Dear Neighbor,

This e-newsletter aims to keep you updated on the previous month’s activities in the Michigan House of Representatives. It’s an honor to serve as your state representative for the 15th House District, which includes the west end of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights. Should you ever need to contact me, don’t hesitate to call my office at (517) 373-0847 or email me at erinbyrnes@house.mi.gov.

Erin Byrnes

State Representative

Michigan’s 15th District

 

Legislative Update

 

Opening of the 103rd Legislature

Jan. 8, 2025

Wednesday, Jan. 8, was an exciting day marking the opening day of Michigan’s 103rd Legislature and the first day of my second term as your state representative! I was joined by my family for the official opening and celebration. We’re ready to continue building people up and working on common-sense solutions to create a brighter future for all Michiganders.

As Democratic Leader Ranjeev Puri said, “Our actions in this chamber resonate far beyond these walls. They signal to the great people of Michigan that their elected leaders deliver solutions, not divisions, progress, not partisanship.”

Michigan State Representative Erin Byrnes stands with guests while being sworn into the 103rd Legislature by Michigan Supreme Court Justice Kyra Harris Bolden.

Michigan State Rep. Erin Byrnes stands with family members while being ceremoniously sworn into the 103rd Legislature by Michigan Supreme Court Justice Kyra Harris Bolden.

 

Michigan House District 15

I am excited and honored to be serving the over 92,000 constituents within our district. You can view a map of House District 15 below or at this link.

 

A map of Michigan State House District 15 shaded in blue.

 

Byrnes Introduces Bill Dedicating May to Huntington’s Disease Awareness

Jan. 10, 2025

I introduced my first bill in the 103rd Legislature! House Bill 4016 would recognize the month of May as Huntington’s Disease Awareness Month in Michigan. The legislation seeks to increase understanding of the challenges people with this rare genetic disorder face and to support ongoing research for a cure.

“People living with Huntington’s Disease deserve to know that we recognize the effects and challenges of their condition, and that Democrats will do everything in our power to raise awareness to support research for a cure,” Byrnes said. “Michigan’s physicians are often still learning about this rare genetic disorder and the best support services they can provide. Dedicating a month to the Huntington’s Disease community and advocating for their right to live comfortably is a crucial step this bill takes.”

Read more from my press release here.

 

A pink and blue graphic of a ribbon that reads Huntington's Disease Awareness Month.

 

News and Publications

 

MI Progressive Women’s Caucus Elects Leadership Team for 103rd Legislature

Jan. 14, 2025

Members of the Michigan Progressive Women’s Caucus (PWC) elected their leadership team for the 103rd Legislature, filling positions for the 2025-2026 term. State Rep. Laurie Pohutsky (D-Livonia) was selected to serve as Chair of the Executive Committee, along with State Sen. Mary Cavanagh as Vice Chair, state Rep. Erin Byrnes (D-Dearborn) as Treasurer and state Rep. Natalie Price as Secretary.

The MI Progressive Women’s Caucus proudly represents and serves the women and families who call Michigan home, while encouraging greater participation of women in shaping public policy through education and advocacy.

“The PWC will be well-served by Rep. Pohutsky’s leadership as Chair and I look forward to working with this group to accomplish great things together in the 103rd Legislature,” said Byrnes. 

 

House Dems Announce Additional Caucus Leadership

Jan. 13, 2025

The Michigan House Democratic Caucus elected new caucus leadership as it prepares for the upcoming 103rd Legislature. State Rep. Ranjeev Puri (D-Canton) will serve as Democratic Leader, State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) will serve as a Minority Floor Leader and State Rep. Stephanie A. Young (D-Detroit) will serve as caucus chair.

State Reps. Erin Byrnes (D-Dearborn), Denise Mentzer (D-Mount Clemens) and Tonya Myers Phillips (D-Detroit) will serve as assistant whips to Caucus Whip state Rep. Jennifer Conlin (D-Ann Arbor). State Rep. Matt Koleszar (D-Plymouth) will act as deputy assistant whip.

“This dynamic team brings exceptional talent, passion and commitment to advancing our shared goals and supporting our caucus,” Puri said in a statement. “As we work to build people up, I feel confident in our team and caucus.”

“I am honored to serve as Assistant Whip for Rep. Jennifer Conlin and the Michigan House Democratic Caucus,” said Byrnes. “This role is an incredible opportunity to work closely with my colleagues to advance our shared vision for Michigan. I am excited to serve as an Assistant Whip, as the Democratic Caucus works to build a bright future for the residents of our great state.”

 

Winter Guidance from the Governor 

 

Protect Yourself – Be “Winter wise”

With the risk of icy roads and extremely low temperatures, the Michigan State Police encourage Michiganders to make a plan for winter weather emergency preparedness. To learn more about how to prepare for winter weather emergencies, check out the MIREADY Winter Weather Preparedness page at michigan.gov/miready. 

Driving during bad winter weather is not recommended, but often unavoidable. If you have to drive in bad conditions, drive slowly, follow tips from the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning on how you can be safe on the roads and stock your car with emergency supplies.

 

Utility Assistance Programs

Winter can become stressful with high utility costs. Low-income Michiganders may qualify for assistance through MEAP. We are prepared to ensure everyone across the state stays warm this winter.

  • State Emergency Relief – State Emergency Relief is a crisis intervention program that provides assistance for energy-related expenses like heating fuel, electricity and home repairs. Those who can demonstrate need are encouraged to apply online through MI Bridges.
  • Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) – The Michigan Public Service Commission administers the MEAP. The purpose of the MEAP is to establish and administer statewide programs that provide energy assistance and self-sufficiency services to eligible low-income households. To seek help, contact 2-1-1 or your utility company to find programs in your area.
  • Weatherization Assistance Program – The Weatherization Assistance Program provides free home energy-conservation services to low-income Michigan homeowners and renters. These services can reduce energy use and lower utility bills. Some of the services include insulation, air leakage reduction, smoke detectors and dryer venting. These services are conducted by local Community Action Agencies and non-profit organizations. You can contact your local weatherization operator to start the application process.

 

Warming Centers Across the State

If you or your family need a place to escape the cold, make sure to find a warming center in your area. Below are links to warming centers across the state.

For assistance with housing or shelters that are not listed below, do not hesitate to reach out to my office at (517) 373-0847 or email me at erinbyrnes@house.mi.gov.

 

Community Conversations and Town Halls

 

Community conversations and town halls are a chance to discuss the issues facing our state with your legislator. Here are my upcoming constituent events:

Community Conversation with Rep. Erin Byrnes

WHEN: Monday, Jan. 27, from 2-3 p.m.

WHERE: JFK Library of Dearborn Heights, 24602 Van Born Road, Dearborn Heights

 

A graphic for a Community Conversation with Michigan State Representative Erin Byrnes on January 27 from 2 to 3 p.m. at JFK Library Fireplace, 24602 Van Born Road in Dearborn Heights. Next to a headshot of Representative Byrnes reads "Community Conversations are a great chance to discuss the issues facing our state and community with your legislator."