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Dear Neighbor: Here is some information that I hope you will find helpful, including some updates on the state’s efforts to address COVID-19 as well as other news from your state government. Upcoming Event: Virtual Coffee Hour Please join me for a Facebook Live coffee hour this Monday, May 3, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. You will find the event on my Facebook page at that time. I will give a legislative update and answer any questions you may have. Please email KaraHope@house.mi.gov with any questions or topics you would like covered. I look forward to speaking with you all soon. Ingham County Health Department Opens Vaccines to Any MI Resident Any Michigan resident can get a COVID-19 vaccine this week at the MSU Pavilion. You don’t need an appointment, but you can make one here if you prefer. Vaccines will be available from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Everyone age 16 and older in Michigan is eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The Ingham County Health Department has previously suggested that individuals register for the COVID-19 vaccine with multiple providers. In addition to the health department, Sparrow Health Systems, McLaren Greater Lansing, Rite Aid, Meijer and other pharmacies are administering the vaccine. Health Insurers Continue to Cover COVID-19 Testing, Vaccination and Treatment Most Michigan health insurers will continue to waive all out-of-pocket costs for COVID-19 testing, vaccination and treatment. This renewed agreement with the State includes over 90% of Michigan’s commercial health insurers. You can find a full list of participating insurers here. City and State Tax Filing Deadline Extended to May 17 Two bipartisan bills were signed into law last week that extend the city and state income tax filing date to May 17, 2021. All fines, penalties and interest will be waived during this time. Federal income taxes have also been pushed back to May 17, 2021. Resolution Asks Congress to Oppose Privatizing USPS I introduced a resolution last week asking the U.S. Congress to oppose privatizing the United States Postal Service (USPS). Privatizing USPS would increase costs and limit service, particularly in rural areas. It would also hurt thousands of postal employees who live in every part of Michigan. Dedication Ceremony in Stockbridge Honors Revolutionary War Veteran
Over the weekend, I presented a tribute honoring Revolutionary War veteran Pvt. Ephraim Wheaton during a dedication ceremony at North Stockbridge Cemetery. The Sons of the American Revolution placed a historical marker along Highway M-36 and a Sons of the American Revolution marker at Pvt. Wheaton’s grave. Mr. Wheaton is one of only 300 Revolutionary War veterans buried in Michigan. After his military service, Mr. Wheaton eventually moved from New York to Stockbridge Township, where he farmed. His descendants participated in the ceremony and were recognized for their work to honor the legacy of Pvt. Wheaton.
While legislative offices are generally closed to the public, my team and I are still providing responsive service to 67th House District residents. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at (517) 373-0587 or by email at karahope@house.mi.gov if we can help. Sincerely, Kara Hope State Representative |
