Hello Neighbor,
Thank you for opening my monthly newsletter. My goal with these is to inform you on what’s going on in state government and hopefully improve how the state government works for you. To keep up to date with the happenings in Lansing, you can visit my website or follow me on Facebook @HouseJimH.
Legislative Updates
MI Pocketbook Plan
The #MIPocketbookPlan is a six-bill package that will give workers additional protections against being exploited in the workplace, while also bringing relief to families that need it. I support the plan because Michigan families need relief against inflation right now, not just next tax season. My House Bill 6034 would prevent employers from stealing benefits by ensuring employees are not misclassified as independent contractors.
Lowering Prescription Drug Prices
I am in favor of reducing drug prices for seniors and those under 65. In the state Legislature, I was proud to vote in favor of Public Acts 11, 12 and 13, which were all signed into law on Feb. 23. These bills crack down on pharmacy benefit managers acting unscrupulously. HB 4347 increases pricing transparency for drug companies, and HB 4346 caps the cost of insulin.
I voted in favor of HB 4346 and 4347, but both are currently awaiting hearings in the state Senate. While more work needs to be done, I’m proud to have voted in favor of these bipartisan bills and see some of them signed into law by Gov. Whitmer.
Events and Resources
School Supplies and Backpacks
AT&T donated school supplies to local schools in Michigan during this back-to-school season. I helped deliver the donated backpacks to kids at Prairieview Elementary in Battle Creek and Harrington Elementary in Albion. The back-to-school time of year is so exciting and heartwarming, especially after a tough couple of years. I want to thank AT&T for the donation — its generosity is greatly appreciated. I was grateful for the opportunity to deliver the backpacks. The excitement and joy the students expressed with their new gear is unmatched. It was fantastic to see students and teachers together in classrooms — it’s clear they are all ready to thrive and grow. Have a great school year, everyone!
Small Business Roundtable Discussion
I recently hosted a small business roundtable discussion and heard from local business owners, nonprofits and labor leaders on Aug. 29 at Full Blast Auditorium. We had a good discussion on challenges facing the local economy and recent issues facing businesses of all sizes. Thank you to all who attended. Sharing your experiences helps me better understand the needs of the district.
National Suicide Hotline
As part of a national effort, there will be a new 988 dialing code that can route you to a mental health professional at the National Suicide Prevention Hotline. This pandemic has taken a toll on all of our mental health, but please know, suicide is not the answer. It can and will get better. If you or a loved one is struggling with your mental health, please use this new dial code, 988.
I Want to Hear from You
I want to hear from you! What do you need? How can I help you? Please, reach out to me at JimHaadsma@house.mi.gov or give my office a call at (517) 373-0555. In-person coffee discussion hours are again held regularly on the first Saturday of each month. 9-11 a.m. at Mr. Don’s and 1-2:30 p.m. at Stirling Books and Brew. Please come to discuss state legislation, issues you’re having with the state government, or join me for some good conversation. I enjoy meeting and catching up with people (and I buy the coffee).
Mr. Don’s Restaurant, 341 N. 20th St. in Springfield
Stirling Books and Brew, 119 N. Superior St. in Albion
Respectfully,
Jim Haadsma
State Representative
House District 62