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Hello Friends, As we celebrate Black History Month, we’re reminded that this month is not only a time to reflect on the past, but also an opportunity to shape the future. It is a moment to recognize and honor the trailblazers who transformed our world, uplift the voices continuing to drive progress, and recognize the everyday contributions that continue to strengthen our communities. This month also brings many meaningful celebrations to our communities: Wishing all who celebrate the bright and prosperous Lunar New Year! May the year ahead bring happiness, health and prosperity. And to our Muslim community and friends, I wish you a blessed and peaceful Ramadan. 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].
Warm regards, Ranjeev Puri Democratic Leader 24th House District ________________________________________
In this Issue:
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UPCOMING TIME WITH RANJEEV |
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Community Coffee Hour Thank you to everyone who joined our last community conversation hour. We had a thoughtful discussion about the issues that matter most to our neighborhoods.
I look forward to seeing you at our next community conversation hour with more details coming soon!
In the meantime, please join us on Saturday, March 7, at 11 a.m. for a Know Your Rights Virtual Town Hall. RSVP here: Know Your Rights Virtual Town Hall with State Representative Ranjeev Puri and Special Guests.
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LEGISLATIVE UPDATE |
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Budget Season Begins The governor’s budget recommendation includes many programs House Democrats have long championed, including universal school meals, tax relief for working families and retirees and free pre-K. Also, she lays out proposals for boosted per-pupil funding, support for students inside and outside of the classroom, and expanding the Michigan Reconnect program, among others. I look forward to working with my colleagues across the aisle and across the capitol to negotiate a balanced, on-time budget that uplifts all Michiganders.
2026 State of the State Address You can watch the governor’s address online here, on Facebook and YouTube.
Bipartisan Housing Package A new nine-bill bipartisan housing package was introduced this week in the House of Representatives. The bills focus on making it easier to build new homes in the state by modernizing zoning laws and streamlining the development process to address the urgent housing issues currently in Michigan. We all know housing is one of Michigan’s most urgent challenges; this is a step toward increasing supply and affordability. The bills are currently waiting for their first hearing.
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WHAT WE’VE BEEN UP TO |
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Teacher of the Month — Mr. Boykin Congratulations to our February teacher of the month — Mr. Boykin! Mr. Boykin is often described as a teacher who goes above and beyond. He creates a supportive environment in his classes, ensuring students never feel overwhelmed or discouraged. His dedication extends well beyond academics — he recognizes the importance of the social aspects of students’ lives and consistently shows up to support them at events both inside and outside of school. He can often be found cheering with students at Indian American Student Association events, encouraging participants in Science Olympiad and engaging wholeheartedly in the activities that matter to them.
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Business of the Month — Artful Gatherings Congratulations to our February Business of the Month — Artful Gatherings! This locally owned creative studio offers guided paint nights, private parties, team-building events and kids’ art experiences. Whether you’re planning a date night, family outing or gathering with friends, Artful Gatherings is a wonderful example of the small businesses that make our community vibrant.
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Black History Month Celebrations — Governor’s Reception I was honored to attend the governor’s reception recognizing Black History Month. We paused to celebrate the strength, resilience, leadership and lasting contributions of the Black community, past and present.
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National Wear Red Day I joined my colleagues in wearing red in recognition of American Heart Month. Heart health matters, especially for women, and raising awareness saves lives. Also, Wednesday, Feb. 18, I introduced House Resolution No. 246 to declare Feb. 16-20, 2026, as Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD) Awareness Week in Michigan. This issue is deeply personal to me, and increasing awareness can help save lives through early recognition and better understanding of this condition.
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Annual Northern Michigan Policy Conference Panel I was glad to join the Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance’s annual Northern Michigan Policy Conference to discuss the housing crisis impacting Michigan. Expanding housing stock and increasing affordability are essential. That means removing unnecessary red tape, modernizing zoning and regulatory barriers and addressing how tariffs and inflation continue to drive up building costs. Michigan’s housing challenges are complex, but they are solvable with smart, practical policy choices.
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RESOURCES |
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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.
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More information can be found on the Canton website. Big Bouncer Bonanza — Saturday, Feb. 28 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 on the Park Gymnasium, located at 46000 Summit Pkwy. 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. You can register your child for the one-hour session of your choice and enjoy an afternoon of bouncy fun! Children under 4 years will have a separate bounce area set up just for them. All children must wear socks to participate.
Bunny Hop — Saturday, March 14 Enjoy a night of music and dancing with the Easter Bunny! This family dance will take place at the Summit on the Park, located at 46000 Summit Pkwy. Don’t “hop” in too late, the Bunny will only be available for pictures for the first hour of the event; the last hour they will be shaking their cotton tail on the dance floor with you! Pre-registration is required.
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WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU |
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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. |