Dear Neighbor,
Here is some information that I hope you will find helpful, including some updates and news from your state government.
Upcoming Event: In-Person Coffee Hour
Please join me for an in-person coffee hour on Monday, May 9, from noon to 1 p.m., at the South Lansing Library (3500 S. Cedar St. in Lansing). I will give a legislative update and answer any questions you may have. Please email KaraHope@house.mi.gov with any questions or topics you would like covered. I look forward to speaking with you all soon.
Leaked U.S. Supreme Court Opinion Creates Confusion
A recently leaked U.S. Supreme Court draft opinion has created confusion about the current status of abortion. To be clear: abortion is currently legal in Michigan. If the Court decides the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Center case as the draft opinion indicates it will, abortion will automatically become illegal under an existing Michigan law from 1931 that criminalizes abortion.
However, there are a few reasons to hope that the 1931 law will not have its intended effect. Currently, there are two legal challenges pending in Michigan (one by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and one by Planned Parenthood of Michigan and others). Both suits contend that abortion rights are protected by the Michigan Constitution, meaning that even with the possible reversal of Roe, the 1931 law cannot go into effect.
Separately, activists are currently gathering signatures for a ballot initiative that, if passed by voters this November, would amend the Michigan Constitution to guarantee reproductive freedom, including abortion care. And Attorney General Dana Nessel has very emphatically stated that she will not prosecute anyone under the 1931 law if it goes into effect with the likely reversal of Roe v Wade.
Citizens for Prison Reform Holds Incarceration Impacts Everyone Event
Last week, I spoke at the Incarceration Impacts Everyone event put on by Citizens for Prison Reform. This grassroots organization supports families of prisoners while raising awareness of the need for reforms in our corrections system, including an end to solitary confinement.
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House Adopts Arbor Day Resolution
Last week, I introduced a resolution to declare April 29, 2022, Arbor Day in the state of Michigan. Trees help mitigate climate change, clean the air, produce oxygen and provide habitats for wildlife. I am happy to report that House Resolution 280 was adopted by the Michigan House of Representatives.
Title Winning Okemos High School Boys Soccer Team Visits Capitol
My Lansing area colleagues and I had the honor of welcoming the Okemos High School Boys Soccer Team to the Capitol this week to recognize their recent state title win. It was great getting to meet the team, their families and their coaches!
Sincerely,
Kara Hope
State Representative