Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Welcome to my latest e-newsletter! It is and continues to be a privilege to represent Livonia, Redford Township and Detroit, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve our community in Lansing. I encourage you to stay up to date on what is going on in Lansing and continue to let me know about the issues that matter to you.
If there is anything I can do to help you and your family, please do not hesitate to call my office at (517) 373-1530, or email me at [email protected]. You can also catch me on Facebook.
Legislative Update
Child Protection Package
This week, the House Families and Veterans Committee unanimously voted to approve House Bills 4530 and 5220, a bill package I sponsored along with state Rep. Angela Rigas. These bills were introduced in response to a tragic child fatality in Kent County. My bill, House Bill 4530, would require mental health providers to release pertinent mental health records to Child Protection Services workers involved in an open investigation within seven days of the calendar request for such records. House Bill 5220 would require all mandated reporters receive training in child abuse and neglect detection once every three years.
I am grateful for the support of my colleagues and look forward to a vote of the whole House on this package.
Vote Post
Follow this link to see what we have been voting on. As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office at (517) 373-1530.
Constituent Resources
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 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.
Community Update
New Ways to Pay Detroit Property Taxes
As you prepare for the new year, the City of Detroit is offering more ways to pay your property taxes. You can pay while you shop, pay while you scroll, pay almost anywhere, anytime! Discover the payment method that works best for you at www.PayDetroit365.com.
Important Winter Property Tax dates to remember:
- Jan. 15, 2026 – Full Winter and Summer and Second Installment property taxes are due (Pay by this date to avoid interest and penalties)
- Jan. 16, 2026 – Interest and penalties will be applied to all outstanding balances
- Feb. 28, 2026 – Final Tax Year 2025 payment is due.
- March 1, 2026 – Delinquent Real Property taxes are transferred to the Wayne County Treasurer for collection.
For questions about property taxes, contact the Detroit Taxpayer Service Center at (313) 224-3560 or by email at [email protected].
Events
Coffee Hours
I hope you can join me for one of my upcoming coffee hours! I look forward to having an informal conversation with you about the issues families face in our community. I host two coffee hours a month, one in-person and one virtual. The location for in-person coffee hours will rotate throughout the year between Livonia, Redford Township and Detroit. January’s in-person coffee hour will be in Redford Township at the Redford Township District Library (25320 W. Six Mile Road, Redford, MI 48240). You can join the livestream for my virtual coffee hours on my Facebook page.
You can join the livestream for my virtual coffee hours on my Facebook page.
Virtual: Monday, Dec. 15, from 6:30–7:30 p.m.
In-Person: Saturday, Jan. 10, from 2–3 p.m.
Never hesitate to reach out to me or my staff if you have any questions or concerns!
Sincerely,
Laurie Pohutsky
State Representative
17th House District