Dear Neighbor,
Welcome to this month’s Capitol and Community Update E-newsletter!
As always, please encourage your neighbors and friends in House District 56 — Troy, Clawson, Royal Oak, Birmingham, and Bloomfield Township — to also sign up for these updates at RepMacDonell.com. Please let us know if you have any thoughts on state-level issues or want to meet with me. My office can be reached by phone at (517) 373-2617 or by email at SharonMacDonell@house.mi.gov.
I can also be found on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. I would be happy to hear from you and work with you to make the 56th House District a better place!
In Service,
Sharon MacDonell
State Representative
House District 56
Upcoming Events
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Community Conversation in Troy!
Join me on Saturday, April 13 for a community conversation! I will join you to outline my plans for the legislative year and answer your questions. Events like this are a great opportunity to share your thoughts and concerns directly with me.
When: Saturday, April 13, 10-11 a.m.
Location: Qamaria Yemeni Coffee Co., 5385 Crooks Road, Troy, MI 48084.
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Mark your calendars: Prescription Drug Affordability Town Hall in April!
I will be hosting a town hall on prescription drug affordability this April with the other members of Royal Oak’s delegation in the state House. Many Michiganders struggle to afford their prescription medications, especially as we grow older. To combat this, Michigan legislators have introduced bills to create a Prescription Drug Affordability Board. Experts in health care policy will be on hand to discuss this legislation, as well as prescription drug affordability in general. I hope to see you there!
When: Friday, April 19, from 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Where: Royal Oak Senior Center. 3500 Marais Ave., Royal Oak, MI 48073
Legislative Updates
The following are highlights from my recent work in the legislature. All my sponsored and co-sponsored legislation from this term are available at the provided hyperlink. You can also see my press releases page for additional updates.
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My bill repealing the “Polluter Panel” signed into law!
Earlier this month, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed my House Bill 4826 into law. The law abolishes the Environmental Rules Review Committee, a panel created in 2018. Made up mostly of industry representatives, the panel had the power to delay new environmental rules from going into effect. Now, these industries will no longer be able to regulate themselves. This is a big win for our environment, the Great Lakes, and public health!
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I stand with Speaker Joe Tate and support his efforts to show Michiganders that hate has no home in the Michigan House of Representatives.
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No Hate in MI State
A package of bills was recently introduced by members of the House Republican Caucus that prohibits state contracts and incentives from being awarded to companies that prioritize diversity and prohibits the state from considering diversity in its hiring practices. This legislation follows a similar trend in other states seeking to bar diversity, equity, and inclusion as part of economic development efforts and makes it seem as though Michigan does not welcome the contributions of people from different backgrounds. As the representative of a diverse population of constituents, I am opposed to this legislation and the message it sends to our current and potential residents.
House Democrats are fighting for the values of inclusivity, diversity, and respect for one another. These values make Michigan great, and I will not endorse any measure that excludes diverse populations from seeking opportunities in our state. I will be joining my Democratic colleagues in voicing support to keep Michigan safe for people of all backgrounds.
Community Recognitions and Resources
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I read to elementary schoolers in Clawson and Troy for March is Reading Month. March is quickly becoming my favorite month of the year! Keep reading!
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How the repeal of the “Retirement Tax” affects you this tax season
Last year, Michigan Democrats repealed the Snyder-era tax on certain types of retirement income. For many retired Michiganders, this could mean significant savings this tax season. To help Michiganders navigate this change in tax law, the state of Michigan has created this helpful guide in time for tax season. The guide explains which types of retirement income are no longer taxed and answers other questions. If you or a loved one has any questions about the new law, please take a look!
Submissions for Small Business of the Month AND Teacher of the Month
Each month, I recognize a small business in the community from House District 56 as our small business of the month. To nominate your favorite company for this recognition, please fill out this form for Small Business of the Month. I am also excited to recognize a Teacher of the Month! Teachers are the backbone of this nation, and our district has the BEST! Please fill out this form to recognize a Teacher of the Month.
Tributes, Letters, and Certificates
Do you know someone in the district who is retiring and would like a legislative tribute to celebrate their years of service? Has a local team or group reached a milestone that they would like to be acknowledged with an official certificate for each member? Our office can provide legislative tributes, letters, and certificates on a wide range of recognitions for constituents. If you would like to request any of these materials for yourself or others, please email my office at SharonMacDonell@house.mi.gov with as much information as possible on the requested recognition, and we will work with you to arrange delivery or presentation of the recognition!