Capitol and Community Update

White House Visit

I had the honor of visiting the White House last month. I was invited, along with other county and city officials, labor leaders and nonprofit managers, to share stories about how the Inflation Reduction Act, American Rescue Plan and the Infrastructure and Investment Jobs Act have helped our communities.

We began the day with policy briefings and special guests, including Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm. We learned about the implementation of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and grant processes for how communities can apply for funds for projects. I am grateful to have had this incredible opportunity.

Focus on Youth Art

As a co-chair of the Legislative Art & Culture Caucus, I enjoy supporting and uplifting the arts whenever possible. Since the beginning of my term in January, we have hosted 24 individual pieces of art created by Kalamazoo youth. We generally showcase them in our office for three months and then present the youth with a commemorative plaque indicating their artwork was displayed in our state’s capital. One of the young artists, PJ Morrow, is pictured here with his parents, Terry and Meri.

Legislative Update — Lame Duck

Legislative sessions in Michigan last two years, and the post-election period at the end of a session is known as “lame duck.” Due to term limits and election outcomes, many current legislators will not be returning in the 2023-24 session, and this is their last chance to vote for their priorities. The lame duck period is unpredictable and often intense.

Any bill that does not pass before the Legislature adjourns for the last time will expire. Bills are often re-introduced in a subsequent legislative session, but they must start over in their path through the legislative process.

We don’t know what to expect in this lame duck, or what we will be asked to vote on. My priority, as always, is to faithfully represent my constituents. I will carefully weigh the choices before us and vote in the best interests of the people of Kalamazoo. In making these decisions, I rely on input from constituents like you. Please contact my office at JulieRogers@house.mi.gov or (517) 373-1783 if you would like to share an opinion on state policy or legislation.

Veterans’ Day Ceremony 

As the Democratic vice chair of the House Committee on Military, Veterans and Homeland Security, I am deeply appreciative of veterans’ service to our country. To honor them, I plan to attend the Veterans’ Day ceremony hosted by the Kalamazoo Veterans’ Service Office at the Robert L. Cook Veterans Memorial Plaza at Rose Park (645 E. Michigan Ave. in Kalamazoo) The ceremony will be held this Friday, Nov. 11, from 2-3 p.m. All are welcome to attend.

Kalamazoo’s Holiday Parade

Once again, we will join our 60th District Service Office and march in the Kalamazoo Holiday Parade, which will take place in downtown Kalamazoo on Nov. 19, starting at 11 a.m. Our group’s theme this year is “thankfulness.” This year’s route has not yet been confirmed, but in past years it has been:

Start, Lovell & Jasper

Lovell to Park St.

Park St. to Michigan Ave.

Michigan Ave. to Pitcher St.

Pitcher St. to Lovell St., End.

As always, if you have ideas, questions, or concerns please reach out to our office at JulieRogers@house.mi.gov.