Lansing lawmaker shares priorities on housing, inequality

State Rep. Emily Dievendorf (D-Lansing) was joined by advocate for the homeless, Mike Karl, at the Michigan Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024.

State Rep. Emily Dievendorf (D-Lansing) was joined by advocate for the homeless, Mike Karl, at the Michigan Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024.

LANSING, Mich., Jan. 24, 2024 — Before a joint legislative session today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered this year’s State of the State address. In her speech, the governor discussed her agenda for the new term, which includes lowering costs for Michiganders, expanding educational opportunities and strengthening the state’s economy. State Rep. Emily Dievendorf (D-Lansing) issued the following statement on Whitmer’s address:

“Sharing the evening with my guest, Lansing’s own Mike Karl, during the governor’s State of the State address was an honor. Mike’s ongoing journey, including his 10-year struggle with homelessness, inspires my commitment to solving the housing crisis in Michigan. Now a former homeless advocate, Karl highlights the thousands of people like him who are unable to register to vote due to the lack of a permanent address. His story adds urgency to our mission. The governor’s dedication to addressing the housing crisis is encouraging, and I’m optimistic about what we can achieve this year for all our neighbors.”

Since gaining control of the House, Senate and governor’s office last year, Michigan Democrats have laid a strong foundation for our state by putting people first. The fundamental building blocks include repealing the retirement tax, increasing the working families tax credit (EITC), funding free breakfast and lunch for public school kids, ensuring better access to reproductive health care, improving public safety and so much more. With efforts including lowering prescription costs, bolstering our economy, and ensuring Michigan is a healthy and desirable state to live and work in, House Dems will continue to work, hammer and nail, for the brightest future for all Michiganders.

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