Dear Neighbor,
It’s hard to believe we’re almost to June — May truly flew by with so much happening both in Lansing and at home. From addressing local concerns to advocating for key investments in the state budget, I’ve been focused on making sure the voices of our community are heard in every conversation. Whether at the Capitol or right here in the district, my team and I are always working hard to stay connected and serve you. I’m excited to share some of the highlights with you!
Back home in the district, I had the opportunity to take part in a senior speaking event, visiting residents at both Townsend Towers and Kennedy Plaza. During these visits, I spoke with seniors about the work we’re doing in Lansing, shared updates on key legislative issues, and answered a wide range of thoughtful questions. It was a valuable chance to hear directly from members of our senior community, listen to their concerns, and have meaningful conversations about how state policies impact their daily lives. I’m grateful for the warm welcome and the opportunity to stay connected with these important voices in our district.
Included in this edition are some important legislative and community updates, along with a few resources I hope will be helpful. Please do not hesitate to reach out to my office by phone at (517) 373-0144 or by email at AlabasFarhat@house.mi.gov with questions about this or any other state-level issue.
Sincerely,
Alabas A. Farhat
State Representative, 3rd House District
Upcoming Events
Community Conversation
Friday, June 20, at 11 a.m. at Shibam Coffee, 5461 Schaefer Road, Dearborn, MI 48126
Legislative Snapshot: Pushing the People’s Agenda
This past month, my House Bill 4090 successfully passed out of the House, which authorizes the State of Michigan to transfer a state-owned correctional facility to the city of Detroit. The facility is utilized by the Detroit Police Department to house arrestees while they await processing, booking, court appearances, or transport. Under their current contract, the State provides the city with MDOC staff to operate the facility. Conveying this facility from the state to the city will allow the Detroit Police Department to assume sole responsibility for the operation and staffing of the facility, freeing up MDOC staff to be placed elsewhere and absolving the state from the long term cost liability of the property.
I also had the opportunity to provide testimony on House Bill 4044, which would designate the Wood Duck (Aix Sponsa) as the official duck of Michigan. The wood duck is an iconic species known for its vibrant colors, unique nesting habits and its historic comeback story in the state of Michigan. Recognizing the wood duck as our state duck is more than symbolic, it’s a chance to highlight Michigan’s rich biodiversity and promote environmental education.
May is National Foster Care Awareness Month
Have you experienced foster care and are currently a student? Apply for the Fostering Futures Scholarship and learn more about YOUR eligibility here: Michigan Fostering Futures Scholarship. The FFS application is now available to students who plan to attend college in Academic Year 2025-26. Applications must be submitted by Dec. 31, 2025, for priority consideration.
In the Community
- Dearborn’s 99th Annual Memorial Day Parade: Monday, May 26, 2025, at 10 a.m. beginning at the intersection of Schaefer Road and Michigan Ave. and concluding in front of the Henry Ford Centennial Library (16301 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, MI 48126).
- Dearborn Summer Market: Friday, June 13, 2025, from 4-8 p.m., at Dearborn Peace Park West (22271 W. Village Dr., Dearborn, MI 48124).
State of Michigan Tribute Nominations
If you know of an individual, business, or community landmark that you believe deserves special recognition in the form of a tribute, please reach out to my office or submit a request here. One of my favorite parts of serving as your state representative is visiting teachers, small business owners, organizations, and others to offer our gratitude for the work they do to support our community daily.
Stay Connected on Social
(517) 373-0144
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