State Representative
Phil Skaggs
East Grand Rapids | 80th House District
Serving 92,350 constituents in Cascade Township, Kentwood, East Grand Rapids, southern Grand Rapids Township, small portion of Grand Rapids
PhilSkaggs@house.mi.gov
(517) 373-0836
Office: N-1099 House Office Building
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Phil Skaggs
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Stay Connected with
Phil Skaggs
Hello everyone! Here’s a quick recap of what happened during a busy week in the state Legislature and in House District 80:
Pink Poll Tax:
This Women’s History Month, Michigan House Republicans passed House Joint Resolution B, through committee, which would require Michiganders to show documented proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or passport, in order to vote. But more than 2.2 million women in Michigan don’t have birth certificates that match their legal names, meaning this could arbitrarily force millions of women jump through bureaucratic hoops to prove their citizenship, making it harder for women to vote.
This will make it harder for people to vote, plain and simple. I will keep fighting Republicans as they try to infringe on your personal right to vote. Meanwhile, House Democrats are continuing to speak out in opposition to this Republican resolution.
March is Reading Month Visits:
Last Monday, I kicked off March is Reading Month by visiting Breton Downs Elementary School! I had a blast reading with three classrooms of students and explaining to the kids a little bit about what a state representative does for our community. I cannot wait to continue visiting classrooms throughout the rest of the month. If you’re an educator in the district and would like me to visit your classroom to read with students, please reach out! While I can’t guarantee every request due to scheduling, I’ll do my best to make it happen. If you are interested, complete this form to request a visit: docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfaPP0PJzbrKczaN0EpnhFWi5mA6F88nwMexz9wjGz632VZIw/viewform?usp=s...
House Bill 4153:
Last week, I voted NO on HB 4153 because I believe every child deserves a highly qualified teacher in their classroom. While addressing teacher shortages is critical, lowering standards for who can teach in our classrooms isn’t the solution. This bill risks putting unqualified individuals in front of our students — compromising their education and future. We need real investments in public education, not shortcuts that undermine our teachers and schools.
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Hello everyone! Here’s a quick recap of what you may have missed in the state Legislature and in House District 80 last week. I’m looking forward to another great week working for our community!
School Budget:
I voted NO on a Republican-led budget that cuts education funding by 25% and ends state investments to universities. These unprecedented, drastic cuts would mean teacher layoffs, ending free lunch and breakfast programs, cuts to special education and fewer resources for children in need. It was an easy decision to oppose taking money away from our schools and kids.
Press Conference on Tariffs:
The President continues to threaten tariffs on everything from gas, to food, to lumber and more. This policy, if enacted, could raise prices on everyday needs and pass costs onto working families who are already struggling to afford groceries and gas. The chaos caused by supply chain disruptions may also endanger our economy and jobs. On Thursday, I joined my Democratic House colleagues at a press conference to speak out against this trade war with Canada and other allies. I will continue to fight for affordability for all Michiganders and against attempts to raise taxes.
March is Reading Month Visits:
We’ve kicked off March is Reading Month. I cannot wait to read to students and answer questions about my work as a state representative throughout the rest of the month. If you’re an educator in the district and would like me to visit your classroom to read with students, please reach out! While I can’t guarantee every request due to scheduling, I’ll do my best to make it happen. If you are interested, complete this form to request a visit: bit.ly/3QABR2K
Women's History Month:
March 1 marked the beginning of Women’s History Month. This month is a time to honor the resilience, power and contributions of women past and present. It’s important to ensure diverse women’s voices and contributions are recognized and celebrated. I have supported women throughout my time in the legislature by supporting reproductive freedoms, IVF access, women’s health, child care, paid sick leave and more. I remain committed to education, empowerment, equality and inclusion because the fight for justice is far from over.
4 CommentsComment on Facebook
Hello, House Joint Resolution B of 2025 was "reported with recommendation without amendment" and "referred to second reading" yesterday, March 11, in the House. Can you explain what these actions mean? And what happens next? Thank you!
These recaps are very helpful. Ty. Can you also list some Calls to Action? This is the time when we need to BE DOING! Postcards To Voters is a great organization. Spring Special Elections are coming up April 1, 2025! Early voting begins March 18. WI—Susan Crawford for Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice. Florida also has two special elections. One is to REPLACE Matt GAETZ! See pics below.
Michigan House Republicans just passed a 25% cut to our schools. The budget Republicans rammed through without even a committee hearing cuts $5 billion from our schools and ends state funding for universities and community colleges.
Republicans are defunding education.
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
We've got a job opening! I'm looking for a new Legislative Director (aka "Back Desker"). Applications are being accepted now and I'm hoping to make a decision within a week or two. It's a fast-paced job, but we get a lot of good stuff done. If you’re interested -- or know someone who is -- apply at the link.
www.house.mi.gov/OpenPositions
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Happy Paczki Day! I celebrated this morning with a Paczki from Schnitz Bakery in Grand Rapids!
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
Any left?
Thank you! I work there 😊
Women’s History Month is a time to honor the resilience, power, and contributions of women past and present. I remain committed to education, empowerment, equality and inclusion because the fight for justice is far from over. #WHM25
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Since launching Michigan School Meals, 74% of Michigan schools saw an increase in the number of students eating breakfast because of Michigan School Meals. This National School Breakfast Week we’re celebrating more kids focusing, learning and thriving in school! #NSBW25
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Hello everyone! Sorry to have missed you last week. Here’s a quick recap of what you may have missed in the Legislature and other news. I’m looking forward to a great week ahead working for our community!
Earned Paid Sick Time and Minimum Wage:
Last week, I voted NO on efforts to weaken protections for working people. I stood strong to oppose any cuts in the minimum wage. On Feb. 21, two 2018 laws were set to go into effect in Michigan that would have raised the minimum wage to $15/hour for all workers and given every Michigan employee the right to earn paid sick time to take care of themselves and loved ones. Rather than let these good laws take effect, Republicans put forward bills that would leave many Michiganders without the ability to take paid sick time off, forcing them to choose between paying their bills and taking care of themselves and their families. I will continue to fight for the rights of Michigan workers and families by advocating for paid sick time and a fair minimum wage for all because no one should have to choose between their health and their paycheck.
State of the State:
Last Wednesday, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered her seventh State of the State address, and I was honored to host Adam Magers, Cascade Twp. Fire Chief, on the floor for the speech. Gov. Whitmer laid out what Michiganders have made clear: we need to get back to basics by lowering costs, increasing jobs and delivering results on what matters most to you. It’s on all of us to take action to ensure every individual in our state has access to the tools they need to flourish — including consistent, affordable access to health care, child care and housing. As we brace for increased costs from Trump’s tariffs, now is the time to enact policies that will grow jobs and support families.
Sarah Downey Teacher of the Month:
Congratulations to Sarah Downey, House District 80’s February Teacher of the Month! Sarah Downey is an outstanding educator at Brookwood Elementary School. She was chosen for her unwavering dedication to her students, her ability to inspire learning and her compassionate approach to education. Thank you for your commitment to our kids and the future of our community! If you’d like to help us honor exceptional educators, you can nominate one for “Teacher of the Month” here: bit.ly/3EYEqcy
EGR Ski Team:
Congratulations to the East Grand Rapids High School Ski Team on their fantastic finish at the state finals last week! The boys team won their first state championship since 1999 and the girls team finished in second place. What an incredible achievement — your hard work and dedication have truly paid off, and you’ve made your school and community proud!
March is Reading Month:
This month, we’re celebrating the power of reading, and I’m excited to take part by visiting classrooms across the 80th District! Reading is the foundation of learning, sparking imagination, curiosity, and a lifelong love of knowledge. That’s why March is such an important month — it’s a time to encourage students to dive into books and discover new worlds through reading.
If you’re an educator in the district and would like me to visit your classroom to read with students, please reach out! While I can’t guarantee every request due to scheduling, I’ll do my best to make it happen. If you are interested, complete this form to request a visit: bit.ly/3QABR2K
Limbo Bills Lawsuit:
A Court of Claims judge, Hon. Sima Patel, issued an opinion last week that all bills passed by the Legislature must be presented to the Governor with enough time to allow her to sign. There are currently nine “limbo bills” that were passed by the Legislature last year and have not been presented to Governor Whitmer. The bills, if signed into law, would lower health care costs, add pension benefits for corrections and conservation officers, help to financially protect struggling workers and more.
House Resolution 28:
Last week, House Republican Rep. Josh Schriver introduced an extreme resolution calling for the elimination of marriage equality. It’s a cruel attempt to strip people of their basic freedoms and roll back the progress we have fought so hard for. Why can’t we just leave people alone and let them live their lives? Loving who you love doesn't hurt anyone — and frankly, it's nobody’s dang business. I will keep fighting to protect everyone’s freedom to marry the person they love.
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
Thank you Phil!
🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦
We need to expand affordable housing so that everyone can afford to live their Michigan Dream.
During her State of the State address this week, Governor Whitmer announced a bold strategy to build housing in Michigan, including $2 billion to build or renovate 121,000 homes.
1 CommentComment on Facebook
Didn’t you get your house from your ex-wife?
FOLLOW FOR MORE
Phil Skaggs IN THE NEWS
Skaggs Calls Out Republican Hypocrisy
LANSING, Mich., March 18, 2025 — The Detroit News published a story last night raising questions about if state Rep. [...]
Skaggs Applauds Governor’s Message Following State of the State
LANSING, Mich., Feb. 26, 2025 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered her seventh State of the State Address before a joint [...]
House Dem Members Stand Up for Workers, Push for Improved Earned Sick Leave
Pro-worker advocates joined Democratic legislators to call for Earned Sick Leave Act to take effect LANSING, Mich., Feb. 19, [...]
Hello everyone! Here’s a quick recap of what happened during a busy week in the state Legislature and in House District 80:
Pink Poll Tax:
This Women’s History Month, Michigan House Republicans passed House Joint Resolution B, through committee, which would require Michiganders to show documented proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or passport, in order to vote. But more than 2.2 million women in Michigan don’t have birth certificates that match their legal names, meaning this could arbitrarily force millions of women jump through bureaucratic hoops to prove their citizenship, making it harder for women to vote.
This will make it harder for people to vote, plain and simple. I will keep fighting Republicans as they try to infringe on your personal right to vote. Meanwhile, House Democrats are continuing to speak out in opposition to this Republican resolution.
March is Reading Month Visits:
Last Monday, I kicked off March is Reading Month by visiting Breton Downs Elementary School! I had a blast reading with three classrooms of students and explaining to the kids a little bit about what a state representative does for our community. I cannot wait to continue visiting classrooms throughout the rest of the month. If you’re an educator in the district and would like me to visit your classroom to read with students, please reach out! While I can’t guarantee every request due to scheduling, I’ll do my best to make it happen. If you are interested, complete this form to request a visit: docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfaPP0PJzbrKczaN0EpnhFWi5mA6F88nwMexz9wjGz632VZIw/viewform?usp=s...
House Bill 4153:
Last week, I voted NO on HB 4153 because I believe every child deserves a highly qualified teacher in their classroom. While addressing teacher shortages is critical, lowering standards for who can teach in our classrooms isn’t the solution. This bill risks putting unqualified individuals in front of our students — compromising their education and future. We need real investments in public education, not shortcuts that undermine our teachers and schools. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Hello everyone! Here’s a quick recap of what you may have missed in the state Legislature and in House District 80 last week. I’m looking forward to another great week working for our community!
School Budget:
I voted NO on a Republican-led budget that cuts education funding by 25% and ends state investments to universities. These unprecedented, drastic cuts would mean teacher layoffs, ending free lunch and breakfast programs, cuts to special education and fewer resources for children in need. It was an easy decision to oppose taking money away from our schools and kids.
Press Conference on Tariffs:
The President continues to threaten tariffs on everything from gas, to food, to lumber and more. This policy, if enacted, could raise prices on everyday needs and pass costs onto working families who are already struggling to afford groceries and gas. The chaos caused by supply chain disruptions may also endanger our economy and jobs. On Thursday, I joined my Democratic House colleagues at a press conference to speak out against this trade war with Canada and other allies. I will continue to fight for affordability for all Michiganders and against attempts to raise taxes.
March is Reading Month Visits:
We’ve kicked off March is Reading Month. I cannot wait to read to students and answer questions about my work as a state representative throughout the rest of the month. If you’re an educator in the district and would like me to visit your classroom to read with students, please reach out! While I can’t guarantee every request due to scheduling, I’ll do my best to make it happen. If you are interested, complete this form to request a visit: bit.ly/3QABR2K
Women's History Month:
March 1 marked the beginning of Women’s History Month. This month is a time to honor the resilience, power and contributions of women past and present. It’s important to ensure diverse women’s voices and contributions are recognized and celebrated. I have supported women throughout my time in the legislature by supporting reproductive freedoms, IVF access, women’s health, child care, paid sick leave and more. I remain committed to education, empowerment, equality and inclusion because the fight for justice is far from over. ... See MoreSee Less
4 CommentsComment on Facebook
Hello, House Joint Resolution B of 2025 was "reported with recommendation without amendment" and "referred to second reading" yesterday, March 11, in the House. Can you explain what these actions mean? And what happens next? Thank you!
These recaps are very helpful. Ty. Can you also list some Calls to Action? This is the time when we need to BE DOING! Postcards To Voters is a great organization. Spring Special Elections are coming up April 1, 2025! Early voting begins March 18. WI—Susan Crawford for Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice. Florida also has two special elections. One is to REPLACE Matt GAETZ! See pics below.
Michigan House Republicans just passed a 25% cut to our schools. The budget Republicans rammed through without even a committee hearing cuts $5 billion from our schools and ends state funding for universities and community colleges.
Republicans are defunding education. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
We've got a job opening! I'm looking for a new Legislative Director (aka "Back Desker"). Applications are being accepted now and I'm hoping to make a decision within a week or two. It's a fast-paced job, but we get a lot of good stuff done. If you’re interested -- or know someone who is -- apply at the link.
www.house.mi.gov/OpenPositions ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Happy Paczki Day! I celebrated this morning with a Paczki from Schnitz Bakery in Grand Rapids! ... See MoreSee Less
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
Any left?
Thank you! I work there 😊
Women’s History Month is a time to honor the resilience, power, and contributions of women past and present. I remain committed to education, empowerment, equality and inclusion because the fight for justice is far from over. #WHM25 ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Since launching Michigan School Meals, 74% of Michigan schools saw an increase in the number of students eating breakfast because of Michigan School Meals. This National School Breakfast Week we’re celebrating more kids focusing, learning and thriving in school! #NSBW25 ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Hello everyone! Sorry to have missed you last week. Here’s a quick recap of what you may have missed in the Legislature and other news. I’m looking forward to a great week ahead working for our community!
Earned Paid Sick Time and Minimum Wage:
Last week, I voted NO on efforts to weaken protections for working people. I stood strong to oppose any cuts in the minimum wage. On Feb. 21, two 2018 laws were set to go into effect in Michigan that would have raised the minimum wage to $15/hour for all workers and given every Michigan employee the right to earn paid sick time to take care of themselves and loved ones. Rather than let these good laws take effect, Republicans put forward bills that would leave many Michiganders without the ability to take paid sick time off, forcing them to choose between paying their bills and taking care of themselves and their families. I will continue to fight for the rights of Michigan workers and families by advocating for paid sick time and a fair minimum wage for all because no one should have to choose between their health and their paycheck.
State of the State:
Last Wednesday, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered her seventh State of the State address, and I was honored to host Adam Magers, Cascade Twp. Fire Chief, on the floor for the speech. Gov. Whitmer laid out what Michiganders have made clear: we need to get back to basics by lowering costs, increasing jobs and delivering results on what matters most to you. It’s on all of us to take action to ensure every individual in our state has access to the tools they need to flourish — including consistent, affordable access to health care, child care and housing. As we brace for increased costs from Trump’s tariffs, now is the time to enact policies that will grow jobs and support families.
Sarah Downey Teacher of the Month:
Congratulations to Sarah Downey, House District 80’s February Teacher of the Month! Sarah Downey is an outstanding educator at Brookwood Elementary School. She was chosen for her unwavering dedication to her students, her ability to inspire learning and her compassionate approach to education. Thank you for your commitment to our kids and the future of our community! If you’d like to help us honor exceptional educators, you can nominate one for “Teacher of the Month” here: bit.ly/3EYEqcy
EGR Ski Team:
Congratulations to the East Grand Rapids High School Ski Team on their fantastic finish at the state finals last week! The boys team won their first state championship since 1999 and the girls team finished in second place. What an incredible achievement — your hard work and dedication have truly paid off, and you’ve made your school and community proud!
March is Reading Month:
This month, we’re celebrating the power of reading, and I’m excited to take part by visiting classrooms across the 80th District! Reading is the foundation of learning, sparking imagination, curiosity, and a lifelong love of knowledge. That’s why March is such an important month — it’s a time to encourage students to dive into books and discover new worlds through reading.
If you’re an educator in the district and would like me to visit your classroom to read with students, please reach out! While I can’t guarantee every request due to scheduling, I’ll do my best to make it happen. If you are interested, complete this form to request a visit: bit.ly/3QABR2K
Limbo Bills Lawsuit:
A Court of Claims judge, Hon. Sima Patel, issued an opinion last week that all bills passed by the Legislature must be presented to the Governor with enough time to allow her to sign. There are currently nine “limbo bills” that were passed by the Legislature last year and have not been presented to Governor Whitmer. The bills, if signed into law, would lower health care costs, add pension benefits for corrections and conservation officers, help to financially protect struggling workers and more.
House Resolution 28:
Last week, House Republican Rep. Josh Schriver introduced an extreme resolution calling for the elimination of marriage equality. It’s a cruel attempt to strip people of their basic freedoms and roll back the progress we have fought so hard for. Why can’t we just leave people alone and let them live their lives? Loving who you love doesn't hurt anyone — and frankly, it's nobody’s dang business. I will keep fighting to protect everyone’s freedom to marry the person they love. ... See MoreSee Less
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
Thank you Phil!
🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦
We need to expand affordable housing so that everyone can afford to live their Michigan Dream.
During her State of the State address this week, Governor Whitmer announced a bold strategy to build housing in Michigan, including $2 billion to build or renovate 121,000 homes. ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentComment on Facebook
Didn’t you get your house from your ex-wife?