Rep. Brenda Carter’s News

Democratic lawmaker will host Markkanen for bipartisan initiative PONTIAC, Mich., April 25, 2025 — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) is proud to announce that she will host state Rep. Greg Markkanen (R-Hancock) this May as part of the Michigan Legislative Exchange (MILE) Project. MILE is a bipartisan initiative to strengthen understanding and cooperation between lawmakers representing different regions and perspectives across Michigan. The program was unveiled Wednesday during the Michigan Political Leadership Program’s Annual Dinner and is inspired by the [...]

LANSING, Mich., Jan. 30, 2025 — Following a federal judge’s temporary block of President Trump’s freeze on federal grants and aid, the Trump administration formally rescinded the memo ordering the freeze yesterday. While this may prevent a significant disruption in programs that tens of millions of Americans rely on, the initial memo underscores the ongoing threat to vital benefits programs. The White House’s initial federal freeze also speaks to the constant chaos and confusion Republicans are causing all over the [...]

LANSING, Mich., June 26, 2024 — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) is proud to announce the passage of a comprehensive, bipartisan package of bills aimed at combating insurance fraud in Michigan. Yesterday, the Michigan House of Representatives approved a legislative insurance fraud package designed to strengthen the state’s ability to detect, deter and prosecute insurance fraud, thereby protecting Michigan consumers and businesses from its costly impacts. The bills, sponsored by Carter and her colleagues, take several steps to enhance the effectiveness of [...]

LANSING, Mich., Dec. 18, 2023 — The signage of the $615 million supplemental budget by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is good news for five school districts across the state, including Pontiac School District (PSD). Upon the bill signage, forgiving $18 million in debt for PSD, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement: “This is a proud moment for me, personally, as the former Board President of PSD. Being able to pay off the emergency loan debt is a relief [...]

LANSING, Mich., Nov. 6., 2023 —The Michigan House passed funding allocations for initiatives throughout the state, including forgiving $18 million of debt for Pontiac School District (PSD). In reaction to this welcome news, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement: “I ran for the Legislature based on the needs of the Pontiac School District and schools across the state. At one point in time, PSD had a $51 million deficit — the largest per-pupil deficit in the history of the [...]

LANSING, Mich., Oct. 20. 2023 — On Thursday, the House Insurance and Financial Services Committee learned that the Senate passed Senate Bills 530,  531 and 575 affecting auto no-fault insurance medical provider reimbursement rates. The legislation, which could make its way to the House committee next week, is intended to improve access to care for Michigan accident victims. “We’re on a mission to get auto no-fault right and to continue the work we’ve started to reform auto no-fault in our state,” said state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac), chair [...]

LANSING, Mich., March 10, 2023 — The Michigan House passed several major pieces of legislation this week. One bill that was passed was House Bill 4007, which ensures the government only does business with contractors who pay their workers a fair wage. Following its passage, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac), who sponsored and spoke in support of the bill, issued the following statement: “House Democrats promised workers that we would stand with them and support them, and we made good [...]

LANSING, Mich., March 2, 2023 — House Democrats introduced common-sense gun reform legislation today. The bill package focuses on tackling gun violence via three central reforms — universal background checks, secure storage laws and extreme risk protection orders. Democrats have previously introduced gun reform legislation; however, after the fatal mass shooting at Michigan State University, there is an urgent call for bipartisan support to end gun violence and increase public safety. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement supporting the [...]

PONTIAC, Mich., Feb. 28, 2023 — Pontiac’s city council unanimously adopted a resolution on Feb. 21 calling for the repeal of the Local Financial Stability and Choice Act, Public Act 436 (P.A. 436).  This law was enacted in 2012 and allowed the state to appoint emergency managers to be in charge of cities and school districts that are in financial distress. It authorizes the emergency manager to change the local government’s budget, sell, lease or assign assets, apply for state [...]

PONTIAC, Mich., Feb. 14, 2023 — A mass shooting took place on the Michigan State University campus beginning around 8:20 p.m. last night. Campus police have confirmed that three students were killed and five remain in critical condition at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. Two of the three victims’ names were released today — Arielle Anderson, Brian Fraser and Alexandria Verner. The shooting triggered a manhunt that continued for hours, ending with the gunman dying of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The [...]

LANSING, Mich., Feb. 2, 2023 — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) introduced House Bill 4065 yesterday. This bill would repeal the Local Financial Stability and Choice Act — Michigan’s emergency manager law. In support of her bill, Carter made the following statement: “As a former member of the Pontiac School Board, I know firsthand the damage to communities that emergency managers cause. These unelected individuals come into low-income communities and completely supersede the elected body. As with the school district of the [...]

LANSING, Mich., Jan. 25, 2023 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered the State of the State address tonight before a joint session of the Legislature at the Capitol in Lansing. In the speech, the governor discussed her legislative agenda for the new term, which includes bolstering the economy, increasing public safety, lowering costs for families, protecting fundamental rights, supporting Michigan workers, investing in early childhood education and attracting talent to Michigan. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement on Whitmer’s address: “Early childhood [...]

LANSING, Mich, Jan. 11, 2023 — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) has introduced House Bill 4007, a bill that would restore prevailing wage in Michigan. Prevailing wage is defined as the average wage paid to similarly employed workers in a specific occupation.  “With this bill, I aim to ensure that Michigan workers are treated with dignity and respect by ensuring a fair wage for Michigan workers. We must ensure our hardworking residents receive wages in line with the value of [...]

LANSING, Mich, Dec. 16, 2022 — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) received training from Fair Fight to help her continue to work to ensure  elections remain free and fair and accessible to all voters. House Democratic Leader Donna Lansinski (D-Chelsea) nominated Carter for this honor, along with state Reps. Amos O’Neal (D-Saginaw) and Kara Hope (D-Holt), who will also be graduating.  “I am honored to graduate from Fair Fight Action training,” Carter said. “Voter suppression, especially of Black and brown [...]

VIA Motors’ new headquarters brings 300 high-wage jobs to Auburn Hills PONTIAC, Mich., Oct. 26, 2022 — Michigan continues to make critical investments in electric vehicle manufacturing, establishing the state as the leader in electric vehicles and bringing more high-paying jobs to strengthen the state’s economy. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Strategic Fund announced the latest round of investments yesterday and includes a $2.5 million grant to VIA Motors. VIA Motors is a U.S.-based all-electric commercial original equipment vehicle manufacturer at [...]

LANSING, Mich., Oct. 7, 2022 — The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) issues payment and billing guidance for no-fault automobile insurers and health care providers. This guidance comes nearly a month after the Michigan Court of Appeals issued its opinion in Andary v. USAA Casualty Insurance Co., holding that insurance companies could not retroactively apply the new no-fault law to the cost of treatment to those injured in a motor vehicle accident before June 11, 2019. Insurance [...]

LANSING, Mich. Aug. 29, 2022 — The Michigan State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) announced  they have accepted the city of Pontiac into the Certified Local Government (CLG) program. The news was confirmed by the U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service.   “Over the past several years, the city of Pontiac has worked to strengthen its historic preservation program and found ways to recognize and celebrate the city’s rich history,” said state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac). “With the certification [...]

Auburn Hills, Mich. Aug. 29, 2022 — On Aug. 23, the Michigan Economic Development Corp. announced that the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) approved incentives that would support Dana Thermal Products LLC, a subsidiary of Dana Inc, investing in a facility in Auburn Hills.   “I was proud to speak at the meeting and write a letter in support of this decision,” said state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac). “This will help move Michigan forward, boost the state and Oakland County’s reputation [...]

PONTIAC, Mich., July 28, 2022 — The Ascend Foundation, a local organization that advocates for educational opportunities and community growth, will receive $500,000 in the fiscal 2022-23 budget that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed into law earlier this month. In response, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement: “I am extremely proud that I was able to secure half a million dollars for the Ascend Foundation in the fiscal 2023 state budget. Getting this appropriation was not easy. It [...]

LANSING, Mich., July 20, 2022 — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) and state Sen. Curtis Hertel Jr. (D-East Lansing) recently introduced legislation to improve accessibility to the Post-Acute Auto Injury Provider Relief Fund for medical providers requesting financial assistance for rate reimbursements. “While it’s great that there’s a fund set up to help providers stay in business and keep supporting their patients, that fund is useless if the ones who need it the most can’t get the help they need,” [...]

DETROIT, Mich., July 20, 2022 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed House Bill 5783, the general government spending plan for fiscal 2023, into law today. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) advocated for a number of spending items, including $500,000 for the Ascend Foundation and $1 million for Honor Community Health, which were included in the budget signed today. In response, Carter issued the following statement: “I am so proud that the state of Michigan is supporting these two extremely worthy foundations [...]

BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., July 5, 2022 — After more than two grueling years on the frontlines of the pandemic, SKLD Bloomfield Hills Nursing Home Workers plan to strike on Monday, July 11, to demand an end to unfair labor practices. Workers are demanding better working conditions, better pay, safe staffing for quality care and the right to join a union without interference. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement in support of the workers:  "I applaud these workers [...]

LANSING, Mich., July 1, 2022 — The Michigan House of Representatives passed a budget that includes significant investments in education, local government services and the economy. Specifically, the state budget includes over $500,000 for the Ascend Foundation, which was founded on behalf of the late Pontiac Mayor and state Rep. Clarence Phillips. In response, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement in support of the budget’s passage:   “This budget is a victory for our district. Delivering this [...]

LANSING, Mich., June 24, 2022 — Today, the United States Supreme Court ruled that all pre-viability prohibitions on elective abortions are unconstitutional, overturning Roe v. Wade and ending a person's right to abortion in half the country. This comes after a leaked draft revealed the Supreme Court's intention to overturn Roe in early May. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement in response to the Dobbs v. Jackson decision: "It is a sad day for people across America. I remember what times were like before we [...]

PONTIAC, Mich., June 24, 2022 — Yesterday, the United States Supreme Court struck down a New York gun-control law that required people to show "proper cause" to get a license to carry a concealed handgun outside the home. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement in response to the decision:  "While I agree with the right to bear arms, states should also have the right to protect people from gun violence. Overturning a 100-year-old law not only goes [...]

PONTIAC, Mich., June 22, 2022 — Hospital workers at McLaren Oakland Hospital and members of Service Employees International Union (SEIU) participated in a protest today against unfair labor practices, low wages and short staffing. In solidarity with the striking workers, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac), who participated in the protest today, issued the following statement:   “Our hospital workers were there for us when we needed them most over the last two years. Now it’s time we advocate for them. [...]

LANSING, Mich., June 8, 2022 — During today’s Michigan House of Representatives session, Republican lawmakers attempted to bring bills to the floor that would allow Michiganders to carry a concealed pistol without a license. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac), co-chair of the Firearm Safety and Violence Prevention Caucus, responded with the following statement: “It is simply unconscionable that while families of victims from Uvalde, Texas, are still burying their loved ones, lawmakers are trying to spread more guns into our society. The [...]

Legislation would have funneled public education funding to private businesses LANSING, Mich., June 8, 2022 — The Michigan House of Representatives voted down House Bill 5859, which would have taken public taxpayer money and given it to private businesses to establish a marketplace to combat learning loss. The vote came after state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) spoke on the House floor against the bill. Carter issued the following statement in response: “We know our public schools deliver stronger educational outcomes [...]

LANSING, Mich., June 7, 2022 — Today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) joined Louis Tremblay, the chief executive officer of FLO, a leading North American electric vehicle charging network operator and smart charging solutions provider, to announce a new electric vehicle charger manufacturing facility in Auburn Hills. This $3 million investment is FLO’s first-ever U.S. manufacturing facility and is expected to create 133 jobs in 2023, continuing Michigan’s momentum in EV-related investments as the state prepares [...]

LANSING, Mich. (May 25, 2022) — Michigan’s legislative Firearm Safety and Violence Prevention Caucus, chaired by Sen. Rosemary Bayer (D-Beverly Hills) and Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac), has issued the following statement after at least 19 elementary students and two adults were killed yesterday at an Uvalde, Texas school, making it the deadliest school shooting in nearly a decade: “There are no words to accurately describe the heartbreak and sorrow we feel for the families who lost a child at yesterday’s [...]

LANSING, Mich., May 12, 2022 — The House Committee on Families, Children, and Seniors gave its approval to a bipartisan legislative package, HBs 5801, 5974-78, 5980-81, 6070 and 6073-75 and HR 262, that aims to improve Michigan’s foster care and adoption system. Part of the package is state Rep. Brenda Carter’s (D-Pontiac) House Resolution 262. It urges the U.S. Congress to expand the federal Family First Prevention Services Act to allow more children to remain safely in their homes. Carter [...]

LANSING, Mich., May 12, 2022 — Earlier this week, the House of Representatives voted to send a proposed amendment to the Michigan Constitution to the November ballot. The amendment would require annual financial disclosure from legislators and state officers and change the number of years an individual can serve in the Legislature. After the vote, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement: “It is vital that the people of Michigan have trust in their lawmakers. The proposed amendment [...]

PONTIAC, Mich., April 14, 2022 — Officials from the Grand Rapids Police Department released the body-cam footage yesterday of the officer involved in the fatal shooting of Patrick Lyoya, 26, on April 4. After pulling over Lyoya for a license plate issue, the video shows the police officer, who has not yet been named, physically accosting, then chasing a fleeing, unarmed Lyoya down and, after a prolonged struggle, fatally shooting him. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement: [...]

LANSING, Mich., April 13, 2022 — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) introduced legislation today to give community members more opportunities to participate in local government meetings. House Bill 6021 would allow local units of government to hold hybrid meetings. The Michigan Legislature has amended the Open Meetings Act (OMA) multiple times during the COVID-19 pandemic to enable virtual meetings. However, all local governments are once again required to meet in person. “Local governments have shown time and again over the [...]

PONTIAC, Mich., March 22, 2022 — Seven-year-old Ariah Jackson was shot and killed in Pontiac on Friday. She was struck in the back of the head in a drive-by shooting while sitting inside a parked car driven by her mother. “When I heard the news about Ariah, I was completely lost for words, and frankly, I still am,” said State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac). “In Pontiac, we have seen a dangerous rise in crime, and too many lives have been [...]

LANSING, Mich., March 16, 2022 — Members of the House Democratic Caucus held a press conference today to announce another round of bills that protect the right to vote and take down unnecessary barriers between Michiganders and their franchise. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) is a sponsor of a bill in this package that would allow voters to request email or text updates to track their absentee ballot. Carter issued the following statement: “The people of Michigan support no-reason absentee [...]

Group will work to restore self-defense laws in states across the country PONTIAC, Mich., March 2, 2022 — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) recently announced that she will be joining a new task force of state legislators who are committed to combating “Shoot First” laws, also known by gun lobby allies as “Stand Your Ground” laws. Everytown for Gun Safety and Moms Demand Action announced the task force as part of a nationwide effort to combat these laws. The new [...]

LANSING, Mich., Feb. 3, 2022 — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) was appointed to serve as the vice chair of the National Council of Insurance Legislators Committee Joint State-Federal Relations and International Insurance Issues. Carter released the following statement on her new appointment: “I am honored to serve as the vice chair of the Joint State-Federal Relations and International Insurance Issues Committee for NCOIL. As minority vice chair of the Michigan House Insurance Committee, I understand the intricacies of insurance [...]

LANSING, Mich., Jan. 26, 2022 — Today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered her fourth State of the State address from Detroit Diesel. Her remarks highlighted her proposals to support small businesses, cut taxes and reduce costs for working families. In response, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement: “Our goals should always be to move the state forward, and the proposals Gov. Whitmer outlined tonight show that we are doing just that. Repealing the retirement tax, investing in mental health, lower [...]

LANSING, Mich., Jan. 25, 2022 — Today, General Motors announced a $7 billion investment in electric vehicle manufacturing in Michigan, including the construction of a new electric vehicle battery plant in Delta Township and a $4 billion investment in its Orion assembly plant that will together create 4,000 jobs. Both projects are part of GM’s effort to shift to 100% electric vehicle production by 2035. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement celebrating the news: “The Legislature worked hard on both [...]

PONTIAC, Mich., Jan. 18, 2022 — Earlier this week, a house fire in Pontiac killed two people and injured five others. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement: "My thoughts and heart are with the victims of the fire as well as their family and friends. Please know that my office is here to lend support in whatever way we can, and I urge the resilient Pontiac community to come together to help those impacted, so they know [...]

LANSING, Mich. (Dec. 13, 2021) – Sen. Jeff Irwin (D-Ann Arbor) and Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) have introduced legislation to protect the public’s health and ensure local governments can continue operating safely as Michigan faces another deadly wave of the coronavirus, which is being compounded by the recent arrival of the Omicron variant in the state. Senate Bill 705 and House Bill 5608 would allow local governments to continue to conduct virtual meetings until March 31, 2022. The Michigan Legislature has amended the Open Meetings Act (OMA) [...]

LANSING, Mich., Dec. 7, 2021 — The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced today that Michigan drivers will receive $400 per vehicle in refunds from the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association. In response, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement: “Michigan drivers desperately needed auto no-fault reform that put them first. I am proud to live in a state and work in a Legislature that delivered auto insurance relief to families who paid [...]

PONTIAC, Mich., Dec. 7, 2021 — The Michigan Economic Development Corp. (MEDC) announced TÜV SÜD America, a provider of testing and safety solutions to the automotive, mobility and manufacturing industries, is establishing a new state-of-the-art electric vehicle battery testing facility in Auburn Hills with support from the Michigan Strategic Fund. It is expected to create 40 high-wage jobs. In response, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement: “TÜV SÜD America's increasing involvement in Southeast Michigan solidifies our spot as the [...]

PONTIAC, Mich., Dec. 6, 2021 — Pontiac High School entered a soft lockdown today after being alerted of a copycat threat directed at the school following the mass shooting at Oxford High School that left four students dead and several others injured. Several other local schools have entered similar lockdowns after receiving similar threats. State Rep. Brenda Carter issued the following statement in response to the lockdown:   “The most important thing right now is the safety of the children [...]

LANSING, Mich. (Dec. 1, 2021) — Michigan’s legislative Firearm Safety and Violence Prevention Caucus, chaired by Sen. Rosemary Bayer (D-Beverly Hills) and Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac), has issued the following statement after four students were killed and seven others injured during a school shooting at Oxford High School yesterday afternoon: “We are heartbroken by the tragic events that happened in our own backyard. No parent should have to fear for their child’s safety at school, and no community should have [...]

PONTIAC, Mich., Dec. 2, 2021 — Today, the Michigan Economic Development Corp. (MEDC) announced TÜV SÜD America, a provider of testing and safety solutions to the automotive, mobility and manufacturing industries, is establishing a new state-of-the-art electric vehicle battery testing facility in Auburn Hills with support from the Michigan Strategic Fund. It is expected to create 40 high-wage jobs. In response, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement: “TÜV SÜD America's increasing involvement in Southeast Michigan solidifies our spot as [...]

LANSING, Mich., Dec. 1, 2021 — On Nov. 30, a student shot and killed four students, injuring seven others, including one teacher, at Oxford High School. In response, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following response:  "My heart breaks for everyone that has been affected by the mass shooting at Oxford High School. As a former school board member, I know that our schools are the foundation of our community. It's time for us to come together to express [...]

LANSING, Mich. (Nov. 10, 2021) — Sen. Rosemary Bayer (D–Beverly Hills) and Rep. Brenda Carter (D–Pontiac) have introduced resolutions in the Michigan Senate and House, respectively, to recognize November 2021 as Poverty and Homelessness Awareness Month in Michigan. Senate Resolution 95 and House Resolution 190 call on Michigan’s elected officials to bring attention to a topic not often discussed, but one that the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness reported affects more than 8,000 Michiganders on any given day. “Michigan children and families have [...]

LANSING, Mich., Nov. 4, 2021 —  The Michigan House of Representatives passed House Bill 5097, a bill banning the teaching of racial injustice in public schools. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement condemning the passage of the legislation: “Instead of focusing on the issues that affect our state, some in this chamber want to focus on a problem that doesn’t exist. As a former school board administrator, I know so-called critical race theory is not taught in [...]

LANSING, Mich., Oct. 14, 2021 — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) was recently announced as the Michigan-Shiga Sister State Board of Directors president for 2022. The focus of the Michigan-Shiga sister state relationship is to exchange information, knowledge and ideas on the preservation and development of natural resources, especially freshwater lakes, between Michigan and Shiga, Japan, as well as include exchanges involving people, culture and commerce at the state and city levels. “The Michigan-Shiga sister state relationship is very near and dear [...]

PONTIAC, Mich., Oct. 7, 2021 — The Michigan Economic Development Corp. (MEDC) announced a business expansion with LHP Engineering Solutions in Pontiac. The project expects to generate a total capital investment of $3.8 million and create 100 high-wage jobs in Pontiac with the support of a $500,000 Jobs Ready Michigan performance-based grant. “I am so proud to call Pontiac my home,” said state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac). “And I am so glad that LHP sees what I see in this city and [...]

LANSING, Mich., Sept. 22, 2021 — The Michigan House of Representatives passed a budget that includes historic investments in the economy, child care and infrastructure. It will also appropriate funding to the Talent Development Coalition grant and Keego Harbor sandbar buoys. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement in support of the budget’s passage: “After living through this once-in-a-lifetime pandemic, it’s more important than ever that we invest in our neighborhoods to make sure everyone has the resources [...]

LANSING, Mich., Sept. 16, 2021— State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) introduced House Bill 5307 to address the coverage disparity for motorcyclists resulting from the recent auto no-fault reform and ensure motorcyclists still have access to the care they need if injured. Carter, who is the Democratic vice chair of the House Insurance Committee, introduced the legislation to commemorate the second anniversary of the passing of her son, who died in a catastrophic car accident. “The current auto insurance law leaves [...]

PONTIAC, Mich., Aug. 24, 2021 — Yesterday, Gov. Whitmer signed House Bills 4219 and 4220 into law. The legislation will allow Michiganders to expunge a first violation of operating while intoxicated (OWI) under certain circumstances. Roughly 200,000 Michiganders are expected to have the opportunity for a second chance at a clean record. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement in support: “We all make mistakes — that is a part of the human condition — but no one [...]

PONTIAC, Mich., Aug. 23, 2021 — Storms over the past month knocked trees and power lines down across the state, at one time leaving up to 760,000 residents without power. As of Aug. 16, both Consumers Energy and DTE only offer a $25 credit to the energy bill after customers have been out of power and only after it is specifically applied for. DTE increased their credit to $100 on Aug. 19.  Attorney General Dana Nessel called for customers to [...]

LANSING, Mich., April 20, 2021 – State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) today applauded Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Michigan Jobs First Executive Directive 2019-15 as an important step to promote free and fair competition when companies bid for state projects. “Good paying and stable jobs help Michigan’s hardworking families achieve financial security, but they need strong allies to stand up for them,” Carter said. “Thankfully, they have an ally in Gov. Whitmer. I am proud to stand with her to fight for [...]

LANSING, Mich., Feb. 18, 2021 — The Michigan Poverty Task Force issued a new report yesterday proposing several bold and expansive policies needed to lift millions of Michiganders out of poverty. Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac), a member of the task force, issued the following statement in support: “The recommendations in the report are critical to alleviating the stress and pressure on Michigan families experiencing poverty. We’ve spent years either dismantling, defunding or erecting unrealistic barriers to use our social safety [...]

“I want to take a moment to congratulate Yasmine Isshak Poles on being appointed to the 6th Circuit Court of Oakland County. I have no doubts her extensive background and experience have prepared her well for her new role serving the people of Oakland County. It is so important that we have officials in our court system that reflect and embody the values of our community, and Judge Poles’ appointment moves us in the right direction.” # # #

“Our students and teachers have been through a lot these past few months, and the last thing they need to be worried about this fall is whether their schools will have the resources they need. I went into this year’s budget process with that goal in mind, and I am so pleased my colleagues in both chambers and on both sides of the aisle came together to put our children first. This money for Pontiac schools will go a long [...]

Lansing, Mich., July 23, 2020 — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac), state Sen. Dayna Polehanki (D-Livonia) and Democrats in the House and Senate introduced a package of bills in their respective chambers today to better support teachers and students in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic by pausing various state assessments related to education for the 2020-2021 school year. Carter’s bill in the package would waive the A-F grading for the upcoming year. “Our kids have been set back months [...]

LANSING, April 23, 2020 —At the beginning of April, the Michigan Economic Development Corp. (MEDC) created the Pure Michigan Business Connect COVID-19 Emergency Access and Retooling Grants program providing grants of $25,000 to $150,000 to companies retooling quickly to manufacture critical health and human service supplies. Two companies in the 29th House District, Oxus America, Inc. in Auburn Hills and Detroit Sewn, Inc. in Pontiac, were recently awarded grants. State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) thanked the MEDC for their help [...]

LANSING, Mich., March 12, 2020 — Out of an abundance of caution, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) announced she will be postponing all upcoming public events, coffee hours, and March is Reading Month visits through the end of March. Her office will still be operating and available to assist constituents via email at BrendaCarter@house.mi.gov or by phone at (517) 373-0475. Rep. Carter urges constituents to visit Michigan.gov/coronavirus for updated information and to follow her social media pages for updates.

LANSING, Mich., March 11, 2020 — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) successfully secured $200,000 of additional Michigan enhancement grant funding within a supplemental state budget agreement to support the Talent Development Coalition in Oakland County. “This grant funding will go a long way to help people in my community get the training they need for the careers they want. We have employers right here in our community that are ready and willing to hire — but our workforce needs additional [...]

PONTIAC — In early November, a delegation from the Shiga Prefectural Government came to Michigan and met with state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. The visit included discussions on ways to strengthen the Japan-Michigan relationship and protect shared environmental priorities like the Great Lakes and Lake Biwa. During the recent in-district work period, Rep. Carter had the opportunity to visit Japan. She met with several Japanese officials to continue the conversation, including those from Pontiac’s sister city [...]

LANSING — Yesterday, the House of Representative adopted state Rep. Brenda Carter’s (D-Pontiac) House Resolution 193 to designate November 2019 as Poverty and Homelessness Awareness Month. In 2018, it was reported that more than 65,000 Michiganders experienced homelessness, including 11,317 families with children and 8,367 seniors. “There is no reason why people in one of the wealthiest nations on earth should suffer from homelessness, and ensuring every Michigander has a roof over their head is one of my top priorities,” [...]

PONTIAC — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac), along with several local elected officials and community activists, held an open house today to provide families and residents in need with donated linens from local hotels. The linens were originally donated to Oakland County’s Poverty and Homelessness Taskforce to be distributed to those in need. After sorting and distributing the linens to local shelters and other community groups, the linen supply was opened up to the public. "Lifting Michiganders out of poverty [...]

LANSING — House and Senate Democrats unveiled a plan last week to crack down on companies committing payroll fraud, increasing penalties for bad actors while strengthening oversight to protect businesses playing by the rules. Unscrupulous companies stole an estimated $429 million in wages and overtime pay from hardworking Michiganders between 2013 and 2015, impacting more than 2.8 million workers. In addition to the impact on individual workers, payroll fraud costs Michigan taxpayers $107 million a year in tax revenue. In [...]

DETROIT — This past Monday, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) joined Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters (MRCC), Sheet Metal Workers Local 80 and the Building and Construction Trade Council for Detroit’s annual Labor Day parade. “I enjoy walking in the Labor Day Parade every year,” Carter said. “It reminds me of how important it is to celebrate and honor the contributions of workers in our country and state. Even though Labor Day has passed, it is important to never forget [...]

LANSING — This morning Gov. Gretchen Whitmer ordered the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to issue emergency rules to protect Michigan’s kids from the harmful effects of vaping. The governor’s order bans the sale of flavored nicotine vaping products, and misleading marketing regarding their safety. In response, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement: “Given how little we know about the long-term effects of e-cigarettes and vaping products, we need to be proactive in addressing this [...]

LANSING — Today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer proposed a plan to stabilize Benton Harbor’s School District and temporarily avoid closure while working to improve academic outcomes for students. In response, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement: “I would like to thank Gov. Whitmer for listening to the needs of the families and community members in Benton Harbor and working to put forward a plan. Ensuring that students come first has and will continue to be my top priority, [...]

LANSING — The House passed House Bill 4550 unanimously this week, which would require the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to improve screening procedures for court-appointed guardians.  Introduced by State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac), the bill would require DHHS to include fingerprint-based criminal record checks and child abuse and child neglect central registry checks on successor guardians and all adults living in the successor guardian’s home. These new processes are additional to those currently required for a [...]

LANSING —Today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed executive order 13 which reorganizes the Department of Talent and Economic Development into the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). The reorganization will consolidate all labor and employment relations and their functions into one department to streamline processes. In response, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement: “One of the most common barriers to continued economic growth is communication between departments and a cohesive vision for the future. With this latest [...]

LANSING — Following weeks of bipartisan negotiations, the House passed a sweeping overhaul of Michigan’s auto insurance system today. The final bill includes several provisions put forward by House Democrats including the elimination of non-driving rate-setting factors, guaranteed rate reductions and increased consumer protections. In response, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) issued the following statement: “Michigan drivers desperately needed auto no-fault reform that will put them first. This plan finally delivers relief to the families of our communities by eliminating [...]

LANSING — Recently, State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) introduced House Bill 4483, which calls for the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) to develop or adopt a model program of instruction on cursive penmanship. The program would then be made available to Michigan’s public schools, who would have the option to implement the program into their district’s curriculum. “Even in the age of technology, there is merit and value to penmanship and good handwriting,” Carter said. “Practicing cursive as a child [...]

LANSING — Today, State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) introduced House Bill 4467 to designate the monarch butterfly as the official insect of Michigan. Currently Michigan does not have a designated state butterfly or insect. Monarch butterflies are one of many crucial pollinators that help to cross-fertilize many plants, a process that is vital to the success of the state’s agriculture and tourism industries. “I’m sure we all have memories of seeing and learning about monarchs as children,” Carter said. “While [...]

LANSING — Last night, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer gave her first State of the State address, outlining her vision for the state and calling for bipartisan collaboration to address the issues that matter most to Michigan’s working families. In addition, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac), who also had the honor of escorting the state officers into the joint session, issued the following statement: “For my first state of the state address as an elected official, I am encouraged by the plan [...]

LANSING — Today, state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) introduced a resolution to dedicate January as Local School Board Recognition Month. There are 600 school boards or boards of education managing and overseeing the school districts in Michigan.  The resolution passed unanimously. "I know how hard our local school board members work to foster good educational environments for our students and teachers,” Rep. Carter explained. “This resolution to acknowledge their efforts is just one symbol of my commitment to the success [...]

LANSING — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) was sworn in officially today as representative for the 29th House District for the 2019-2020 legislative session. The swearing-in ceremony marked the formal opening of Michigan’s 100th Legislature. In response, Rep. Carter issued the following statement: “Before being elected to the Legislature education was one of my top priorities, and I look forward to continuing that fight for our students and teachers in the Capitol. Every child deserves access to a world-class education [...]