Dear Neighbor,

The past few weeks have been busy in the House of Representatives. I have been working on passing a variety of legislation that supports all Michiganders and interacting with constituents across the 52nd District. I look forward to seeing many of you at my upcoming district events in the next few months.

As always, you can contact my staff and me at (517) 373-0828, by email at DonnaLasinski@house.mi.gov or by visiting my website at RepLasinski.com with any questions, thoughts or suggestions.

Executive Update 

Child Care Stabilization Grant

On Nov. 8, Gov. Whitmer announced the launch of the Child Care Stabilization Grant, which totals $350 million and will provide $1,000 bonuses to every full-time child care professional in the state. Child care businesses and professionals have faced many difficulties and hardships during these unprecedented times, and they have consistently been at the forefront of providing an essential service to so many Michigan families.

Licensed child care providers are eligible to apply by visiting Michigan.gov/childcare. Child care professionals will be awarded bonuses directly from their employers and should not apply individually.

Legislative Update 

Rejecting the Legitimization of Private Prisons

Last week in session, I voted NO on House Bill 4033, which would extend certain state prison policies to private prisons. I voted no because introducing cellular or wireless communication devices in the type of correctional facility covered in this bill is a violation of federal law, and additionally, legitimizing private correctional facilities in the law may result in an increase in their use throughout the state. I hope you support me in my decision to vote no on HB 4033. On Nov. 9, it passed the House 75-29 and has been referred to the Senate Judiciary and Public Safety Committee.

Protecting Medical Patients from Abuse

Last week in session, I voted YES on House Bills 4853 and 4855 to require medical records referencing treatment of an individual that involves sensitive medical procedures by a health professional to be retained for 15 years by the health professional and health facility or agency, with violations subject to criminal sanctions. These bills will allow survivors to pursue a case and seek justice if needed. The bills passed the house 104-1 on Wednesday, Nov. 10, and are waiting to be referred to the proper Senate committee.

Information continues to change rapidly, and we are working hard to share updates and information as quickly as possible on social media. Please take a moment to like and follow me on Facebook, as this is where information will first be shared.

Keeping You Informed 

You may wish to sign up for committee notices in order to receive the most up-to-date information on bills. By doing so, you will receive notifications as soon as the committee chairs post the next meeting’s date and time, making you among the first to know when committees will be meeting and what legislation is placed on the agenda for debate. For your convenience, the link to the sign-up page is here.

District Programs 

Washtenaw County Health Department COVID-19 Vaccine & Flu Shot Clinic

The Washtenaw County Health Department hosts a COVID-19 vaccine clinic every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at its offices in Ypsilanti. Pizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines and boosters are available. If you would like to also receive the flu shot, you can request it at the same time. You can find more information here.

Where: Washtenaw County Health Department, 555 Towner St. in Ypsilanti

When: Tuesdays from 9-11:30 a.m. 1-3:30p.m. and 5-7 p.m.; Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 9-11:30 a.m. and 1-3:30 p.m.

*Please note that the vaccine clinic will be closed Nov. 23-26, and normal hours will resume on Tuesday, Nov. 30.

If you are in need of ONLY a flu shot, you can find vaccination locations by using the Public Influenza Vaccine Providers Tracker here.

Upcoming Time with Donna 

Come out and join me at my next coffee hour in December. We’ll talk about upcoming legislation and answer any questions you have on topics important to you. Please note we have moved our Coffee hour to Friday, Dec. 3.

When: Friday, Dec. 3, from 8-9 a.m.

Where: TBD

What to Do in HD 52

Evening Story Time at the Manchester District Library

Join Miss Stacia at the Manchester District Library for stories, songs and activities — recommended for ages 3 to 8.

When: Monday, Nov. 22, at 5:15 p.m.

Where: Manchester District Library, 912 City Road in Manchester

More information: http://www.manchesterlibrary.info/#gsc.tab=0

Tree Lighting Ceremony in Saline

Join Saline at the Tree Lighting Ceremony, where there will be singing, light fare and tree decorating. Light refreshments will be in the KeyBank lobby. The tree is in front of KeyBank at the corner of Michigan Avenue and North Ann Arbor Street.

When: Tuesday, Nov. 30, from 6-7:30 p.m.

Where: KeyBank, 100 W. Michigan Ave. in Saline

Helpful Resources 

Where to Get a COVID-19 Vaccine in Washtenaw County

The Washtenaw County Health Department’s website has a list of the places in Washtenaw County you can sign up to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. This list gives the location and any links needed to schedule your vaccine appointment. Find the list here.

COVID-19/Coronavirus Resources

You can receive continual updates from the MI Dept. of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) by clicking here.

Washtenaw Community Mental Health (CMH)

A 24-hour crisis services and mobile crisis team that can assist you in navigating mental health care services. You can call or text the CARES team at (734) 544-3050.

I Want to Hear from You 

During this challenging time, I want to hear from you. What do you need? How can we help you? Please, reach out to me at DonnaLasinski@house.mi.gov.

Sincerely,

Donna Lasinski

State Representative, House District 52