department of Health and Human Services to establish health screening and dental oral assessment programs for certain children. This program will ensure 112,000 children entering kindergarten or first grade have dental health screenings.
Additionally, I introduced a number of bills I hope to see pass over the next few months:
- Senate Bill 703 would amend the Occupational Code and allow for branch facilities of schools of cosmetology for cosmetologists. This legislation brings Michigan’s required certification hours in line with new federal standards to ensure Pell grant students still have access to those financial resources.
- Senate Bill 465 would encourage safer driving in the winter months by requiring drivers to maintain a distance of 200 feet from a snowplow.
- Senate Bill 704 is an environmental protection bill aimed at providing funding for the solid waste management fund and establishing accounts to fund material waste reduction, reuse, recycling and recovery.
In the District
Coffee Hour at DeWitt District Library
I want to thank those who came to my latest coffee hour at DeWitt District Library! We had about 30 attendees come to discuss important topics like solar energy, property taxes, the retirement repeal act, parental rights and education issues. I am always grateful for opportunities like this — to engage, to learn and to spend time with those I represent and serve.
Coffee Hour at Corunna Library
Additionally, we were in Corunna at the library on Monday, February 5, where we had a great dialogue that continues to be helpful as I navigate another year of policymaking.
Safety Dog Demonstration
Last month I visited Williamston High School alongside Rep. Julie Brixie to see a demonstration from their safety dog team, Serenity Even and K9 Gemini. During the demonstration, we witnessed firsthand the value of this service as safety dogs like Gemini and their dedicated handlers play a crucial role in providing an additional layer of security for our schools.
As a lawmaker, public safety remains a top priority for me. It is through experiences like these that I gain valuable insights to inform my decision-making, especially as the Legislature begins to navigate the 2025 state budget.
I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to CEO Zebra K9, Ric Hetu and Vice President Zebra K9 for their advocacy and leadership in promoting the use of safety dogs in our schools. Their dedication to ensuring a safe learning environment is truly commendable.
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will be starting construction on US-127/I-496 between I-96 and I-496, a key roadway within our district. These upgrades will enhance the road’s safety and functionality and improve the overall driving experience for Mid-Michiganders.
The construction work is scheduled to begin in early March and is expected to continue until 2025. In the meantime, we are committed to keeping you informed throughout this project and will provide updates on any detours or traffic management plans we are aware of. Together, we will navigate this construction phase and look forward to the long-term benefits it will bring to our district.
Spectrum Expands Gigabit Broadband in Shiawassee County
Spectrum has expanded its services to over 170 additional homes and businesses in Venice Township, Michigan, thanks to a substantial investment of $5 billion in the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund. This means improved broadband access for our residents, offering speeds of up to 1 Gbps and a range of new services. The newly constructed fiber-optic network in Shiawassee County is set to connect 1.3 million customer locations across 24 states.
Upcoming Events
Join me, the League of Women Voters and other election experts to openly discuss new election laws and how they will impact our communities. With the presidential primary election rapidly approaching, it is important that voters are informed and can get their questions answered.
WHEN: Thursday, February 15, 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Dewitt Community Center, 16101 Brook Rd, Lansing, MI 48906
February is Black History Month
An annual month-long celebration commemorating the accomplishments of African Americans that serves as a way to acknowledge their pivotal contributions to the history of the United States. There are plenty of amazing ways to celebrate Black History Month in Michigan, and I encourage you to find things in the district to do to engage in learning about Black history. You can find local and statewide events and engagement opportunities here: