Hello,

My first grandchild was recently born. I imagined what she would say to me if she could speak.

“Grandpa, could you check out a 529 plan for me?”

“You’re only a day old! They must be playing you ‘Mozart For Babies’!”

“I just don’t want you to procrastinate.”

529 plans provide tax savings for people who save for college expenses. I doubt my granddaughter has any taxable income yet, so the deduction won’t do much good.

To keep up to date with the happenings in Lansing, you can visit my website or follow me on Facebook @HouseJimH.

Legislative Updates

General Motors Announces Investment That Will Bring 4,000 New Jobs to Michigan

General Motors announced a $7 billion investment that includes the creation of a new electric vehicle battery plant, along with a $4 billion investment into their Orion assembly plant. These projects will create 4,000 new jobs in Michigan as part of their effort to move to 100% electric vehicle production by 2035.

Michigan has a long and proud history of making the best vehicles in the world. We’re now building on that legacy to make the cars of tomorrow while creating good-paying, union factory jobs. We’ve worked across the aisle to make Michigan a business-friendly state, and our work is paying off.

Whitmer Proposes Bonuses for Teachers and Other Front-Line Workers

In the proposed budget for the 2023 fiscal year, Gov. Whitmer has included bonuses for teachers and frontline workers. Whitmer proposed a total of $500 million for frontline workers as a one-time “hero pay” bonus. Whitmer also proposed $2,000 bonuses for school employees and an $18.4 billi

on investment in the School Aid Fund.

Events and Resources

Michigan Homeowner Assistance Fund

The Michigan Homeowner Assistance Fund is a part of the American Rescue Plan signed into law by President Joe Biden. The MIHAF will support citizens who are behind on their mortgage payments along with other housing-related expenses. This resource will help Michigan families stay in their homes. If you or someone you know is having trouble with home-related expenses, apply here.

Rep. Rogers Hosts Veterans Listening Tour

One of my colleagues, state Rep. Julie Rogers of Kalamazoo, hosted a listening tour to meet with veterans to learn about their concerns. I was happy to attend her event with Southwest Michigan Veterans on Feb. 11.

Tax Assistance Guides

My office has distributed tax guides to local libraries and township halls for the upcoming tax season. The Michigan Treasury Department and the federal Internal Revenue Service mailed paper tax forms to these same entities in mid-February. If you need assistance with filing your taxes, click here to search for volunteers that can help. The American Rescue Plan Act contains several tax credits and deductions expansions. Speak to a professional or a trained volunteer so you know you’re claiming all of the benefits possible.

Meet your State Representative

On the first Saturday of each month, I go to Mr. Don’s at 9 a.m. in Springfield and Stirling Books and Brew in Albion at 1 p.m. to discuss issues facing the state. Please stop by if you’d like to bring state government problems to my attention. I enjoy meeting and catching up with constituents.

News from the District

City of Battle Creek Implements New Text Notification System

Textedly is an SMS/texting notification system to reach community members better. This tool will allow the city of Battle Creek to text its residents about a variety of topics if you choose to opt in. If you would like to receive text messages from the city, you can opt in by texting BCALERTS to (844) 673-7474 to subscribe to emergency alerts (boil water advisories, severe weather, crime emergencies, etc.) Text BCNEWS to (844) 673-7474 to subscribe to general city news (building closures, events, elections and city service info).

Summit Pointe Expands to Albion

Summit Pointe, a critical mental health resource in Calhoun County, recently opened its new location in Albion in the Munger Building. Summit Pointe has been in Albion for many years now, providing services previously as Behavioral Health Resources (BHR). I hosted a Mental Health listening tour at Albion College in November and spoke on the importance of having these resources in Albion. It’s great to see this expansion of mental health services in Calhoun County.

I hope this information has been helpful to you. If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please reach out. You can email me at any time at JimHaadsma@house.mi.gov or call my office at (517) 373-0555.

Respectfully,

Jim Haadsma

State Representative

House District 62