Dear Neighbor,

Here is some information that I hope you will find helpful, including some updates and news from your state government.

Upcoming Event: Facebook Live Coffee Hour

Please join me for a Facebook Live coffee hour this Monday, Jan. 31, from 11 a.m. to noon. You will find the event on my Facebook page at that time. I will give a legislative update and answer any questions you may have. Please email KaraHope@house.mi.gov with any questions or topics you would like covered. I look forward to speaking with you all soon.

Judiciary Committee Hears Testimony on Bill to Remove Cap on County Rewards

On Tuesday, the House Judiciary Committee heard testimony on my bill. House Bill 4173 would remove the $2,000 limit on the amount of money a county can offer as a reward for the arrest and conviction of wanted criminal suspects or jail escapees. The $2,000 has been in statute since 1927. Thank you to Ingham County Sheriff Scott Wriggelsworth for his testimony in support of the bill.

Hope 1

Gov. Whitmer Delivers Virtual State of the State

Gov. Whitmer delivered her fourth State of the State address last night from Detroit Diesel. She highlighted proposals to support small businesses, cut taxes and reduce costs for working families. Additionally, she laid out plans that will lower the costs of insulin, create tens of thousands of construction jobs and ensure our seniors can retire with peace of mind. I look forward to working with my colleagues and Gov. Whitmer to achieve these goals. A recording of the speech can be found here.

General Motors Announces $7 Billion Investment in Michigan

General Motors announced this week that they are investing $7 billion into four manufacturing facilities across Michigan. This includes the construction of a $2.5 billion battery cell manufacturing facility in Delta Township and an investment of over $500 million in the Lansing Grand River Assembly and Lansing Delta Township Assembly plants to upgrade production. This investment will create 4,000 jobs statewide and will put Michigan at the center of electric vehicle development and manufacturing.

Free COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic at Breslin Center

Michigan State University and the Ingham County Health Department are offering free COVID-19 vaccination clinics this month at the Breslin Center. The last clinic will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 31. Booster shots will be available for those who qualify. Everyone ages five and older in Michigan is eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Schedule an appointment here.

Sincerely,

Kara Hope

State Representative