Fitzgerald Joins Nearly 900 State and Local Elected Leaders to Oppose Extreme Cuts to Medicaid, Medicare and Public Services
From mayors to attorneys general, state and local elected leaders sent a letter to U.S. Senate leadership to sound the alarm on how the federal budget will hurt Michigan and communities nationwide WYOMING, Mich., June 18, 2025 — Democratic Floor Leader John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) joined nearly 900 state and local elected officials from across the country in signing a bipartisan letter urging the U.S. Senate to reject sweeping federal budget cuts that would drastically reduce funding for Medicaid, Medicare and [...]
MI House Dems Condemn ‘Billionaire Bailout Bill’, Urge MI House GOP to Negotiate Finalized State Budget
Democratic lawmakers call on House Republicans to stop hyper-partisan games, deliver real relief and job security for Michiganders LANSING, Mich., May 23, 2025 — The U.S. House of Representatives narrowly passed the Republican “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” — coined by Democrats as the “Billionaire Bailout Bill” — early Thursday morning, moving a devastating tax plan through Congress that would increase benefits for the ultra wealthy, while keeping the boot on everyday Michiganders’ necks. As Michigan House Republicans continue to [...]
Fitzgerald Announces Over $5.4 Million for Kent County Parks and Trails
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., May 22, 2025 — State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) is proud to have supported House Bill 4392, bringing more than $5.4 million in state funding to Kent County for parks, trails and outdoor recreation projects. The investment comes from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, which supports public outdoor spaces across the state. These investments will make it easier and safer for people to stay active and access public parks and spaces outdoors with friends and family. [...]
House Dems Speak Out Against Tone-Deaf, Reckless MI GOP Agenda, Demand Better for Michiganders
Democratic lawmakers take action to lower costs, condemn Republican “Gulf of America” bill LANSING, Mich., May 2, 2025 — Michigan House Democrats spoke up about making life more affordable and spoke out and voted against Republican efforts to inject toxic D.C. politics and chaos into the Michigan Legislature this week. View their media availability here. Democratic members criticized Republican House members for wasting taxpayers’ time and money on political messaging, instead of working with House Dems to lower costs for [...]
Fitzgerald Commends Laws Combating Online Sextortion Taking Effect
Jordan D’s Law, creating greater protections against online sexual exploitation in Michigan, took effect this week LANSING, Mich., April 4, 2025 — A package of laws enhancing criminal penalties and sentencing guidelines for those who commit sextortion in Michigan went into effect this week, enhancing the state’s ability to protect children and vulnerable Michiganders from the growing threat of online sextortion. Coined “Jordan D’s Law” in the memory of 17-year-old Jordan DeMay from Marquette, Public Acts 261-62 create tiered penalties, [...]
Tate, Carter and Fitzgerald Introduce Bill Package to Expand Access to Driver’s Licenses and ID Cards for All Michiganders
LANSING, Mich., March 12, 2025 — State Reps. Joe Tate (D-Detroit), Tyrone Carter (D-Detroit) and Minority Floor Leader John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) recently introduced a legislative package — House Bills 4194-96 — that would allow all residents, regardless of their immigration or documentation status, to obtain official personal identification cards and driver’s licenses. This legislation seeks to reinstate previous Michigan law and improve public and road safety for all Michiganders. "Driving is a privilege and it is important that all people [...]
House Democrats Look Ahead to Building Up Michigan After State of the State Address
House Dems remain committed to ensuring breathing room for Michigan families LANSING, Mich., Feb. 26, 2025 — House Democrats walked onto the floor with an energy for positive change today as they attended the joint legislative session to hear Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s seventh State of the State Address. As the governor discussed her plan to lower costs for hardworking Michiganders, stimulate job growth, boost energy assistance and expand child care access, House Democrats reaffirmed their continued dedication to building people [...]
Fitzgerald Celebrates Sustainability Award for Grand Rapids Business
Democratic Floor Leader congratulates small upcycling business uplifting Michigan’s circular economy GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Feb. 19, 2025 — The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) granted $270,700 in research and development funding last week to Public Thread, a sustainable and upcycled bag shop in Grand Rapids. The shop is one of thirty projects to receive funding, totaling $5.6 million in Circular Economy Grants from EGLE in an effort to build Michigan’s circular supply chains and recycling. [...]
Fitzgerald Celebrates Investments for More Low-Income Housing in Wyoming
State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) speaks on the House floor in the Michigan Capitol Building on Dec. 13, 2024, in Lansing. WYOMING, Mich., Feb. 7, 2025 — The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) has awarded almost $1.7 million in tax credits to the Shea Ravines II development located in Wyoming. The funding is a Low Income Housing Tax Credit award intended to finance the construction and preservation of affordable housing structures. The Shea Ravines II development will offer [...]
Fitzgerald, Hope Attend Ceremonial Signing of Protections Against Sextortion
LANSING, Mich., Feb. 5, 2025 — Democratic Floor Leader John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) and state Rep. Kara Hope (D-Holt) joined Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for the ceremonial bill signing of “Jordan D’s Law” yesterday, which ensures minors, vulnerable people and all Michiganders are better protected against threats of online sexual exploitation, or sextortion. Public Acts 261 and 262 enhance criminal penalties and outline sentencing guidelines for those who commit sextortion, including more severe consequences for repeat offenders. “This law helps prosecutors ensure [...]
Protections Against Online Sextortion Signed Into Law
Democratic Floor Leader John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) speaks at the “End Sextortion Now” press conference on Sept. 25, 2024, in Lansing. LANSING, Mich., Jan. 23, 2025 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed “Jordan D’s Law” into law recently, two bills establishing greater protections against threats of online sextortion targeting minors and other vulnerable people in Michigan. The package is named in the memory of Jordan DeMay, a bright 17-year-old from Marquette who tragically took his own life in 2022 after becoming [...]
Fitzgerald Welcomes House Democrats on First Day of 103rd Legislature
Democratic Floor Leader John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) ceremoniously takes his oath of office into the 103rd Legislature at the Michigan State Capitol Building on Jan. 8, 2025, in Lansing. LANSING, Mich., Jan. 8, 2025 — As the Michigan House of Representatives convened for the first session of the 103rd Legislature today, new leadership for the House Democrats took to the floor. To commemorate the first session of the year, Democratic Floor Leader John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming), issued the following statement: “Today, [...]
House Dems Pass Protections for Survivors of Human Trafficking
State Rep. Kelly Breen (D-Novi) speaking on the House Floor on Dec. 10, 2024, in the Michigan State Capitol Building in Lansing. LANSING, Mich., Dec. 11, 2024 — Every House Democrat voted to take historic action to support, protect and empower survivors of human trafficking in Michigan. House Bills 5836-47, 5849-54 and 5864 expand legal protections for individuals harmed by human trafficking and provide pathways for survivors to clear their criminal records. Across the aisle, nearly every House Republican [...]
House Democrats Elect Minority Leader, Floor Leader
Puri and Fitzgerald Pledge a Unified Caucus, Regaining Majority LANSING, Mich., Nov. 7, 2024 — This evening, state Rep. Ranjeev Puri (D-Canton) was selected by his colleagues to lead the House Democratic Caucus in the 103rd Legislature. Likewise, state Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) was selected as Democratic floor leader for the next term. “The cornerstone of our democracy is lifting up the voices of those we represent to help shape the laws and policies that impact everyday life,” Puri said. [...]
House Democrats Applaud Another Huge Step Forward for Accessible Reproductive Health Care
Newly announced MDDHS initiative provides free contraceptives LANSING, Mich., Oct. 23, 2024 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, alongside the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), announced the “Take Control of Your Birth Control” campaign today that will expand access to reproductive health care. This expansion ensures Michiganders can access free contraceptives while supplies last. “Michigan Democrats have stood on the side of reproductive freedom and individual choice about family planning for decades — not just when it's politically [...]
Fitzgerald Celebrates School Safety, Literacy Bills Signed into Law
State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) speaks at the "Supporting MI Students" press conference and Education bill signing at Gardner Magnet School in Lansing on Oct. 10, 2024. LANSING, Mich., Oct. 10, 2024 — Today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer enacted three landmark education bills aimed at enhancing school safety and supporting student literacy. With the signing of House Bill 5503, the school aid supplemental, Michigan’s schools are receiving a total of $150 million to prioritize the safety and mental well-being of [...]
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 [...]
Fitzgerald Celebrates Initiative to Improve Emergency Medicine Becoming Law
LANSING, Mich., July 24, 2024 — State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) celebrated the signing of House Bill 4614 into law, part of a bipartisan legislative package designed to enhance emergency medical services. The new law requires individuals holding temporary licenses as emergency medical technicians (EMTs), EMT specialists and paramedics to practice only under the direct supervision of fully licensed professionals. "This is a major step in supporting and strengthening Michigan's emergency services, ensuring that all Michiganders receive prompt care of [...]
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 [...]
Fitzgerald Celebrates Final State Budget Passage
State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) speaks on the House Floor on May 8, 2024, in the state Capitol in Lansing. LANSING, Mich., June 27, 2024 — The Michigan Legislature passed the final state budget for the 2025 fiscal year ahead of the legally required July 1 deadline. State legislative 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. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) issued the following [...]
Fitzgerald Champions National CPR and AED Awareness Week
LANSING, Mich., June 11, 2024 — State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) proudly passed House Resolution 273 declaring June 1-7, 2024 as National CPR and AED Awareness Week in the state of Michigan today. The resolution emphasized the importance of lifesaving skills and equipment in our communities. With cardiac arrests occurring at school athletic events, immediate access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and the knowledge of CPR can significantly increase survival rates. “Every second counts when it comes to cardiac arrest,” Fitzgerald said. “AEDs and [...]
Fitzgerald Delivers AED to Wyoming High School
State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) on June 6, 2024 with Craig Hoekstra (Superintendent of Wyoming Public Schools) and Josh Baumbach (Principal of Wyoming High School) at Wyoming High School in Wyoming, MI. WYOMING, Mich., June 7, 2024 — State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) presented a new automated external defibrillator (AED) to Wyoming High School on Thursday. Recently signed legislation requires schools maintain AEDs and ensure they are accessible within one to three minutes during a cardiac emergency. In celebration of the new [...]
Fitzgerald Honored with MIAAP Kids Health Hero Award
State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) accepting the Kids Health Hero Award on May 23 in Lansing at the Central Methodist Church in Lansing. LANSING, Mich., May 28, 2024 — State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) has been awarded the prestigious Kids Health Hero Award by the Michigan Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (MIAAP). This accolade recognizes Fitzgerald’s unwavering commitment to improving the health and well-being of children in every Michigan hometown. After receiving the award, Fitzgerald issued the following statement: "As a father [...]
Fitzgerald Responds to Police Footage of Samuel Sterling’s Death
LANSING, Mich., May 10, 2024 — State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) issued the following statement after video footage was released showing the police killing of Samuel Sterling on April 17: “I am heartbroken and disgusted by the death of Samuel Sterling. The videos released today are gut-wrenching, and my heart is with the Sterling family as they grieve and seek justice for the death of their loved one. The greater Grand Rapids community also grieves, and we must depend [...]
Fitzgerald Secures Robust Public Safety Investments in House Budget
LANSING, Mich., May 8, 2024 — The Michigan House of Representatives passed its recommended fiscal 2024-25 budget today, which includes an additional $10 million — for a total of $17.5 million — for the Michigan State Police’s Public Safety Academy Assistance program. After the vote, state Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) issued the following statement on the budget: “Public safety officers play a vital role in building stronger, safer communities by partnering with community leaders. By adding an additional $10 million for the [...]
Rogers, Fitzgerald Commend Passage of Pioneering Occupational and Physical Therapy Compact Legislation
LANSING, Mich., May 2, 2024 — State Rep. Julie M. Rogers (D-Kalamazoo) is pleased to announce the successful passage of House Bills 4169 and 4170 through the Michigan House of Representatives. This bipartisan legislation adds Michigan to the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact (OTLC) — marking a major step forward in enhancing the practice and accessibility of occupational therapy across state lines. Similar legislation, House Bills 4504 and 4505, also overwhelmingly passed the House today, which enters Michigan into the Physical Therapy Licensure Compact (PTLC). The newly passed bills amend [...]
PRESS RELEASE: Life-Saving Legislation Signed into Law; NFL Donates 50 AEDs to Michigan schools
Dem bills strengthen community safety by requiring access to, training on defibrillators LANSING, Mich., April 27, 2024 — Today, House Bills 5527 and 5528 — designed to prevent deaths due to sudden cardiac arrest in schools, including sporting events — were signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. The bill package, introduced by state Reps. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) and Tyrone Carter (D-Detroit), will improve school safety and save lives by requiring schools to develop cardiac emergency response plans and offer [...]
Fitzgerald, Fellow MI Dems Celebrate Law Promoting Economic Growth, Tourism in Kent County
State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) speaks to reporters about the passage of HB 5048 alongside Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids) on April 15 at The Right Place in Grand Rapids. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., April. 15, 2024 — State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) joined Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids), Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, local officials and citizens of Kent County today to celebrate Public Act 35 of 2024 and the many benefits it will have for the local Grand [...]
Brinks, Kent County Representatives on Trump Visit to Grand Rapids
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., April 1, 2024 — Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids) and state Reps. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming), Carol Glanville (D-Walker), Kristian Grant (D-Grand Rapids), Rachel Hood (D-Grand Rapids), and Phil Skaggs (D-East Grand Rapids) issued the following statement in advance of former President Donald Trump’s visit to the city: “As elected representatives from Kent County, we stand united in expressing our deep dismay and condemnation regarding the impending visit of former President Donald Trump in response to the tragic murder of Ruby Garcia. “Donald Trump’s visit to our community [...]
Fitzgerald on MSF Grant for Kent County
WYOMING, Mich., March 28, 2024 — The Michigan Strategic Fund recently announced approval of a nearly $200,000 performance-based grant to Schreiber Foods Inc. to support its business expansion plans in Wyoming. This investment is set to support a nearly $60 million project and create 32 jobs, contributing to the growth of the local economy. Schreiber Foods is a global, employee-owned dairy processor. In response to the news, state Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) issued the following statement: “This is excellent news [...]
House Dems Pass Heart Health School Safety Legislation
Bills would strengthen community safety by requiring access, training on defibrillators State Rep. John Fitzgerald speaks to House Bill 5527, on the floor on March 19 at the Capitol in Michigan LANSING, Mich., March 19, 2024 – Today, House Bills 5527 and 5528 — aimed to prevent deaths due to sudden cardiac arrest in schools — passed the Michigan House of Representatives. The bill package, introduced by State Reps. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) and Tyrone Carter (D-Detroit) would improve school safety by requiring schools to develop cardiac emergency response plans, [...]
Rheingans, Fitzgerald Bills to Protect Children Pass the Senate
Legislation clarifies car safety seat standards to help parents keep kids safe LANSING, Mich., March 15, 2024 — The Michigan Senate passed House Bills 4511 and 4512, sponsored by state Reps. Carrie A. Rheingans (D-Ann Arbor) and John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming), respectively. The bills clarify car safety seat standards, aligning Michigan statute with federal law and regulations. “Vehicle crashes are one of the leading causes of death among children,” Fitzgerald said. “This law updates Michigan’s car seat safety standards so that child passengers travel safely and sit properly. [...]
House Dems Propose Lifesaving Legislation
Alex Bowerson (right), cardiac survivor and heart safe schools advocate, speaks in support of the bills on March 5, 2024 during a House Committee on Regulatory Reform hearing in Lansing. LANSING, Mich., March 5, 2024 — State Reps. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) and Tyrone Carter (D-Detroit) introduced House Bills 5527 and 5528 last week, aimed at preventing deaths due to sudden cardiac arrest in schools. The bill package would improve school safety by requiring schools to develop cardiac emergency response plans, offer training and access to automated external [...]
Dems Celebrate Making Michigan Better, Impactful Laws Taking Effect
Legislators commend work accomplished, look forward to continuing to put all people first LANSING, Mich., Feb. 15, 2024 — House Democrats are celebrating over 100 laws that took effect this week. These policies focus on putting people first by uplifting Michiganders from all communities and backgrounds, and 2023 was one of the most productive years in the history of the Michigan Legislature. The laws that went into effect support workers, improve education, protect elections, lower costs, safeguard rights, invest in [...]
Fitzgerald on State of the State Address
State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) was joined by Evelyn Esparza-Gonzalez and Craig Hoekstra at the Michigan Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024. LANSING, Mich., Jan. 24, 2024 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered this year’s State of the State address today before a joint legislative session. 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. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) issued the following statement [...]
Kent County State House Delegation Celebrates Retirement Tax Relief
State Reps. Carol Glanville (D-Walker), Phil Skaggs (D-East Grand Rapids), Kristian Grant (D-Grand Rapids), Rachel Hood (D-Grand Rapids), Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and others pose with a tax refund check for seniors at a Lowering MI Costs event in Grand Rapids. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Jan. 11, 2024 — State legislators and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer joined together for a retirement tax rollback press event to discuss the positive impacts of this much-deserved tax relief on retirees across Michigan. The new law phases out taxes [...]
Fitzgerald, Michigan Legislature Passes Act to Support Local Governments, Spark Transformational Projects
Funds expected to expand, improve recreational facilities in Kent County LANSING, Mich., Nov. 13, 2023 — The Michigan Legislature recently passed House Bill 5048; this legislation will allow local governments in Kent County and across the state to accelerate their local economies and attractiveness to tourism. Introduced by state Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming), HB 5048 has successfully passed both chambers of the Michigan Legislature. The passage of this bill marks a significant step forward for Kent County, as it provides local governments with [...]
Governor Whitmer Signs Legislation Protecting Health Care for Millions of Michiganders
LANSING, Mich. - Today, Governor Whitmer signed legislation protecting the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which ensures affordable health care coverage for millions of Michiganders and their families, and makes it harder for the federal government or Supreme Court to repeal the ACA and claw back healthcare access like they did with the overturn of Roe v. Wade. “When I was in the Legislature, I brought Democrats and Republicans together to establish Healthy Michigan, which now covers over one million Michiganders,” [...]
Dem-Sponsored Bills Protecting Health Care Access Move Closer to Governor’s Desk
Legislation enshrines federal protections into state law to keep health care available, affordable LANSING, Mich., Oct. 13, 2023 — Michigan Democratic legislators are one step closer to securing Affordable Care Act (ACA) protections in law. The ACA requires nearly all private health plans to cover many critical preventive services without cost sharing — these bills serve to codify those reforms and protections in Michigan statute. Lawmakers in both chambers have worked together to ensure the protections for Michiganders. The bills include: [...]
Rheingans, Fitzgerald Bills to Protect Children Pass in the House
Legislation clarifies car safety seat standards to help parents keep kids safe LANSING, Mich., Sept. 27, 2023 — On the heels of Child Passenger Safety Week, the Michigan House of Representatives passed House Bills 4511 and 4512, sponsored by state Rep. Carrie A. Rheingans (D-Ann Arbor) and state Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming), respectively. The bills clarify car safety seat standards, aligning Michigan statute with federal law and regulations. “This legislation takes the necessary steps to ensure Michigan parents have clear, [...]
Fitzgerald Celebrates Historic ‘Make it in Michigan’ Investments for Local Hispanic Chamber
Fitzgerald Celebrates Historic ‘Make it in Michigan’ Investments for Local Hispanic Chamber GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Aug 18, 2023 — State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) and Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids) visited the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce this morning to speak with special guests about their hopes for continued economic growth in the West Michigan Hispanic community. They celebrated the historic investment for the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, made possible by the “Make it in Michigan” budget. “The West [...]
Fitzgerald, Energy Task Force Hear Residents’ Experiences with Reliability, Affordability
Lawmaker hosts stop on bipartisan energy reliability listening tour GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Aug. 9, 2023 — State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) hosted lawmakers from both parties today for the latest stop on the Energy Reliability, Resilience and Accountability Task Force Listening Tour at Grand Rapids Community College’s M-TEC Center. The event is one of several being held around the state to gather stories and suggestions from utility customers. State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming), second from left, speaks at the [...]
Whitmer Joins Brinks, Fitzgerald in Serving School Lunches to Students
KENTWOOD, Mich., Aug. 7, 2023 — Today, state Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) joined Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks at Endeavor Elementary School in Kentwood where they provided school lunches to local students. After the event, Fitzgerald issued the following statement: “It’s always an honor to have Gov. Whitmer join Senate Majority Leader Brinks and me in West Michigan but today was something truly special. Together, we helped serve over 50 school lunches for students at Endeavor Elementary in Kentwood, in [...]
Fitzgerald Responds, Mayor Vanderwood Refuses to Recuse Himself
WYOMING, Mich., Aug. 4, 2023 — A statement issued by the attorney representing Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood explained that the mayor will not resign, despite being charged on July 18 with allegedly coordinating as a fake elector to give Michigan’s electoral votes to former President Donald Trump in 2020 instead of current President Joe Biden, who defeated Trump in the state by over 150,000 votes. In response, state Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) issued the following statement: “I am extremely [...]
Fitzgerald Commends Michigan’s Lowest Unemployment Since the Turn of the Century
Wyoming, Mich., July 20, 2023 — Michigan officials announced today that the state’s unemployment rate has dropped to 3.6%, the lowest it’s been in nearly a quarter-century. This brings Michigan’s rate below the national average and keeps it at a level seen only three times in the last 50 years. State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) issued the following statement on the historically low unemployment numbers: “These historically low unemployment numbers are something the people of Wyoming and Grand Rapids [...]
Fitzgerald Calls for Mayor Vanderwood to Recuse Himself Following AG’s Fake Elector Charges
WYOMING, Mich., July 19, 2023 — State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) has issued the following statement in response to the charges filed against Wyoming Mayor Kent Vanderwood as part of Attorney General Dana Nessel’s 2020 election investigation: “The actions of Mayor Vanderwood do not reflect the honest values of the people of Wyoming. We are a community of people who prioritize the rule of law, who support our democracy and seek to uphold the Constitution. “These allegations — [...]
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 [...]
Fitzgerald Brings Tens of Millions Home to West Michigan for Infrastructure Projects, Creating Jobs
LANSING, Mich., June 29, 2023 — The Michigan House of Representatives passed the state’s fiscal 2023-24 budget yesterday. This is the first budget in 40 years crafted by a Democratic trifecta — it reflects Michigan’s values by making the largest investment in education in the state’s history, including free breakfast and lunch for every public school student and affordable pre-K, as well as substantial investments in workforce recruitment and retention, water infrastructure, and public safety. The legislators worked in a [...]
House Passes Bills to Protect Access to Affordable Health Care
Legislation codifies ACA’s consumer-friendly provisions in state law LANSING, Mich., June 27, 2023 — The Michigan House of Representatives approved legislation today that puts certain protections of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) into state law. The ACA requires nearly all private health plans to cover many critical preventive services without cost sharing. Furthermore, enshrining ACA preventive services helps to protect Michiganders from the will of federal judges who threaten to jeopardize health insurance protections. State Rep. Julie M. Rogers [...]
House Democrats Champion Bills Securing Affordable Care Act Protections into Law
LANSING, June 8, 2023 — The House Insurance and Financial Services Committee heard testimony on House Bills 4619-23 today. The bill package aims to safeguard protections under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) into state law. The ACA requires nearly all private health plans to cover many critical preventive services without cost sharing — these bills serve to codify those reforms and protections in Michigan statute. Furthermore, codifying ACA preventive services helps to protect Michiganders from the will of federal judges [...]
Fitzgerald Encourages Data-Driven Approach to Making Energy More Reliable
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., May 22, 2023 — State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming), member of the Energy Reliability, Resilience and Accountability Task Force, joined the press conference yesterday announcing details of the 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, prolonged power outages that occurred earlier this year after severe storms. “I joined this task force to listen to the people [...]
Fitzgerald on the Passage of House Bill, Expanding Land Banks in West Michigan and Beyond
LANSING, Mich., May 18, 2023 — House Bill 4375 is legislation to broaden qualifications for cities to form land banks. After the bill passed on the House floor, state Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming), who co-sponsored the bill, issued the following statement: “As chair of the Local Government and Municipal Finance Committee, I am grateful for the opportunity to help work on moving this legislation forward to the floor. I voted in favor of this bill because it will provide [...]
Legislators Introduce Personal Property Tax Amendments
LANSING, Mich. May 15, 2023 — State Reps. Denise Mentzer (D-Mt. Clemens) and John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming), alongside state Sen. Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores) introduced a bill package — House Bills 4553 and 4554, and Senate Bill 331 — to amend personal property tax law and help reimburse local governments for lost revenue. “This bill package is beneficial for both municipalities and small businesses. The bill will provide reimbursements for local towns, cities and communities across the state. Public safety [...]
Fitzgerald Joins Attorney General to Connect with West Michigan Community
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., May 15, 2023 — State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) and Attorney General Dana Nessel visited several local Wyoming and Grand Rapids facilities on Friday to connect with community members. Among their stops were the Kent County Veterans Treatment Court, the Conductive Learning Center, the Cook Art Center and the Cook Library. “This was a fantastic opportunity to meet with neighborhood community members and leaders in Wyoming and the greater Grand Rapids area,” Fitzgerald said. “I want [...]
Fitzgerald Supports a Robust House Budget; Passes the House
LANSING, Mich., May 11, 2023 — The Michigan House of Representatives passed its recommended fiscal 2023-24 state and school aid budgets yesterday. This is the largest ever proposed budget, making it the most comprehensive investment ever made in the people of Michigan. It reinvests in the people of this state, uplifts local communities and bolsters public safety. After the budget passed in the House, state Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) issued the following statement on the budget: “We have a great [...]
Rheingans, Fitzgerald Announce Upcoming Safer Seats, Safer Kids Bills
LANSING, Mich., May 4, 2023 — State Reps. Carrie Rheingans (D-Ann Arbor) and John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) held a press conference today to unveil new legislation, House Bills 4511 and 4512, to clarify child safety seat guidelines and bring them into alignment with federal and industry standards. The representatives were joined by guests Dr. Jonathan Gold of the Michigan Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics; Dr. Andrew Adair, president of the MI Osteopathic Association; and Lewis Moquin, certified child passenger [...]
Fitzgerald, Skaggs Discuss House Dems’ Legislative Priorities at Town Hall in West Michigan
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., March 31, 2023 — State Reps. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) and Phil Skaggs (D-East Grand Rapids) hosted a town hall in Wyoming to share and discuss Democratic caucus legislative priorities for the 102nd legislative term. House Democrats have hit the ground running during the first 90 days of the session by passing policies that directly and positively impact the people of West Michigan and across the state. “Listening to residents is the first step to manifest real, positive [...]
Fitzgerald Introduces Legislation to Keep Kids away from Guns
LANSING, Mich., March 10, 2023 — State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) sponsored a bill Tuesday to establish a trigger lock distribution program to be administered by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to provide for the distribution of firearm trigger locks to new parents or legal guardians immediately preceding or following the birth of their child. After introducing the bill, Fitzgerald issued the following statement: “Gun violence is a public health crisis with complicated causes. We need [...]
Kent County State Representatives Call for an Investigation into Unethical Child Labor Practices in Metro Grand Rapids
KENT COUNTY, Mich., Feb. 28, 2023 — The New York Times published an article on Feb. 25 exposing the exploitation of migrant child workers, including children in the Grand Rapids area at three factories in House District 80 and one in House District 81. In response, several state representatives issued statements. State Rep. Phil Skaggs (D-East Grand Rapids) discussed the responses of the state representatives upon learning of the investigative report: “Over the last few days, local Democratic [...]
Fitzgerald Responds to Mass Shooting on MSU Campus
WYOMING, Mich., Feb. 14, 2023 — A mass shooting took place on the Michigan State University campus beginning around 8:20 p.m. last night. Campus police have confirmed that three students were killed and five remain in critical condition at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. The investigation is ongoing, and people are encouraged to follow the guidance of the Michigan State University Police and Michigan State Police for the most up-to-date information. State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) issued the following statement on [...]
Fitzgerald Champions Wins During First Month of Democratic Majority
LANSING, Mich., Jan. 31, 2023 — Michigan’s 102nd Legislature is now almost a month underway. In just a few short weeks, House Democrats have delivered on a number of important promises made to the people of Michigan. The Michigan House passed House Bills 4001, 4002 and supplemental funding bills (Senate Bills 7 and 8) — collectively, the legislation will boost the economy and provide much-needed relief and support to Michiganders. State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) co-sponsored both House bills and [...]
Fitzgerald 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, supporting Michigan workers, investing in early childhood education, lowering costs for working families, improving public safety, protecting fundamental rights and attracting new talent to Michigan. “Gov. Whitmer’s speech was a reminder to [...]
Fitzgerald Named Chair of House Committee on Local Government, Member of Several Others
LANSING, Mich., Jan. 13, 2023 — Speaker Joe Tate (D-Detroit) announced yesterday the chairs and members of the Michigan House of Representatives’ standing committees, subcommittees and appropriations subcommittees. State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) has been appointed chair of the Local Government and Municipal Finance Committee and member of the Committees on Insurance and Financial Services; Health Policy; Transportation, Mobility, and Infrastructure; and Agriculture. “I’m eager to begin work on these committees, especially since they are connected to policy areas [...]
Fitzgerald Sworn In as Representative for the 83rd District
Michigan Supreme Court Justice Kyra Bolden (second left) swears in state Rep. Fitzgerald, who was joined by his wife and father-in-law during a swearing-in ceremony at the Michigan Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023. LANSING, Mich., Jan. 11, 2023 — State Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) was sworn in today as state representative for the 2023-24 legislative term. The swearing-in ceremony marked the formal opening of Michigan’s 102nd Legislature and the first day of House Democrats having the majority in over [...]