Capitol and Community Updates

Earth DAY Celebration April 22: “Our Power, Our Planet” 

It’s time to celebrate Mother Earth…the planet we love and live on. This year’s theme for April 22 is “Our Power, Our Planet”, a rallying cry for people everywhere to reclaim their voice, their rights and their future.

would require a driver who is 75 years of age or older and who is seeking to renew or obtain a driver’s license to appear in person at the secretary of state’s office at least once every four years. Before that individual is issued a license, seniors would be required to pass a vision test, a driving skills test and a written knowledge test. An applicant who is 85 or older must pass the same tests in person at least once a year, according to the bill. The bill is waiting for a hearing in the Senate’s Transportation and Infrastructure committee. During a recent meeting of the Seniors Club in Redford Township, several questions arose like: Where is the data that shows older citizens are causing more traffic collisions? How will the Secretary of State enforce it and how much would that enforcement cost? Stay tuned as I follow this legislation and learn more.

Data Center moratoriums, proposed in bi-partisan bills House Bill 5594–95, would place a moratorium on the creation of data centers in communities across the state. These bills have been referred to the House Government Operations Committee for consideration and hopefully a hearing. I have begun hearing from constituents in the district opposing data centers in their neighborhoods or community overall. I understand the concerns and support making the best decisions for residents and the planet, including our access to fresh water supply. As this bill moves through committee, I am laser-focused on environmental impact and ensuring ratepayers aren’t on the hook for funding.

To the Governor’s Desk — Recent Public Acts:

Public Act 6 — This was signed into law by the governor to allow patients better access to physicians who are licensed in other states to continue practicing in Michigan. The Michigan Interstate Medical Licensure Compact streamlines the licensing process, allowing physicians qualified in other participating states to obtain an expedited Michigan license to practice ensuring continued continuity of care.

Public Act 7 – On a much lighter note, Michigan has officially named the Wood duck as the state’s official duck.

Iridescent green, purple, chestnut and white plumage, bright red eyes, a boxy head with bold white striping — wood ducks are often considered one of the most beautiful ducks in North America.

Michigan’s landscape is perfectly suited for wood ducks because it includes: forested wetlands, beaver ponds, slow‑moving wooded rivers and creeks. The state’s abundant inland lakes and rivers, especially in the Lower Peninsula, make it prime wood duck territory. Congratulations, Wood Duck!