Dear Neighbor, this e-newsletter is designed to keep you updated on the latest activities in the Michigan House of Representatives and will include an overview of recent and upcoming events, news and activities. It’s an honor to serve as your representative for the 15th State House District, which includes the west end of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights.
If you ever need to reach me, please call my office at 517-373-0847 or email me at [email protected].
In Service,
State Representative
Michigan’s 15th House District
Upcoming Events
Please join me for my upcoming community conversation on Monday, Oct. 19, at 2 p.m. Community conversations are a great way to hear updates from Lansing and discuss the issues facing our community.
Join me and special guests, U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib and state Rep. Dylan Wegela on Saturday, Nov. 14, at noon for a Town Hall on Data Centers. We’ll talk about pending legislation, environmental impact and get your input on this critical issue!
Legislative Updates
Freedom of Information Act Legislation
In August, state Rep. Betsy Coffia and I introduced House Bills 6299 and 6300, designed to increase transparency in the state government. These bills would require the state Legislature and governor’s office to comply with Michigan’s existing Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). These bills are similar to Senate Bills 1 and 2 that were introduced in Jan. 2025, and they passed the Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support.
We need to address the lack of transparency in our state government. Michigan received an “F” grade and ranked dead last in the nation in government integrity, according to the National Center for Public Integrity in 2015. Michiganders deserve to see how decisions are made in Lansing, and these bills are a necessary step in establishing accountability measures for the state government.
Respecting the Will of the Voters
On Aug. 25, the House took up Republican legislation that would curb political donations from utility companies and government contractors. Although I fundamentally believe in curbing unchecked campaign spending, I voted ‘no’ on this legislation because it would have allowed the Legislature to amend and possibly weaken the language at a later date. More than half a million Michiganders signed the petition for the ballot measure that addresses this issue, and with my vote, I chose to respect the will of the people and let this issue go to the November ballot.
You can view my no-vote explanation here.
Mammography Day
I introduced legislation to declare Oct. 16 as Mammography Day in the state of Michigan. This resolution serves as a reminder for Michiganders to get screened for breast cancer by getting an annual mammogram. Approximately 9,900 residents are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, and around 1,350 residents die due to breast cancer. Mammograms are the key to early detection, and huge improvements in mammography technology can lead to earlier detection of more invasive cancers.
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends that people age 40 and over at average risk receive an annual mammogram. For those at high risk, or with a family history of breast cancer, screenings may be recommended even earlier. Our state must continue to provide resources, support and information to those across the state, so we can continue to fight for better health outcomes.
You can watch my floor speech here.
Personal Protection Orders
I was proud to vote yes on House Bills 5120 and 5121. These bills would allow for law enforcement to serve certain personal protection orders without charging the person who requested the order. They would remove another barrier that survivors face when seeking an escape or safety. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues and survivors.
News and Community Updates
September Community Conversation
On Sept. 21, I held my September community conversation at the JFK Jr. Library. I had the opportunity to speak with constituents about the current and forthcoming local construction projects, updates on the Line 5 pipeline and my recent vote on the MMOP-related Republican legislation in the House.
Our next community conversation is Monday, Oct. 19, at 2 p.m.
9/11 Remembrance Ceremonies
I attended two 9/11 Remembrance Ceremonies in honor of the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.
In Dearborn, we remembered and honored those who lost their lives as well as the first responders who served so courageously at the scene of the attacks and the days that followed.
In Lansing, I was honored to welcome Captain Kamal Alsawafy, Captain in the Michigan Army National Guard and Dearborn City Council President Pro Tem. Captain Alsawafy served his country in the military, where he earned the Bronze Star Medal and the Combat Action Badge. He now continues to serve his community as President Pro Tem of the Dearborn City Council. His dedication serves as an inspiration to us all.
Fair Lane Event
On Aug. 26, I had the opportunity to attend An Evening for Fair Lane in support of the restoration of Fair Lane, the home of Clara and Henry Ford. This year’s event focused on The Vagabonds and followed the adventures of Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone and John Burroughs. I was able to tour parts of the renovated house, including the historic garage, in an evening dedicated to the preservation of Dearborn’s history.
Chili Cook-Off
On Sept. 12, I attended the Dearborn Heights Fire Department’s 34th Annual Chili Cook-Off. This was a great opportunity to benefit Local 1355 charities and the Great Lakes Burn Camp. I am proud to support our firefighters who continue to serve our community every day.
Local Construction Projects
Here are some updates on the construction projects in and around the district:
- The Cherry Hill Road repaving project in Dearborn Heights that was scheduled to begin construction in April 2027 was moved up, and work started in early September. The project is slated to end in late November.
- W. Outer Drive between Southfield and Michigan Avenue saw the road resurfacing portion of this construction completed in late August. Some traffic cones remain, and additional work continues.
- Oakwood Blvd. remains under construction and is open for two-way traffic.
- The Chase Road and Ruby Ave. roundabout project began on Sept. 21. Detour signs will be posted as road closures occur, and the detour plans can be found here.
The City of Dearborn and the City of Dearborn Heights will continue to provide updates on construction projects via their respective social media pages and websites.
Updates for road maintenance for the City of Dearborn can be found here.
Updates for road maintenance for the City of Dearborn Heights can be found here.