Hello friends,

Spring is in full swing, and the Democratic majority in the House of Representatives has returned to Lansing for what is shaping up to be a very productive summer in the Michigan Legislature.

Before I catch you up on what’s been happening in Lansing, I’d like to make sure you were notified of my Town Hall on Safe Schools happening TONIGHT at Lakeview High School from 6-7:30 p.m. Those of you who check my Facebook page may already be aware, so I apologize for another reminder, but for anyone who subscribes to my newsletters that has not yet received word about my upcoming town hall, please make sure to add me on Facebook to stay up to date with my latest events and announcements.

Legislative Updates

Since my winter 2023 newsletter, much has changed — and yet, a lot has stayed the same. At the end of 2023, we said goodbye to two Democratic representatives after they left to serve as mayors of their hometowns. What followed was an unprecedented period in Michigan politics. Never before had the Michigan House of Representatives been split 54-54. Legislation that received bipartisan support just weeks prior was put on hold.

Despite the tie, we still found ways to come together to serve you, our constituents, the people of the state of Michigan. I was particularly proud to have the support of my colleagues in declaring April 28, 2024, as Workers Memorial Day in Michigan to honor our friends, family members and colleagues who have been killed or harmed on the job. Tragically, in Michigan alone, 139 workers lost their lives in workplace accidents in 2022, and many more suffered debilitating injuries or illnesses. We need to honor the memory of the individuals we’ve lost and recognize their integrity, hard work and achievements. Our workforce is the backbone of our state. All workers deserve a safe workplace.

And now, within a week, we will be welcoming our newly elected Democratic members to the House floor for their first votes as Michigan state representatives.

Good News for Our District

Several local schools and organizations received grants from the state of Michigan in the past few months. I can’t express how truly grateful I am that there are so many dedicated individuals in our community that work hard to secure funding for programs that help our kids, schools and young adults get the support that they need to lead fulfilling lives.

The Calhoun County Land Bank secured an additional $3 million blight elimination grant from the Michigan State Land Bank Authority for a total of $5.7 million in the past year! Eliminating blighted properties makes communities safer, improves public health, raises property values and paves the way for new homes in the area. It’s a great way to improve neighborhoods across the county.

The Burma Center, the First Congregational Church of Battle Creek, UCC and R.I.S.E. Corp. were awarded funding from the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s Community Center Grant Program! This total investment of $1.35 million will empower these organizations to continue their impactful work, fostering community engagement, providing vital resources and enhancing the well-being of Battle Creek residents.

Battle Creek Public Schools and Marshall Public Schools won competitive grants to support students and their families by better connecting them to community resources. In Battle Creek, the $226,540 grant will be used to address chronic absenteeism and to organize community events to bring together community members. Meanwhile, Marshall plans to use its $75,750 award for additional staff and outreach.

Kellogg Community College was awarded a $350,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to support its Paramedic Certificate Program. This grant covers full program costs for up to 20 students and includes additional support for things like transportation and childcare.

Coffee Hours

The input we receive from constituents is important, and I am committed to continuing this approach in the months ahead. Your voice matters. I am dedicated to representing your interests in our state capital. Reach out to me at JimHaadsma@house.mi.gov or give my office a call at (517) 373-2616. My team and I hold coffee hours on the first Saturday of each month from 9-11 a.m. at Mr. Don’s and from 1-2:30 p.m. at Stirling Books and Brew in Albion. I enjoy meeting new folks and catching up with people whenever I can, so come out and visit with us to advocate for your community.

Mr. Don’s: 341 N. 20th St., Springfield, MI 49037

Stirling Books and Brew: 119 N. Superior St., Albion, MI 49224

Thank you for reading my newsletter. Please visit my website and follow me on Facebook or Twitter for updates on the happenings in Lansing, upcoming events and more.

Respectfully,

Jim Haadsma
State Representative
District 44