Dear Friend,
This past month, our state legislature has been working together to make lasting change here in Michigan. We were able to stand up for equity by passing meaningful legislation to restore workers’ rights, expand protections for our LGBTQ+ communities and require background checks to ensure responsible gun ownership in our state.
Outside of legislative work, I have continued to make connections with Downriver community members, leaders and educators. I’ve been able to meet so many folks across the district while settling into this new role as your state representative. Our community has so many intelligent, hardworking people, and I am excited to continue to listen and have conversations about how we can build the future of Downriver together.
Legislative Updates from Lansing
We passed House Bills 4004, 4005, and 4007 this month to uplift the voices of Michigan’s workers in our state by restoring workers’ rights and prevailing wages. Our 102nd Legislature has taken steps to ensure Michigan workers will receive good wages and benefits they deserve.
Our Legislature has also made great strides on civil rights issues, as we have finally passed legislation to expand protections for the LGBTQ+ community. The House passed Senate Bill 4 and HB 4003, amendments to the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act to include protections for sexual orientation and gender identity or expression. The bills would stop someone from firing, evicting or otherwise discriminating against an individual because they are LGBTQ+. This is long overdue, but I’m glad that we are taking the necessary steps to protect our LGBTQ+ community in Michigan.
Lastly, the House took a step toward increasing the health and safety of our communities by passing the bill I sponsored, HB 4138, as well as HB 4142 and HB 4143. The bills would require background checks on the sale of all types of guns, ensuring that all our gun owners are obtaining firearms safely and lawfully.
I am committed to making sure our communities are places people want to live, learn and play — and legislation like this reinforces that commitment.
Rep. Churches preparing to introduce House Bills 4152 and 4153.
If you live in Downriver, there is a very high probability you have been stuck in traffic because of a stopped train — sometimes for 45 minutes or more. For too long, this has been one of our state’s most pressing transportation issues, blocking traffic across the state, hurting businesses and our first responders’ ability to address time-sensitive emergencies. Downriver community leaders, including my predecessor and current state Sen. Darrin Camilleri, have been working hard for years to address this issue. I am proud that I was able to join these efforts and introduce my first two bills, HBs 4152 and 4153, to tackle our troublesome railroad crossings.
Rep. Churches with Jason Behr, Rosemary Shuryan, and Chris Calvin in our Capitol Building.
As for other Lansing updates, I was happy to host Wyandotte City Council members Chris Calvin and Rosemary Shuryan, along with Lincoln Park Council member Jason Behr. We had the opportunity to collaborate on Downriver priorities while enjoying a Capitol tour!
Around the 27th District
As a legislator, one of my favorite parts of my job is the opportunity to meet with community members. Here are some highlights from the past month in the 27th House District:
Rep. Churches with students at Hedke Elementary School in Trenton.
Rep. Churches with students at Grogan Elementary School.
March is Reading Month is an important educational highlight of the school year. As a former teacher, getting to spend time in the classroom again has been such a fun way to interact with our students. I’m grateful to have been able to speak with fantastic educators at the elementary schools and see the work they are doing to teach our youngest minds. Downriver’s students are a pleasure to be around — they are fun, kind-hearted and so smart.
Rep. Churches with Mayor Pro Tem Kelly Stec at the Wyandotte City Club Chili Cook Off.
At the end of February, I attended the Wyandotte City Club Chili Cook Off. It was a great way to connect with Wyandotte community members and enjoy some chili. I am looking forward to the next one!
Rep. Churches with Mayor Scott Denison and City Administrator Michael Landis at Gibraltar City Hall.
In Gibraltar, I enjoyed learning and spending time with Mayor Scott Denison and City Administrator Michael Landis discussing lead lines, infrastructure goals and community partnerships. Together, we’ll be able to build an even stronger Downriver. I’m excited for future opportunities to address community issues and improve our infrastructure.
Rep. Churches enjoying conversations with constituents over coffee at Fresh Bean Coffee Co. in Southgate.
Last, but certainly not least, we hosted our first coffee hour at Fresh Bean Coffee Co. in Southgate! It’s important to me as a legislator to hear directly from residents across the district. I’m looking forward to upcoming coffee hours and hope to see you there, too.
Upcoming Events & Important Dates
March – Women’s History Month, Endometriosis Awareness Month and March is Reading Month
April 21 – Meet me for coffee and conversation at Promenade Artisan Foods! (2627 W. Jefferson Ave. in Trenton) from 11 a.m. to noon
 |
My office is open and welcomes any questions, concerns and ideas. Our team is eager to be a resource for you and your families however we can. Please feel free to reach out to our office here, sign up for our newsletter, and stay connected on social media. I appreciate your feedback and thoughts!
Mailing Address: Michigan House of Representatives, P.O. Box 30014, Lansing, MI 48909-7514
Phone: (517) 373-0478
Email: jaimechurches@house.mi.gov
Sincerely,
Jaime Churches
State Representative, 27th House District