Dear Neighbor,
Here is some information that I hope you will find helpful, including some updates and news from your state government.
County Prosecutors Temporarily Barred From Enforcing 1931 Abortion Ban
On Friday, an Oakland County judge granted an injunction to block county prosecutors from charging abortion providers with a felony. This means that Michigan’s 1931 abortion ban cannot be enforced, and abortion care is currently legal.
Separately, activists recently submitted signatures for a ballot initiative that, if passed by voters this November, would amend the Michigan Constitution to guarantee reproductive freedom, including abortion care. Assuming that the state elections board certifies the petition after reviewing the signatures, voters will have the opportunity to vote on the amendment in November. Judge Cunningham’s ruling guarantees that abortion remains safe and legal in Michigan at least until the November election.
Lansing School District Offers Bus Passes, Gas Cards for High School Students
Earlier this month, the Lansing School District announced that it would discontinue school bus routes for high school students. Instead, students at Eastern, Everett and J.W. Sexton high schools will be able to sign out a free CATA bus pass at their school’s respective back-to-school events. Parents who drive their students or students who drive themselves to school can apply for a free gas card. The gas card application and more information can be found here.
Eligible Families to Receive More Food Assistance this Month
Michigan families who are eligible for food assistance benefits will receive an additional $95 payment in August. Eligible households should have seen the additional benefits loaded onto their Bridge Cards by Aug. 22. More information can be found at michigan.gov/MIBridges.
Application Open for Third Round of Childcare Stabilization Grants
Applications are currently being accepted for the third round of Childcare Stabilization Grants. Under this program, child care providers in Michigan can apply for funding to help stabilize their business and support the health and safety of children and staff. Nearly 6,000 child care providers received funding, and 38,000 caregivers employed by these providers received bonuses.
Eligible providers include licensed child care centers, licensed family homes and group homes, and tribal-based child care. Head Start and Great Start Readiness Programs that provide tuition-based child care are also eligible. This is not a competitive grant, so all eligible providers should apply. Applications must be received by Sept. 9. Find more information and apply here.
Ingham County Needs More Participation in Internet Survey
The lack of reliable internet service is an issue I know affects residents of the 67th House District. This need became more pronounced during the pandemic.
To address this disparity, Ingham County is currently collecting data on internet reliability and access throughout the county. Interested residents and businesses are encouraged to fill out a five minute survey that will be used to develop a broadband service expansion plan. This survey can be accessed at www.michiganmoonshot.org/ingham or by texting “@moon” to (855) 613-1746. Paper surveys can be requested by calling (517) 676-7206. Responses must be submitted by Aug. 31.
Sincerely,
Kara Hope
State Representative