Dear Neighbor,

This e-newsletter is designed to keep you updated on the latest activities in the Michigan House of Representatives. It’s an honor to serve as your state representative for the 15th State House District, which includes the west end of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights — I am proud to be of service to our community. 

If you ever need to reach me, please call my office at (517) 373-0847 or email me at [email protected].    

In Service,

State Rep. Erin Byrnes signature

Erin Byrnes

State Representative

Michigan’s 15th District

Legislative Updates:

Visiting and Supporting Minnesota

State Reps. Erin Byrnes, Emily Dievendorf, Natalie Price, and Veronica Paiz in the Minnesota state capitol for a day of solidarity

Like many of you, I am horrified by the actions of ICE and border patrol agents across the country. Recently, I visited Minnesota to join dozens of other state lawmakers from across the country in a day of solidarity with our Minnesota colleagues. I met with local community organizers and learned about new resources and strategies to best stand up for civil liberties. 

My Democratic colleagues and I have introduced legislation to protect our immigrant friends and neighbors as well as every Michigander from federal overreach. ICE is not above the law. We are working to hold them accountable and, ultimately, fighting to keep them out of our communities.

You can read more about my visit here.

Delivering an Invocation to Open House Session

State Rep. Erin Byrnes delivering the invocation on the House floor

This month, I delivered the invocation to open the House session. My remarks reflect the need for unity and love, at a time when too many Americans have turned their backs on their neighbors. The time for togetherness is now. Always now.

You can view my whole remarks here.

Attending the Governor’s Final State of the State Address

Erin Byrnes at the state of the state

The governor delivered her final State of the State address before a joint legislative session on Wednesday evening, setting forth her priorities for the year ahead. With affordability concerns top of mind for many, the address was an opportunity for my colleagues and I to reflect on legislative successes that helped bring down costs and provide relief for Michiganders. Priority-focuses also narrowed in on the past and future legislative work on the cost of living, health care, education, jobs and safe neighborhoods.

After the address, I issued the following statement:

“This year’s address emphasized a renewed focus on education and giving our kids the best start to life possible. I’m glad to hear the governor’s plan to continue funding universal pre-K for every Michigander as well as universal school meals. As a teacher, I understand the importance of students having access to the resources they need, so they can learn and grow to their full potential.”

MI Care Town Hall

State Reps. Erin Byrnes and Carrie Rheingans at a MiCare townhall event

This month, I hosted a town hall with special guest state Rep. Carrie Rheingans to advocate for MiCare, a publicly funded universal health care plan for all Michiganders. Health care costs are a huge concern for many Michiganders, and MiCare would eliminate the headache of co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance and health care caps. I believe health care is a human right, not a privilege.

You can learn more about MiCare here.

The Seasons of Lent and Ramadan

This year, the holy seasons of Lent and Ramadan align, marking a very special time for so many in our community.  May this time remind us of our shared values of unity and inclusion, and the need to care for every person in our community. I wish everyone observing a peaceful time of reflection and togetherness. 

The War in Iran

I recently issued a statement regarding the United States/Israel war in Iran (see below). The United States should strive to be a beacon of hope and peace in the world, and I am devastated to see our country waging war. I will continue to advocate for non-violence, and my heart is with the members of our community who are uniquely and deeply impacted by this violence.

A statement from state Rep. Erin Byrnes that reads: The United States/Israel war on Iran is an unjustified aggression that has now impacted multiple countries, and has seen the deaths of hundreds of civilians and numerous U.S. service members. Congress did not vote to approve this war, and the majority of Americans do not support it. I am especially disturbed by the bombing for an all-girls school in Iran, where more than 150 girls were murdered. I implore everyone-and especially every educator- to speak out against this atrocious war crime. It was no accident. My heart is with the members of our local community who are uniquely impacted by this needless violence. No more murderous men in positions of power. ENOUGH.

Attack on Temple Israel

I was heartbroken to hear about the attack on Temple Israel in West Bloomfield. My thoughts are with the congregation at Temple Israel and the entire community. I am so grateful to the first responders for their quick response at the scene.  We must continue to protect the right to practice faith safely, and without the threat of violence.