Hello friends,
It seems winter has arrived! I hope everyone is staying warm and being safe on the roads. It’s important to remember to stay prepared and keep some items your car such as blankets, a window scraper, a flashlight, etc. to be safe and prepared for those cold and snowy Michigan days that bring slippery roads with them.
This past Monday was Veterans Day, and I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all those who have served and are currently serving for your service, dedication and the sacrifices you have made for our country. It continues to be an honor to serve and represent the brave heroes within the western and northern Washtenaw County communities.
As a reminder session is out until December and we are currently having an in-district work period. My office is reachable by phone at (517) 373-0828, by email at DonnaLasinski@house.mi.gov or by coming to one of our upcoming district events. Upcoming coffee hours, celebrations and town halls are listed below, and I would love to see you there.
Sincerely,
Donna Lasinski
Legislative Updates
Expungement Reform Bill Package Passes the House
The Michigan House of Representatives passed an Expungement Reform bill package last week. This legislation would help people Michiganders who have already been held accountable for their crimes have certain felonies and misdemeanors expunged from their record. It would also allow for the expungement of marijuana offenses that are no longer criminal after the passage of recreational marijuana laws. Allowing people the opportunity to have a second chance and become productive members of our community is extremely important and I am proud to have supported these bills. The Expungement Reform bill package has now moved to the Senate.
Governor Whitmer Signs Domestic Violence Bill
Gov. Whitmer signed Senate Bill 257 into law last week. SB 257 was introduced by Sen. Chang and helps to protect survivors of domestic violence by requiring deferred domestic violence charges to be counted as prior convictions in any cases that follow. The law also allows courts to order some offenders to participate in treatment programs. I am proud to have supported this legislation and continue to work to support protections for survivors of domestic violence.
Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission for Fair Elections
Would you like part of the new redistricting commission? In 2018, Michiganders voted to amend the state constitution to have citizens, not politicians, draw election maps. To be considered for this commission you must apply online at RedistrictingMichigan.org. All applications are due June 1, 2020 and if you have any questions about applying or about the Michigan Citizens Redistricting Commission for Fair Elections, you can email Redistricting@Michigan.gov.
Upcoming Time With Donna
Coffee Hour
I hope you can join me for my upcoming Coffee Hour! I look forward to meeting and speaking with you about the issues that face our community.
When: Saturday, December 14, 2019 at 10 – 11 a.m.
Where: Northfield Township Community/Senior Center, 9101 Main St. in Whitmore Lake
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District Spotlight
Thank you to all who attended the Saline Coffee Hour with Saline Mayor Brian Marl and me. It was great to hear from the community and discuss the issues that are important to you.
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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 Fall Market
The Fall Market will feature local vendors and crafters. There will also be a guest appearance by Olaf the snowman from 1 – 3 p.m.
When: Saturday, Nov. 16, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: Living Water Church, 200 Barker Road in Whitmore Lake
Saline Job Fair and Community Showcase
Freshen up that resume and visit the Saline Job Fair that will showcase local businesses and information on the Saline community.
When: Tuesday, Nov. 19, from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Where: Saline Recreation Center, 1866 Woodland Drive E in Saline
Turkey Trek Storybook Trail
This event will feature a walk down a nature trail and the opportunity to feed a variety of birds.
When: Monday, Nov. 25, from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Where: Baker Woods Preserve, 11914 Trinkle Road in Dexter
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Resources
The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW)
With the weather getting colder, it is important to stay warm and safe. THAW helps low-income individuals and families with heat and electric utilities to stay warm, healthy and safe within their homes. If you need assistance with heat or electricity or if you have any questions, contact THAW.
Phone: 800-866-THAW(8429)
Address: 535 Griswold Street, Suite 200 in Detroit
Website: https://thawfund.org/
Michigan Opioid Treatment Access Loan Repayment Program (MIOTA)
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is administering the MIOTA, a student loan debt repayment program for providers (MD, DO, NP, PA and SUD Counselors) who are beginning or expanding opioid treatment. To see if you qualify as a provider please check the website here: https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339-71551_2945_92784—,00.html
The application closes on Nov. 30, 2019
If you have questions call (517)335-6713
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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