Hello Friends,

Happy New Year, and welcome to my first e-newsletter of 2026! It is an honor to continue to serve you as your state representative.  I’m proud to serve our community in Canton Township and to advocate for all residents across Michigan.

My team and I are back in Lansing and ready to get to work for you. Through these e-newsletters and different community events, we will keep you up to date on legislation, community events and other issues that matter to our community.

As always, if my office can be of assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact us via email at [email protected].

I hope you had a joyful Lohri to all who celebrate and a Happy MLK Day to everyone,

 

Warm regards,

Ranjeev Puri

Democratic Leader

24th House District

 

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In this Issue:

 

  • Upcoming Time with Ranjeev
  • Legislative Updates
  • What We’ve Been Up To
  • Resources
  • Community Events

 

UPCOMING TIME WITH RANJEEV

 

Community Coffee Hour

Join us at our next community event at Saj Bakery (49491 Cherry Hill Road, Canton, MI 4818) on Saturday, Feb. 21, at 11 a.m.

 
A graphic from Democratic Leader Ranjeev Puri for his upcoming community conversation hour on Saturday, February 21, at 11 AM at Saj Bakery on the 2nd floor of 49433 Cherry Hill Road, Canton, MI 48187

 

 

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

 

HB 4141 – Wireless Device Policy in Classrooms 

On Jan. 15, the House passed HB 4141, an important bill that limits the use of cell phones in schools during instructional time. An earlier version of this bill was introduced last July, but after listening to feedback from educators, parents and communities we knew it needed significant improvements. We worked to pause the process and push for meaningful negotiations. This time, we got it right. I’m proud to say that we were able to come to a compromise, to pass a bill that delivers policy that our schools and parents need.

Key provisions include:

  • Prohibiting the use of wireless communications devices on school grounds during instructional time.
  • Including exemptions for medically necessary devices, emergency citations, devices used for special education programming and more.

This bill was also approved by the Senate last week and is now headed to the governor’s desk for final consideration.

 

WHAT WE’VE BEEN UP TO

 

Detroit Auto Show Charity

On Jan. 14, I had the pleasure of attending the Detroit Auto Show Charity Preview alongside my team. This incredible event puts Michigan’s auto industry, auto workers and innovation front and center. It’s a powerful Detroit tradition that celebrates the city’s legendary grit and industrious spirit while also supporting meaningful charitable causes across the region.

 
Democratic Leader Ranjeev Puri with staff in front of a car at the Detroit Auto Show Charity Preview event.

 

MLK Day Celebration at the Village Arts Factory 

On Jan. 19, I had the honor of celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, alongside our community and students in Canton. MLK Day is not just a day of remembrance, but a call to action to uplift young voices and to lead with compassion, courage and commitment to justice for all.

 
Democratic Leader Ranjeev Puri with colleagues at the Village Arts Factory.

 

Business of the Month – Raja Rani 

Congratulations to our January Business of the Month: Raja Rani!

Located just off Ford Road in Canton, Raja Rani has a warm and welcoming atmosphere paired with a menu that has options for the whole family. Their  friendly and inviting staff truly makes it a one-of-a-kind food experience in our community.

 
Democratic Leader Ranjeev Puri presenting a tribute to the owner of Raja Rani.

 

Joining Community in Protest 

Over the past two weekends, I joined energized Michiganders at different gatherings across our community. Together, we used our voices to stand up against the current harmful policies by our federal administration, ICE raids and the threats to our First Amendment Rights. It was a privilege to stand shoulder to shoulder with my neighbors and advocates, peacefully defending the principles that define our democracy. We will continue to stand up for democracy every single day, protecting the rights, freedoms and values that make Michigan and our nation strong.

 
Democratic Leader Ranjeev Puri with community members outside holding protest signs.

 

TEACHER AND SMALL BUSINESS OF THE MONTH NOMINATIONS

 

Our team needs your help to recognize the amazing educators and small businesses in our community. Each month, my team recognizes one teacher and one small business from Canton for their contributions to our community. I will be surprising the winners with a visit, certificate from our office and social media shoutouts for their great work. Use this form to nominate a teacher or small business that you love, appreciate or believe deserves special recognition.

Big Bouncer Bonanza – Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026

Got the winter blues? Kids will have an opportunity to come out and bounce their blues away as they jump, climb, bounce and slide through the Big Bouncer Bonanza set up in the Summit gym. Enjoy obstacle courses, slides, bounce pads and other fun bouncy areas for children to enjoy and burn off some of that pent up mid-winter energy. Register for the one-hour session of your choice and enjoy an afternoon of bouncy fun! Children under four years will have a separate bounce area set up just for them. ALL CHILDREN MUST WEAR SOCKS TO PARTICIPATE.

 

RESOURCES

 

Winter Weather Reminders

  • Check on neighbors.
  • Charge your phone.
  • Locate flashlights & test batteries.
  • Follow local officials for updates.

Please remember to drive safely this snowy, icy season! Keep in mind to check your tires for tread, keep your gas tank full and ensure your vehicle is in good shape before heading out. When you are out driving please remember to slow down on ice, allow extra stopping distance and don’t crowd snowplows.

Be #WinterReady and remember: NEVER use a generator, camp stove, charcoal grill, gasoline or propane heater indoors. Instead, bundle up, safely use a space heater or visit a warming center in your area.

With the risk of icy roads and extremely low temperatures, the Michigan State Police encourage Michiganders to make a plan for winter weather emergency preparedness. To learn more about how to prepare for winter weather emergencies, check out the MIREADY Winter Weather Preparedness page at Michigan.gov/miready.

 

List of Resources You Can Contact

 

Cold Weather Safety Tips

To stay safe during this extreme cold, the Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division recommends the following:

  • Limit time outdoors. If you must go outside, wear several layers of warm clothing and watch for signs of frostbite or hypothermia.
  • Frostbite symptoms: Numbness, loss of feeling, pale or waxy skin, especially on the face, fingers and toes.
  • Hypothermia symptoms: Shivering, exhaustion, confusion, slurred speech or drowsiness.
  • Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Use generators and grills only outdoors and away from windows. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home.
  • Avoid overexertion. Shoveling snow can put extra strain on your heart, so take it easy and avoid sudden bursts of activity.
  • Check on others. Older adults, young children and pets are especially vulnerable to extreme cold and should be checked on regularly. Keep pets indoors.
  • Prepare for travel emergencies. If you must drive, ensure your gas tank is full and your vehicle is stocked with an emergency kit, including warm clothing, blankets, gloves, hats and a phone charger.
  • If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle and wait for help rather than attempting to walk in the cold.

 

Utility Assistance Programs

Winter can become stressful with high utility costs. Low-income Michiganders may qualify for assistance through MEAP. We are prepared to ensure everyone across the state stays warm this winter.

  • State Emergency Relief – State Emergency Relief is a crisis intervention program that provides assistance for energy-related expenses like heating fuel, electricity, and home repairs. Those who can demonstrate need are encouraged to apply online through MI Bridges.
  • Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) – The Michigan Public Service Commission administers the MEAP through MI Bridges. The purpose of the MEAP is to establish and administer statewide programs that provide energy assistance and self-sufficiency services to eligible low-income households. To seek help, contact 2-1-1 or your utility company to find programs in your area.
  • Weatherization Assistance Program – The Weatherization Assistance Program provides free home energy-conservation services to low-income Michigan homeowners and renters. These services can reduce energy use and lower utility bills. Some of the services include insulation, air leakage reduction, smoke detectors and dryer venting. These services are conducted by local Community Action Agencies and non-profit organizations. You can contact your local weatherization operator to start the application process.

 

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

 

Our office is always here to answer any questions, concerns, or listen to any thoughts you have on any particular issue. The best way to reach us is by email at [email protected]. We also hope you will join us for upcoming coffee hours so that we can meet and I can hear what is on your mind.