Dear Neighbors,
Happy Fourth of July!
My job as your state representative is to keep you informed and engaged with the latest news, updates, and insights from our community, as well as what I’m accomplishing for you at the Capitol. In this issue, you can expect to find the latest legislative policies I am working on; community event highlights; and upcoming July coffee hours and community conversations. I am committed to providing you with valuable and relevant content, and I encourage your feedback and suggestions.
In the meantime, you are welcome to sign up for my e-newsletter at RepPaiz.com to get the latest one following. If you are in need of support or resources, have any questions regarding legislation or state government in general, please feel free to reach out to my office by email or by phone; my staff and I are here for you.
Sincerely,
Veronica Paiz
State Representative
11th House District
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State Budget News!
Last week, my colleagues and I passed a state budget that will support local projects and revitalize our communities. I was happy to vote for a state budget that sets Michiganders up for success. I was especially fortunate to secure funding for Arts & Scraps’ STEAM programming and for East Warren Development Corp. to revitalize the Warren Avenue corridor — including a year-round farmers market. Stay tuned for more information on how the budget decisions will impact our community.
Latest Legislative Policies: Some of the bills I’ve sponsored and currently working on:
- HB 5802: Expands the definition of the word “veteran” to include uniformed officers of the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Commissioned Officer Corps. This will align Michigan law with federal law, which recognizes these individuals as “veterans” for the purpose of benefits administered by the VA. The bill is awaiting a hearing in the House Committee on Military, Veterans and Homeland Security.
- HB 5734: Requires employers to pay accrued vacation leave when an employee is separated from work, except if the employee is furloughed or an employer offers unlimited paid vacation leave. This is awaiting a hearing before the House Committee on Labor.
- HB 5525: Makes a person liable for damages when they harm, injure, or kill a service animal. The bill received a hearing before the House Committee on Judiciary. We are continuing to work with stakeholders.
- HB 5444: Part of a package to regulate short-term rentals in Michigan. One of a package of bills regarding short-term rental housing. My bill would extend an assessment on hotel or motel rooms to short-term rentals.
- Also, legislation regarding a discount for auto insurance for senior citizens; labeling of medicine blister packaging; and environmental legislation.
Community Events and Office Highlights
- April
I hosted a Senior Scams Awareness town hall with special guest Attorney General Dana Nessel. This event aimed to inform our senior citizens about common scams targeting them and provided valuable tips on how to protect themselves from fraud and abuse.
At the end of April, I had the distinct honor of welcoming members of the Lakeview High School Student Council to Lansing. It was a true pleasure to engage in conversations with these bright and ambitious future leaders, whose passion and enthusiasm for making a difference were truly inspiring.
- May
The Hispanic Latino Commission of Michigan held an event in Lansing honoring Hispanic Michigan citizens of distinction. One of those citizens deserving of recognition is Chief Warrant Officer 3 Eva Rodriguez, to whom I presented a tribute in thanks for her service to our country. The event brought together community members, leaders and legislators to discuss and advocate for issues affecting the Latino community. There were insightful panel discussions, passionate speeches and valuable networking opportunities that highlighted the importance of civic engagement and representation.
I attended the Harper Woods annual Memorial Day ceremony, joining City Council members, state Sen. Kevin Hertel, Wayne County Commissioner Tim Killeen and Public Safety Chaplain Pastor D.L. Harville. The event was marked by a solemn and respectful atmosphere as attendees gathered to honor and remember the brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives in service to our country.
At the end of May, I wished our office intern, Meg Brady, farewell. I presented Meg a tribute in appreciation of her exemplary service to my office and the people of House District 11. Best wishes, Meg, as you pursue your studies and career!
- June
Recently, I organized two significant town hall events to engage and educate our community on important issues. In June, I collaborated with the Secretary of State’s office to host a voter education town hall. This event was particularly special as it included a mobile office on site, providing attendees with direct access to essential voter services and information.
Lastly, I recently had the pleasure of attending a Juneteenth event in Harper Woods at the Wayne County Community College campus, and it was an absolutely incredible experience. The celebration was filled with vibrant music; local artists showcasing their incredible paintings, sculptures and handmade crafts; dancing; and heartfelt speeches that beautifully honored the significance of this historic day.
Upcoming July Coffee Hours and Community Conversations
- Harper Woods Library: Monday, July 15, 5:30-6:30 p.m. (located at 19601 Harper Ave., eastbound next to City Hall)
- St. Clair Shores Senior Activity Center: First Fridays with Seniors, July 5, 10-11 a.m. (20100 Stephens Road., next to Civic Ice Arena)
Check with your local library or the St. Clair Shores Senior Center for a variety of booklets and pamphlets from my office about everything from the U.S. and Michigan Constitutions to state maps and legislative guides for students. Or contact my office, and we’ll be sure to get the information or literature to you.
Contact my office if you would like to have a coffee hour or meet-and-greet, or arrange for an event or town hall. Find out more by emailing me at veronicapaiz@house.mi.gov or visiting my website at RepPaiz.com.