ear Friend,
Welcome to my latest Capitol Update! As your state representative, one of my most important jobs is to keep you updated on issues at the state Capitol and in our community. My staff and I are always ready to answer any questions about state government and provide any help you need in contacting state departments. I also look forward to hearing your thoughts and ideas on how to make state government work better for you.
You can also reach me at (517) 373-0159 or by email at billsowerby@house.mi.gov. You can also visit my website at sowerby.housedems.com to find up-to-date information and news on my work in Lansing. I hope you find my updates useful and informative.
In this issue:
- Upcoming Coffee and Conversation
- Healthy Michigan
- Financial Disclosure
- COVID-19 Relief Funding
Sincerely,
Bill Sowerby
State Representative, 31st House District
Upcoming Virtual Coffee and Conversation
Please join me for a virtual coffee and conversation. I look forward to hearing your thoughts and ideas on legislation, state programs and ways to make Michigan better for all. I hope to see you there!
Friday, Feb. 19 at 10 a.m.
To join, click the link below:
Healthy Michigan
In 2014, Healthy Michigan passed with widespread bipartisan support. We shouldn’t let actions at the federal level destroy a program that we all believe is right for Michigan citizens. Families depend on this program, and to allow it to end would mean many Michigan families would again be left wondering how they are going to afford a doctor or pay medical bills when someone gets sick. We simply cannot let that happen.
This week, I introduced House Bill 4069 to remove uncertainty concerning the longevity of the Healthy Michigan program. Healthy Michigan insures about 800,000 Michigan residents who likely would otherwise go without health care. Access to quality, affordable health care is necessary so that Michiganders have the freedom to build the life they want for themselves and their family. This legislation would remove language that would end Healthy Michigan when net state costs for the program exceed state savings.
Financial Disclosure
Recently, I introduced House Bill 4062 which calls for members of the executive branch, the governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, and secretary of state to disclose their personal finances. I have always believed that elected officials should not use their positions to enrich themselves, but instead to benefit the people they represent.
This bill, along with similar legislation to extend these same regulations to the Legislature and other statewide offices, are important to maintain government accountability and transparency, as well as restore faith and trust in our government.
COVID-19 Relief Funding
On Monday, Michigan House Democrats unveiled a plan that would provide $5 billion in federal funding for vaccine distribution, education, and the economy.
Some of the highlights include:
- $90 million for vaccine distribution;
- $575 million to expand COVID-19 testing, contact tracing and lab capacity;
- $2 billion for food assistance;
- $661 million for rental and utility assistance;
- $2 billion for public schools;
- $270 million for small business relief; and
- Language that would extend unemployment assistance from 20 to 26 weeks.