Dear Neighbor,
This e-newsletter aims to keep you updated on the previous month’s activities in the Michigan House of Representatives. It’s an honor to be serving as your new state representative for the 15th State House District, which includes the west end of Dearborn to Dearborn Heights. If you should ever need to contact me, don’t hesitate to call my office at (517) 373-0847 or email me at erinbyrnes@house.mi.gov.
Erin Byrnes
State Representative
Michigan’s 15th District
Legislative Updates
Putting People First Priorities
House Democrats are putting people first. The people of Michigan drive this state forward — that’s why we are going into overdrive to put you first, to prioritize your family and to advocate for the issues that matter most to Michiganders. This week, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered the What’s Next Address, outlining priorities for the fall.
- Protecting Reproductive Rights
- Lowering Prescription Drug Costs
- Upholding Democracy
- Building a Clean-energy Michigan
- Strengthening the Economy
This agenda will build on previous work to lower costs, make Michigan more competitive, improve energy efficiency, expand opportunity and protect people’s fundamental rights. Democrats are ready to continue passing smart legislation that puts Michiganders first.
News and Publications
Gov. Whitmer Proclaims August 26 as Women’s Equality Day
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer proclaimed August 26 as Women’s Equality Day, commemorating the 103rd anniversary of the 19th Amendment to the United States Constitution, granting women the right to vote.
“On Women’s Equality Day, we honor the generations of women who fought hard so their daughters and granddaughters could have more rights than they were afforded,” Whitmer said. “As governor, I know that I stand on the shoulders of so many women who opened doors and shattered glass ceilings for me, and I take the responsibility to do the same for my daughters and future generations seriously. I will continue empowering women in Michigan by expanding access to education, protecting reproductive freedom, and creating economic opportunity so anyone can ‘make it’ in Michigan. This Women’s Equality Day, I urge everyone to honor those who came before, celebrate how far we’ve come, and recommit ourselves to pursuing equality so everyone can pursue their full potential.”
State of Emergency Declared for Wayne and Monroe Counties to Help Recovery Efforts After Severe Storms
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency for Wayne and Monroe counties to help with response and recovery efforts to flooding and damage caused by severe storms and heavy rain.
“Communities across Michigan were hit hard by torrential downpours and damaging winds,” Whitmer said. “This emergency declaration will ensure state resources are available as quickly as possible to help Michiganders in need. I want to thank all the first responders and emergency crews who worked hard through the night to save lives. We will recover and rebuild together.”
On Aug. 24, areas in lower Michigan experienced several storm fronts that brought heavy rain and high winds. As a result of the flooding, wind, and other storm impacts, the counties of Wayne and Monroe have experienced road and bridge closures; downed trees and power lines; damage to building structures, embankments, and road surfaces; overwhelmed stormwater and sewer systems; flooding of residential structures; and deposits of silt and debris. Hundreds of homeowners have also reported residential floods.
The Appointments Division
Gov. Whitmer is committed to a cabinet and executive office that is representative of Michigan. That commitment applies as well to the governor’s 240 appointments to the various boards and commissions that serve the state. The Appointments Division is responsible for seeking qualified candidates to fulfill these responsibilities.
As your state representative, I believe you would be great in being an active part of our democracy by leaving a legacy of our vision and values through an appointment. I encourage you to apply for an appointment by visiting michigan.gov/appointments.
Follow Emergency Orders and Avoid Scams Following Severe Storms
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reminding Michigan residents to follow all emergency orders following severe weather that swept through Michigan, flooding communities, damaging homes, bringing down trees and power lines, and leaving hundreds of thousands without power.
Those who witness downed lines or power poles near their homes, businesses or along their commutes are advised to treat the line as though it’s energized. Residents should stay at least 30 feet away and report the issue to their local energy provider.
Residents should also exercise caution in all flooded areas. Do not attempt to wade into or drive through flooded areas, as the depth and condition of the road is not always obvious. Likewise, adhere to all barricades and follow posted detours. The State of Michigan has information on what to do in the aftermath of a storm on the MIREADY website, including tips on how to recover from a disaster.
North Branch of Ecorse Creek Drain
The Wayne County Drain Commissioner recently received a $10 million grant to perform work on the North Branch Ecorse Creek Drain. If this drain runs along your property, please be aware you should receive a letter regarding this work and how it may impact you! The letter also requests that you participate in a survey run by the county. This survey is very important and will help the County to better prepare for the work that needs to take place on the drain.
We appreciate your help! Please contact us with any questions or concerns at (313) 241-0704 or info@NBEcorseCreek.com.
Community Conversations and Town Halls
Join me at the Caroline Kennedy Library on the last Monday of each month from 2-3 p.m. I will be sharing helpful information and updates for constituents. The Caroline Kennedy Library is located at 24590 George Ave., Dearborn Heights, MI 48127. See below for our next meeting!
- Monday, Sept. 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.
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Follow my Facebook page and Website for updates on what I’m doing for Dearborn Heights and the west end of Dearborn!