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,
Erin Byrnes
State Representative
Michigan’s 15th House District
Legislative Updates
House Republicans’ SAVE Act
Michigan House Republicans recently introduced a state version of the SAVE Act, House Bill 4765, which I believe is another attempt to undermine the integrity of voting systems in Michigan and disenfranchise voters. Michigan is second in the nation for secure elections, and our state already has a strong system in place to ensure that only eligible citizens are voting. In addition, people who have changed their names might become disenfranchised due to these tighter proposed restrictions. These restrictions may slow down the mail-in process which could put people who cannot register in person, like senior and military members, at risk of losing their registration.
This bill could raise costs for families across Michigan, who are already suffering under increased gas prices and rising utility costs. The new proof-of-citizenship measures would require some voters to pay for documents in order to vote, costing the voter anywhere from $34 to $150 to register or re-register to express their right to vote.
Voting is a fundamental constitutional right. I am proud to vote no on any bill, including House Bill 4765, that attempts to restrict eligible voters from exercising their right to vote.
Resolution Calling on Congress to Investigate the Bombing of the All-Girls School in Iran
Recently, I introduced a resolution calling on Congress to investigate the bombing of the all-girls school in Iran and calling for Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to resign. As an educator, I was devastated to learn that students died in what should have been a safe place to learn and grow. I condemn all violence against children.
The House and Senate Armed Forces Committees must investigate this despicable act of violence. The bombing of civilians is a war crime, and as the Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth bears responsibility for the department’s actions. I believe Secretary Hegseth must resign.
Additional remarks on my resolution can be viewed here.
Youth Service Month in Michigan
This month, I introduced a commemorative resolution declaring April 10 – May 10, 2026, as Youth Service Month in the state of Michigan. Youth Service Month is a month dedicated to young people across Michigan in recognition of their dedication, leadership and engagement in their homes, schools and communities. This resolution would not be possible without the hard work and advocacy of Mahdi Nasrala, a student at Dearborn High School.
Youth Service Month highlights the next generation of Michigan’s leaders, thinkers, innovators, public servants, entrepreneurs and community builders. It is important to recognize their accomplishments and encourage further participation and growth.
You can watch my floor speech here.
Resolution Calling on the Department of Justice to Investigate All Individuals Mentioned in the Epstein Files Regardless of Party
I recently introduced a resolution calling for the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate all individuals mentioned in the Epstein files, regardless of an individual’s party affiliation. The DOJ has already released 3.5 million documents related to Epstein’s criminal enterprise, but Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, while in his capacity as Deputy Attorney General, said there would be no further federal criminal charges, despite evidence of criminal wrongdoing in the files.
I stand with the victims and survivors of Jeffrey Epstein. The DOJ needs to investigate any person mentioned in the files, regardless of party, to determine who was a conspirator, who was merely mentioned and who was a victim. This will allow the DOJ to protect the victims with proper redacts and prosecute those who were involved.
News and Community Updates
Arab American Heritage Month
April is Arab American Heritage Month in the state of Michigan. I am proud to have co-sponsored the House resolution that celebrates the essential role of Arab Americans across their communities and the state of Michigan.
March is Reading Month
March is Reading Month 2026 is in the books! I am so grateful to all of the schools in Dearborn and Dearborn Heights who invited me to be a guest reader. As a former teacher, I look forward to visiting our schools each year to share stories and spend time with students.
Youth MOVE Roundtable
I was invited to join the Children’s Center and Youth MOVE Detroit to hear from young people about the issues impacting their lives and communities. Youth MOVE Detroit looks to empower Michigan’s youth through community engagement, advocacy and partnerships, which is a mission I am proud to support.
Dearborn Chamber Choice Awards
The Dearborn Chamber Choice Awards was an opportunity for me to meet local businesses and individuals in our community and acknowledge their positive impact in Dearborn.
Michael Berry Career Center Anniversary
We recently celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Michael Berry Career Center in Dearborn Heights. The Michael Berry Career Center offers Career and Technical Education Programs in various subjects and grants the students the opportunity to earn college credits. I was happy to attend the anniversary event and support this important resource in our community.
WILL+ Panel
On March 25, I attended the Women In Learning and Leadership + Alumnae Panel, where I had the opportunity to speak to U of M Dearborn students and share my career path with them. It is always great to return to campus!
Cultural Ambassadors Achievement Award
In late March, I was awarded the Cultural Ambassadors Achievement Award from the International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit. It was an honor to be recognized alongside other women across the world and in various professions.
House of Gold Ribbon Cutting
I was honored to join Mayor Baydoun at the ribbon cutting ceremony and grand opening of House of Gold in Dearborn Heights. I am proud to support new businesses in our community!
41st Annual Volunteer Recognition Luncheon
It was a privilege to honor Joan Wiggins and Carl Monroe as the 2026 Volunteers of the Year for the City of Dearborn as well as recognize the other members of our community who donate their time to better our city.
HYPE 25th Anniversary
Last week, I attended the HYPE 25th Anniversary Dinner. For 25 years, HYPE has worked to support the development of Wayne County’s youth. HYPE offers diverse programming in everything from athletic training to life skills training to help prepare young people for the future. I was so pleased to support a pillar in the Dearborn Heights community.
Rotary Annual Bookshelf Build
Last weekend, I helped build bookshelves for third grade students across District 7 in Dearborn Heights. This year, over 200 bookshelves were built by members of the Rotary Club and other volunteers at Madison Early Learning Center. I’ll keep working to make sure all kids have access to books so they can be better readers, writers and thinkers.