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Dear Neighbor, We’ve been having some great weather and I hope you are able to get outside to enjoy it. These last two weeks have been in-district work weeks. The Legislature wasn’t taking votes, but we’ve been connecting with people in our community, working on policies to support Michigan’s continued recovery and preparing the state budget. Recently, our state has continued to see increased positive cases of COVID-19, hospitalizations and deaths. Please remember to wear a mask when in public, socially distance and wash your hands. During this time, my staff and I will not be in our Lansing office regularly. We will be in the 52nd District working to assist you and to advocate for our community’s needs. To reach out, please email me at DonnaLasinski@house.mi.gov. Sincerely, Donna Lasinski State Representative, 52nd House District
COVID-19 Michigan Statistics Michigan’s COVID-19 positive cases, hospitalizations and deaths are increasing. Please continue to wear a mask, wash your hands and stay safe. You can see our state’s COVID-19 statistics and data here. You can view our state’s COVID-19 vaccine data here. COVID-19 Vaccine Data as of 4-6-2021: State Total Residents Vaccinated: 3,054,248, 37.7% State Total Vaccines Distributed: 5,661,745 State Total Vaccines Administered: 4,871,713 Washtenaw Total Residents Vaccinated: 136,858, 44.4% Washtenaw County Total Vaccines Distributed: 228,895 Washtenaw County Total Vaccines Administered: 216,652
COVID-19 Data as of 4-6-2021: State Total Confirmed Cases: 715,478 State Total Confirmed Deaths: 16,327 Washtenaw County Total Confirmed Cases: 20,091 Washtenaw County Confirmed Total Deaths: 248
COVID-19 Testing One of the ways that we can make sure we contain COVID-19 is by remaining vigilant and making sure that we get tested if we go indoors with groups of other people, especially as cases have begun to rapidly increase in recent weeks. You can find a testing site here.
Legislative Updates Information is changing rapidly. We are working hard to share updates and information as quickly as possible on social media. Please take a moment to like and follow me on Facebook, as this is where information will first be shared.
Dexter-Huron Metropark The Dexter-Huron Metropark has received a $192,700 grant. This funding is an amazing win for our community, which will be used to enhance an already beloved amenity and encourage more people to visit and take advantage of all that it offers.
Food Assistance Extension Additional food assistance for 350,000 Michigan families has been extended during the month of March due to COVID-19. Those eligible will have seen those additional food service benefits on their Bridge Card from March 20-30.
Check benefits online at www.michigan.gov/MIBridges or calling a consumer service representative toll-free at (888) 678-8914. Questions or concerns can also be addressed via email or phone with a caseworker.
I Want to Hear from You During this challenging time, I want to hear from you. What do you need? How can we help you? Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at DonnaLasinski@house.mi.gov.
Resources Michigan Reconnect Scholarship Program Michiganders over 25 who have not completed a college degree can now attend in-district community college for free! Check out the Michigan Reconnect Scholarship Program to see qualifications and how to apply. To learn more, click here.
Earned Income Tax Credit It’s estimated that each year thousands of Michiganders who are eligible for both the federal and state Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC) do not claim them. If a federal EITC is granted, the state of Michigan will provide a 6% supplemental EITC when the taxpayer files his or her state income tax return. To learn how to claim this credit check here.
Home and Heating Credit Anyone struggling with their energy bills can apply for the Home and Heating Credit through the MI Dept. of Treasury. All applications must be received before Sept. 30, 2021. To learn more and claim this credit check here.
COVID-19 Vaccines As of 4/7/21, the following groups are eligible to schedule a vaccine:
Please visit the Washtenaw County Health Department’s website to learn how you can sign up for a vaccine.
Rental Assistance The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) will administer the COVID Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA) Program through its network of local nonprofit agencies starting March 15, 2021. CERA can provide rental and utility assistance for eligible renter households so that they retain their housing stability. You can find more information and apply for the program here.
Step Forward Program – Help Affording You Home The Michigan State Housing Development Authority’s Step Forward Program provides assistance to Michigan homeowners struggling with their mortgage, condo association fees, and property taxes to retain ownership of their primary residence. Learn more here.
Health Care Coverage If you have lost your employer-provided health care due to layoffs, reduced hours, or a change in income during the COVID-19 crisis, please remember that you have up to 60 days to enroll in new coverage. If you have questions, the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) can help. Contact DIFS toll free at (877) 999-6442 if you need assistance. See if you are eligible for the special enrollment period here. Apply for coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace here.
Employee Rights Governor Whitmer acted to protect workers from retaliation by their employers, if they stay home because one of their close contacts has tested positive for COVID-19. Click here for further information. The Attorney General’s office has created a website to help you “know your rights” as an employee if you are still required to work during this time. Click here to learn more. COVID-19/Coronavirus Resources You can receive continual updates from the MI Dept. of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) by clicking here. |
