Dems Hold Press Conference to Combat Online Sextortion
State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) speaks at the End Sextortion Now Press Conference alongside John DeMay and state Reps. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) and Kara Hope (D-Holt) at the House Office Building in Lansing on Sept. 25, 2024. LANSING, Mich., Sept. 25, 2024 — State Reps. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming), Kara Hope (D-Holt) and Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) held a press conference today discussing a package of bills collectively known as “Jordan D’s Law.” The purpose of these bills is to help combat the growing threats of online sextortion [...]
Hill Tours U.P. Prison, Supports Corrections Officer Strike
MARQUETTE, Mich., Aug. 27, 2024 — State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) toured the Alger Correctional Facility yesterday. The tour was taken in order to assess issues facing the Upper Peninsula’s prisons and the corrections officers who work at the facilities. Understaffing at U.P. prisons have resulted in mandatory double shifts, creating dangerous working conditions. Following the tour, Hill issued the following statement: “My visit to the Alger Correctional Facility underscored the urgent need to address the understaffing crisis plaguing Upper Peninsula prisons. Corrections officers [...]
Hill to Join Corrections Officers Picket Line
MARQUETTE, Mich., Aug. 16, 2024 — Following up on her ongoing advocacy and bill introduction this week to address the staffing crisis in Michigan’s prisons, State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) announced today that she will join corrections officers for informational pickets at the Baraga Correctional Facility and Marquette Branch Prison next week. “As always, I want to make clear that I stand with working people across the UP and across Michigan,” Hill said. “Our state’s corrections officers are being stretched too thin, and legislative [...]
Hill Continues Advocacy for U.P. Workers
MARQUETTE, Mich., Aug. 15, 2024 — As part of her ongoing efforts to support the hard working people of Michigan, State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) toured the Baraga Correctional Facility on Aug. 13 to meet with corrections staff and discuss the staffing crisis that has impacted facilities across Michigan. During her visit, Hill engaged directly with corrections officers to hear their concerns and explore potential solutions to staffing shortages. Following up on those discussions, Hill has also introduced legislation to broaden the [...]
Bipartisan Legislation Introduced to End Unfair Tax Loopholes
Closing costly ‘Dark Store’ loophole will increase funds for local schools, public safety and libraries. LANSING, Mich., July 10, 2024 — A bipartisan group of Michigan legislators introduced a package of bills aimed at closing the "Dark Store" tax loophole, which has cost local municipalities an estimated $2 billion in lost tax revenue in recent decades. State Reps. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette), Julie Brixie (D-Okemos), Mai Xiong (D-Warren) and Greg Markkanen (R-Hancock) are leading the charge to address unfair tax practices employed by big-box retailers. The package includes House [...]
Dems Introduce ‘Jordan D’s Law’ to Combat Online Sextortion
Legislation would protect vulnerable minors from sexual exploitation LANSING, Mich., July, 2, 2024 — State Reps. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming), Kara Hope (D-Holt) and Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) introduced a package of bills collectively known as “Jordan D’s Law,” aimed at combating the growing threat of online sextortion targeting minors and vulnerable individuals. The legislation is named in memory of Jordan, a 17-year-old from Marquette, who tragically took his own life in 2022 after falling victim to an online sextortion scheme. HB 5887 establishes penalties for individuals who intentionally [...]
Hill on Legislation Improving Unemployment Insurance Agency
LANSING, Mich., June 28, 2024 — State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) is pleased to announce the successful passage of House Bill 5827, which extends unemployment insurance benefits from 20 to 26 weeks. This legislative victory marks a significant step forward in providing critical support to Michigan's working families during times of economic uncertainty. "This bill is about more than changes to the unemployment system; it's about showing our workers that we stand with them," Hill said. "This legislation makes sure [...]
Rep. Hill Celebrates Passage of State Budget that Reinvests in the U.P.
LANSING, Mich., June 26, 2024 — The Michigan Legislature passed the final state budget for the 2025 fiscal year ahead of the legally required July 1 deadline. Leaders crafted a budget focused on strategic, targeted investments that improve the lives of people and hometowns across Michigan, without raising taxes. After the vote, state Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) issued the following statement: “I’m proud to support a state budget that prioritizes the needs of northern Michigan communities. We secured funding to support the unique needs [...]
Hill Applauds House Passage of Fuel Tax Legislation for Loggers
LANSING, Mich., June 11, 2024 — State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) announced the successful passage of House Bills 5379 and 5747 in the Michigan House of Representatives. These bills will make it easier for Michigan to form agreements with other states about how commercial vehicles transporting raw forest products are taxed ensuring a smoother transportation of goods. Following the bill’s passage, Hill issued the following statement: “This package is not just about reducing red tape for small businesses, it's about supporting the hardworking loggers of the [...]
Hill Celebrates Rural Development Grants in Marquette
MARQUETTE, Mich., June 11, 2024 — The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) recently announced nine rural development grant winners in Marquette County. These grants support capacity building, workforce training, sustainable business practices and infrastructure in rural areas. Over $500,000 in grant funding for local governments, businesses and nonprofits will go towards projects like planning for bike lanes, developing a campground, improving liquor manufacturing and expanding renewable energy in the area. Following the announcement of the grant winners, state [...]
Hill on Passage of People-Focused House Budget
LANSING, Mich., May 8, 2024 — Today, the Michigan House of Representatives passed its budget. From attracting businesses that create more jobs, supporting working families, and helping students achieve success — the proposed budget will make opportunities for Michiganders promising and plentiful. Among its key provisions are significant investments in local governments, housing, child care, education, and public infrastructure. Notably, the budget includes $200 million for the development of affordable housing across the state. After voting on the budget, state [...]
Hill on Passage of People-Focused House Budget
LANSING, Mich., May 8, 2024 — Today, the Michigan House of Representatives passed its budget. From attracting businesses that create more jobs, supporting working families, and helping students achieve success — the proposed budget will make opportunities for Michiganders promising and plentiful. Among its key provisions are significant investments in local governments, housing, child care, education, and public infrastructure. Notably, the budget includes $200 million for the development of affordable housing across the state. After voting, state Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette), majority [...]
Hill on Lead Replacement Grant Awarded by EGLE to L’Anse
LANSING, Mich., April 26, 2024 — The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) awarded a $288,000 grant to the village of L’Anse for the replacement of lead service lines. This grant, funded by the American Rescue Plan (ARP), is part of the state’s ongoing commitment to ensure safe and clean drinking water for all Michigan residents. After the announcement, state Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) issued the following statement: “I truly believe it’s our job at the state level to [...]
House Democrats Celebrate, Honor Fair Housing Month
LANSING, Mich., April 9, 2024 — The House Democratic Caucus joins Michiganders across the state in recognizing April as Fair Housing Month — the lawmakers are take this opportunity to celebrate the progress Michigan Democrats have made in securing equal access to housing, while acknowledging the work that still lies ahead to ensure everyone has the freedom to afford a safe and equitable place to call home. This month-long observance is a time to reflect on strides made since the [...]
Hill Applauds New Law Providing Flexibility, Easing Financial Burdens for Michigan’s Small Counties
LANSING, Mich., March 11, 2024 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed House Bill 4979 into law today, which introduces a flexible system for property assessments at the county level. Counties can now, instead of appointing a costly designated assessor, arrange for a shared agreement approved by the county board. Giving more freedom in choosing how to assess property will help counties, particularly smaller and rural ones, better manage resources and provide fair and equitable property assessments. After the signing, bill sponsor state Rep. Jenn [...]
Hill on Cleveland-Cliffs $50 Million Tax Delinquency Crisis
LANSING, Mich., Feb. 20, 2024 — The largest flat-rolled steel company in North America, Cleveland-Cliffs, finds itself embroiled in a tax delinquency crisis that threatens vital community services and raises questions about corporate responsibility. The company owes more than $50 million in real and personal property taxes, impacting rural Michigan communities and putting essential services at risk. In response, state Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) issued the following statement:“Cleveland-Cliffs has a rich history of mining in our region. The company provides [...]
Democrats Invest in Communities and Affordable Housing, Laws Taking Effect
LANSING, Mich., Feb. 10, 2024 — For the first time in 40 years, Democrats gained control of the Legislature and the governor’s office last year. With its majority, the party that puts people first had a remarkably productive year that resulted in a historic number of bills passed and signed into law. Michigan House Democrats celebrate Day 7 of the Countdown today with a focus on policies that affect communities and affordable housing. House Dems heard from residents about the [...]
Hill on State of the State Address
Lawmaker glad Governor shares priorities on housing, jobs State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) was joined by Marquette County Emergency Management Program Coordinator Brian Hummel 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 [...]
House Dems Applaud Priorities Outlined in State of the State Address
Dem trifecta committed to making positive change for Michiganders LANSING, Mich., Jan. 24, 2024 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered the 2024 State of the State address tonight. This annual event brings together Michigan’s three branches of government and their leaders. During the governor’s speech, she touched on many important priorities to positively change the lives of Michiganders and to spur future momentum for the state. Democrats are focused on lowering costs of the biggest expenses Michiganders face by building [...]
Hill Responds to FEMA Rejecting Flood Relief Denial Appeal
MARQUETTE, Mich., Jan. 2, 2023 — Last week, the Federal Emergency Management Agency informed Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of its decision to deny Michigan's appeal for assistance following the 2023 spring flooding in the U.P. The denial pertains to Whitmer’s Oct. 18 appeal for a major disaster declaration, focusing on public assistance for Baraga, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Marquette and Ontonagon counties, along with statewide hazard mitigation. Despite the evident challenges faced by the affected communities, FEMA has reaffirmed its original denial, asserting that [...]
Hill’s Bill to Make Off-Roading More Accessible Signed into Law
LANSING, Mich., Nov. 30, 2023 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer took action last week to keep Michigan’s off-road trails accessible by signing into law House Bill 4515. The bill eliminates the legislative sunset on license fees for the operation of off-road vehicles in the state, allowing the funding mechanism to continue for this valued recreation infrastructure. In response to the bill signing, bill sponsor state Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) released the following statement: “Michigan is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes and natural features [...]
Hill on Fuel Tax Reciprocity
MARQUETTE, Mich., Nov. 9, 2023 — State Reps. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) and Dave Prestin introduced today House Bills 5379 and 5378, respectively, that would make it easier for logging companies to transport materials between Michigan and Wisconsin. The bills would allow logging companies more flexibility to transport their products between Michigan and neighboring states without the burden of paperwork that’s normally required under the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA). Hill issued the following statement after the bills were introduced: “I’m [...]
Dems Speak on Legislation to Increase Dependability, Resiliency in Michigan’s Energy Grid
LANSING, Mich., Nov. 8, 2023 — The newly introduced Putting People First Energy legislation, House Bills 5216, 5218, 5220 and 5221, was brought to the House Energy, Communications, and Technology Committee today. State Reps. Helena Scott (D-Detroit), chair of the committee and chair of the bipartisan Energy Reliability, Resilience and Accountability (ERRA) Task Force, Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) and Joey Andrews (D-St. Joseph) held a press conference afterward to further discuss the bill package, which aims to ensure energy in the [...]
Hill Empowers Communities to Impact Local Energy Decisions
MARQUETTE, Mich., Nov. 3, 2023 — The Michigan House of Representatives passed the House Clean Energy and Jobs Act and the Senate Clean Energy Future bill packages. The Clean Energy and Jobs Act is designed to streamline the approval process for building large-scale renewable energy projects. The two packages together serve to set clean energy goals and, importantly, put into place the necessary tools to make those goals an achievable reality. In response to the passage of the legislation, state [...]
Hill on Renewable Energy Legislation Amendments and Vote
MARQUETTE, Mich., Oct. 18, 2023 — Democratic lawmakers introduced a package of bills last week, the Clean Energy and Jobs Act, to help Michigan meet its renewable energy goals, create good-paying union jobs and uphold the rights of landowners to use their property as they choose. State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette), a member of the Energy, Communications, and Technology Committee, successfully presented two amendments to the package — the first would more clearly define community benefits, and the second would [...]
Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council Names Hill Legislator of the Year
DETROIT, Mich., Sept. 28, 2023 — The Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council named state Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) Public Official of the Year last night. Hill won the award for her forward-thinking legislation to lower solar energy costs for consumers and enhance Michigan’s energy security. Hill, a member of the Energy Reliability, Resilience and Accountability Task Force, issued the following statement on the award: “I’m honored to receive this recognition. Our transition to clean energy needs to be a rising [...]
Hill Celebrates Funding for New Transportation Center
BARAGA COUNTY, Mich., Sept. 19, 2023 — State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) presented an honorary check for over $3 million to the Baraga County road commissioners and manager last Friday. The check recognizes the funding Hill was able to secure in the Make it in Michigan budget signed into law over the summer. “I’m extremely pleased with the funding we secured in this year’s budget, and I am particularly proud of the funding secured for the new transportation maintenance facility in Baraga County,” [...]
Hill Celebrates Funding for New Transportation Center
BARAGA COUNTY, Mich., Sept. 19, 2023 — State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) presented an honorary check for over $3 million to the Baraga County road commissioners and manager on Friday. The check recognizes the funding Hill was able to secure in the Make it in Michigan budget signed into law over the summer. “I’m extremely pleased with the funding we secured in this year’s budget, and I am particularly proud of the funding secured for the new transportation maintenance facility [...]
House Democrats Continue Leading the Way in Supporting Reproductive Rights
LANSING, Aug. 31, 2023 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered the “What’s Next Address” yesterday, outlining her legislative agenda for the remainder of the year and beyond. Safeguarding reproductive health is among the governor’s top priorities. This too has been an agenda item for House Democrats, and it continues to be as they prepare to begin the fall legislative session in Lansing. Reproductive rights is one of the central priorities on the legislators’ “putting people first” agenda — the lawmakers will [...]
Going PRO Talent Fund Awards Over $200,000 to Support U.P. Workers and Businesses
MARQUETTE, Mich., July 20, 2023 – Thanks to the most recent round of Going PRO Talent Fund grants, four businesses in Gwinn and Marquette will receive over $200,000 in funding to help more than 100 local workers receive the training they need to gain and retain high-skill, high-wage careers. Statewide, about $13.5 million in grants from the second cycle of fiscal year 2023 Going PRO Talent Fund were awarded to nearly 300 Michigan businesses to help roughly 8,500 workers secure [...]
Speaker Tate Tours the U.P.
MARQUETTE, Mich., July 17, 2023 — House Speaker Joe Tate (D-Detroit) toured the Upper Peninsula over the weekend to meet with community leaders and hear from Yoopers directly about their needs and the challenges they face. “It was an absolute pleasure to visit the Upper Peninsula,” Tate said. “From its stunning natural beauty to the warmth and hospitality of its people, the U.P. never fails to impress. I enjoyed meeting Yoopers and learning more about the challenges that they face. [...]
State Legislators Hold Community Listening Forum to Strengthen Energy Infrastructure in Michigan
MARQUETTE, July 14, 2023 — State Reps. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette), Abraham Aiyash, (D-Hamtramck), John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) and Helena Scott (D-Detroit), chair of the House Energy, Communications, and Technology Committee, held an event as part of the Energy Reliability, Resilience and Accountability Task Force Listening Tour. Speaker of the House Joe Tate (D-Detroit) also joined the event with opening remarks. “Our U.P. communities have unique needs when it comes to energy, so I am very glad we held a forum to hear from Yoopers [...]
Hill, Tate Hold Press Conference on State Budget Wins
State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) addresses the media at a press conference at Northern Michigan University on July 14, 2023. MARQUETTE, Mich., July 14, 2023 — State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) and House Speaker Joe Tate (D-Detroit) held a press conference today to brief the media on major budget wins for the U.P. The fiscal 2023-24 budget is the first in 40 years to have been crafted while Democrats hold control of state government. “This bipartisan budget significantly [...]
Lawmakers Stand Against Polluter Panels
LANSING, Mich. July 5, 2023 — State Sen. Rosemary Bayer (D-West Bloomfield), along with state Reps. Sharon MacDonell (D-Troy), Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) and Donavan McKinney (D-Detroit), introduced legislation that would abolish the so-called “polluter panels.” These boards and committees, put in place by former Gov. Rick Snyder and statutorily stacked with representatives from polluting industries, routinely delay the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s (EGLE) environmental rulemaking process. These bills would stop polluting industries from having undue influence over EGLE’s performance of its duties. House Bill [...]
Hill Responds to Absence of U.P. on Growing Michigan Together Council
LANSING, Mich., June 30, 2023 — Today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced the appointments to the Growing Michigan Together Council. State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) issued the following statement on the lack of U.P. representation on the council: “The U.P. has so much to offer Michigan, and I am deeply disappointed that the co-chairs of the council did not choose to include our voices in these critical discussions. Our northern communities have been working to overcome significant hardships in the post-pandemic [...]
Hill Applauds Passage of Budget that Invests in U.P.
LANSING, Mich., June 28, 2023 — The Michigan House of Representatives passed the state’s fiscal 2023-24 budget today. It includes the largest investment in education in Michigan’s history, including free lunch and breakfast for every public school student, affordable pre-K, as well as substantial funding for student transportation in rural school districts. It also includes major investments in workforce recruitment and retention, mental health support, veterans services, and public safety. It will also provide direct financial support to Michigan families [...]
Michigan Democrats Introduce Legislation to Improve Energy Resiliency
LANSING, Mich., June 22, 2023 — State Reps. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) and Donavan McKinney (D-Detroit) have introduced a two-bill package to help more Michiganders, especially low-income residents, install battery storage systems and solar power systems at their homes and businesses. The bills would encourage widespread adoption of these technologies as a means of bolstering grid resilience, reducing power plant pollution and lowering energy costs. “An in-home battery paired with solar can keep vital medical equipment or refrigerators full of food [...]
Hill Advocates for Equitable Road Funding for Rural Communities
LANSING, Mich., June 15, 2023 — The Michigan House recently proposed a substantial state budget that reinvests in people, places and public safety across the state. Included in the budget is a proposed $400 million allocation for repairs to local roads and infrastructure. State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) issued an open letter to the speaker of the House calling for this funding to be more equitably distributed to rural communities. You can read the letter here.
Michigan House Passes Bill to Preserve Off-Road Vehicle Licensing Program
State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) testifies in the House Committee on Transportation, Mobility, and Infrastructure in Lansing on May 9, 2023. LANSING, Mich., June 14, 2023 — The Michigan House voted overwhelmingly in favor of House Bill 4515, which would eliminate the sunset of Michigan’s off-road vehicle (ORV) licensing program. The ORV licensing program allows owners to enjoy a valuable outdoor recreational opportunity while supporting the maintenance of the trails and infrastructure that make these experiences possible. The [...]
Hill Introduces Great Lakes & Freshwater Week Resolution
LANSING, Mich., June 8, 2023 — State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) introduced House Resolution 117, which names June 3-11 as Great Lakes & Freshwater Week. After the House passed the resolution, Hill issued the following statement: “It was an honor to sponsor and support this resolution. Michigan is the Great Lakes State, and we have an abundance of beautiful rivers, streams and waterways. Many people don’t realize we are surrounded by over 80% of North America’s freshwater — and [...]
Carter Hosts House Committee on Insurance and Financial Services Financial Literacy Tour
MARQUETTE, Mich., June 6, 2023 — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac), chair of the House Committee on Insurance and Financial Services, hosted the first stop on the Financial Literacy Tour in Marquette, Michigan last Friday evening. At this event, Carter was joined by state Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) and representatives from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, Department of Insurance and Financial Services, Department of Labor and Economic Development, Michigan Economic Development Corp., Michigan Bankers Association, and Michigan Credit Union League and Affiliates. “Ever [...]
Hill Applauds Funding for Marquette and Republic Dams
LANSING, Mich., May 19, 2023 — The Carp River Intake Dam in Marquette and the Republic Dam have received over a million dollars from the Dam Risk Reduction Grant Program authorized by the Michigan Legislature last year. The upper portion of the spillway of the Carp River Intake Dam will be removed, lowering the reservoir an additional 10 feet to reduce the risk to health and habitat and potentially lowering the overall hazard classification of the dam. Funding will also [...]
Hill Joins Bipartisan Energy Task Force
LANSING, MAY 18, 2023 — State Rep. Helena Scott (D-Detroit), chair of the Energy, Communications, and Technology Committee, held a press conference today announcing details of the Energy Reliability, Resilience and Accountability Task Force and the corresponding Dependable Energy Listening Tour. The bipartisan task force and listening tour have been created to collect data, information, and resident and business owner experiences regarding the large-scale power outages that occurred earlier this year after severe storms. “With the closure and demolition of [...]
Democrats Move Legislation to Ban Child Marriage
State Rep. Kara Hope (D-Holt) testifies in support of legislation to ban child marriage in the Michigan House Committee on Judiciary in Lansing on May 17, 2023. LANSING, Mich., May 17, 2023 — The Michigan House Committee on Judiciary unanimously voted out a package of bills today to ban child marriage in Michigan. “We have fought for years to ban child marriage in Michigan, and I’m glad we are finally making real progress,” said state Rep. Kara Hope [...]
Bill to Maintain Off-Road Vehicle Licensing Program Receives Unanimous Support
LANSING, Mich., May 16, 2023 — The House Committee on Transportation, Mobility, and Infrastructure voted unanimously in favor of House Bill 4515, which would eliminate the sunset of Michigan’s off-road vehicle (ORV) licensing program. The ORV licensing program allows owners to enjoy a valuable outdoor recreational opportunity while supporting the maintenance of the trails and infrastructure that make these experiences possible. The program is scheduled to sunset at the end of this year. “I’m so pleased that this legislation [...]
Hill Speaks at Marquette County Chapter of Michigan Education Association Retired
MARQUETTE, Mich., May 12, 2023 — State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) spoke today at a meeting of the Marquette County Chapter of the Michigan Education Association Retired. She fielded questions from retired MEA members and also discussed the state House’s recommended fiscal 2023-24 budget, including its historic investment in education. “The House’s proposed School Aid budget reinvests in the U.P. at a historic level,” Hill said. “We’re devoting millions to rural and isolated school districts, including ones right here in [...]
Hill on Passage of House Budget
LANSING, Mich., May 11, 2023 — The Michigan House of Representatives passed its recommended fiscal 2023-24 budget yesterday. It includes the largest investment in education in Michigan’s history, including free lunch and breakfast for every student and affordable pre-K for all, as well as substantial investments in workforce recruitment and retention, water infrastructure, and public safety. State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) issued the following statement on the budget: “As we have seen recently, decades of underinvestment have taken a heavy [...]
Hill Introduces Bill to Eliminate Sunset of Off-Road Vehicle Licensing Program
LANSING, Mich., May 3, 2023 — State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) introduced a bill today to eliminate the sunsetting of Michigan’s off-road vehicles (ORV) licensing program. The ORV licensing program allows owners to enjoy a valuable outdoor recreational opportunity, while supporting the maintenance of the trails and infrastructure that make these experiences possible. The program is scheduled to sunset at the end of this year. “One of the things that makes the U.P. so special is our abundance of outdoor [...]
Hill on Funding For Blight Remediation in Marquette
LANSING, Mich., April 26, 2023 — The Michigan Strategic Fund approved nearly $4 million in funding to support blight remediation in Marquette. The funding will go toward the demolition of buildings at the site of the former Marquette General Hospital, as well as lead, asbestos and mold abatement. The project is expected to spur economic activity, including a possible $166 million mixed-use development, featuring a wide range of housing, retail, and commercial space, and greenspace and pedestrian corridors to better [...]
House Passes Bill to Fund School Transportation
LANSING, Mich., April 20, 2023 — The Michigan House passed Senate Bill 63 today, which would allow the revenue raised under sinking fund millages to be used to support the purchase and maintenance of student transportation vehicles. Under current law, the revenue raised under a sinking fund millage may be used only to purchase land for school buildings, repair buildings, improve school security or upgrade technology. “This bill has been introduced repeatedly — I’m glad that it finally received a [...]
Hill on Funding For Local Roads and Transportation
LANSING, Mich., April 13, 2023 — The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has announced funding is available via the Community Infrastructure Grant to help small communities with local road and transportation infrastructure projects. This program allows for local government investments to be matched by the state — funded by spending included in Senate Bill 7, which allocated $25 million for the Transportation Economic Development Fund. “We’ve worked hard to make a tangible difference in the lives of Michiganders, and I’m [...]
Hill Holds Town Hall on Elder Care and Aging Services
A resident addresses panelists at Hill’s Town Hall on Elder Care and Aging Services at the Peter White Public Library in Marquette on April 3, 2023. MARQUETTE, Mich., April 4, 2023 — State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) hosted a town hall yesterday to discuss the care challenges that older Yoopers are facing and share resources available to help them. Her guests were Maureen McFadden, senior services manager for the city of Marquette; Lori Stephens-Brown, co-chair of the Marquette [...]
Hill Introduces Bill to Improve Energy Storage
LANSING, Mich., March. 13, 2023 — State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) introduced a bill last week to set a statewide requirement of achieving 2,500 megawatts of grid-based energy storage by 2030. This measure would codify the target identified in Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s MI Healthy Climate Plan. “Supplying our state with a robust energy reserve is going to make our supply of electricity more reliable, more efficient and more affordable,” Hill said. “This will be a major step toward energy security [...]
Hill on House Passage of 1931 Abortion Ban Repeal
LANSING, Mich., March 2, 2023 — The Michigan House of Representatives voted today to repeal the outdated 1931 criminal abortion ban. House Bill 4006, sponsored by state Rep. Laurie Pohutsky (D-Livonia), repeals the ban from Michigan Penal Code of 1931. HB 4032, sponsored by state Rep. Stephanie A. Young (D-Detroit), would eliminate the ban from the state’s Code of Criminal Procedure to legalize the procurement of abortion medication. State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) issued the following statement in support of [...]
Hill on Whitmer’s State of the State Address
LANSING, Mich., Jan. 25, 2023 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered the State of the State address tonight before a joint session of the Legislature at the Capitol in Lansing. In the speech, the governor discussed her legislative agenda for the new term, which includes bolstering the economy, increasing public safety, lowering costs for families, protecting fundamental rights, supporting Michigan workers, investing in early childhood education, and attracting talent to Michigan. State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) welcomed her guest for the [...]
Hill Holds Press Conference on Democratic Priorities
NEGAUNEE, Mich., Jan. 13, 2023 — State Rep. Jenn Hill (D-Marquette) held a press conference, with over 60 guests, at the United Carpenters and Millwrights Skilled Training Center in Negaunee to highlight the significance of Michigan House Democrats’ priorities for the Upper Peninsula. “We are delivering on the issues people care about,” Hill said. “Democrats, independents and Republicans want to see our freedoms preserved, workers protected and taxes cut. These are the common-sense issues we will address this term.” Legislation [...]