Hello friends,
With the snow clearing, we are beginning to see the effects of another harsh winter on our roads. I have been hearing from many members of our community concerning the need to find workable solutions to Michigan’s infrastructure crisis. As the House Appropriations Committee begins to put together our proposed budget, I will continue to advocate for our community.
Hearing from you about these issues and your budget priorities is useful for forming these proposals. My office is reachable by phone by calling (517) 373-0828, by email at DonnaLasinski@house.mi.gov or by coming to one of our district events. Upcoming coffee hours, celebrations and town halls are listed below and I would love to see you there.
Sincerely,
Donna Lasinski
Legislative Updates
Michigan Solutions for Michigan Communities
This past Tuesday, I joined Rep. Laurie Pohutsky at a press conference about the importance of allowing Michigan to establish state-specific standards for chemical contaminants in our water. Currently, Michigan law requires any rules or guidelines our state issues to precisely match the federal minimum standards. This means that even though Michigan residents spend more time outside enjoying our lakes and rivers than residents in most other states do, we cannot set the higher standards we need to keep our families safe. These are Michigan communities that need local solutions to water contamination. Rep. Pohutsky’s bill repeals the “No Stricter than Federal” rule that I strongly opposed when it was first passed during the lame duck session last year.
Increased Transparency in Government
Two weeks ago, the House Government Operations Committee heard testimony on a package of bills that would create the Legislative Open Records Act (LORA) and open the governor and lieutenant governor’s offices to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. This week, the House of Representatives voted in support of this bipartisan bill package and it will now be sent to the Senate for review. I am proud to have a bill in this package and spoke on the House Floor about its ability to bring more transparency and accountability to government. You can watch my entire speech here.
Reforming Michigan’s Pre-Trial System
The costs to Michigan taxpayers in our criminal justice system begin piling up even before anyone walks into a courtroom to argue a case. The pre-trial system that sets bail and holds suspected individuals in jail has grown exponentially, even for those who do not pose a risk to themselves or others, over the past few decades at great cost, but little reward, to Michigan communities. A bipartisan bill package of House Bills 4351-54 and HB 4360 will protect an individual’s rights and enhance public safety by setting new pre-trial standards across Michigan. I joined this bill package by signing on as a co-sponsor in the Speaker’s office.
Upcoming Time With Donna
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Coffee Hour at Northfield Township Senior Center
When: Saturday, April 13 from 10-11 a.m.
Where: Northfield Township Senior Center
9101 Main St. in Whitmore Lake
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Drafts with Donna at Chelsea Alehouse
When: Monday, April 29 from 6-7 p.m.
Where: Chelsea Alehouse
115 S. Main Street in Chelsea
District Spotlight
This past week, I had the privilege to attend the Washtenaw County Council Veterans Appreciation Dinner held to honor the Veterans in our community. I am grateful for the service of all Veterans and will continue to advocate for their interests in Lansing.
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If you missed our Clean Water Town Hall on March 7, never fret. There is a full recording available online here.
What to Do in 52
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Town Hall – Information on Proposition 2
Join in on community discussion at Washtenaw Community college about Proposition 2 in Michigan, which would require a select panel to create voting districts in Michigan.
When: Sunday, March 31, 2-3:30 p.m.
Where: Ypsilanti Senior and Community Center
1015 N. Congress St. in Ypsilanti
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The Secret Lives of 19th Century Women
If you find yourself wondering about what isn’t taught in history books, then join author Susan Nenadic and the Dexter Library for a discussion on the secret lives of women who changed American history.
When: Monday, March 25, 7 p.m.
Where: The Dexter Library
3255 Alpine in Dexter
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Saline City Council Meeting
To get more involved with the city of Saline and hear about the latest policy developments, join the Saline City Council Meeting. Come with questions prepared or just listen in on the action!
When: Monday, April 1 (but no fooling!), 7-8 p.m.
Where: The Saline Municipal Building
100 N. Harris St. in Saline
Resources
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Becoming an Entrepreneur
Are you interested in starting a small business? Make sure you use the many resources and tools that the State of Michigan has to offer.
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation has a wealth of information and helpful guides can be found here.
Once you’ve started your business, they may also be able to help you grow, find more information here.
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Recycling
Preparing to spark joy in your life with some spring cleaning? You may be able to recycle some of the waste in your house at the Western Washtenaw Recycling Authority. Always remember to keep an eye out for items to donate to local charities as well. To learn what you can drop off at the Western Washtenaw Recycling Authority, visit their site by clicking here.
I hope that this information has been helpful and that we will see you at future events.
Sincerely,
State Representative Donna Lasinski