Capitol and Community Updates

Hello Friends,

Spring is finally here, and with it has come plenty of showers over the past month. I hope you all have been able to stay dry and enjoy some quality time with your loved ones.

In Lansing, my colleagues and I have been working hard on your behalf. With the costs of gas, groceries, utilities and other essentials continuing to rise, we know that families across Michigan are feeling the pressure. In the face of economic uncertainty and federal funding gaps, House Republicans’ budget includes further cuts to programs and services that Michiganders depend on every day. Meanwhile, Senate Democrats have put forward high-impact, targeted investments designed to deliver real solutions for the people of Michigan. We are currently in the process of reviewing the Senate budget, and I look forward to sharing updates with you as that work progresses. Please read on below for more details.

I also want to take a moment to congratulate and address all of the students who will be graduating this month. Reflect on how far you have come, the challenges you have overcome, the friendships you have made along the way and the lasting impact you have had on your communities. Your hard work and dedication has paid off, and I am incredibly proud of everything you have accomplished. Wishing you all the very best in the exciting journey ahead!

Thank you to those who have continued reaching out to our office to share their thoughts on a variety of issues. As always, if my office can be of assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact us via email at [email protected].

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you!

 

Warm regards,

Ranjeev Puri

Democratic Leader

24th House District

 

In this Issue:

• Upcoming Time with Ranjeev
• Legislative Updates
• What We’ve Been Up To
• Resources
• Community Events

Community Conversation Hour

Join us at my next community conversation event on Saturday, May 16, from 10-11 a.m. at Saj Bakery (49491 Cherry Hill Road, Canton, MI 4818). We will be joined by special guest U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell.

 

Updates on the House’s Fiscal Year 2027 Budget

House Republicans recently released their budget plan for the upcoming fiscal year. Budgets are more than financial documents; they are a reflection of our values and priorities. I am concerned that their proposal would include devastating cuts to programs and services that Michigan families depend on every day.

Here is what House Republicans are proposing to slash:

• $470.6 million from public university operations
• $20 million from maternal & infant health
• $33+ million from Military and Veterans’ Affairs, which provides education, health and welfare, employment and other relief services to Michigan’s active military members, veterans and their families
• $19.5 million from child development and care
• $18+ million from business attraction and community revitalization
• $11 million from community college operations
• $6+ million from renewable energy

The House Republican plan also neglected to include critical new investments from the governor’s proposal that would move our state forward, including:

• Weighted funding targets for at-risk and English language learning students. Weighted funding is a nationally proven model that provides stability and predictability for schools year after year, allowing them to plan effectively and serve their most at-risk learners.
• $3.3 million from community violence prevention
• $2.5 million from gun violence prevention

These are not line items on a spreadsheet — if signed into law, this budget includes real cuts that would hold real consequences for real people. They represent families who could lose access to care, veterans who could go without support, students who could face higher tuition and communities left without the resources they need to thrive.

My Democratic colleagues in the House and Senate Democrats are fighting back. We will not stand by while critical investments in Michigan’s future are stripped away. My colleagues and I remain committed to protecting these programs and ensuring that Michiganders remain front and center in every budget decision we make.

 

Moms Demand Action Rally

On Tuesday, April 28, Moms Demand Action brought together lawmakers, gun‑violence survivors and local leaders for a rally at the Capitol. The focus was on two bills (SB 853 and SB 854) which would require anyone selling guns or firearm parts to obtain a state dealer’s license. These bills would also prevent dealers from selling a firearm to someone who appears to be a safety risk, is intoxicated or is otherwise not allowed to purchase one.

Guns are now the leading cause of death for children and teens in the United States. Measures like these are designed to keep dangerous weapons out of the hands of people who shouldn’t have them. By strengthening these safeguards, we can help protect our communities and keep our kids safe.

 

ACCESS 55TH Anniversary Dinner

On Friday, April 24, I had the pleasure of attending the ACCESS 55th Anniversary Dinner. This event brought together nearly 2,000 community members, friends and allies, including business, corporate and nonprofit leaders. The ACCESS 55th Anniversary Dinner highlights our cultural heritage and the achievements of people in our community. Congratulations to ACCESS on 55 years of extraordinary impact.

 

Bring Your Kids to Work Day

On Thursday, April 23, we were excited to host MI House Democrats and their families for “Take Your Kid to Work Day” at the Capitol! From scavenger hunts to bubbles, mock interviews and pizza, it was a morning of fun and learning. It’s such a wonderful experience to share more about the work we do everyday and the importance of public service with our kids and future leaders!

 

Chaldean American Chamber Award Dinner

On Thursday, April 23, I had the opportunity to attend the Chaldean American Chamber Award Dinner. This annual event highlights community members who have made significant contributions and are recognized and honored.

 

Holi Celebrations in Canton

On Friday, April 17, the Holi Festival of Colors was celebrated in Canton. Holi marks the arrival of spring and symbolizes renewal, unity and the triumph of good over evil. It was wonderful to join families from across the community in celebrating this joyful tradition and welcoming the new season together.

 

Impact Summit

On Monday, April 20, I attended the Impact Summit for a conversation on what it means to be a leader. At a time when our belonging is being questioned, it was powerful to be in a room with South Asian change makers, from elected officials to youth organizers, who are building something bigger than themselves.

Our communities have always belonged. And we’re continuing to show that through leadership and lifting up the next generation.

 

Community Vaisakhi Event

On Friday, April 24, I had the privilege of attending the second annual Community Vaisakhi Celebration in Plymouth. For those who don’t know, Vaisakhi is a beloved spring festival marking the anniversary of Sikhism becoming a collective faith — a day of gratitude, community and joy. It was an honor to celebrate alongside so many wonderful people and to share in a tradition that speaks to the enduring strength and spirit of the Sikh community.

 

Family Fishing Frenzy

Saturday, May 9, from 9 a.m. to noon at Summit on the Park

One of Canton’s longest-running traditions returns!  Head over to the ponds of Heritage Park for this family-friendly event.  Please bring your own fishing gear. The pond will be stocked with large mouth bass, yellow perch and hybrid bluegill.

 

Spring Fling

Saturday, May 9, from 6-8 p.m. at Summit on the Park

Celebrate Mother’s Day in a special way. Moms, aunts, grandmothers and more are welcome for an evening of dancing and memory-making. There will be light refreshments and a popular balloon-drop finale! Make this a tradition with the special little person in your life!

 

Bark in the Park

Sunday, May 17, all day at Canton’s Dog Park

Dog owners and their four-legged friends can enjoy live entertainment and receive free give-a-ways from local pet supply and service vendors. Both members and non-members of the Dog Park are encouraged to bring their dogs to experience this off-leash event designed to give pet owners the opportunity to learn about Canton’s Dog Park, meet other pet owners and give dogs the opportunity to become more socialized.

*Note non-dog park members must show proof of up-to-date vaccination for rabies and DHLPP, signed by an accredited veterinarian. All ages welcome. No pre-registration is required.

 

Heritage Park Pollinator Party

Saturday, May 30, from 10 a.m. to noon at Heritage Park

What would be a world without bees? This outdoor event will show you how to plant your very own pollinator garden in your own backyard. You’ll learn the best plants to use to attract butterflies, hummingbirds, honey bees and other friendly pollinators. It will also feature presentations on our friendly buzzy honey-makers and the Clinton Metroparks mobile classroom. “Bee” sure to attend so all the excitement doesn’t buzz right on by. You don’t want to miss this family-friendly day that is perfect for the whole family!

 

Stay Up to Date with Spring Construction

As road work starts to pick back up across the state, the Michigan Dept. of Transportation (MDOT) encourages drivers to remain vigilant, minimize distractions, slow down and follow posted signage in work zones. For more information on work zone safety, click here.

To view an online map of ongoing road projects near you that may impact your commute, click here.

 

Our office is always here to answer any questions, concerns, or listen to any thoughts you have on any particular issue. The best way to reach us is by email at [email protected]. We also hope you will join us for upcoming coffee hours so that we can meet and I can hear what’s on your mind.