Dear Neighbors,

 

Welcome to my e-newsletter. In the spirit of honoring our veterans this weekend, this issue focuses on issues impacting veterans and resources available to those who have served.

 

Michigan is home to the 11th largest veteran population in the nation, with over 550,000 veterans accounting for over 7 percent of the state’s adult population. It is vital that we provide comprehensive support to them, from waiving teaching license and medical record fees, providing property tax credits and free public transportation, to creating a special hotline for reporting instances of abuse, neglect or exploitation.

 

I’m deeply grateful to have the privilege to serve as state representative for the 6th House District. If there is anything I can do to help you and your family, please do not hesitate to call my office at (517) 373-0823, email me at TyroneCarter@house.mi.gov, or stop by my office in Lansing.

 

In this Edition:

  • ‘Supporting MI Veterans’ Legislative Package
  • Protecting Our Veterans’ Water
  • From Camo to Classroom
  • Resources for Veterans

 

 

‘Supporting MI Veterans’ Legislative Package

 

I was proud to recently sponsor a bill to waive license plate registration fees for Prisoners of War, Medal of Honor recipients and veterans with disabilities as part of House Democrats’ comprehensive Supporting MI Veterans package, aimed at increasing support for Michigan’s brave men and women in uniform when they return home.

 

Veterans have sacrificed so much for our country. We need to ensure we’re doing all we can to recognize their service.

 

Protecting Our Veterans’ Water

 

Clean water has not been a guarantee for too many Michigan communities, especially for veterans and their families who worked and lived near Air Force bases or airports. Amid a growing statewide concern for PFAS, comprehensive and collaborative action continues to be taken by the Michigan PFAS Action Response Team (MPART), tasked with addressing the threat of contamination, protecting public health and ensuring the safety of Michigan’s natural resources.

 

After serving our country and keeping us safe, it is up to us to now ensure our veterans and their families can trust that all water sources around them are free from harmful chemicals, especially the water coming out of their taps. If you are concerned about past or current exposure to PFAS, please contact the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Toxicology Hotline at (800) 648-6942.

 

For more information on Michigan’s PFAS response, please:

o    By phone, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. at (800) 662-9278

o    By email at egle-assist@michigan.gov

 

 

From Camo to Classroom

 

For eligible veterans, the Michigan Troops to Teachers program aids in the transition from military service to a new career as a classroom teacher in K-12 public schools. Although the Troops to Teachers program is not a certification nor employment agency, the Michigan office does provide valuable information and career counseling assistance for certification requirements, teacher preparation programs that lead to certification and assistance in identifying teaching positions. This program is available in Michigan to:

  • Military retirees
  • Members on active duty who are within one year of their retirement date
  • Members of the National Guard and Selective Reserves with 10 or more years of creditable service
  • Members transitioning from active duty with at least 6 years of active duty and who commit for 3 years of service in the National Guard or Selective Reserves
  • Members separated due to physical disability after Jan. 8, 2002 (Note: Must register within 4 years of separation)

 

For more information, please visit their website at proudtoserveagain.com/States/Michigan or call (517) 241-7045. You can also call toll-free at (866) 801-0007.

 

 

Resources for Veterans

 

I believe our community and state are stronger when ALL citizens have access to the tools, resources and opportunities they need to succeed, especially those who courageously served our country. That begins by ensuring access to:

 

Strong Employment Opportunities

Contact the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency at www.michiganveterans.com or call the agency at (800) MICH-VET. Or, visit Pure Michigan Talent Connect at or call the Customer Service Center at (888) 522-0103.

 

Quality Health Care

Contact the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency at www.michiganveterans.com or call the agency at (800) MICH-VET. Or visit www.va.gov/healthbenefits or call (877) 222-VETS (8387) Monday-Friday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

 

Affordable Housing

Contact the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs at www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans or call (800) 729-5772 Monday-Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. For long-term care, visit www.michiganveterans.com/categories/Veterans_Homes or call the agency at (800) MICH-VET.

 

Mental Health Resources

You are not alone.

If you are in an emotional crisis and need immediate help, please call (800) 273-8255 and Press 1, or text 838255 for phone, online chat or text-message service with a crisis counselor.

 

Useful Resources and Benefits For Veterans

Our state government publishes a booklet listing many local, state and federal resources. If you would like a copy of “Veteran Benefits & Services: For Michigan Military Veterans,” please contact my office.

 

Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency Resources (State)

 

 

 

I hope everyone has a very meaningful Veterans Day, and never hesitate to reach out to me or my staff if you have any questions or concerns!

 

Sincerely,

 

Tyrone Carter

State Representative

6th House District