Dear Neighbor,
Here is some information that I hope you will find helpful, including some updates and news from your state government.
Upcoming Event: Coffee and Conversation at the South Lansing Library
Please join me for an in-person coffee hour on Monday, Sept. 19, from 12:30-1:30 p.m., at the South Lansing Library (3500 S. Cedar St. in Lansing). 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.
MI Court of Claims Rules Blocks 1931 Abortion Ban, Ballot Measure Approved
A Michigan Court of Claims Judge ruled on Wednesday, Sept. 7, that Michigan’s 1931 abortion ban is unconstitutional and granted a permanent injunction that stops enforcement of the law for the foreseeable future. This means that abortion care in Michigan is currently legal. Separately, the Board of State canvassers approved a ballot initiative on Friday that, if passed by voters this November, would amend the Michigan Constitution to guarantee reproductive freedom, including abortion care.
Great Start to Quality Central Resource Center Provides Resources and Services for Child Care Providers and Families in Mid-Michigan
On Monday, I toured the Great Start to Quality Central Resource Center in Lansing, which provides resources and services for child care providers and families. This includes assistance for improving child care settings, professional development and training opportunities, help for families searching for quality child care, and access to a free lending library with curriculum, child development books, DVDs, gross motor items, and more. More information about the Central Resource Center can be found here, or you can call their Lansing office at (517) 336-3785.
$83.8 Million in Affordable Housing Grants Announced, Lansing’s Walter French Renovation Will Receive $5 Million
Last week, $83.8 million in grant funding was announced for over 20 statewide affordable housing and community development programs. This includes $5 million for the Capital Area Housing Partnership to renovate Lansing’s historic Walter French Junior High School into affordable housing. Funding for these grants comes from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Revitalization and Placemaking program. In addition to the grant funding, Gov. Whitmer signed an executive order to create the Statewide Housing Partnership within the Michigan State Housing Development Authority. This partnership will work to ensure that every Michigan resident has affordable housing.
Sincerely,
Kara Hope
State Representative