Dear Neighbor,
Summer has started and so has the state budget process. Last week, I voted against the version of the budget bills we were presented with, as they don’t accurately reflect Michigan’s priorities or values. If you missed the Budget Bootcamp on June 10, the presentations can be found here, and you can pick up some of the handouts at one of our upcoming events in the district. As we gather with our families to celebrate the Fourth of July, please be safe and remember — there’s nothing as spectacular as the Clawson Celebrations that began this week!
Sincerely,
Padma Kuppa
State Representative
House District 41
Legislative Update
In my last e-news, I shared that one of my bills, House Bill 4076, heard testimony in the Families, Children and Seniors Committee. Last week, it was unanimously approved and referred to the House Judiciary Committee. We have requested a hearing — so stay tuned! It’s been a privilege to work to advocate alongside the Hayes family and the many stakeholders who support the bill. Allie was there to thank the Committee for protecting the vulnerable – I am so impressed with how brave she is!
Last week, House Democrats introduced four bills aimed at helping to finally and permanently fix the roads crafted with constituent input from a House Democrat budget survey that was conducted earlier this year. These bills are new options on the table to help us get to the $2.5 billion that we need to bring our roads up to good condition. As we work to tackle the biggest issue on the minds of Michiganders, we want to be sure that these options are on the table as we continue to work towards a solution that is fair and keeps as much of your hard-earned money in your pocket as possible.
This week, I introduced bipartisan legislation that would allow retailers and other companies to install and operate electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The businesses would be able to charge consumers for their use of the stations, but House Bills 4806-4807 also require the retailers to clearly display the rate per minute or hour of payment required to use the station. These bills will bring Michigan’s rich automotive infrastructure into the 21st century by making it easier than ever to drive an electric vehicle in our state. I will always fight to protect our natural resources and reduce our impact on the climate. We must promote the infrastructure we need to prepare Michigan for a clean energy economy and I’m proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to introduce bipartisan legislation that will do so.
Upcoming Time with Padma
Please join me for my upcoming in-district meeting hours and town hall events in our community. These events provide an opportunity for us to chat in an informal setting so that I can hear about the issues impacting you and your family. I hope to see you there!
Pints with Padma
When: Saturday, July 20, from 5 – 6:30 p.m.
Where: Tavern on Main, 235 S. Main St. in Clawson
In-District Hours
When: Monday, July 22, from 4 – 5:30 p.m.
Monday, August 26, from 4 – 5:30 p.m.
Where: Troy Public Library, 510 W. Big Beaver Road in Troy
PWC Listening Tour
As a member of the Progressive Women’s Caucus, I will be hosting a stop on our statewide Listening Tour, celebrating the 100th anniversary of Michigan’s ratification of the 19th amendment and “100 years of making our voices heard.” This town hall will provide an opportunity for women in the Troy and Clawson community to discuss the issues most important to them. Special guests include House Democratic Leader Christine Greig and state Reps. Mari Manoogian and Kyra Bolden. I hope to see you there!
When: Monday, July 8, 6 – 7 p.m.
Where: Troy Historic Village Church, 60 W. Wattles Road in Troy
Comprehensive Care Town Hall
In August, I will be hosting another community town hall focusing on care throughout the lifespan. From childcare to elder care and everything in between, we need to ensure ALL Michiganders have access to the vital care they need. Special guests and partnering organizations include Caring Majority, Michigan United and Caring Across Generations.
When: Wednesday, August 21, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Where: Clawson High School Cafeteria, 101 John M Ave. in Clawson
District Spotlight
I was honored to be at the ribbon cutting of Superior Electric Great Lakes Company (SEGLC) this month, along with my colleague Sen. Mallory McMorrow and other elected officials. A member of Local #58 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers had the insight and experience to start Superior Electric Great Lakes Company in 1991. The ribbon cutting and open house celebrated their new state of the art facility in Troy, which now serves as their headquarters. What was especially interesting — besides being back in a place that reminded me of my days in the automotive industry — is learning about how the company became a 100 percent employee-owned company. After nearly three decades of business, I look forward to this new chapter of SEGLC’s journey in our community!
What to Do in 41
If you’re looking for ways to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday next week, check out the information below about Clarkson’s annual activities!
June 30
Free Fun Run
7 p.m. at
Clawson Park
5K Freedom Run
7:30 p.m. at
Clawson Park
July 3
Arts and Crafts Fair
3 – 9 p.m. at
Clawson Park
Little League All-Star Games
3 p.m. at
Clawson Park
July 4
Parade
9 a.m. at
Crooks Road &14 Mile Road
to Clawson Park
Arts and Crafts Fair
10 a.m. – 6 p.m. at
Clawson Park
Fireworks
Dusk (around 10 p.m.) at
Clawson Park