Hello friends,
Happy Holidays! The year is now coming to an end and here in Lansing we have wrapped up session for 2019. We will begin again in January. It has been such an honor and privilege to represent you all in Lansing! I look forward to 2020 and continuing to work hard on legislative issues and interests that are important to you and our community, while also continuing to keep you informed.
Wishing you all a happy new year! 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
Budget Update
After a long year of budget negotiations, the Governor, House and Senate leadership have come to an agreement for state budget supplemental bills that ensure funding for vital programs our community and families rely on. These supplemental budget bills have now passed the Legislature and will restore critical funding to the state budget and allows those impacted by this impasse to be put at ease. This supplemental budget is a step in the right direction toward funding the priorities Michiganders care about most. The supplemental school aid budget provides support for our rural and isolated school districts, promotes dropout recovery programs and allocates funding for literacy coaches to combat our growing literacy crisis. While I believe Michiganders still deserve more, I am proud that we were able to deliver real solutions for our state’s most urgent challenges.
Moving forward into the new year and budget cycle, I will continue to fight for real and meaningful education funding. We must also address revenue funding to fix Michigan’s roads and crumbling infrastructure across the state. Creating a better future for Michigan begins with a budget that is reflective of our values. Proper school funding, a strong economy, and protecting our environment and water are just a few of those values that are needed to advance Michigan into the future.
Consumer Pricing Protections
With only one week left of shopping before the holidays, Gov. Whitmer and Attorney General Dana Nessel have reminded consumers of their rights and protections while they finish their holiday shopping for the season.
According to the Shopping Reform and Modernization Act, retailers in Michigan must clearly display the prices of items that are for sale in their stores. If a consumer is overcharged for an item, then they may be entitled to a refund. If there is a discrepancy between the sale price of an item at checkout and the displayed price of an item, the lowest price displayed needs to be charged for that item. Know your rights as a consumer this holiday season and check out the 15 Days of Scams Calendar provided on the Attorney General’s website here.
Gaming Bills
Before the Legislature adjourned for the year, a large package of gaming bills hit the House floor. These bills would allow internet gaming and sports betting in the state of Michigan. They were passed by the Legislature and are now awaiting a signature from the governor before becoming law. I voted in favor of this bill package that would regulate online gaming and sports betting, while increasing tax revenue for the School Aid Fund as well as provide funding for treatment of gambling addiction.
Community Spotlight
It was wonderful to hold a coffee hour in Northfield Township before the end of the year! It’s always great to share legislative updates and hear from the community on the issues that are most pressing to you and your family.
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Upcoming Time With Donna
Coffee Hour
With this term wrapped up and the holidays approaching, I will not be hosting any more coffee hours in 2019. I look forward to meeting and speaking with you about the issues that face our communities in 2020! Below is the date for my next coffee hour that will be held in January.
When: Saturday, Jan. 18, from 10 – 11 a.m.
Where: Dexter District Library in Dexter
What to Do in 52
With the holiday season, there are so many wonderful events happening around the district. Here are a few to check out!
Teen Holiday Hygiene Drive
Want to help homeless teens this holiday season? The Teen Holiday Hygiene Drive is taking place and you can drop off items in the lobby of the Chelsea District Library. The donated items will be distributed to the Ozone House and Faith in Action Chelsea.
When: Now through Thursday, Jan. 5
Where: Chelsea District Library, Library Lobby in Chelsea
Santa on the Mill Porch
Santa is visiting the Shoppes of Alber Mill! Have a fun time meeting Santa and telling him your wish list one last time.
When: Saturday, Dec. 21, from 12 – 2 p.m.
Where: The Shoppes of Alber Mill in Dexter
Beaded and Baked Snowflakes!
The Saline Library will be having a craft time to make beaded and baked ornaments. Time to get creative and festive!
When: Thursday, Dec. 19, from 3 – 4:15 p.m.
Where: Saline District Library in Saline
Little Listeners Storytime
Join the Northfield Township Library for age appropriate story time, activities and songs for children.
When: Wednesday, Dec. 26, from 11 – 11:30 a.m.
Where: Northfield Township Area District Library in Whitmore Lake
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Resources
Talent Investment Agency
Are you currently on the job hunt? With the new year approaching, many individuals will begin to start the job search. The Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) is responsible for programs related to: job preparedness, career-based education, skilled trades training, incumbent worker training, employment assistance, STEM programs, and more!
Phone: (517) 241-6712
Website: https://www.michigan.gov/leo/
Need a Holiday Meal?
For a Washtenaw County holiday meal guide, provided by Food Gatherers, please call:
(734) 761-2796 or email info@foodgathers.org
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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