Hello Friends,
This week we kicked-off March is Reading Month and Women’s History Month, and I’m pleased to see that the weather is starting to move towards spring just in time. While we wait out these last few weeks of winter, the work in the Michigan Legislature is picking up speed.
I’ve been busy introducing legislation that would allow local governments to fund broadband internet expansion to underserved areas and a resolution to recognize March 8 as International Women’s Day. Also, the House Appropriations Committee will soon begin work on the state budget, which I will be following closely.
It’s important to remain engaged in the legislative process and keep our office updated if you have any questions or opinions about our state or community. My office is reachable by phone at (517) 373-0828, by email at DonnaLasinski@house.mi.gov or by coming to one of our upcoming district events. As always, please find upcoming coffee hours, celebrations and town halls listed below. I would love to see you there and I always look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Donna Lasinski
Legislative Updates
International Women’s Day
During Women’s History Month, we celebrate the trailblazers who opened the door for all women into places of society, commerce, government, sports and science. I recently offered a house resolution to declare March 8, 2020, as International Women’s Day in the state of Michigan in honor of all women who make this state what it is today.
Broadband Internet Access
Not having internet access affects thousands of us in our community of Northern and Western Washtenaw County. Internet access is critical to everything – from running a business, to learning and completing everyday tasks, like paying your bills. I’ve introduced legislation that would allow local governments to create special assessment districts to fund broadband access. This bill would provide underserved areas the tools they need to expand internet access.
While in Lansing, I was honored to speak at the Small Business Association of Michigan Leadership Council Luncheon about the bipartisan bill package I have been working on. Last year, I introduced legislation to create a Small Business Director within the state of Michigan to be a one-stop-shop for small businesses and entrepreneurs that might not know where to start. The Small Business Director would help facilitate small business growth and be a resource for businesses navigating licensing procedures or searching for grants.
2020 Census
The 2020 Census is one of the largest and most important undertakings in the country. The results of the 2020 Census will affect billions of dollars in federal aid to our state, so we cannot afford to have any area undercounted. This is why the U.S. Census Bureau is looking for workers. The Census Bureau offers competitive rates of about $23 per hour. To apply, visit this link: https://2020census.gov/en/jobs
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District Spotlight
We had a great turnout at my Manchester Coffee Hour last week!We spoke about everything from our roads, to our budget, to auto insurance. Thank you to everyone who came out on such a great day and always bringing great conversation!
Upcoming Time with Donna
Coffee Hours
We will continue to host coffee hours this year, with my first one coming up later this month! I look forward to meeting with you in the community to give legislative updates and discuss the issues that are most important to you and the community.
Saline Coffee Hour – With special guest Saline Mayor Brian Marl
When: Friday, March 13, from 10 to 11 a.m.
Where: Saline City Hall, 100 N. Harris St. in Saline.
Northfield Coffee Hour
When: Monday, March 23, from 10 to 11 a.m.
Where: Northfield Senior Center, 9101 Main St. in Whitmore Lake.
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What to Do in 52
Have some winter fun by attending great local community events! Here are a few to check out.
Saline Indoor Farmers Market
Every Saturday until April, Saline has their Winter Indoor Farmers Market.
When: Saturday, March 7, at 9 a.m.
Where: Liberty School, 7265 N. Ann Arbor St. in Saline.
Caregiver Conversations
Enjoy pastries and coffee with peers as we share information and experiences and learn from each other. The educational group will be facilitated by a licensed JFS Social Worker and is open to anyone who cares for someone aged 60+.
When: Tuesday, March. 17, at 3 p.m.
Where: 4001 Ann Arbor-Saline Road in Ann Arbor
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Resources
Registering to Vote
Since the passing of Proposal 2, you can now vote by mail, register to vote online and vote early. Follow the links for all your information about voting in Michigan:
Register online Voting By Mail
United Way of Washtenaw County Free Tax Preparation Help
As the new year begins, we also need to start preparing to file our 2019 taxes. The United Way of Washtenaw County offers free tax preparation help to those who are eligible. To see if you are eligible for their tax preparation help, please visit the website below. If you are eligible, you can schedule your appointment online or call the phone number below.
Please note that they will only be able to help with the 2019 tax filing year. Prior years will be on hold until spring 2020 (after this tax season).
Phone: (734) 677-7235
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I hope that this information has been helpful and that we will see you at future events this year.
Sincerely,
State Representative Donna Lasinski