Hello friends,
With fall already in full swing, October quickly coming to a close and the holidays around the corner, we are wrapping up formal session next week for an in-district work period in November. I have made sure that this newsletter is filled with great updates from Lansing, upcoming events and resources for you to utilize.
My office is reachable by phone at (517) 373-0828), by email at DonnaLasinski@house.mi.gov or by coming to one of our district events. Upcoming coffee hours are listed below, and I would love to see you there.
Sincerely,
Donna Lasinski
Legislative Updates
Changes to Michigan Asset Tests
Gov. Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently announced changes to Michigan’s food assistance and emergency relief programs. Asset tests are used by the state to determine if families and individuals are able to receive certain benefits such as food and cash assistance. These changes will now allow for people to have assets of up to $15,000 and still be eligible for food assistance, cash assistance and State Emergency Relief. This will allow families to continue to own a car and have some money on hand to pay utilities and rent that are due while they work to gain employment. The change will take effect on Nov. 1. Before this change, the levels of asset limits varied from $500-$5,000. This change will allow Michigan residents to receive the support and services they need.
Reproductive Health Act
This week, I stood with Gov. Whitmer and my colleagues to introduce the Reproductive Health Act (RHA). The RHA allows people to make individual choices when it comes to their reproductive health. Every day, women make complex and deeply personal decisions that determine the direction of their lives. We can’t know the circumstances or the factors informing a woman’s decision-making, but we do know that such decisions must be based on the advice of her trusted health care professionals and her own personal values. Every Michigander should be able to make the reproductive health choices that are right for them.
PFAS Update
This month the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) announced that they are moving forward with the formal rulemaking process for drinking water standards on PFAS. PFAS stands for per – and polyfluoroalkyl substances and has contaminated water across the state of Michigan and right here in the 52nd House District. The rules that have been drafted would cover seven forms of PFAS, and an estimated 2,700 public water systems in the state would be covered under the drafted rule to create limits on PFAS contaminants in drinking water. I will continue to fight for clean and safe drinking water for the state of Michigan.
SBAM TV Show
The Small Business Association of Michigan’s TV show hosted me, former Lt. Gov. Brian Calley and state Rep. Tommy Brann to speak about small business growth opportunities. We also spoke about my bill, HB 4838, which would create a small business director in the state government to help small businesses navigate regulations, licensing and help them acquire grants.
Upcoming Time With Donna
November Coffee Hour
Come join Saline Mayor Brian Marl and me at the November Coffee Hour! I look forward to speaking with you about the issues that face our community.
When: Thursday, Nov. 7, from 6-7 p.m.
Where: Saline District Library, Brecon Room B, 555 N. Maple Road in Saline
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District Spotlight
I was excited to spend time this week with the St. Louis Center staff, residents and their families, and volunteers in Lansing to advocate for the center. We spoke about the issues that affect them and their families and heard their personal stories. Fr. Enzo Addari and his dedicated team provide a loving, safe, and opportunity rich environment for everyone at the St. Louis Center. Seeing them is always an inspiration and a reminder of the importance of long-term care in Michigan.
Last week, Bob Pierce and Nadine Anderson were honored by the Chelsea Chamber of Commerce with their Lifetime Achievement Award. Bob and Nadine were celebrated for the numerous hours they contributed to the Chelsea community. I was happy to be able to celebrate this award with Bob. Trinh Pifer was also awarded for her work in the community and was honored as the Chelsea Citizen of the Year.
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What to Do in 52
There are so many great events happening around the district. Here are a few to check out:
The Great Pumpkin Roll
Bring your leftover pumpkins from Halloween to the 16th annual Great Pumpkin Roll. There will be cider, donuts and prizes for the winners. This event is organized by Saline Recreation.
When: Saturday, Nov. 2, from 9-10 a.m.
Where: Mill Pond Park, 565 W. Bennett St. in Saline
Teen Mental Health Event
Stomp Out Stigma is a half day event for teens to have fun, learn about mental health and combat the stigma surrounding it. There will be comedy, food, giveaways, breakout sessions and more.
When: Saturday, Nov. 2, from 1:30-4:30 p.m.
Where: Chelsea District Library in Chelsea
Register at: http://bit.ly/StompoutStigma
Mindfulness Meditation
Join this free meditation session that will take place at the Dexter Library every second Saturday of each month through July 2020.
When: Saturday, Nov. 9, from 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Where: Dexter District Library in Dexter
Creative Crafting for Adults at Northfield Township Library
Join fellow crafters for creative crafting for adults to make felt and ribbon turkey pins for the Thanksgiving holiday. Registration is required.
When: Monday, Nov. 11, from 6-7:30 p.m.
Where: Northfield Township Library in Whitmore Lake
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Resources
Buddy-To-Buddy
Buddy-To-Buddy is a peer lead program for Michigan veterans to help them work on any challenges that they are facing. This includes education, substance abuse, legal issues, navigating the VA benefit system and more.
Contact them at (888) 822-8339
Legal Services of South Central Michigan (LSSCM)
LSSCM is a non-profit supported by the Michigan Bar Association that provides low cost legal assistance to low-income individuals, families and elderly adults within Washtenaw County.
Contact them at (734) 665-6181
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I hope that this information has been helpful and that we will see you at future events.
Sincerely,
State Representative Donna Lasinski