Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.2, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Michigan Legislative Consultants Knowledge, Influence and Distinctive Expertise ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://mlcmi.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Senate Approves Reintroduced Legislation](https://mlcmi.com/senate-approves-reintroduced-legislation/) - Nine bills that were reintroduced following a lengthy legal battle and veto by the governor were passed by the Senate this week. - [Constitutional Convention Question Before Voters](https://mlcmi.com/constitutional-convention-question-before-voters/) - This November, Michigan voters will decide if the state will hold a constitutional convention for the purposes of amending the Michigan Constitution. - [E-Bike Ban Proposed](https://mlcmi.com/e-bike-ban-proposed/) - Legislation aimed at protecting young children from accidents caused by electric bikes was introduced in the Senate this week. - [Governor Announces Appointment](https://mlcmi.com/governor-announces-appointment-2/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the appointment of Charity Dean to the Michigan’s Women’s Commission. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of September 12 – 18, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-september-12-18-2026/) - The House and Senate have scheduled a typical Tuesday – Thursday session week. - [General Election Overview: 61st House District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-61st-house-district/) - Democratic Representative Denise Mentzer is running for a third term in office. - [Spotlight On Representative Peter Herzberg](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-peter-herzberg/) - Representative Peter Herzberg (D-Westland) is serving his first full term in the Michigan House after serving a partial term during the prior term. - [General Election Overview: 58th House District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-58th-house-district/) - Republican Representative Ron Robinson is serving his first term in the House and is seeking a second term in November. - [General Election Overview: 57th House District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-57th-house-district/) - Republican Representative Tom Kuhn is serving his second term in office and running for a third term this November. - [General Election Overview: 56th House District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-56th-house-district/) - Democratic Representative Sharon MacDonnell is running for a third term in the Michigan House. - [Legislative Candidate Selected](https://mlcmi.com/legislative-candidate-selected/) - Former Representative Pamela Hornberger was chosen to run in Michigan’s 63rd House District as the Republican candidate. - [Audit Completed on Voter Rolls](https://mlcmi.com/audit-completed-on-voter-rolls/) - The Office of the Auditor General (OAG) released a report, which they state shows Michigan’s voter rolls are more accurate than ever before. - [Higher Education Research Priorities Announced](https://mlcmi.com/higher-education-research-priorities-announced/) - The state is identifying research that can help strengthen postsecondary education and advance the state’s goal of having 60% of working-age adults earn a postsecondary credential or skills certificate by 2030. - [Data Center Reforms Announced](https://mlcmi.com/data-center-reforms-announced/) - A plan to repeal the 2024 sales and use tax reforms that were specifically carved out to promote and support data center development was announced this week. - [Michigan Secures Infrastructure Improvement Funding](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-secures-infrastructure-improvement-funding/) - The State of Michigan is set to receive $145 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation to strengthen passenger rail infrastructure. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of September 5 – 11, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-september-5-11-2026/) - MLC will be closed on Monday, September 7, for Labor Day. The Senate has scheduled session for Wednesday and Thursday. - [Spotlight On Representative Greg VanWoerkom](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-greg-vanwoerkom/) - Representative Greg VanWoerkom (R-Norton Shores) is serving his fourth term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [General Election Overview: 55th House District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-55th-house-district/) - Republican Representative Mark Tisdel is running for a fourth term in office, and his candidacy fits this district like a glove. - [How a Non-Linear Government Career Was Perfect for This Lobbyist](https://mlcmi.com/how-a-non-linear-government-career-was-perfect-for-this-lobbyist/) - If you look at the resumes of many lobbyists, you often see a straight line: a degree in political science, a stint as a legislative staffer, and a direct jump into government relations. - [General Election Overview: 54th House District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-54th-house-district/) - Republican Representative Donni Steele opted against running for reelection in the House in order to run for a seat in the Michigan Senate. - [General Election Overview: 49th House District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-49th-house-district/) - Republican Representative Ann Bollin has served in the House for eight years and is running for a fifth term. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-159/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [General Election Overview: 48th House District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-48th-house-district/) - Representative Jennifer Conlin is running for a third term in the House. - [House Approves Citizen-Initiated Law](https://mlcmi.com/house-approves-citizen-initiated-law/) - This week, the Michigan House voted to approve a proposal to put restrictions on campaign donations by public-backed utilities and large corporations. - [Healthcare Reforms Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/healthcare-reforms-introduced/) - Bipartisan legislation was announced, designed to increase investments in primary care, expand access, and build the healthcare workforce communities need. - [House Forms Select Committee](https://mlcmi.com/house-forms-select-committee/) - The Michigan House of Representatives voted to create the Select Committee on Rules and Procedures of the Bureau of Elections and the Board of State Canvassers. - [Governor Announces Appointment](https://mlcmi.com/governor-announces-appointment/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the reappointment of Frank Tecumseh to the Michigan Travel Commission. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of August 29 – September 4, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-august-29-september-4-2026/) - The Michigan Democratic Party will host its nominating convention on August 29 to nominate candidates for the general election, including lieutenant governor. - [Spotlight On Representative Jay DeBoyer](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-jay-deboyer/) - Representative Jay DeBoyer (R-Clay) is serving his second term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [General Election Overview: 46th Michigan House District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-46th-michigan-house-district/) - Republican Representative Kathy Schmaltz has proven to be a strong candidate, consistently outperforming the political base of this district. - [General Election Overview: 44th Michigan House District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-44th-michigan-house-district/) - After narrowly beating former Representative Haadsma in the 2024 election, Republican Representative Frisbie is serving his first term in the House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-158/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [General Election Overview: 31st Michigan House District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-31st-michigan-house-district/) - Democratic Representative Reggie Miller has served two terms in this seat and, while eligible to run again, chose not to seek a third. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-105/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [General Election Overview: 29th Michigan House District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-29th-michigan-house-district/) - Republican Representative Jim DeSana has represented this district for two terms and is running for another term. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of August 22 – 28, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-august-22-28-2026/) - On Saturday, August 22, the Michigan Republican Party will hold its nominating convention. - [Gubernatorial Candidate Selects Running Mate](https://mlcmi.com/gubernatorial-candidate-selects-running-mate/) - Democratic gubernatorial candidate and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced her pick for Lieutenant Governor, Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks. - [Monthly Revenue Increases](https://mlcmi.com/monthly-revenue-increases/) - Michigan’s major tax collections for July 2026 totaled $3,078.3 million, an increase of $165.8 million from the prior year. - [Governor Makes Judicial Appointments](https://mlcmi.com/governor-makes-judicial-appointments-2/) - This week, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced three appointments to the 3rd Circuit Court in Wayne County. - [General Election Overview: 28th House District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-28th-house-district/) - Representative Jaime Thompson (R-Brownstown) is serving her second term in the Michigan House. - [Spotlight On Representative Carrie Rheingans](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-carrie-rheingans/) - Representative Carrie Rheingans (D-Ann Arbor) is serving her second term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [General Election Overview: 27th House District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-27th-house-district/) - Representative Rylee Linting (R-Wyandotte) is serving her first term in the Michigan House. - [General Election Overview: 22nd House District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-22nd-house-district/) - This seat is currently held by Representative Matt Koleszar (D-Plymouth), who opted to run for the Michigan Senate instead of seeking reelection to the House. - [General Election Overview: 21st House District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-21st-house-district/) - Incumbent Representative Kelly Breen (D-Novi) is running for her fourth term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [The Art of Good](https://mlcmi.com/the-art-of-good/) - For over 12 years, I held various leadership roles within the legislature, including Legislative Director for then-Senate Majority Leader Ken Sikkema. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-157/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Picks Running Mate](https://mlcmi.com/republican-gubernatorial-candidate-picks-running-mate/) - Congressman John James, the Republican candidate for governor, announced his selection of a running mate for lieutenant governor. - [Resolution Regarding Passed Legislation Announced](https://mlcmi.com/resolution-regarding-passed-legislation-announced/) - Representative Regina Weiss (D-Oak Park) announced a resolution in response to a recent situation in which nine bills passed the legislature but weren’t presented to the governor until ordered by the courts. - [Energy Affordability Recommendations Presented](https://mlcmi.com/energy-affordability-recommendations-presented/) - The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) released a list of actions that the Michigan legislature could take to tackle energy affordability. - [Non-Citizens Charged for Voting](https://mlcmi.com/non-citizens-charged-for-voting/) - Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced charges against five non-citizens alleged to have voted in Michigan’s 2024 November general election. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of August 15 – 21, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-august-15-21-2026/) - The House and Senate are continuing their summer schedule, and neither session nor committees are scheduled to meet. - [Spotlight On Representative Alicia St. Germaine](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-alicia-st-germaine/) - Representative Alicia St. Germaine (R-Harrison Twp.) is serving her second term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Democratic Caucuses Reintroduce Legislation](https://mlcmi.com/democratic-caucuses-reintroduce-legislation/) - Legislation that has faced a series of legal challenges was reintroduced this week in both the House and Senate. - [Governor Signs Organ Donor Legislation](https://mlcmi.com/governor-signs-organ-donor-legislation/) - Legislation seeking to increase organ donor registrations was signed into law by Governor Gretchen Whitmer. - [Traffic Camera Restrictions Announced](https://mlcmi.com/traffic-camera-restrictions-announced/) - Senator Jim Runestad (R-White Lake) introduced legislation limiting the use and scope of data obtained by traffic cameras. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of August 8 – 14, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-august-8-14-2026/) - The House has scheduled session on Tuesday, and the Senate has scheduled session on Wednesday. - [Spotlight On Representative Sarah Lightner](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-sarah-lightner-2/) - Representative Sarah Lightner (R-Springport) is serving her fourth term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [How a Teen Passion Became a Career](https://mlcmi.com/how-a-teen-passion-became-a-career/) - Since I was a teenager on the precipice of college, I knew I wanted to be a lobbyist. - [Primary Election Held in Michigan](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-held-in-michigan/) - Yesterday, Michigan residents voted in primary elections for a number of key races. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of August 1 – 7, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-august-1-7-2026/) - The House and Senate are continuing their shortened summer schedule; neither session nor committees are scheduled for the week. - [Governor Signs Legislation Reforming Michigan’s Juvenile Justice System](https://mlcmi.com/governor-signs-legislation-reforming-michigans-juvenile-justice-system/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed two bills implementing recommendations from the Michigan Task Force on Juvenile Justice Reform - [Governor Expands Brownfield Development Program](https://mlcmi.com/governor-expands-brownfield-development-program/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed three bills expanding local abatement and transformational brownfield programs. - [Primary Election Next Week](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-next-week/) - On Tuesday, Michigan voters will cast their ballots in the state’s primary election. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of July 25 – 31, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-july-25-31-2026/) - On Monday, July 27, candidates in the Democratic primary for the United States Senate seat will debate on Fox 2 Detroit. - [Changes to Unemployment Benefits Take Effect](https://mlcmi.com/changes-to-unemployment-benefits-take-effect/) - This week, increased work-search requirements took effect for those receiving unemployment benefits. - [Unemployment Rate Declines](https://mlcmi.com/unemployment-rate-declines-3/) - Michigan’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in June declined by one-tenth of a percentage point to 5%. - [Absentee Voting Increases From 2022](https://mlcmi.com/absentee-voting-increases-from-2022/) - With two weeks left before the August 4 primary election, 572,553 Michigan voters have already cast their ballot. - [Governor’s Chief of Staff Departing](https://mlcmi.com/governors-chief-of-staff-departing/) - After nearly 8 years, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that her chief of staff, JoAnne Huls, is leaving the role on July 31. - [Governor Signs State Budget](https://mlcmi.com/governor-signs-state-budget-4/) - This week, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the 2027 Fiscal Year budget, providing appropriations for the next fiscal year beginning on October 1. - [Spotlight On Representative Alabas Farhat](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-alabas-farhat/) - Representative Alabas Farhat (D-Dearborn) is serving his second term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Primary Election Overview: The Race for Governor](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-the-race-for-governor/) - After two terms with a Democratic governor, eyes are on this race to see if Republicans can flip the highest office in the state. - [Primary Election Overview: United States Senate](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-united-states-senate-2/) - After serving in the U.S. Senate since 2015, Democratic Senator Gary Peters announced his retirement. - [Primary Election Overview: 13th Congressional District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-13th-congressional-district/) - Congressman Shri Thanedar is running for a third term in the United States House of Representatives. - [Primary Election Overview: 12th Congressional District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-12th-congressional-district/) - Democratic Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib is running for a third term, facing two challengers in the primary race. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-156/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Primary Election Overview: 80th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-80th-house-district/) - After two terms serving in the House, Democratic Representative Phil Skaggs opted to run for a seat in the Michigan Senate. - [From Paper Hats to Politics](https://mlcmi.com/from-paper-hats-to-politics/) - At first glance, one of my first jobs couldn’t be more different than my career. However, there are more similarities than first meets the eye. - [Spotlight On Representative Pauline Wendzel](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-pauline-wendzel-2/) - Representative Pauline Wendzel (R-Watervliet) is serving her fourth term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Primary Election Overview: 11th Congressional District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-11th-congressional-district/) - After two terms, Congresswoman Haley Stevens opted to run in the Democratic primary for Michigan’s open United States - [Primary Election Overview: 10th Congressional District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-10th-congressional-district/) - Republican Congressman John James opted against running for reelection in Congress to run for Michigan Governor, leaving this seat open. - [Primary Election Overview: 28th Senate District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-28th-senate-district/) - After serving 10 years in the Legislature, Democratic Senator Sam Singh decided against running for reelection. - [Primary Election Overview: 26th Senate District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-26th-senate-district/) - After serving 14 years in the Legislature, Republican Senator Kevin Daley is term-limited from running for reelection. - [Governor Announces Data Center Plan](https://mlcmi.com/governor-announces-data-center-plan/) - This week, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the Michigan Affordable and Responsible Growth Action Plan. - [Election Equipment Testing Underway](https://mlcmi.com/election-equipment-testing-underway/) - This week, Michigan’s county, city, and township clerks began conducting mandatory pre-election tests of their machines to ensure they are working properly ahead of the August 4 primary election. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of July 18 – 24, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-july-18-24-2026/) - The House and Senate are on their reduced summer session schedule. Neither session nor committees are scheduled for the week. - [Spotlight On Representative Cam Cavitt](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-cam-cavitt/) - Representative Cam Cavitt (R-Cheboygan) is serving his second term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Primary Election Overview: 25th Senate District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-25th-senate-district/) - After 14 years in the legislature, Republican Senator Dan Lauwers is term-limited from running for reelection. - [Primary Election Overview: 24th Senate District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-24th-senate-district/) - Republican Senator Ruth Johnson is term-limited and cannot run for reelection, leaving this seat open. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-155/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Primary Election Overview: 23rd Senate District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-23rd-senate-district/) - Republican Senator Jim Runestad has served 12 years in the legislature, making him term-limited for running again in the Michigan Senate. - [Primary Election Overview: 20th Senate District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-20th-senate-district/) - Republican Senator Aric Nesbitt is term-limited from running for reelection, leaving this seat open. - [Supreme Court Denies Appeal Over Legislation](https://mlcmi.com/supreme-court-denies-appeal-over-legislation/) - Following oral arguments in May, the Michigan Supreme Court let a lower court ruling stand on the issue of presenting passed legislation to the governor. - [Campaign Finance Reforms Announced](https://mlcmi.com/campaign-finance-reforms-announced/) - Last week, bicameral legislation was introduced in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Citizens United v. FEC. - [MPSC Launches Public Information App](https://mlcmi.com/mpsc-launches-public-information-app/) - The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) unveiled a new web application that gives the public the ability to dive into utility reliability data. - [DOJ Monitoring Elections in Michigan](https://mlcmi.com/doj-monitoring-elections-in-michigan/) - The United States Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Civil Rights Division announced its plan to have election monitors present at polling locations in three Michigan cities. - [Report Issued on Safety of Mackinac Bridge](https://mlcmi.com/report-issued-on-safety-of-mackinac-bridge/) - The Mackinac Bridge Authority shared a recent report from its consulting firm that confirms the bridge is at a lower risk of collapse due to a vessel collision than nationally established thresholds. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of July 11 – 17, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-july-11-17-2026/) - The House has scheduled its typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. The Senate has scheduled session for Wednesday, July 15. - [Spotlight On Representative Kelly Breen](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-kelly-breen/) - Prior to her election to the House, she had held a number of roles, including attorney and activist. - [Primary Election Overview: 15th Senate District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-15th-senate-district/) - Democratic Senator Jeff Irwin is term-limited and cannot run for reelection, leaving this seat open. - [Primary Election Overview: 13th Senate District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-13th-senate-district/) - After serving two terms in the Senate, Democratic Senator Rosemary Bayer decided not to run for reelection, leaving this seat open. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-154/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Primary Election Overview: 12th Senate District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-12th-senate-district/) - Democratic Senator Kevin Hertel is running for his second term in the Senate, after previously serving three terms in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Primary Election Overview: 10th Senate District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-10th-senate-district/) - Democratic Senator Paul Wojno is serving his final term in office due to term limits, leaving this seat open. - [Legislature Passes State Budget](https://mlcmi.com/legislature-passes-state-budget-2/) - After a marathon, all-night session, the House and Senate voted to approve the state budget for the upcoming fiscal year beginning on October 1. - [Senate Honors MLC Founder](https://mlcmi.com/senate-honors-mlc-founder/) - The Michigan Senate and Senator Sam Singh (D-East Lansing) paid tribute this week to the late MLC founder, Tom Cleary, who passed away in February. - [Legislature Extends Energy Emergency](https://mlcmi.com/legislature-extends-energy-emergency/) - The House and Senate adopted a resolution this week that extends Michigan’s current state of energy emergency through September 15. - [House Passes Changes to Youth Employment](https://mlcmi.com/house-passes-changes-to-youth-employment/) - The House of Representatives voted this week to make changes to youth employment rules in Michigan, most notably the permits currently required to have a job. - [Gas Tax Holiday Proposed](https://mlcmi.com/gas-tax-holiday-proposed/) - Legislation was introduced this week addressing the high cost of gas in Michigan. Moreover, this would address high prices at the pump in perpetuity. - [AI Reforms Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/ai-reforms-introduced/) - Legislation aiming to protect individuals from the unauthorized commercial use of their name, likeness, voice, image, and other aspects of their identity was introduced. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of July 5 – 10, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-july-5-10-2026/) - The House and Senate are not scheduled to hold session next week. - [Spotlight On Representative Laurie Pohutsky](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-laurie-pohutsky/) - She began her professional career working in food safety, toxicology, and health care. - [Primary Election Overview: 9th Senate District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-9th-senate-district/) - Incumbent Republican Representative Michael Webber is running for his second term in the Michigan Senate. - [Primary Election Overview: 7th Senate District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-7th-senate-district/) - After serving 12 years in the Michigan Legislature, Democratic Senator Jeremy Moss is term-limited from running for reelection. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-153/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Primary Election Overview: 2nd Senate District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-2nd-senate-district/) - Democratic Senator Sylvia Santana is term-limited and not able to run for reelection in the Senate, leaving this seat open. - [Primary Election Overview: 3rd Senate District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-3rd-senate-district/) - After serving 12 years in the Michigan Legislature, Democratic Senator Stephanie Chang is term-limited from running for reelection. - [DHHS Director Leaving](https://mlcmi.com/dhhs-director-leaving/) - Elizabeth Hertel, Director of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), announced her resignation, effective June 30. - [Gubernatorial Race](https://mlcmi.com/gubernatorial-race/) - This week, there were two major updates in the Republican primary race for governor. - [Senate Passes Housing Affordability Proposal](https://mlcmi.com/senate-passes-housing-affordability-proposal/) - This week, the Michigan Senate passed a bill increasing avenues for affordable housing through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority. - [Medical Debt Forgiveness Passes](https://mlcmi.com/medical-debt-forgiveness-passes/) - The Michigan House of Representatives passed legislation addressing the growing problem of medical debt in Michigan. - [Changes to Work Share Program](https://mlcmi.com/changes-to-work-share-program/) - Updates are planned for next month to the state’s Work Share Program, administered by the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA). - [Looking Ahead to the Week of June 27 – July 3, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-june-27-july-3-2026/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Primary Election Overview: 1st Senate District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-1st-senate-district/) - After serving 12 years in the Michigan Legislature, Democratic Senator Erika Geiss is term-limited from running for reelection. - [Spotlight On Representative Angela Witwer](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-angela-witwer-2/) - She began her professional career in clinical health care and later worked in community relations and marketing for Sparrow. - [Primary Election Overview: 101st House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-101st-house-district/) - After serving two terms in the Michigan House, Republican Representative Joe Fox decided to run for an open seat in the Michigan Senate. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-152/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Primary Election Overview: 97th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-97th-house-district/) - After two terms in the House, Republican Representative Matt Bierlein decided to run for a seat in the Michigan Senate. - [Primary Election Overview: 90th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-90th-house-district/) - Republican Representative Bryan Posthumus decided not to run for a fourth term in the House. - [Committee Considers Surveillance Pricing](https://mlcmi.com/committee-considers-surveillance-pricing/) - This week, the House Regulatory Reform Committee heard testimony on two bills that would prohibit surveillance and dynamic pricing in Michigan. - [Senate Passes Voting Rights Act](https://mlcmi.com/senate-passes-voting-rights-act/) - Along party lines, the Senate passed a package of bills establishing the Michigan Voting Rights Act (MVRA), which aims to establish state-level voting protections. - [May Revenue Increases](https://mlcmi.com/may-revenue-increases/) - Michigan’s major taxes and net lottery revenue increased last month by 3.8%, totaling $2.7 billion. - [Governor On Investment Mission](https://mlcmi.com/governor-on-investment-mission-3/) - Governor Whitmer kicked off a week-long investment mission in Europe, aiming to build upon current engagement with partners to attract job-creating investments and foster partnerships. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of June 20 – 26, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-june-20-26-2026/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Representative Kimberly Edwards](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-kimberly-edwards/) - Representative Edwards (D-Eastpointe) is serving her second term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Primary Election Overview: 89th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-89th-house-district/) - After serving four terms in the House, Republican Representative Luke Meerman opted not to run for reelection. - [Primary Election Overview: 84th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-84th-house-district/) - After serving three terms in the House, Democratic Representative Carol Glanville chose to run for the Senate, leaving this seat open. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-151/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Consumer Affordability Passes](https://mlcmi.com/consumer-affordability-passes/) - This week, the Michigan House passed a package of bills aimed at ensuring streaming services remain affordable for Michigan residents. - [House Passes Changes to Rulemaking](https://mlcmi.com/house-passes-changes-to-rulemaking/) - The Michigan House passed legislation granting legislative authority over agency rulemaking. - [Senate Proposes Healthcare Reforms](https://mlcmi.com/senate-proposes-healthcare-reforms/) - This week, legislation was introduced in the Senate to eliminate out-of-pocket costs for three of the state’s highest-volume, life-saving medical necessities. - [Tuition Reimbursement Proposal Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/tuition-reimbursement-proposal-introduced/) - Members of the House Democratic Caucus introduced a package aiming to make higher education more affordable and incentivize graduates to stay and work in Michigan. - [Proposal Addressing Utility Rates Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/proposal-addressing-utility-rates-introduced/) - Legislation changing the process of proposing utility rate increases was introduced by Senator Jim Runestad (R-White Lake). - [Looking Ahead to the Week of June 13 – 19, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-june-13-19-2026/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. In observance of Juneteenth, MLC will be closed on June 19. - [Spotlight On Representative Bradley Slagh](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-bradley-slagh/) - Representative Bradley Slagh (R-Zeeland) is serving his fourth term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Primary Election Overview: 62nd District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-62nd-district/) - Republican Representative Alicia St. Germaine is running for a third term in office. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-150/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Senate Moves on Free School Meals](https://mlcmi.com/senate-moves-on-free-school-meals/) - The universal free school meals program would be codified into law under legislation reported by the Senate Education Committee. - [Committee Advances Housing Proposal](https://mlcmi.com/committee-advances-housing-proposal/) - The Senate Housing and Human Services Committee reported legislation creating a Michigan Housing Opportunity Credit. - [Senator Given Committee Assignments](https://mlcmi.com/senator-given-committee-assignments/) - Newly elected Senator Chedrick Greene (D-Saginaw) was assigned to committees this week by Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids). - [Governor Unveils Poverty Task Force Report](https://mlcmi.com/governor-unveils-poverty-task-force-report/) - Governor Whitmer highlighted the Poverty Task Force Report, highlighting the scope of poverty’s impact across Michigan and recommendations to lift people out of poverty - [Looking Ahead to the Week of June 6 – 12, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-june-6-12-2026/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Representative Ken Borton](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-ken-borton/) - Representative Borton (R-Gaylord) is serving his third term in the Michigan House of Representatives and is the Republican caucus chair. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-149/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. - [Primary Election Overview: 78th District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-78th-district/) - After two terms in the House, Republican Representative Gina Johnsen decided to run for a seat in the Michigan Senate. - [Primary Election Overview: 74th District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-74th-district/) - After serving four terms in the House, Democratic Representative Kara Hope opted not to run for reelection this year. - [Elections Reforms Announced](https://mlcmi.com/elections-reforms-announced/) - Constitutional amendments were announced in the Senate and House of Representatives, aiming to reduce the impact of partisanship in the nominating process. - [Increased Corrections Oversight Proposed](https://mlcmi.com/increased-corrections-oversight-proposed/) - Legislation was announced that aims to promote safety and transparency across Michigan correctional facilities. - [Summer Energy Outlook Released](https://mlcmi.com/summer-energy-outlook-released-3/) - Unrest overseas and supply disruptions will continue to increase the cost of gasoline and diesel fuel, according to the latest report by the MPSC. - [Governor Signs Air Base Funding](https://mlcmi.com/governor-signs-air-base-funding/) - Governor Whitmer signed a bipartisan bill appropriating $152 million in funding to upgrade the runways and infrastructure at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of May 30 – June 5, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-may-30-june-5-2026/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Senator Michele Hoitenga](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-michele-hoitenga/) - Senator Michele Hoitenga (R-Manton) is serving her first term in the Michigan Senate after serving two terms in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Primary Election Overview: 59th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-59th-house-district/) - Republican Representative Doug Wozniak opted to run for the Michigan Senate, leaving this seat open. - [Primary Election Overview: 54th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-54th-house-district/) - Instead of running for a third term in the House, Representative Donni Steele is running for a seat in the Michigan Senate. - [Primary Election Overview: 41st House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-41st-house-district/) - Democratic Representative Julie Rogers is foregoing a fourth term in the Michigan House to run for the Michigan Senate. - [House Votes to Repeal Property Tax](https://mlcmi.com/house-votes-to-repeal-property-tax/) - The House voted along near party lines to pass major reforms to various taxes in Michigan. - [Senate Committee Reports Voting Rights Act](https://mlcmi.com/senate-committee-reports-voting-rights-act/) - The Senate Elections and Ethics Committee reported a bill package creating the Michigan Voting Rights Act in Michigan. - [Legislature Approves Supplemental](https://mlcmi.com/legislature-approves-supplemental/) - The Senate voted this week to appropriate $152 million in state funding to build two new runways at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. - [Senate Votes to Codify Childcare Program](https://mlcmi.com/senate-votes-to-codify-childcare-program/) - The Senate voted to codify the Tri-Share program, which aims to make childcare more affordable for families and more sustainable for childcare professionals. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of May 23 – 29, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-may-23-29-2026/) - In observance of Memorial Day, MLC will be closed on Monday, May 25. - [Spotlight On Senator Joe Bellino](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-joe-bellino/) - Senator Joe Bellino (R-Monroe) is serving his first term in the Michigan Senate. - [Primary Election Overview: 29th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-29th-house-district/) - Republican Representative James DeSana is running for a third term in this seat and will face the winner of the two-way Democratic primary race. - [Primary Election Overview: 15th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-15th-house-district/) - This seat is open after Representative Erin Byrnes decided to forego a third term and run instead in the Michigan Senate. - [Primary Election Overview: 11th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-11th-house-district/) - Representative Donavan McKinney opted to run in the 13th U.S. House of Representatives district instead of a third term in the Michigan House. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-148/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Primary Election Overview: 9th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-9th-house-district-2/) - Former Speaker of the House, Representative Joe Tate, made the decision not to run for a fifth term in the Michigan House of Representatives - [Revenue Estimating Conference Held](https://mlcmi.com/revenue-estimating-conference-held-3/) - The directors of the House and Senate Fiscal Agencies, State Treasurer, and State Budget Director came together to reach a consensus on projected state revenue for the upcoming fiscal year. - [House Approves Changes to Energy Policy](https://mlcmi.com/house-approves-changes-to-energy-policy/) - This week, the Michigan House of Representatives passed legislation reforming Michigan’s energy system. - [Committee Hears Testimony on AI Legislation](https://mlcmi.com/committee-hears-testimony-on-ai-legislation/) - The House Communications and Technology Committee heard testimony on a bill creating a board to oversee the use of artificial intelligence by state agencies. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of May 16 – 22, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-may-16-22-2026/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Senator Kevin Daley](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-kevin-daley/) - Senator Kevin Daley (R-Lum) is serving his second term in the Michigan Senate and serves as minority caucus chair. - [Primary Election Overview: 6th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-6th-house-district/) - Representative Natalie Price is forgoing a run for reelection in the House to run for the Michigan Senate. - [Primary Election Overview: 5th Michigan House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-5th-michigan-house-district-2/) - Representative Weiss is serving her third term in the House, and despite being eligible to run for reelection, she has made the decision to leave the House. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-147/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Primary Election Overview: 4th Michigan House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-4th-michigan-house-district/) - The 4th Michigan House District includes a portion of the City of Detroit. - [Primary Election Overview: 2nd House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-2nd-house-district/) - Representative Liberati is currently serving his second term, and while eligible for reelection, has made the decision not to seek another term, leaving this seat open. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-104/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Legal Challenge Over Legislation Heard](https://mlcmi.com/legal-challenge-over-legislation-heard/) - This week, the Michigan Supreme Court heard oral arguments in a legal challenge regarding presenting passed legislation to the governor. - [Executive Office Staff Updates](https://mlcmi.com/executive-office-staff-updates/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced promotions and new hires for staff within the executive office. - [Workplace Boundaries Proposed](https://mlcmi.com/workplace-boundaries-proposed/) - Legislation aimed at strengthening labor policies in Michigan was introduced this week. - [Secretary of State Details Election Firewall](https://mlcmi.com/secretary-of-state-details-election-firewall/) - Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Benson sent a letter to the Board of State Canvassers outlining policies and procedures to ensure a transparent and fair election process. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of May 9 – 15, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-may-9-15-2026/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday-Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Representative Amos O’Neal](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-amos-oneal/) - Representative Amos O’Neal (D-Saginaw) is serving his third term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Democrats Retain Senate Majority](https://mlcmi.com/democrats-retain-senate-majority/) - Yesterday, residents of the 35th Michigan Senate district voted in a special general election to fill the vacant state Senate seat. - [Beyond the Bio – Meet Emily Simmons](https://mlcmi.com/beyond-the-bio-meet-emily-simmons/) - MLC lobbyist Emily has been part of our firm for two years. Click here to read her full bio and get to know her better! - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-103/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Committee Reports Energy Reforms](https://mlcmi.com/committee-reports-energy-reforms/) - This week, the House Energy Committee reported two bills that would reform Michigan’s energy system. - [Senate Moves State Budgets](https://mlcmi.com/senate-moves-state-budgets/) - This week, the Michigan Senate passed two omnibus budgets providing funding for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins on October 1. - [Senate Moves Social Media Package](https://mlcmi.com/senate-moves-social-media-package/) - This week, legislation named the Kids Over Click package was passed by the Michigan Senate. - [New Legislative Caucus Announced](https://mlcmi.com/new-legislative-caucus-announced/) - This week, the formation of the Michigan Building Trades Caucus was announced. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of May 2 – 8, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-may-2-8-2026/) - The Senate scheduled session for Wednesday and Thursday. The House is not scheduled to hold session. - [Spotlight On Senator Paul Wojno](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-paul-wojno/) - Senator Wojno (D-Warren) is serving his second term in the Michigan Senate. - [State Budgets Move](https://mlcmi.com/state-budgets-move/) - This week, there was movement in both the House and Senate on the state budget for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins on October 1. - [Property Tax Cut Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/property-tax-cut-introduced/) - This week, a major property tax reform package aimed at lowering costs was introduced in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Senate Dems Announce Health Care Proposal](https://mlcmi.com/senate-dems-announce-health-care-proposal/) - Members of the Michigan Senate Democratic Caucus announced a plan that aims to increase access to affordable health care statewide. - [Michigan Democrats Endorse Candidates](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-democrats-endorse-candidates/) - Members of the Michigan Democratic Party came together last weekend to endorse candidates for this year’s midterm election in November. - [Changes to Appropriations Committee Announced](https://mlcmi.com/changes-to-appropriations-committee-announced/) - Speaker Matt Hall (R-Richland Twp.) announced a change to the Democratic members serving on the House Appropriations Committee. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of April 25 – May 1, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-april-25-may-1-2026/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday-Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Senator Lana Theis](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-lana-theis/) - Senator Theis (R-Brighton) is serving her second term in the Michigan Senate. - [Beyond the Bio – Meet Monica Martinez](https://mlcmi.com/beyond-the-bio-meet-monica-martinez/) - MLC lobbyist Monica has been part of our firm for four years. Click here to read their full bio and get to know them better! - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-146/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Spotlight On Senator Ed McBroom](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-ed-mcbroom/) - Senator McBroom (R-Vulcan) is serving his second term in the Michigan Senate. - [Michigan Dems Endorsing Candidates](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-dems-endorsing-candidates/) - On Saturday, April 18, members of the Michigan Democratic Party will gather in Detroit to endorse candidates for various offices in this year’s midterm election. - [House Passes Voter ID](https://mlcmi.com/house-passes-voter-id/) - This week, the House voted along party lines to require proof of United States citizenship when registering to vote. - [Mental Health Report Approved](https://mlcmi.com/mental-health-report-approved/) - The House Oversight Subcommittee on Public Health and Food Security voted this week to approve a new report outlining shortfalls in the state’s mental health system and providing recommendations for solutions. - [Monthly Revenue Declines Year Over Year](https://mlcmi.com/monthly-revenue-declines-year-over-year/) - According to the latest report by the Senate Fiscal Agency, March’s major taxes and net lottery revenue declined 11% from the prior year, totaling $1.8 billion. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of April 18 – 24, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-april-18-24-2026/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-145/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-102/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Michigan Republicans Hold Convention](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-republicans-hold-convention/) - The Michigan Republican Party held its endorsement convention for the candidates running in the midterm election this November. - [House Democratic Caucus Unveils Statewide Plan](https://mlcmi.com/house-democratic-caucus-unveils-statewide-plan/) - Following dozens of town halls and statewide meetings with constituents from each district, the Michigan House Democrats unveiled their “Vision for a Brighter Michigan” plan. - [Governor Signs Order Addressing Gas Prices](https://mlcmi.com/governor-signs-order-addressing-gas-prices/) - In response to rising gas prices, Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued an executive order, declaring an energy emergency. - [Commissioner Elected to National Board](https://mlcmi.com/commissioner-elected-to-national-board/) - Kristin Beltzer, Administrative Commissioner to the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC), was voted incoming chair-elect to the National Alcohol Beverage Control Association (NABCA). - [Looking Ahead to the Week of April 11 – 17, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-april-11-17-2026/) - The House and Senate return from their spring break and are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday–Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Representative Samantha Steckloff](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-samantha-steckloff/) - Representative Steckloff (D-Farmington Hills) is serving her third term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Beyond the Bio – Meet Rudy Hobbs](https://mlcmi.com/beyond-the-bio-meet-rudy-hobbs/) - MLC partner Rudy has been part of our firm for three years. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-144/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Senate Passes Medical Compact Participation Bill](https://mlcmi.com/senate-passes-medical-compact-participation-bill/) - Following negotiations between the chambers, the Senate passed legislation to reinstate Michigan's membership in the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact. - [Employment Reforms Move](https://mlcmi.com/employment-reforms-move/) - The Senate moved legislation prohibiting employers from seeking certain information from applicants during the hiring process. - [Committee Moves Online Protections](https://mlcmi.com/committee-moves-online-protections/) - The Senate Finance, Insurance, and Consumer Protection Committee reported legislation addressing certain aspects of kids' online use. - [Looking Ahead to the Weeks of March 28 – April 10, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-weeks-of-march-28-april-10-2026/) - The House and Senate will continue their annual spring break, during which neither session nor committees are scheduled to meet. The next scheduled session day is Tuesday, April 14. - [Spotlight On Representative Jason Hoskins](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-jason-hoskins-2/) - Representative Hoskins (D-Southfield) is serving his second term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-143/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Michigan and Finland Advance Partnership](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-and-finland-advance-partnership/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment of Finland. - [Firearm Reforms Package Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/firearm-reforms-package-introduced/) - This week, members of the Firearm Safety and Gun Violence Prevention Caucus introduced a bicameral package. - [Law Enforcement Caucus Formed](https://mlcmi.com/law-enforcement-caucus-formed/) - This week, the formation of the Michigan House Law Enforcement Caucus was announced. - [Voter ID Moves](https://mlcmi.com/voter-id-moves/) - Legislation requiring proof of United States citizenship when registering to vote was reported by the House Elections Integrity Committee this week. - [MLC’s Ann Spagnuolo Retiring](https://mlcmi.com/mlcs-ann-spagnuolo-retiring/) - At the end of this month, we’ll say goodbye to our longest-serving employee, Ann Spagnuolo, who began in 1988. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of March 21 – 27, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-march-21-27-2026/) - The House will be on its three-week spring break and isn’t scheduled to hold session. - [Spotlight On Representative Phil Skaggs](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-phil-skaggs/) - Representative Skaggs (D-East Grand Rapids) is serving his second term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Beyond the Bio – Meet Matt Sowash](https://mlcmi.com/beyond-the-bio-meet-matt-sowash/) - MLC partner Matt has been part of our firm for 10 years. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-142/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Energy Plan Announced](https://mlcmi.com/energy-plan-announced/) - This week, members of the House Republican Caucus announced a plan they say refocuses Michigan’s energy policy on reliability and affordability. - [Legislation Proposes Electing Energy Regulators](https://mlcmi.com/legislation-proposes-electing-energy-regulators/) - The three members of the Michigan Public Service Commission would be elected under recently introduced legislation. - [Senate Passes Medical Debt Reforms](https://mlcmi.com/senate-passes-medical-debt-reforms/) - Bipartisan legislation aiming to address the growing problem of medical debt in Michigan passed the Senate this week. - [Premises Liability Clarification Passes](https://mlcmi.com/premises-liability-clarification-passes/) - This week, the Michigan House passed legislation aimed at clarifying Michigan’s premises liability laws. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of March 14 – 20, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-march-14-20-2026/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. This is the final week for the House before a three-week spring break. - [Spotlight On Senator Mary Cavanagh](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-mary-cavanagh-2/) - Senator Cavanagh (D-Redford) is serving her first term in the Michigan Senate. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-141/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [House Passes Air Base Supplemental](https://mlcmi.com/house-passes-air-base-supplemental/) - The House voted this week to appropriate $152 million in state funding to build two new runways at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. - [Constitutional Carry Proposal Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/constitutional-carry-proposal-introduced/) - Legislation establishing Michigan as a constitutional carry state was introduced by a handful of members of the House Republican Caucus this week. - [Voter ID Considered](https://mlcmi.com/voter-id-considered/) - Legislation requiring a person to prove United States citizenship when registering to vote was considered by the House Elections Integrity Committee this week. - [Annual Energy Report Released](https://mlcmi.com/annual-energy-report-released/) - The annual report by the MPSC was released, pointing to what they believe are significant improvements to reliability, affordability, and consumer protections. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of March 7 – 13, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-march-7-13-2026/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday-Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Representative Mike McFall](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-mike-mcfall/) - Representative McFall (D-Hazel Park) is serving his second term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Beyond the Bio – Meet Tony Des Chenes](https://mlcmi.com/beyond-the-bio-meet-tony-des-chenes/) - MLC partner Tony has been part of our firm for 14 years. Click here to read their full bio and get to know them better! - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-140/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Republicans Respond to State of the State](https://mlcmi.com/republicans-respond-to-state-of-the-state/) - On Wednesday evening, Governor Whitmer delivered her final State of the State address, outlining several policy proposals for the coming year. - [Testimony Heard on Digital Identification](https://mlcmi.com/testimony-heard-on-digital-identification/) - Legislation that would allow Michigan residents to obtain a digital driver’s license or state identification card was considered this week in the Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. - [High School Graduation Rates Reach Record High](https://mlcmi.com/high-school-graduation-rates-reach-record-high/) - Michigan’s 2025 four-year graduation rate improved to the highest level since the state adopted the federal formula for calculating the rate in 2008, according to the latest data released by the Michigan Department of Education. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of February 28 – March 6, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-february-28-march-6-2026/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Representative Regina Weiss](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-regina-weiss/) - Representative Weiss (D-Oak Park) is serving her third term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Governor Delivers Her Final State of the State Address](https://mlcmi.com/governor-delivers-her-final-state-of-the-state-address/) - This evening, before a joint convention of the legislature, Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered her eighth and final State of the State. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-139/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-101/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Bipartisan Housing Proposal Announced](https://mlcmi.com/bipartisan-housing-proposal-announced/) - Representatives Krisitan Grant and Joe Aragona announced the Housing Readiness Package, which aims to address Michigan’s housing shortage and high costs. - [Governor Announces Strategic Plan](https://mlcmi.com/governor-announces-strategic-plan/) - Governor Whitmer announced the release of Michigan’s Defense and Aerospace Strategic Plan, a five-year roadmap aimed at growing the defense and aerospace sectors. - [Attorney General Seeks Court Order](https://mlcmi.com/attorney-general-seeks-court-order/) - Attorney General Nessel, along with a coalition of states, filed a motion asking the District Court of Massachusetts to enforce its order prohibiting the Federal Emergency Management Agency from terminating funding to disaster preparedness. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of February 21 – 27, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-february-21-27-2026/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Senator Sarah Anthony](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-sarah-anthony-2/) - Senator Anthony is serving her first term in the Senate. She made history in 2023 as the first Black woman to chair the Senate Appropriations Committee. - [Beyond the Bio – Meet Brendan Ringlever](https://mlcmi.com/beyond-the-bio-meet-brendan-ringlever/) - MLC partner Brendan has been part of our firm for 21 years. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-138/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Governor Approves Cellphone Ban](https://mlcmi.com/governor-approves-cellphone-ban/) - This week, Governor Whitmer signed bipartisan legislation banning cellphones in classrooms across the state. - [Governor Names Legal Counsel](https://mlcmi.com/governor-names-legal-counsel/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer named Mark Totten as her chief legal counsel. He previously served in the role during her first term as governor. - [January Revenue Increases](https://mlcmi.com/january-revenue-increases/) - Michigan’s major taxes and net lottery revenue in January 2026 increased 16.7% from the prior year, totaling $3.5 billion. - [Michigan Legislator Testifies Before Congress](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-legislator-testifies-before-congress/) - Representative Ann Bollin testified this week before the U.S. House Committee on House Administration, which has oversight authority over federal elections. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of February 14 – 20, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-february-14-20-2026/) - In observance of Presidents Day, MLC will be closed on Monday, February 16. - [Spotlight On Senator Rosemary Bayer](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-rosemary-bayer/) - Senator Bayer (D-Keego Harbor) is serving her second term in the Michigan Senate. - [Executive Budget Presented, Adjusted to Meet Budget Gap](https://mlcmi.com/executive-budget-presented-adjusted-to-meet-budget-gap/) - Today, before a joint hearing of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, Budget Director Jen Flood presented the executive budget recommendations for FY27. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-137/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-100/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Education Program Reaches Milestone](https://mlcmi.com/education-program-reaches-milestone/) - This year marks the fifth anniversary of Michigan Reconnect, the state’s tuition-free community college program for adults. - [House Prohibits Foreign Campaign Donations](https://mlcmi.com/house-prohibits-foreign-campaign-donations/) - This week, the Michigan House passed legislation prohibiting a foreign national from providing support for ballot questions in Michigan elections. - [House Seeks to Continue Medical Compact Participation](https://mlcmi.com/house-seeks-to-continue-medical-compact-participation/) - By a near-unanimous vote, the Michigan House passed legislation reinstating Michigan in the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact. - [Electric Choice Program Remains Successful](https://mlcmi.com/electric-choice-program-remains-successful/) - Michigan electricity providers remain at or near the 10% statutory cap in the state’s electric choice program in 2025, according to the annual report. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of February 7 – 13, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-february-7-13-2026/) - The Senate is scheduled to hold its typical Tuesday – Wednesday session schedule, while the House has scheduled session for Tuesday and Wednesday. - [Spotlight On Representative Curt VanderWall](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-curt-vanderwall-2/) - Representative VanderWall (R-Ludington) is serving his 10th year in the Michigan Legislature. - [Beyond the Bio – Meet Tim Ward](https://mlcmi.com/beyond-the-bio-meet-tim-ward/) - MLC President Tim has been part of our firm for 23 years. Click here to read their full bio and get to know them better! - [Special Primary Election Held](https://mlcmi.com/special-primary-election-held/) - Yesterday, residents of the 35th Michigan Senate District voted in a special primary election to fill the vacant state Senate seat. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-136/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Special Primary Election Next Week](https://mlcmi.com/special-primary-election-next-week/) - On Tuesday, residents of the 35th Michigan Senate District will head to the polls to vote in a special primary election. - [Department Leadership Changes Announced](https://mlcmi.com/department-leadership-changes-announced/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced changes in leadership at the Department of Technology, Management, and Budget and the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency. - [Senate Passes Legislation Fighting Human Trafficking](https://mlcmi.com/senate-passes-legislation-fighting-human-trafficking/) - Bipartisan legislation aimed at curbing human trafficking in Michigan was unanimously passed by the Senate this week. - [Medical Debt Protection Act Considered](https://mlcmi.com/medical-debt-protection-act-considered/) - The Senate Finance, Insurance, and Consumer Protection Committee heard testimony on bipartisan legislation creating protections for those with medical debt. In - [Looking Ahead to the Week of January 31 – February 6, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-january-31-february-6-2026/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight on Senator John Cherry](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-john-cherry-2/) - Senator John Cherry (D-Flint) is serving his first term in the Michigan Senate, after serving two terms in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-135/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-99/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Governor On Investment Mission to Switzerland](https://mlcmi.com/governor-on-investment-mission-to-switzerland/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer is currently on an investment mission to Switzerland, seeking to strengthen Michigan’s global partnerships to attract new investment. - [Housing Tax Credit Extension Proposed](https://mlcmi.com/housing-tax-credit-extension-proposed/) - Representative Cam Cavitt (R-Cheboygan) announced his plan to continue an affordable housing credit program, which was first passed into law in 2022. - [House Moves Changes to Attorney General’s Office](https://mlcmi.com/house-moves-changes-to-attorney-generals-office/) - This week, the Michigan House of Representatives passed legislation altering the Attorney General’s authority. - [Governor Announces Economic Transition Strategy](https://mlcmi.com/governor-announces-economic-transition-strategy/) - At the Detroit Auto Show, Governor Whitmer announced the release of the state’s first-ever Michigan Economic Transition Strategy. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of January 17 – 23, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-january-17-23-2026/) - In observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, MLC will be closed on Monday, January 19. State offices are also closed. - [Michigan’s Workforce Receives High Ranking](https://mlcmi.com/michigans-workforce-receives-high-ranking/) - Michigan was ranked No. 4 in the nation and second in the East North Central region in a new workforce report by Site Selection Magazine. - [Revenue Estimating Conference Held](https://mlcmi.com/revenue-estimating-conference-held-2/) - Today, the directors of the House and Senate Fiscal Agencies, State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks, and State Budget Director Jen Flood came together - [Looking Ahead to the Week of January 24 – 30, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-january-24-30-2026/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Representative Tyrone Carter](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-tyrone-carter/) - Representative Tyrone Carter (D-Detroit) is serving his fourth term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-134/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [2026 Legislative Session Officially Underway](https://mlcmi.com/2026-legislative-session-officially-underway/) - As outlined in the Michigan Constitution, the 103rd Legislature began its work for the year by holding session on the second Wednesday in January. - [December Revenue Declines](https://mlcmi.com/december-revenue-declines/) - Last month, major taxes and net lottery revenue declined by 6.5% from the prior year, totaling $2.9 billion. - [House Passes School Cell Phone Ban](https://mlcmi.com/house-passes-school-cell-phone-ban/) - Cell phones would be banned from use in schools statewide under legislation passed by the House this week. - [Spotlight on Senator Sam Singh](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-sam-singh-2/) - nator Sam Singh (D-East Lansing) has the distinction of being the first Indian American elected to the Michigan Senate. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-133/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [AG Issues Opinion on Clawing Back State Funding](https://mlcmi.com/ag-issues-opinion-on-clawing-back-state-funding/) - This week, Attorney General Dana Nessel issued a formal opinion concluding that a “disapproval” mechanism is unconstitutional. - [Michigan Unemployment Data Released](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-unemployment-data-released/) - Michigan’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased by one-tenth of a percentage point between September and November. - [Lottery Contributes Over $1 Billion to Education](https://mlcmi.com/lottery-contributes-over-1-billion-to-education/) - In the 2025 Fiscal Year, the Michigan Lottery contributed more than $1 billion to the School Aid Fund for the seventh consecutive year. - [Acting Chief Information Officer Named](https://mlcmi.com/acting-chief-information-officer-named/) - Governor Whitmer announced Eric Swanson will serve as acting chief information officer at the Michigan Department of Technology, Management, and Budget. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of January 10 – 16, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-january-10-16-2026/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their first session days of the year on Wednesday and Thursday. - [Spotlight On Representative Cynthia Neeley](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-cynthia-neeley/) - Representative Cynthia Neeley (D-Flint) is serving her third full term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-132/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-131/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Democratic Caucus Responds to Revoked Funding](https://mlcmi.com/democratic-caucus-responds-to-revoked-funding/) - Members of the Senate Democratic Caucus took action following last week’s surprising decision by the House Appropriations Committee to cancel ongoing funding. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-98/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Michigan’s Minimum Wage Increasing January 1](https://mlcmi.com/michigans-minimum-wage-increasing-january-1/) - The next scheduled increase under Michigan’s Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act is set to occur on January 1, 2026. - [Unemployment Benefit Rate Increasing](https://mlcmi.com/unemployment-benefit-rate-increasing/) - On January 1, 2026, the maximum weekly rate for unemployment benefits is scheduled to increase from $446 to $530. - [Michigan DOGE Task Force Announced](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-doge-task-force-announced/) - Michigan is launching its own version of the national DOGE effort, with the stated goal of improving accountability and efficiency within state government. - [Senate Committee Reports Jobs Program](https://mlcmi.com/senate-committee-reports-jobs-program/) - The Regulatory Affairs Committee reported legislation creating the More Jobs for Michigan Program, aimed at incentivizing good-paying new or retained jobs in the state. - [Looking Ahead to the Weeks of December 20, 2025 – January 9, 2026](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-weeks-of-december-20-2025-january-9-2026/) - Neither the House nor the Senate will hold session or committees for the next several weeks. The next scheduled session day is Wednesday, January 14, 2026. - [Spotlight On Senator Darrin Camilleri](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-darrin-camilleri/) - Senator Darrin Camilleri (D-Brownstown) is serving his first term in the Michigan Senate. His colleagues elected him to serve as the Assistant Majority Leader. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-130/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-97/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [House Stops Millions in Funding](https://mlcmi.com/house-stops-millions-in-funding/) - In an extremely rare move, the House Appropriations Committee voted to cancel almost $645 million in ongoing funding to various work projects throughout state government. - [House Appeals Bill Presentation Ruling](https://mlcmi.com/house-appeals-bill-presentation-ruling/) - Michigan House Republicans are appealing a Court of Appeals (COA) decision requiring them to present all legislation that passes both chambers to the governor. - [State Superintendent Begins Role](https://mlcmi.com/state-superintendent-begins-role/) - Dr. Glenn Maleyko started his role as State Superintendent and head of the Department of Education this week. - [Senate Votes to Forgive Unemployment Overpayments](https://mlcmi.com/senate-votes-to-forgive-unemployment-overpayments/) - In a show of bipartisanship, the Senate voted unanimously to forgive $2.7 billion in overpayments sent to Michigan residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. - [Governor Whitmer Elected to National Role](https://mlcmi.com/governor-whitmer-elected-to-national-role/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer was elected to serve as Vice Chair of the Democratic Governors Association (DGA). She’ll serve alongside DGA Chair, Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky, to help Democratic candidates win gubernatorial races in 2026. Next year, voters in 36 states will cast ballots to elect their governor. At the start of the year, Democrats - [Senate Moves PPO Reforms](https://mlcmi.com/senate-moves-ppo-reforms/) - The Michigan Senate unanimously approved two bills that seek to ensure personal protection orders (PPO) are immediately served by law enforcement officials at no cost. - [Lottery Commissioner Resigns, Acting Commissioner Named](https://mlcmi.com/lottery-commissioner-resigns-acting-commissioner-named/) - Suzanna Shkreli announced her resignation as Michigan Lottery Commissioner in order to run in the open Michigan Secretary of State election in 2026. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of December 13 – 19, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-december-13-19-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday-Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Representative John Fitzgerald](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-john-fitzgerald/) - Representative Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) is serving his second term in the House of Representatives and is currently serving as the House Democratic Floor Leader. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-129/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-96/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Task Force Appointments Announced](https://mlcmi.com/task-force-appointments-announced/) - This week, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the appointments to several boards and commissions, including the Dual Enrollment Task Force. - [Senate Advances Telemarketing Reforms](https://mlcmi.com/senate-advances-telemarketing-reforms/) - In an effort to address the rising number of phone solicitations, the Finance, Insurance, and Consumer Protection Committee reported legislation creating the Telephone Solicitation Act. - [Funding Awarded to Expand Broadband](https://mlcmi.com/funding-awarded-to-expand-broadband/) - Michigan was awarded $920 million in federal funds to administer the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. This is the single largest investment in high-speed internet infrastructure in Michigan and the nation’s history. Furthermore, the private sector will contribute $550 million in matching funds. Key Facts: The funding will connect nearly 200,000 homes, businesses, - [Gun Violence Task Force Releases Report](https://mlcmi.com/gun-violence-task-force-releases-report/) - The Michigan Gun Violence Prevention Task Force released its report outlining recommendations designed to reduce gun violence. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of December 6 – 12, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-december-6-12-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday–Thursday session schedule. - [What Four Years as a Lobbyist Have Taught Me](https://mlcmi.com/what-four-years-as-a-lobbyist-have-taught-me/) - Most of my public policy career has been shaping policy from the inside of government or a non-profit. - [Spotlight On Representative Kathy Schmaltz](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-kathy-schmaltz/) - Representative Kathy Schmaltz (R-Jackson) is serving her second term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-128/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-127/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-95/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Budget Transparency Changes Signed into Law](https://mlcmi.com/budget-transparency-changes-signed-into-law/) - Starting next year, legislators will follow a new process for submitting Legislatively Directed Spending Items (LDSI) for inclusion in the state budget. - [Legislator Security Expansion Signed into Law](https://mlcmi.com/legislator-security-expansion-signed-into-law/) - Legislation seeking to reduce the threat of political violence towards Michigan lawmakers was signed into law this week by Governor Whitmer. - [October Revenue Grows Year-Over-Year](https://mlcmi.com/october-revenue-grows-year-over-year/) - Michigan’s major taxes and net lottery revenue totaled $4.3 billion last month, an increase of 5.9% from October 2024. - [Looking Ahead to the Weeks of November 22 – December 5, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-weeks-of-november-22-december-5-2025/) - The legislature will continue its annual two-week break through next week. The Senate is scheduled to hold session December 2 – 4, while the House is scheduled to meet on December 2. - [Spotlight On Senator Jonathan Lindsey](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-jonathan-lindsey/) - Senator Jonathan Lindsey (R-Coldwater) is serving his first term in the Michigan Senate. - [10 Years, 10 Lessons: Reflections from a Lobbyist](https://mlcmi.com/10-years-10-lessons-reflections-from-a-lobbyist/) - After a decade working in government affairs, I’ve learned that lobbying is as much about relationships and reputation as it is about policy and persuasion. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-126/) - Below are some articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading over the past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Senate Passes Election Reforms](https://mlcmi.com/senate-passes-election-reforms/) - Legislation aimed at tackling election disinformation and improving transparency and integrity in the petition circulation process passed the Senate. - [Unemployment COVID Overpayments Legislation Moves](https://mlcmi.com/unemployment-covid-overpayments-legislation-moves/) - Legislation prohibiting the Unemployment Insurance Agency from seeking to recover improperly paid benefits after three years was reported by the Labor Committee. - [Operation Safe Neighborhoods Reaches Milestone](https://mlcmi.com/operation-safe-neighborhoods-reaches-milestone/) - Over 900 illegal guns have been taken off the streets since Operation Safe Neighborhoods began, which seeks to reduce gun violence. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of November 15 – 21, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-november-15-21-2025/) - The legislature is on its annual two-week recess. Neither committees nor session are scheduled during that time. - [Spotlight On Senator Erika Geiss](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-erika-geiss/) - Senator Erika Geiss (D-Taylor) is serving her second term in the Senate. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-94/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Committee Reports Tax Credit](https://mlcmi.com/committee-reports-tax-credit/) - Legislation allowing individuals who invest in qualifying Michigan-based businesses to claim an income tax credit was reported by the Finance Committee this week. - [Tariff Impact Information Released](https://mlcmi.com/tariff-impact-information-released/) - In response to an executive directive issued by Governor Whitmer, several departments submitted reports on the impact of federal tariffs on the economy. - [Detroit Elects New Mayor](https://mlcmi.com/detroit-elects-new-mayor/) - For the first time since 2014, Detroit will have a new mayor, and for the first time in the city’s history, a woman will serve in the role. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of November 8 – 14, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-november-8-14-2025/) - In observance of Veterans Day, MLC will be closed on Tuesday, November 11. State offices are also closed that day. - [Spotlight On Representative Stephanie Young](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-stephanie-young/) - Representative Stephanie Young (D-Detroit) is serving her third term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [From the Inside: 20 Years of Professional Lessons](https://mlcmi.com/from-the-inside-20-years-of-professional-lessons/) - After twenty years in the government and political world, I’ve learned that success isn’t built solely on policies, strategies, or speeches. It’s built on people. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-125/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Court Rules House Must Present Bills](https://mlcmi.com/court-rules-house-must-present-bills/) - This week, the Michigan Court of Appeals (COA) agreed with a lower court that legislation that passes both chambers is required to be presented to the governor. - [Senate Passes Supplemental Food Assistance](https://mlcmi.com/senate-passes-supplemental-food-assistance/) - Due to the lack of Federal funding for SNAP benefits beginning November 1, the Senate passed supplemental funding to help Michigan residents purchase food. - [House Passes Nuclear Energy Legislation](https://mlcmi.com/house-passes-nuclear-energy-legislation/) - This week, the Michigan House passed legislation seeking to drive investment in advanced nuclear and hydrogen energy in Michigan. - [Committee Considers Change to Professional Licensing](https://mlcmi.com/committee-considers-change-to-professional-licensing/) - The House Rules Committee took testimony this week on legislation aimed at streamlining Michigan’s professional licensing system. - [Workforce Tax Credit Proposed](https://mlcmi.com/workforce-tax-credit-proposed/) - Legislation was introduced aiming to connect Michigan workers with good-paying jobs, strengthening the state’s economy. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of November 1 – 7, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-november-1-7-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday–Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Representative Rachelle Smit](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-rachelle-smit/) - Representative Smit is serving her second term in the Michigan House. Her colleagues elected her Speaker Pro Tempore for the 2025-2026 legislative session. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-124/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-93/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Senate Passes Earmark Reforms](https://mlcmi.com/senate-passes-earmark-reforms/) - After making changes, the Senate voted 31-5 to pass legislation changing the process of including earmarks in the state budget. - [Law Enforcement Grant Program Proposed](https://mlcmi.com/law-enforcement-grant-program-proposed/) - Bipartisan, bicameral legislation was introduced this week, creating the Violent Crime Clearance Act, aimed at solving more crimes in Michigan. - [Impact of Pause on SNAP Released](https://mlcmi.com/impact-of-pause-on-snap-released/) - DHHS received communication that, due to the federal government funding lapse, there may be limited availability of funds to pay full SNAP benefits next month. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of October 25 – 31, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-october-25-31-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday–Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Senator Michael Webber](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-michael-webber/) - Senator Michael Webber (R-Rochester Hills) is serving his first term in the Michigan Senate. - [Lessons from 33 Years in the Industry](https://mlcmi.com/lessons-from-33-years-in-the-industry/) - After more than three decades, I’ve learned that while faces may change, the calendar and process are cyclical and many of the policy issues stay the same. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-123/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-92/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Senate Moves Earmark Reforms](https://mlcmi.com/senate-moves-earmark-reforms/) - This week, the Senate Appropriations Committee reported two bills making changes to legislatively directed spending items (LDSIs). - [Election Audit Report Released](https://mlcmi.com/election-audit-report-released/) - The Bureau of Elections released its report on the recounts, ballot audits, and post-election procedural audits conducted after the 2024 general election. - [September Revenue Increases Slightly](https://mlcmi.com/september-revenue-increases-slightly/) - Michigan’s major taxes and net lottery revenue totaled $3.8 billion last month, an increase of 0.6% from September 2024. - [Microplastics Awareness Week Announced](https://mlcmi.com/microplastics-awareness-week-announced/) - To raise awareness for the growing concern of microplastics, the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy is hosting Microplastics Awareness Week. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of October 18 – 24, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-october-18-24-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday–Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Senator Veronica Klinefelt](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-veronica-klinefelt/) - Senator Vernoica Klinefelt (D-Eastpointe) is serving her first term in the Senate. Her career in public service began in 1998 when she was elected to the East Detroit School Board. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-122/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-91/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Governor Signs State Budget](https://mlcmi.com/governor-signs-state-budget-3/) - This week, Governor Whitmer signed the state budget for the 2025-2026 Fiscal Year. - [Gubernatorial Debates Announced](https://mlcmi.com/gubernatorial-debates-announced/) - The Michigan Republican Party will host a series of three debates for candidates in the Republican primary race for governor. - [Governor Signs Marijuana Wholesale Tax](https://mlcmi.com/governor-signs-marijuana-wholesale-tax/) - Governor Whitmer signed legislation creating a 24% wholesale tax on marijuana. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of October 11 – 17, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-october-11-17-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday–Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Representative Jimmie Wilson](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-jimmie-wilson/) - Representative Jimmie Wilson, Jr. (D-Ypsilanti) is serving his second term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-121/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-90/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Legislature Passes State Budget During Marathon Session](https://mlcmi.com/legislature-passes-state-budget-during-marathon-session/) - Following marathon sessions Thursday into Friday, the House and Senate passed two omnibus budgets appropriating funds for the 2025-2026 Fiscal Year. - [Candidates File for Open Senate Seat](https://mlcmi.com/candidates-file-for-open-senate-seat/) - Ten candidates have filed to run in the special election for the 35th Senate District. - [Budget Reforms Resolution Adopted](https://mlcmi.com/budget-reforms-resolution-adopted/) - This week, the Senate adopted a resolution requiring transparency for earmarks during the budget negotiation process. - [Private Property Reforms Reported](https://mlcmi.com/private-property-reforms-reported/) - This week, the House Natural Resources and Tourism Committee reported legislation aimed at strengthening private property rights and updating enforcement practices within state agencies. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of October 4 – 10, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-october-4-10-2025/) - The House has scheduled session for Saturday through Friday. The Senate has scheduled its typical Tuesday–Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight On Representative Mike Hoadley](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-mike-hoadley/) - Representative Mike Hoadley (R-Au Gres) is serving his second term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-120/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Budget Framework Deal Reached](https://mlcmi.com/budget-framework-deal-reached/) - Last night, Governor Whitmer, Senate Majority Leader Brinks, and Speaker Hall announced they reached a budget framework agreement for the 2025-26 Fiscal Year. - [Blue Envelope Program Proposed](https://mlcmi.com/blue-envelope-program-proposed/) - Legislation seeking to improve interactions between individuals with disabilities and law enforcement and emergency services was introduced this week. - [CTE Programs Continue to Grow](https://mlcmi.com/cte-programs-continue-to-grow/) - Newly released data from the Department of Education points to the increasing demand in Michigan for Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. - [Senate Democrats Host Roundtable](https://mlcmi.com/senate-democrats-host-roundtable/) - Members of the Senate Democratic Caucus joined community partners to host a roundtable on their Building Blocks legislative package. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of September 27 – October 3, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-september-27-october-3-2025/) - The House is scheduled to hold session Monday-Wednesday and Friday. While the Senate has scheduled session for Monday-Wednesday. - [Spotlight on Senator Mark Huizenga](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-mark-huizenga/) - Senator Mark Huizenga (R-Walker) is serving his first full term in the Michigan Senate, after serving one year of a partial term. - [Finding My Niche](https://mlcmi.com/finding-my-niche/) - I first remember learning about the three branches of government in fourth grade and deciding that I wanted to work in one of those branches – the legislature. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-119/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-89/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Governor Delivers Economic Speech](https://mlcmi.com/governor-delivers-economic-speech/) - With just two weeks before the next fiscal year begins, Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered her “Protect and Defend Michigan’s Economy Speech.” - [Incoming Superintendent Signs Contract](https://mlcmi.com/incoming-superintendent-signs-contract/) - Dr. Glenn Maleyko will officially begin his role as State Superintendent on December 8, under the terms of his three-year contract signed this week. - [Senate Passes Election Misrepresentation Bill](https://mlcmi.com/senate-passes-election-misrepresentation-bill/) - Knowingly making a false statement or misrepresentation on an election could be punishable under legislation passed by the Senate this week. - [August Revenue Increases Year-Over-Year](https://mlcmi.com/august-revenue-increases-year-over-year/) - Last month, Michigan’s major taxes and net lottery revenue totaled $3 billion, which was 6.7% higher than August 2024 collections. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of September 20 – 26, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-september-20-26-2025/) - The Senate is scheduled to hold session on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. The House is scheduled to hold session on Wednesday and Thursday. - [Spotlight on Senator Jeff Irwin](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-jeff-irwin/) - Senator Jeff Irwin (D-Ann Arbor) is serving his second term in the Michigan Senate. - [Interim State Superintendent Named](https://mlcmi.com/interim-state-superintendent-named/) - Dr. Sue Carnell will serve as interim state superintendent, assuming the role when the current superintendent retires. - [Governor Visits Germany](https://mlcmi.com/governor-visits-germany/) - Following her investment mission to Singapore and Japan, Governor Gretchen Whitmer headed to Germany to lead Team Michigan at the IAA Mobility Conference. - [Constitutional Amendment Proposed](https://mlcmi.com/constitutional-amendment-proposed/) - Legislators’ pay would be withheld for failure to complete a state budget under a constitutional amendment introduced this week. - [Michigan Ranked High in Young Voter Turnout](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-ranked-high-in-young-voter-turnout/) - During the 2024 election, the increase in young voter turnout in Michigan was the highest in the nation. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of September 13 – 19, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-september-13-19-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday-Thursday session schedules. - [Spotlight on Representative Kristian Grant](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-kristian-grant/) - Representative Kristian Grant (D-Grand Rapids) is serving her second term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Lessons from 40 Years in Politics](https://mlcmi.com/lessons-from-40-years-in-politics/) - A career in politics and government is a fascinating one. Early in my career, I held several different jobs, all for the same legislative caucus. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-118/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-88/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Governor on Investment Mission](https://mlcmi.com/governor-on-investment-mission-2/) - Governor Whitmer is participating in an investment mission to Singapore and Japan, marking the first-ever official investment mission by a Michigan governor to Singapore. - [Human Trafficking Proposal Announced](https://mlcmi.com/human-trafficking-proposal-announced/) - This week, bipartisan legislation aimed at combating human trafficking in Michigan was announced. - [Change to Legislators’ Pay Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/change-to-legislators-pay-introduced/) - Legislation that would change legislators’ compensation to hourly pay was introduced in the House this week. - [Executive Office Staff Announcements](https://mlcmi.com/executive-office-staff-announcements/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced a number of promotions and hires within the Executive Office of the Governor (EOG). - [Looking Ahead to the Week of September 6 – 12, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-september-6-12-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday–Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight on Representative Ann Bollin](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-ann-bollin/) - Representative Ann Bollin (R-Brighton) is serving her fourth term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-117/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Data Breach Protections Pass](https://mlcmi.com/data-breach-protections-pass/) - The Senate passed bipartisan legislation seeking to expand protections for consumers when there is a data breach. - [House Passes Remaining Budgets](https://mlcmi.com/house-passes-remaining-budgets/) - On Tuesday, the Michigan House of Representatives passed a $56.6 billion omnibus budget for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins on October 1. - [Next State Superintendent Selected](https://mlcmi.com/next-state-superintendent-selected/) - The State Board of Education voted to offer the position of state superintendent to Dr. Glenn Maleyko. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of August 30 – September 5, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-august-30-september-5-2025/) - MLC will be closed on Monday, September 1, for Labor Day. - [Spotlight on Senator Ruth Johnson](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-ruth-johnson/) - Senator Ruth Johnson (R-Holly) is serving her second term in the Michigan Senate. Prior to her election to the Senate, she served two terms as Michigan’s Secretary of State. Biography She has a long history of holding elected office. From 1988 to 2004, she served 10 years on the Oakland County Board of Commissioners and - [Lessons from a Michigan Lobbyist](https://mlcmi.com/lessons-from-a-michigan-lobbyist/) - After 14 years of lobbying as a member of Michigan Legislative Consultants, I’ve come to appreciate that influence isn’t just about access; it’s about relationships, credibility, and timing. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-116/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. ‘Made in the USA’ Is A Struggling Brand – What’s behind consumers' decline in buying goods made in America? The Key Ingredients of College Town Success – How are - [Superintendent Finalists Selected](https://mlcmi.com/superintendent-finalists-selected/) - The State Board of Education narrowed the list of candidates for the next State Superintendent to three candidates following interviews this week. - [Ranked Choice Voting Ban Passes](https://mlcmi.com/ranked-choice-voting-ban-passes/) - The House passed legislation this week that would ban ranked choice voting in Michigan. - [Whistleblower Protections Proposal Announced](https://mlcmi.com/whistleblower-protections-proposal-announced/) - A plan seeking to expand protections for whistleblowers was announced, with the goal of introducing greater accountability mechanisms in government. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of August 23 – 29, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-august-23-29-2025/) - The House is scheduled to hold its typical Tuesday–Thursday session schedule. The Senate is scheduled to hold session on Tuesday, August 26. - [Meet the New Member: Representative Karl Bohnak](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-new-member-representative-karl-bohnak/) - Representative Karl Bohnak (R-Deerton) is serving his first term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-115/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Candidates for State Superintendent Announced](https://mlcmi.com/candidates-for-state-superintendent-announced/) - This week, the Michigan State Board of Education selected the seven semifinalists for the next superintendent of public instruction. - [Lawsuit Filed Over Open Senate Seat](https://mlcmi.com/lawsuit-filed-over-open-senate-seat/) - A lawsuit was filed against Governor Gretchen Whitmer because she hasn’t called for a special election in the 35th Michigan Senate District. - [July Revenue Declines](https://mlcmi.com/july-revenue-declines/) - The Senate Fiscal Agency released July’s revenue report, outlining collections and tax receipts for the month. - [Unemployment Rate Remains Steady](https://mlcmi.com/unemployment-rate-remains-steady-3/) - The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in July remained unchanged from the prior month at 5.3%. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of August 16 – 22, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-august-16-22-2025/) - The House is scheduled to hold its typical Tuesday–Thursday session schedule. The Senate does not have session scheduled for the week. - [Meet the New Member: Representative Parker Fairbairn](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-new-member-representative-parker-fairbairn/) - Representative Tim Parker Fairbairn (R-Harbor Springs) is serving his first term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-114/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-87/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Detroit Mayoral Primary Race Held](https://mlcmi.com/detroit-mayoral-primary-race-held/) - This Tuesday, Detroit residents voted in the primary election for the next Mayor of Detroit. - [Governor Asks for Impact of Tariffs](https://mlcmi.com/governor-asks-for-impact-of-tariffs/) - Governor Whitmer signed an executive directive asking state offices to investigate, calculate, and report the latest impact of tariffs on Michigan’s economy. - [Power of Attorney Forms Available](https://mlcmi.com/power-of-attorney-forms-available/) - Attorney General Dana Nessel announced today that free, fillable Power of Attorney forms are now available for download. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of August 9 – 15, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-august-9-15-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday–Thursday session schedule. - [Meet the New Member: Representative Tim Kelly](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-new-member-representative-tim-kelly/) - Representative Tim Kelly (R-Saginaw) is serving his fourth, non-consecutive term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Thriving Through Change: Why Adaptability Is Your Greatest Career Asset](https://mlcmi.com/thriving-through-change-why-adaptability-is-your-greatest-career-asset/) - Whether in your first job or your tenth, adaptability is a key ingredient for success. If you're anything like me, you don't see your first real job as your forever job. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-113/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-86/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Looking Ahead to the Week of August 2 – August 8, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-august-2-august-8-2025/) - Neither the House nor the Senate is scheduled to hold session during the week. - [MI Attorney General Resolves Cases Against Companies Accused of Misleading Storm Victims](https://mlcmi.com/mi-attorney-general-resolves-cases-against-companies-accused-of-misleading-storm-victims/) - On Wednesday, Attorney General Nessel reached agreements with several tree service companies. A default judgment bars Canary Tree Service and its owner Justin Hartmann from operating in Michigan. Additional settlements with Garrison McKinney and Holtslander include contract reforms, required written quotes, and financial restitution to affected consumers. Lawsuits arose after tree companies had violated the - [MSF Approves Hudsonville Expansion, Defense Manufacturing Project](https://mlcmi.com/msf-approves-hudsonville-expansion-defense-manufacturing-project/) - On Tuesday, the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) Board approved two major development projects. - [Governor Announces Statewide Funding for Main Street Businesses](https://mlcmi.com/governor-announces-statewide-funding-for-main-street-businesses/) - This Thursday, Governor Whitmer announced $1.49 million in Match on Main grants to more than 60 Michigan small businesses - [Bill to Limit Cellphone Use in Schools Fails Vote](https://mlcmi.com/bill-to-limit-cellphone-use-in-schools-fails-vote/) - This week, a bipartisan-backed bill to restrict cellphone use in Michigan schools failed in the state House after receiving no Democratic votes. - [Meet the New Member: Representative Stephen Wooden](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-new-member-representative-stephen-wooden/) - Representative Stephen Wooden (D-Grand Rapids) is serving his first term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [MPSC Commissioner Named](https://mlcmi.com/mpsc-commissioner-named/) - Shaquila Myers was named to the Michigan Public Service Commission this week by Governor Gretchen Whitmer. - [Chief Climate Officer Announced](https://mlcmi.com/chief-climate-officer-announced/) - Former Michigan Public Service Commissioner Alessandra Carreon was named the chief climate officer at the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). - [June Unemployment Rate Decreases](https://mlcmi.com/june-unemployment-rate-decreases/) - Michigan’s seasonally adjusted jobless rate last month declined one-tenth of a percentage point from the prior month to 5.3%. - [House Committee Authorizes Subpoenas](https://mlcmi.com/house-committee-authorizes-subpoenas/) - This week, the House Oversight Committee voted to authorize a number of subpoenas within the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), and the Office of Attorney General. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of July 26 – August 1, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-july-26-august-1-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold session on Tuesday, July 29. - [Meet the New Member: Representative Joseph Pavlov](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-new-member-representative-joseph-pavlov/) - Representative Joseph Pavlov (R-Smiths Creek) is serving his first term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-112/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-85/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [June Revenue Grows](https://mlcmi.com/june-revenue-grows/) - Michigan’s major taxes and net lottery revenue totaled $3.3 billion last month, an increase of 8.3% from June 2024. - [First-Ever Innovation Fund Awardees Announced](https://mlcmi.com/first-ever-innovation-fund-awardees-announced/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the initial eight recipients of the first-ever Michigan Innovation Fund, which was signed into law earlier this year. - [Medical Decisions Change Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/medical-decisions-change-introduced/) - Legislation establishing a clear framework for family members or close friends to make critical medical decisions when necessary was introduced this week - [Looking Ahead to the Week of July 19 – 25, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-july-19-25-2025/) - The House is scheduled to hold its typical Tuesday–Thursday session schedule, while the Senate has scheduled session for Tuesday. - [Meet the New Member: Representative Ron Robinson](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-new-member-representative-ron-robinson/) - Representative Ron Robinson (R-Utica) is serving his first term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-111/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-84/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Michigan Ranked Third for Voter Turnout](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-ranked-third-for-voter-turnout/) - During the 2024 election, Michigan’s voter turnout was ranked third in the nation. - [Senator Requests Medicaid Review](https://mlcmi.com/senator-requests-medicaid-review/) - Senator Roger Victory (R-Hudsonville) requested the Office of the Auditor General to review Michigan Medicaid spending. - [Economic Impact Released](https://mlcmi.com/economic-impact-released/) - The Mackinac Bridge Authority accepted an economic impact study showing that the bridge’s operation, tourism, and events contributed $193 million annually. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of July 12 – 18, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-july-12-18-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold session on Tuesday, July 15. - [Meet the New Member: Representative Jason Woolford](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-new-member-representative-jason-woolford/) - Representative Jason Woolford (R-Howell) is serving his first term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-110/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-83/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Budget Deadline Passes](https://mlcmi.com/budget-deadline-passes/) - Despite negotiations between the House, Senate, and the governor’s office, the legislature did not meet the statutory deadline to complete the state budget. - [Economic Indicators Report Released](https://mlcmi.com/economic-indicators-report-released/) - The Senate Fiscal Agency released the April 2025 Michigan Economic Indicators Report. The report provides economic highlights on the national and state levels. - [Upcoming Detroit Mayoral Primary Race](https://mlcmi.com/upcoming-detroit-mayoral-primary-race/) - In just over one month, Detroit residents will vote in the primary race for the next Mayor of Michigan’s biggest city. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of July 5 – 11, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-july-5-11-2025/) - The House and Senate will start their scaled-back session schedule for the summer. The next scheduled session day is July 15. - [Meet the New Member: Representative Steve Frisbie](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-new-member-representative-steve-frisbie/) - Representative Steve Frisbie (R-Battle Creek) is serving his first term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Politics is Personal](https://mlcmi.com/politics-is-personal/) - Politics is often portrayed as a constant battlefield with one party trying to outmaneuver the other. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-109/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-82/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog... - [Online Ticket Bot Protections Move](https://mlcmi.com/online-ticket-bot-protections-move/) - This week, the House passed bipartisan legislation aimed at protecting Michigan eventgoers from unfairly expensive ticket price hikes. - [Senate Republicans Seek to Restore Right-to-Work](https://mlcmi.com/senate-republicans-seek-to-restore-right-to-work/) - Members of the Senate Republican Caucus introduced a package that would restore Michigan’s Right-to-Work laws and repeal prevailing wage laws. - [Senate Passes Gun Reforms](https://mlcmi.com/senate-passes-gun-reforms/) - This week, the Senate passed legislation that supporters say will help keep residents safe from gun violence. Most of the package passed on a party-line vote. - [Legislation Addressing Housing Crisis Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/legislation-addressing-housing-crisis-introduced/) - Senator Roger Victory (R-Hudsonville) introduced a bill seeking to support efforts by nonprofit organizations to make homeownership attainable for individuals and families. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of June 28 – July 4, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-june-28-july-4-2025/) - The House has scheduled Tuesday as its only session day for the week, and the Senate has scheduled session for Tuesday and Wednesday. - [Meet the New Member: Representative Matt Longjohn](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-new-member-representative-matt-longjohn/) - Representative Matt Longjohn (D-Portage) is serving his first term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-108/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-81/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Looking Ahead to the Week of June 21 – 27, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-june-21-27-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday–Thursday session schedule. - [Governor Heads Overseas](https://mlcmi.com/governor-heads-overseas/) - Governor Whitmer is on a one-week investment mission to Australia, aimed at strengthening business ties and building opportunities for Michigan’s growth. - [Department Leadership Announcement](https://mlcmi.com/department-leadership-announcement/) - Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) Director Anita Fox announced Laura Hall’s return to the department as Senior Chief Deputy Director. - [White House Leadership Conference](https://mlcmi.com/white-house-leadership-conference/) - A group of Michigan lawmakers, local officials, and community leaders traveled to Washington, D.C., to attend the White House’s State Leadership Conference. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-107/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [House Moves First Budgets](https://mlcmi.com/house-moves-first-budgets/) - This week, the House began voting on budgets for the upcoming fiscal year starting on October 1. - [Monthly Revenue Exceeds Projections](https://mlcmi.com/monthly-revenue-exceeds-projections/) - Major taxes and net lottery revenue in May 2025 totaled $2.6 billion, according to the monthly report by the Senate Fiscal Agency. - [Education Reforms Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/education-reforms-introduced/) - Three members of the Senate Republican caucus introduced legislation this week that they state will shift the focus to student achievement and improve outcomes. - [Timeline Set for New Superintendent](https://mlcmi.com/timeline-set-for-new-superintendent/) - This week, the State Board of Education selected a company to lead the search for Michigan’s next State Superintendent and set a deadline for a formal appointment on September 9. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of June 14 – 20, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-june-14-20-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold session Tuesday and Wednesday. - [Meet the New Member: Representative Jennifer Wortz](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-new-member-representative-jennifer-wortz/) - Representative Jennifer Wortz (R-Quincy) is serving her first term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [It Takes What It Takes: Removing the Distraction of Choice](https://mlcmi.com/it-takes-what-it-takes-removing-the-distraction-of-choice/) - For most of us, daily life is defined by a series of constant decisions. Should I wake up at 5:30 a.m. to hit the gym, or hit snooze and sleep until 7, only to spend the rest of the day regretting it? Do I approach Legislator X or Legislator Y to champion a difficult policy - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-106/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-80/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [House Passes Budget Process Reform](https://mlcmi.com/house-passes-budget-process-reform/) - Legislation requiring the public posting of enhancement grant funds was unanimously passed by the House this week. - [Articles of Impeachment Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/articles-of-impeachment-introduced/) - Representative James DeSana (R-Carleton) introduced a resolution to impeach Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. - [Department Mandates ALS Reporting](https://mlcmi.com/department-mandates-als-reporting/) - The Department of Health and Human Services adopted a new administrative rule requiring mandatory reporting of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) cases. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of June 7 – 13, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-june-7-13-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday–Thursday session schedule. - [Meet the New Member: Representative Nancy Jenkins-Arno](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-new-member-representative-nancy-jenkins-arno/) - Representative Nancy Jenkins-Arno (R-Rolling Twp.) is serving her fourth, non-consecutive term in the Michigan House. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-105/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-79/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Summer Energy Report Released](https://mlcmi.com/summer-energy-report-released/) - This summer, Michigan residents can expect lower gas prices but higher residential electric rates and increased demand for natural gas. - [Governor Delivers Keynote](https://mlcmi.com/governor-delivers-keynote/) - In keeping with tradition, Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered the keynote address at this year’s Detroit Chamber Mackinac Policy Conference. - [Department Releases AI Plan](https://mlcmi.com/department-releases-ai-plan/) - This week, the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) released the AI and the Workforce Plan. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of May 31 – June 6, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-may-31-june-6-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Meet the New Member: Representative Morgan Foreman](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-new-member-representative-morgan-foreman/) - Representative Morgan Foreman (D-Ann Arbor) is serving her first term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [More Than a Thriller](https://mlcmi.com/more-than-a-thriller/) - As a fan of thrillers and mysteries, few series have gripped me like Greg Iles' Penn Cage novels. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-104/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Governor Delivers Address](https://mlcmi.com/governor-delivers-address-2/) - In the latest in her Road Ahead series, Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered remarks in Flint at Kettering University. - [Senate Republicans Introduce Energy Package](https://mlcmi.com/senate-republicans-introduce-energy-package/) - The Senate Republican caucus introduced a six-bill package aimed at restoring local control and lowering costs for Michigan residents. - [Budget Process Reform Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/budget-process-reform-introduced/) - Legislation requiring the public posting of enhancement grant funds was considered in the House Appropriations Committee this week. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of May 24 – 30, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-may-24-30-2025/) - In observance of Memorial Day, MLC will be closed on Monday, May 26. - [Meet the New Member: Representative Tonya Myers Phillips](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-new-member-representative-tonya-myers-phillips/) - Representative Tonya Myers Phillips (D-Detroit) is serving her first term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-103/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-78/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [State Revenue Projections Lowered](https://mlcmi.com/state-revenue-projections-lowered/) - Today, the directors of the Fiscal Agencies, the State Treasurer, and the State Budget Director came together to reach a consensus on projected state revenue. - [Financial Reporting Deadline Moved](https://mlcmi.com/financial-reporting-deadline-moved/) - Legislation was passed extending the deadline for legislators, the attorney general, and the secretary of state to file financial disclosures to June 13. - [Senate Passes State Budget](https://mlcmi.com/senate-passes-state-budget/) - This week, the Michigan Senate passed legislation creating a state budget for the upcoming 2025-2026 Fiscal Year. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of May 17 – 23, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-may-17-23-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Meet the New Member: Representative Rylee Linting](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-new-member-representative-rylee-linting/) - Representative Linting (R-Wyandotte) is serving her first term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Carving Out Time for Myself](https://mlcmi.com/carving-out-time-for-myself/) - Driving for work from Detroit to Lansing allows me to indulge in things I usually don’t get a chance to do as a mom of three…such as enjoying quiet or listening to a podcast. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-102/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-77/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Department Shares, Posts Election Documents](https://mlcmi.com/department-shares-posts-election-documents/) - Following a subpoena from the House Oversight Committee, the Department of State has provided an additional 1,9000 pages of material. - [Senate Appropriations Committee Moves Budgets](https://mlcmi.com/senate-appropriations-committee-moves-budgets/) - Mostly on a party-line vote, the Senate Appropriations Committee reported over a dozen state budget bills this week. - [School Cell Phone Restrictions Pass](https://mlcmi.com/school-cell-phone-restrictions-pass/) - Legislation requiring all school districts statewide to introduce cell phone policies was passed by the Michigan Senate this week. - [Report on Impact of Federal Cuts Released](https://mlcmi.com/report-on-impact-of-federal-cuts-released/) - Earlier this year, Governor Whitmer signed an executive directive, directing DHHS to identify the potential impact of proposed Federal cuts to Medicaid. - [State Recognizes Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness Day](https://mlcmi.com/state-recognizes-missing-and-murdered-indigenous-persons-awareness-day/) - On May 5, the Department of Health and Human Services joined communities statewide in recognition of May 5 as Missing and Indigenous Persons Awareness Day. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of May 10 – 16, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-may-10-16-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday–Thursday session schedule. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-101/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do - [Senate Moves Increase to Education Funding](https://mlcmi.com/senate-moves-increase-to-education-funding/) - This week, the Senate PreK-12 Appropriations Subcommittee moved its proposed budget for the 2025 – 2026 Fiscal Year, including an increase in funding. - [Digital Age Assurance Act Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/digital-age-assurance-act-introduced/) - Bipartisan legislation was introduced that aims to protect children on social media and mature content websites. - [House Approves Energy Permitting Change](https://mlcmi.com/house-approves-energy-permitting-change/) - Legislation reversing course on a law enacted last session, moving permitting authority for large-scale energy siting projects back to township boards, was approved. - [Governor Makes Appointments](https://mlcmi.com/governor-makes-appointments/) - Last Friday, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced a number of appointments to boards and commissions. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of May 3 – 9, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-may-3-9-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Leveling Up: My Favorite Reads on Organizational and Personal Growth](https://mlcmi.com/leveling-up-my-favorite-reads-on-organizational-and-personal-growth/) - If there’s one habit that’s consistently pushed me to grow—both professionally and personally—it’s reading. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-100/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-76/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [House Votes for Public Safety Trust Fund](https://mlcmi.com/house-votes-for-public-safety-trust-fund/) - The Michigan House of Representatives passed a bipartisan proposal aimed at supporting public safety and reducing violence statewide. - [Energy Permitting Change Moves](https://mlcmi.com/energy-permitting-change-moves/) - Legislation reversing course on a law enacted last session, moving energy permitting authority back to township boards, was reported by the House Energy Committee this week. - [Committee Hears Testimony on Cell Phones in Schools](https://mlcmi.com/committee-hears-testimony-on-cell-phones-in-schools/) - Legislation requiring all school districts statewide to introduce cell phone policies received a hearing in the Senate Education Committee this week. - [Prescription Drug Board Passes](https://mlcmi.com/prescription-drug-board-passes/) - This week, the Michigan Senate approved legislation creating the Prescription Drug Affordability Board and Prescription Drug Affordability Council. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of April 26 – May 2, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-april-26-may-2-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-99/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-75/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [House Committee Subpoenas Department](https://mlcmi.com/house-committee-subpoenas-department/) - The House Oversight Committee voted to authorize the issuance of a subpoena for the Michigan Department of State. - [List of Gubernatorial Candidates Continues to Grow](https://mlcmi.com/list-of-gubernatorial-candidates-continues-to-grow/) - As of this week, eight candidates have put their hats in the ring for Governor of Michigan in next year’s election. - [Revenue Comes in Below Projections](https://mlcmi.com/revenue-comes-in-below-projections/) - Major taxes and net lottery revenue totaled $2 billion last month, an increase of 28.6% from the prior year but $173.7 million less than previous estimates. - [Committee Reports Disaster Funding](https://mlcmi.com/committee-reports-disaster-funding/) - The House Appropriations Committee reported legislation appropriating $75 million to aid in disaster relief for northern Michigan. - [Looking Ahead to the Weeks of April 19 – 25, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-weeks-of-april-19-25-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [The Impactful Role of Fiction](https://mlcmi.com/the-impactful-role-of-fiction/) - Anyone in the professional world knows the importance of reading works written by the brightest minds in an industry. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-98/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-74/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [State Superintendent Retiring](https://mlcmi.com/state-superintendent-retiring/) - Dr. Michael Rice, Michigan’s 44th superintendent of public instruction, will retire effective October 3. - [Governor Delivers Address](https://mlcmi.com/governor-delivers-address/) - In Washington, D.C., Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered an address outlining her administration’s approach to working with the federal government. - [Governor Announces Staff Changes](https://mlcmi.com/governor-announces-staff-changes-2/) - This week, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced a number of changes to the staff within her executive office. - [Chief Legal Director Named](https://mlcmi.com/chief-legal-director-named/) - Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced Khyla D. Craine as the new chief legal director for the Michigan Department of State (MDOS). - [Results of Qualified Voter File Review Released](https://mlcmi.com/results-of-qualified-voter-file-review-released/) - The Department of State released the results of a review of Michigan motor vehicle records compared to voting records in the state’s Qualified Voter File. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of April 12 – 18, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-april-12-18-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-97/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and helpful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-73/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Governor Undertakes Investment Mission to Europe](https://mlcmi.com/governor-undertakes-investment-mission-to-europe/) - Last week, Governor Whitmer traveled to the United Kingdom and Ireland for an investment mission aimed at strengthening ties with global businesses and leaders. - [AG Responds to House Records Request](https://mlcmi.com/ag-responds-to-house-records-request/) - Last month, the Oversight Weaponization of State Government Subcommittee requested documents from Attorney General Nessel, the first request by the subcommittee. - [Michigan Joins Coalition Suing Federal Government](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-joins-coalition-suing-federal-government/) - Attorney General Nessel joined a coalition in filing a lawsuit against HHS for abruptly terminating nearly $11 billion in public grant funding. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of April 5 – 11, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-april-5-11-2025/) - The Senate is scheduled to hold its typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [From the Shores of Michigan to the Page](https://mlcmi.com/from-the-shores-of-michigan-to-the-page/) - In 2019, I received a text from Michigan author Erin Bartels, who received my number through a friend of a friend. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-96/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of March 29 – April 4, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-march-29-april-4-2025/) - The House and Senate will both be on their annual two-week break. During the week neither session nor committees are scheduled to meet. - [House and Senate Honor the Ronald McDonald House Charities](https://mlcmi.com/house-and-senate-honor-the-ronald-mcdonald-house-charities/) - This year marks the 50th anniversary since the founding of the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). RMHC aims to help families and communities. - [Firekeepers Revenue Sharing Tops $360 Million](https://mlcmi.com/firekeepers-revenue-sharing-tops-360-million/) - Last week, Emerson Silvernail, Chief of Staff for State Representative Sarah Lightner, accepted a check on behalf of the State of Michigan for $18.5 million. - [Gov. Whitmer Appoints New Member to the MEDC Executive Committee](https://mlcmi.com/gov-whitmer-appoints-new-member-to-the-medc-executive-committee/) - On Thursday, March 20, Governor Whitmer appointed Michael Taylor to fill an open seat on the Michigan Economic Development Council’s (MEDC) executive board. - [Earned Sick Time Act FAQs Updated](https://mlcmi.com/earned-sick-time-act-faqs-updated/) - The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) updated their list of frequently asked questions about the Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA). - [House Moves Infrastructure Funding Package](https://mlcmi.com/house-moves-infrastructure-funding-package/) - The House of Representatives passed legislation providing an additional $3.1 billion for roads and bridges throughout Michigan. - [House Approves Income Tax Reduction](https://mlcmi.com/house-approves-income-tax-reduction/) - This week, the House of Representatives approved legislation reducing Michigan’s income tax rate from 4.25% to 4.05%, effective January 1, 2025. - [Public Safety Funding Plan Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/public-safety-funding-plan-introduced/) - Bipartisan legislation providing additional, dedicated funding to local law enforcement was introduced in the House this week. - [Ticket Sale Reforms Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/ticket-sale-reforms-introduced/) - A bipartisan package was introduced targeting ticket reselling practices, a growing problem that is leading to spikes in ticket sale prices. - [Former Senator Passes](https://mlcmi.com/former-senator-passes/) - Former State Senator Darwin Booher passed away on March 16. He began his public career serving as Osceola Township supervisor and assessor from 1978 to 2004. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of March 22 – 28, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-march-22-28-2025/) - The Senate is beginning its two-week break, during that time session is not scheduled. The House is scheduled to meet next Tuesday – Thursday, before beginning its two-week break. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-95/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-72/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Income Tax Reduction Moves](https://mlcmi.com/income-tax-reduction-moves/) - The House Finance Committee reported legislation reducing the state income tax rate from 4.25% to 4.05%, effective January 1, 2025. - [Committee Moves Voting Reforms](https://mlcmi.com/committee-moves-voting-reforms/) - On a party-line vote, the House Elections Integrity Committee reported a proposal that would require a resident to show proof of citizenship when registering to vote, among other changes. - [Senate Democrats Unveil Proposal](https://mlcmi.com/senate-democrats-unveil-proposal/) - Members of the Senate Democratic caucus announced their proposal, aimed at “laying the foundation for a strong future for children and parents,” according to their press release. - [Committee Requests Documents from AG](https://mlcmi.com/committee-requests-documents-from-ag/) - The House Oversight Weaponization of State Government Subcommittee requested documents from Attorney General Dana Nessel, the first such request by the subcommittee. - [Committee Reports Change to Education Oversight](https://mlcmi.com/committee-reports-change-to-education-oversight/) - This week, the House Education and Workforce Committee reported legislation changing how the eight members of the State Board of Education are nominated. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of March 15 – 21, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-march-15-21-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-94/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-71/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Committee Considers Tax Report Proposal](https://mlcmi.com/committee-considers-tax-report-proposal/) - Testimony was given in committee on legislation requiring that a detailed report be mailed annually to every taxpayer, outlining the state’s revenues and distribution. - [Testimony Given on Nuclear Energy Generation](https://mlcmi.com/testimony-given-on-nuclear-energy-generation/) - This week, the House Energy Committee heard testimony on a bipartisan package seeking to encourage nuclear energy generation in Michigan. - [Department Removing Inactive Voters](https://mlcmi.com/department-removing-inactive-voters/) - Secretary of State Benson announced that more than 318,000 inactive voter registrations are slated to be removed from Michigan’s voter rolls next month. - [State Income Tax Reduction Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/state-income-tax-reduction-introduced/) - Legislation was introduced immediately reducing the state income tax rate to 4.05%, as of January 1, 2025. - [New UIA Director Begins Role](https://mlcmi.com/new-uia-director-begins-role/) - Jason Palmer began his role as director of the Michigan Unemployment Agency (UIA), succeeding Julia Dale who resigned in January. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of March 8 – 14, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-march-8-14-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-93/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-70/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Republican Response to State of the State](https://mlcmi.com/republican-response-to-state-of-the-state/) - Following Governor Whitmer’s State of the State address, Majority Floor Leader Representative Bryan Posthumus (R-Rockford) provided the Republican response. - [Nondisclosure Agreements Pass](https://mlcmi.com/nondisclosure-agreements-pass/) - Legislation prohibiting legislators from entering into nondisclosure agreements was passed by the House of Representatives this week. - [Webpage for Public Tips Launched](https://mlcmi.com/webpage-for-public-tips-launched/) - The Michigan House Oversight Committee launched a website for people to submit tips and suggestions for the various subcommittees’ upcoming investigations. - [Board of State Canvassers Welcomes New Members](https://mlcmi.com/board-of-state-canvassers-welcomes-new-members/) - At its most recent meeting, the Board of State Canvassers welcomed two new members and elected a new chair and vice chair. - [State Parties Election Chairs](https://mlcmi.com/state-parties-election-chairs/) - Last Saturday, the Michigan Democratic and Republican parties elected their new leadership. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of March 1 – 7, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-march-1-7-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Governor Delivers Annual Address](https://mlcmi.com/governor-delivers-annual-address/) - This evening, before a joint convention of the legislature, Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered her seventh State of the State. - [Reading for Enjoyment](https://mlcmi.com/reading-for-enjoyment/) - Far too often I find myself making excuses for not reading more for enjoyment. It’s a point of contention for my wife, who is an avid reader. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-92/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-69/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [State Parties Electing Leadership](https://mlcmi.com/state-parties-electing-leadership/) - This Saturday, the Michigan Democratic Party and Michigan Republican Party will hold state conventions to elect leadership. - [Income Tax Changes Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/income-tax-changes-introduced/) - Legislation exempting tips earned by hospitality workers from income taxes was introduced this week. - [Supreme Court Chief Justice Resigning](https://mlcmi.com/supreme-court-chief-justice-resigning/) - Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Clement announced she is stepping down from the bench and will serve as president of the National Center for State Courts. - [Nondisclosure Prohibition Reported](https://mlcmi.com/nondisclosure-prohibition-reported/) - Bipartisan legislation placing prohibitions on nondisclosure agreements was reported by the House Government Operations Committee this week. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of February 22 – March 1, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-february-22-march-1-2025/) - The Senate is scheduled to hold its typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule, while the House has scheduled session for Tuesday and Wednesday. - [ESTA and Minimum Wage Changes Pass Legislature](https://mlcmi.com/esta-and-minimum-wage-changes-pass-legislature/) - On Friday, February 21, the state’s Earned Sick Leave Act and Minimum Wage law were set to drastically change the landscape for employers and employees. Ahead of the changes, which were viewed as some of the most progressive in the country, the House and Senate passed legislation providing some relief sought by the business community. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-91/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Senate Moves Earned Sick Time, Minimum Wage Changes](https://mlcmi.com/senate-moves-earned-sick-time-minimum-wage-changes/) - Ahead of the February 21 changes to Michigan’s minimum wage and the implementation of the Earned Sick Time Act, the Senate moved forward with legislation. - [Governor Undertakes Investment Mission](https://mlcmi.com/governor-undertakes-investment-mission/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer traveled to the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain for an investment mission, the first time in state history a governor has visited the region. - [Lame-Duck Changes Advance](https://mlcmi.com/lame-duck-changes-advance/) - A resolution amending the Constitution to change the vote threshold to pass legislation during lame-duck was reported by the Government Operations Committee. - [Governor Announces Road Funding Plan](https://mlcmi.com/governor-announces-road-funding-plan/) - This week, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced a $3 billion plan to fix local roads, boost transit, improve safety on the roads, and reduce the cost of vehicle repairs for drivers. - [Judicial Appointment, Legislative Director Announced](https://mlcmi.com/judicial-appointment-legislative-director-announced/) - Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced two notably appointments. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of February 15 – 21, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-february-15-21-2025/) - In observance of Presidents Day, MLC will be closed on Monday, February 17. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-90/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-68/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Senate Sues the House](https://mlcmi.com/senate-sues-the-house/) - Senate Majority Leader Brinks filed a lawsuit in the Michigan Court of Claims over bills that were passed at the end of 2024 but weren’t presented to Governor Whitmer. - [Conservation Officer Reforms Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/conservation-officer-reforms-introduced/) - Legislation making changes to conservation officers, the police force within the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), was announced this week. - [Hearing Held on Earned Sick Time Requirements](https://mlcmi.com/hearing-held-on-earned-sick-time-requirements/) - Legislation amending Earned sick time laws in Michigan had its first hearing in the Senate Regulatory Affairs Committee this week. - [Senate Republicans Announce Campaign Team](https://mlcmi.com/senate-republicans-announce-campaign-team/) - The Senate Republican Campaign Committee announced their team heading into the 2026 election year. - [Electric Choice Program Fully Subscribed](https://mlcmi.com/electric-choice-program-fully-subscribed/) - Each electric provider in Michigan’s electric choice program remained at or near the 10% statutory cap in 2024. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of February 8 – 12, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-february-8-12-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Executive Budget Recommendations](https://mlcmi.com/executive-budget-recommendations/) - Today, the State Budget Office presented Governor Whitmer’s seventh budget to a joint hearing of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees. - [My Information Hub](https://mlcmi.com/my-information-hub/) - In this world of constant communication, finding the time or focus for certain activities, particularly reading or listening to a podcast, is sometimes difficult. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-89/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-67/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [FOIA Expansion Moves](https://mlcmi.com/foia-expansion-moves/) - The Senate passed bipartisan legislation expanding Michigan’s Freedom of Information Act and subjecting the legislature and executive office to requests. - [Voter Constitutional Amendment Proposed](https://mlcmi.com/voter-constitutional-amendment-proposed/) - Representative Posthumus introduced legislation to amend the Constitution to require proof of citizenship when registering to vote & a photo ID to cast a ballot. - [Appropriation Changes Adopted](https://mlcmi.com/appropriation-changes-adopted/) - A proposal laying out new rules for legislatively directed spending initiatives was adopted in the Michigan House of Representatives this week. - [Senator Announces Retirement](https://mlcmi.com/senator-announces-retirement/) - Democratic United States Senator Gary Peters announced his retirement this week, stating he will not run for reelection in 2026. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of February 1 – 7, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-february-1-7-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [House Committee Chairs and Members Announced](https://mlcmi.com/house-committee-chairs-and-members-announced/) - House Speaker Hall named the chairs and members of the Standing Committees, the Appropriations Subcommittees, and the newly created Oversight Subcommittees. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-88/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Changes to Minimum Wage, Paid Sick Leave Pass](https://mlcmi.com/changes-to-minimum-wage-paid-sick-leave-pass/) - The House passed legislation altering the forthcoming changes to Michigan’s minimum wage and paid sick time laws, set to take effect next month. Without action, on February 21, the minimum wage will increase to $12.48/hour, and the tipped rate will increase to $5.99/hour. Additionally, for every 30 hours worked, an employee will accrue 1 hour - [House Judiciary, Oversight Chairs Named](https://mlcmi.com/house-judiciary-oversight-chairs-named/) - This week, Speaker Matt Hall announced the members serving as chair of the House Judiciary and Oversight Committees for the 2025 – 2026 legislative term. - [Senate Acts on Bills Not Presented](https://mlcmi.com/senate-acts-on-bills-not-presented/) - At the end of the last legislative term, nine of the bills that passed the House and Senate weren’t presented to Governor Whitmer for her consideration. - [Governor Sets Date for State of the State](https://mlcmi.com/governor-sets-date-for-state-of-the-state/) - This year, Governor Gretchen Whitmer will deliver the annual State of the State address on Wednesday, February 26. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of January 25 – 31, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-january-25-31-2025/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-87/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Governor Lays Out Priorities](https://mlcmi.com/governor-lays-out-priorities/) - At the Detroit Auto Show, Governor Whitmer delivered the “Road Ahead Address,” presenting some of her top priorities for the final two years of her term. - [House Appropriations Chair Named](https://mlcmi.com/house-appropriations-chair-named/) - Representative Bollin has been selected as chair of the Appropriations Committee for the 2024 – 2025 term. - [Committee Reports Changes to Minimum Wage](https://mlcmi.com/committee-reports-changes-to-minimum-wage/) - The House Select Committee on Protecting Michigan Employees and Small Businesses reported a two-bill package making changes to the new laws regarding the state’s minimum wage and paid sick time laws, set to take effect next month. Without action by the legislature, On February 21, the minimum wage will increase to $12.48/hour, and the tipped - [Supreme Court Elects Chief, Welcomes New Justice](https://mlcmi.com/supreme-court-elects-chief-welcomes-new-justice/) - This week, the justices of the Michigan Supreme Court unanimously elected Chief Justice Elizabeth Clement to continue leading the court for the next two years. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of January 18 – 24, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-january-18-24-2025/) - In observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Day, MLC will be closed on Monday, January 20. - [The Workplace Puzzle](https://mlcmi.com/the-workplace-puzzle/) - Every place I’ve worked has encompassed a broad dynamic of management and leadership, along with co-workers who each have complex personalities. - [Sixty Years of Excellence](https://mlcmi.com/sixty-years-of-excellence/) - Tom Cleary founded MLC in 1965. With one client, he opened the doors to become Lansing's first multi-client lobbying firm. - [Celebrating 60 Years of Excellence: A Diamond Anniversary](https://mlcmi.com/celebrating-60-years-of-excellence-a-diamond-anniversary/) - This year marks a remarkable milestone in our firm’s history: 60 years of dedicated service, innovation, and excellence. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-86/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-66/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Revenue Estimating Conference Held](https://mlcmi.com/revenue-estimating-conference-held/) - The directors of the House and Senate Fiscal Agencies, State Treasurer Eubanks and State Budget Director Flood, came together to reach a consensus on projected state revenue. - [New Legislative Term Kicks Off](https://mlcmi.com/new-legislative-term-kicks-off/) - On Wednesday, the House and Senate held the first day of session for the 2025 – 2026 legislative term. - [Changes to Minimum Wage, Paid Sick Time Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/changes-to-minimum-wage-paid-sick-time-introduced/) - Legislation was introduced making changes to the new laws regarding the state’s minimum wage and paid sick time laws, set to take effect next month. - [Session Schedule Announced](https://mlcmi.com/session-schedule-announced/) - The majority floor leaders in the House and Senate released the session schedules for 2025. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of January 11 – 17, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-january-11-17-2025/) - The House will hold its typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule, while the Senate has session scheduled for Wednesday. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-85/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Incoming Democratic Leadership Announcements](https://mlcmi.com/incoming-democratic-leadership-announcements/) - Additional members of the House Democratic Leadership team were announced. - [Legislature Wraps Up 102nd Term](https://mlcmi.com/legislature-wraps-up-102nd-term/) - After an unprecedented lame duck, the House and Senate have finished voting for the term. - [State Revenue Increases in November](https://mlcmi.com/state-revenue-increases-in-november/) - November 2024’s taxes and net lottery revenue increased 10.5% from the prior year, totaling $2.9 billion. This was $147.7 million more than prior projections according to the monthly revenue report by the Senate Fiscal Agency. Key Points: Revenue dedicated to the General Fund was $31.8 million more than estimates, while school Aid Fund collections were - [Looking Ahead to the Weeks of December 21, 2024 – January 2, 2025](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-weeks-of-december-21-2024-january-2-2025/) - In observance of the holidays, MLC will be closed from December 23, 2022 – January 2, 2023. - [Stepping Into Discomfort](https://mlcmi.com/stepping-into-discomfort/) - During college, I had the opportunity to study abroad for a semester in Seville, Spain. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-84/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-65/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Proposal Increasing Unemployment Benefits Moves](https://mlcmi.com/proposal-increasing-unemployment-benefits-moves/) - Legislation increasing the maximum number of weeks per year a person may qualify for unemployment benefits from 20 to 26 weeks, and other changes passed. - [Paid Family Leave Proposal Moves](https://mlcmi.com/paid-family-leave-proposal-moves/) - Legislation establishing a state-run program providing eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of job-protected paid leave was reported this week. - [Legislature Seeks to Expand FOIA](https://mlcmi.com/legislature-seeks-to-expand-foia/) - Legislation expanding the Freedom of Information Act to include the executive office of the governor, the lt. governor and the legislature was reported. - [House Moves Reforms for Firearm Industry](https://mlcmi.com/house-moves-reforms-for-firearm-industry/) - Legislation removing protections for the firearm industry from civil liability was reported by the House Judiciary Committee this week. - [Increases to Workers Comp Payments Reported](https://mlcmi.com/increases-to-workers-comp-payments-reported/) - Legislation making reforms to Michigan’s workers comp system was reported by the Senate Labor Committee this week. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of December 14 – 20, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-december-14-20-2024/) - The House is scheduled to hold session on Wednesday and Thursday and the Senate has scheduled session Wednesday – Friday. - [Spotlight on Representative Curt VanderWall](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-curt-vanderwall/) - Representative Curt VanderWall (R-Ludington) is the Republican Vice Chair of the Health Policy and Higher Education Committees. - [Inspiring Creativity In and Out of the Classroom](https://mlcmi.com/inspiring-creativity-in-and-out-of-the-classroom/) - I’m lucky to have grown up and graduated from East Grand Rapids (EGR) High School in West Michigan. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-83/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Senate Expands Unemployment Benefits](https://mlcmi.com/senate-expands-unemployment-benefits/) - This week, along a nearly party-line vote the Senate voted to expand unemployment benefits for Michigan residents. - [Senate Moves to Codify Council](https://mlcmi.com/senate-moves-to-codify-council/) - The Senate passed legislation codifying the Black Leadership Advisory Council (BLAC) as a permanent entity within Michigan’s government. - [New Task Force Announced](https://mlcmi.com/new-task-force-announced/) - A.G. Nessel announced the formation of the Missing or Murdered Indigenous People Task Force to address the high rates of violence against Indigenous people. - [Tribal Government Office Expands](https://mlcmi.com/tribal-government-office-expands/) - Michigan’s Office of Tribal Government Services and Policy is expanding to further offer support and advocacy for Michigan’s federally recognized tribes. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of December 7 – 13, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-december-7-13-2024/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold its typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight on Representative Tullio Liberati](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-tullio-liberati/) - Representative Tullio Liberati (D-Allen Park) is chair of the Government Operations Committee and the Majority Vice Chair of the Regulatory Reform. - [A Teacher’s First Day of School](https://mlcmi.com/a-teachers-first-day-of-school/) - A special kind of anticipation comes with being a first-year teacher on the first day of school. It’s a blend of excitement, nervousness, and hope. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-82/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Spotlight on Senator Rick Outman](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-rick-outman/) - Senator Rick Outman (R-Six Lakes) serves as the Minority Vice Chair of the Health and Human Services Subcommittee - [A Tribute to my Favorite Teacher: My Mom!](https://mlcmi.com/a-tribute-to-my-favorite-teacher-my-mom/) - In Lansing, a common “get to know you” question is “How did you get into politics?” - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-81/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-64/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Monthly Tax Revenue Increases](https://mlcmi.com/monthly-tax-revenue-increases/) - Revenue from major taxes and net lottery revenue totaled $4.1 billion in October, a 3.5% increase from the prior year. - [October Unemployment Rate Rises](https://mlcmi.com/october-unemployment-rate-rises/) - Michigan’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in October rose by two-tenths of a percentage point to 4.7%. - [Meet the DTMB Leader](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-dtmb-leader/) - Michelle Lange serves as the director of the Department of Technology, Management, and Budget (DTMB). - [Looking Ahead to the Weeks of November 23 – December 6, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-weeks-of-november-23-december-6-2024/) - In observance of the holiday, MLC will be closed on November 28 and 29. - [Spotlight on Senator Sue Shink](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-sue-shink/) - Senator Sue Shink (D-Ann Arbor) chairs the Natural Resources and Agriculture Committee and the Corrections and Judiciary Appropriations Subcommittee. - [Embracing Accessories and Organization](https://mlcmi.com/embracing-accessories-and-organization/) - The end of summer and the beginning of fall is seen as the "Back to School" season. I view it as an opportunity to focus on organization and accessories. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-80/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-63/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Changes to Minimum Wage, Paid Sick Leave Proposed](https://mlcmi.com/changes-to-minimum-wage-paid-sick-leave-proposed/) - Bipartisan legislation reforming upcoming changes to Michigan’s paid sick leave laws and minimum wage was introduced. - [Firearms Legislation Moves](https://mlcmi.com/firearms-legislation-moves/) - Michigan voters couldn’t bring a firearm within 100 feet of a polling location or absentee counting board under legislation given legislative approval this week. - [Committee Reports Human Trafficking Legislation](https://mlcmi.com/committee-reports-human-trafficking-legislation/) - Legislation aimed at strengthening protections for human trafficking survivors and enhancing accountability for traffickers was reported by the Judiciary Committee. - [Organ Donor Tax Credit Signed](https://mlcmi.com/organ-donor-tax-credit-signed/) - Legislation providing a one-time credit for live organ donors was signed into law by Governor Gretchen Whitmer this week. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of November 16 – 22, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-november-16-22-2024/) - The House and Senate will begin its annual two-week break. During the break, neither committees nor session will be held. - [Spotlight on Representative Tom Kunse](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-tom-kunse/) - Representative Tom Kunse (R-Clare) serves as the Minority Vice Chair of the Ethics and Oversight Committee. - [Advocacy from the Capitol to the Home](https://mlcmi.com/advocacy-from-the-capitol-to-the-home/) - This school year, I find myself reflecting on the dual roles I play as a lobbyist advocating on behalf of clients and as a parent advocating on behalf of my child. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-79/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Meet the Incoming Speaker of the House](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-incoming-speaker-of-the-house/) - Representative Matt Hall (R-Kalamazoo) was selected by his peers this week to serve as Speaker of the House next term, which begins in January. - [Record-Breaking Voter Participation](https://mlcmi.com/record-breaking-voter-participation/) - Tuesday’s general election had the highest turnout in state history, marking the third consecutive election cycle of record turnouts. - [Senate Set to Lose One Member](https://mlcmi.com/senate-set-to-lose-one-member/) - On Tuesday, Senator Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Bay City) won her election to the United States House of Representatives. - [Meet the Incoming House Democratic Leader](https://mlcmi.com/meet-the-incoming-house-democratic-leader/) - This week, Representative Ranjeev Puri (D-Canton) was selected by his colleagues to serve as the Democratic Leader for the upcoming term beginning in January. - [Supreme Court Announces Oral Arguments](https://mlcmi.com/supreme-court-announces-oral-arguments/) - The Michigan Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on Wednesday, November 13, beginning at 9:30 a.m. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of November 9 – 15, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-november-9-15-2024/) - In observance of Veterans Day, MLC will be closed on Monday, November 11. State offices will also be closed. - [Spotlight on Representative Veronica Paiz](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-veronica-paiz/) - Representative Veronica Paiz (D-Harper Woods) is the Vice Chair of the Agriculture Committee. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-78/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-62/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Millions of Michigan Residents Vote Early](https://mlcmi.com/millions-of-michigan-residents-vote-early/) - One week before the election, over 2 million Michigan residents voted in the General Election. - [Hazard Waste Reforms Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/hazard-waste-reforms-introduced/) - Senator Darrin Camilleri (D-Trenton) introduced legislation to modernize Michigan’s hazardous waste management system and strengthen environmental protections. - [Chief Science Officer Named](https://mlcmi.com/chief-science-officer-named/) - Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Director Tim Boring announced the selection of Dr. Laura Johnson as the department’s Chief Science Officer. - [Jobs Data Released](https://mlcmi.com/jobs-data-released/) - During Fiscal Year 2024, Michigan added 27,000 according to data released by the Department of Technology, Management, and Budget. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of November 2 – 8, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-november-2-8-2024/) - The General Election will be held on Tuesday. Statewide races include all 110 House of Representative seats and two seats on the Michigan Supreme Court. - [Spotlight on Senator Kevin Hertel](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-kevin-hertel/) - Senator Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores) chairs the Health Policy Committee and the Military, Veterans, State Police Appropriations Subcommittee. - [General Election Overview: 109th District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-109th-district/) - Representative Jenn Hill is running for a second term in this Democratic-leaning district. Next month, she’ll face political newcomer Karl Bohnak. - [Embracing the Joys of Homecoming](https://mlcmi.com/embracing-the-joys-of-homecoming/) - I was the kid always itching to get back to school. There's always one, right? From sports to clubs, the activity of the school year was always exciting for me. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-77/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-61/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Senate Moves Child Labor Law Reforms](https://mlcmi.com/senate-moves-child-labor-law-reforms/) - The Senate Labor Committee reported a legislative package aimed at strengthening Michigan’s child labor laws. - [Record-Breaking Early Voting](https://mlcmi.com/record-breaking-early-voting/) - With two weeks to go before the General Election, Michigan voters are casting their ballots early more than 1.15 million voters have already cast their ballots. - [Gun Violence Prevention Task Force Holds First Meeting](https://mlcmi.com/gun-violence-prevention-task-force-holds-first-meeting/) - The Michigan Gun Violence Prevention Task Force held its first meeting to begin the work outlined in an executive order signed earlier this year by Governor Whitmer. - [Supreme Court Candidates](https://mlcmi.com/supreme-court-candidates/) - In addition to President, U.S. Senate and House, and the Michigan House, voters will cast their ballots in a couple of weeks for two seats on the Michigan Supreme Court. - [The Race for the Open U.S. Senate Seat](https://mlcmi.com/the-race-for-the-open-u-s-senate-seat/) - Following the retirement announcement of longtime Senator Debbie Stabenow (D), several well-known candidates entered the race. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of October 26 – November 1, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-october-26-november-1-2024/) - The Senate is scheduled to hold its typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. Statewide early voting for the General Election begins on Saturday, October 26. - [Spotlight on Representative Matt Koleszar](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-matt-koleszar/) - Representative Koleszar (D-Plymouth) chairs the Education Committee. In addition, he sits on the following committees: Elections, Higher Education, and Labor. - [The Lifelong Bonds of Grade School Friendships](https://mlcmi.com/the-lifelong-bonds-of-grade-school-friendships/) - The friendships formed in grade school often hold a special place in our hearts. These early connections forged on the playgrounds and in classrooms can become the foundation for lifelong relationships. There’s something uniquely enduring about the friends we make during these formative years. I am fortunate to have met my closest friends in the - [General Election Overview: 103rd District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-103rd-district/) - Representative Betsy Coffia is running for reelection in this toss-up district, facing Lisa Trombley this November. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-76/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-60/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Combating Election Misinformation](https://mlcmi.com/combating-election-misinformation/) - Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel launched a new webpage to combat election misinformation. The new page is intended to help voters recognize artificial intelligence (AI) and access accurate information about elections online. Key Points: AI has advanced enough to convincingly replicate human writing and speech. Earlier this year, a company was accused of sending scam - [Voter Participation](https://mlcmi.com/voter-participation/) - With three weeks left before the general election, more than 670,000 Michigan voters have cast an absentee ballot. - [Elder Abuse Protections Move](https://mlcmi.com/elder-abuse-protections-move/) - The Senate passed legislation aimed at enhancing protections for vulnerable adults and addressing growing concerns of elder abuse and exploitation. - [Michigan Voting Dashboard Launched](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-voting-dashboard-launched/) - Secretary of State Benson launched the Michigan Voting Dashboard, an interactive tool that allows the public to access election data by county and jurisdiction. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of October 19 – 25, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-october-19-25-2024/) - The Senate is scheduled to hold its typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight on Senator Dayna Polehanki](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-dayna-polehanki/) - Senator Polehanki chairs the Education Committee and serves as vice chair on the Regulatory Affairs Committee and the PreK-12 Appropriations Subcommittee. - [General Election Overview: 96th District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-96th-district/) - Representative Timmy Beson is running for a third term in office. Due to its base, this district is viewed as Republican-leaning. - [General Election Overview: 86th District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-86th-district/) - Representative Nancy DeBoer is running for a second term in office this November. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-75/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [School Panic Alert System Proposed](https://mlcmi.com/school-panic-alert-system-proposed/) - Legislation was introduced implementing mobile panic alert systems throughout public and nonpublic schools to ensure real-time coordination. - [Secretary of State Asks for Legal Opinion](https://mlcmi.com/secretary-of-state-asks-for-legal-opinion/) - Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson requested an Attorney General Opinion regarding the six-day grace period allowed for absent voter ballots for overseas voters. - [September Revenue Up](https://mlcmi.com/september-revenue-up/) - Last month, major taxes and net lottery revenue came in at $3.7 billion, an increase of 1.7% from September 2023. - [Governor Announces Judicial Appointment](https://mlcmi.com/governor-announces-judicial-appointment/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the appointment of Anthony McDowell to the 7th Circuit Court in Genesee County. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of October 12 – 18, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-october-12-18-2024/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold session Tuesday – Thursday. - [Spotlight on Representative Jason Hoskins](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-jason-hoskins/) - Representative Jason Hoskins (D-Southfield) chairs the Economic Development and Small Business Committee. - [General Election Overview: 83rd District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-83rd-district/) - Representative John Fitzgerald is running for a second term in this Democratic-leaning district. He’s facing former Representative Tommy Brann. - [General Election Overview: 76th District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-76th-district/) - Representative Witwer is running for reelection in this Democratic-leaning district. She currently serves as chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee. - [General Election Overview: 62nd District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-62nd-district/) - Representative Alicia St. Germaine is running for a second term in this toss-up district. This November, she’ll face Michelle Levine-Woodman, a school teacher. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-74/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-59/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog…In his latest post, MLC President Tim Ward shared an insider’s perspective of being the principal’s son. - [Minimum Wage Increase Schedule](https://mlcmi.com/minimum-wage-increase-schedule/) - The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity released the schedule of increases to the state’s minimum wage. - [Supreme Court Kicking Off New Term](https://mlcmi.com/supreme-court-kicking-off-new-term/) - The Michigan Supreme Court is set to begin the 2024 – 2025 session by hearing oral arguments in eleven cases next week. - [Expungement Streamline Proposal Announced](https://mlcmi.com/expungement-streamline-proposal-announced/) - A bipartisan plan to reform issues within Michigan’s Clean Slate expungement process was announced. - [Commission Heads Up North](https://mlcmi.com/commission-heads-up-north/) - This month, the Michigan Public Service Commission will hold its regular commission meeting in the Upper Peninsula. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of October 5 – 11, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-october-5-11-2024/) - The Senate is scheduled to hold session Tuesday – Thursday. On Tuesday, a debate will be held for the U.S. Senate seat at 7 p.m. on WOOD-TV 8 in Grand Rapids. - [Spotlight on Senator John Damoose](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-john-damoose/) - Senator John Damoose (R-Harbor Springs) is the Republican Vice Chair of the Education Committee and the Appropriations Transportation Subcommittee. - [General Election Overview: 61st District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-61st-district/) - This district is viewed as Democratic-leaning, benefiting incumbent Representative Denise Mentzer. - [The Ups and Downs of Being the Principal’s Son](https://mlcmi.com/the-ups-and-downs-of-being-the-principals-son/) - Some of my fondest school memories are from high school, and some can even be shared in this forum! My three sisters and I had the unique experience of our dad being our high school principal. - [General Election Overview: 58th District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-58th-district/) - Representative Shannon is running for a fourth term in the House. Due to its base, this seat is viewed as a toss-up and both parties have a shot at winning this November. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-73/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [General Election Overview: 57th District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-57th-district/) - Representative Kuhn is running for a second term in office in this toss-up district, facing attorney Aisha Farooqi in the race to represent this seat next year. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-58/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog…$126 million is headed to schools providing funding for school safety and mental health services. - [Legislature Passes Additional Education Funding](https://mlcmi.com/legislature-passes-additional-education-funding/) - $126 million is headed to schools providing supplemental funding for school safety and mental health services after a vote this week by the House and Senate. - [Campaign Finance Reforms Move](https://mlcmi.com/campaign-finance-reforms-move/) - Legislation giving the Department of State an additional tool against those they believe violate campaign finance laws passed the House this week. - [Michigan Receives High National Ranking](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-receives-high-national-ranking/) - Michigan was ranked sixth nationally for clean energy jobs. Currently, the state has nearly 128,000 clean energy jobs, with the industry growing twice as fast as economy-wide employment. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of September 28 – October 4, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-september-28-october-4-2024/) - The Senate is scheduled to hold session on Tuesday and Thursday. - [Spotlight on Representative Mark Tisdel](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-mark-tisdel/) - Representative Tisdel (R – Rochester Hills) serves as the Republican vice chair on the Economic Development and Small Business Committee. - [General Election Overview: 56th District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-56th-district/) - Democratic Representative Sharon MacDonell is running for a second term in this Democratic-leaning district. - [General Election Overview: 55th District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-55th-district/) - Representative Mark Tisdel is running for a third term in this Republican-leaning seat, facingTrevis Harrold, a political newcomer and Army Veteran. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-72/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [General Election Overview: 54th District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-54th-district/) - This southeast Michigan seat is viewed as a toss-up due to the district base. Representative Steele is running for a second term in the House. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-57/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Looking Ahead to the Week of September 21 – 27, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-september-21-27-2024/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold its typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Voting Rights Act Passes](https://mlcmi.com/voting-rights-act-passes/) - Legislation aimed at safeguarding the rights of qualified voters and reducing barriers to election participation passed the Senate this week. - [Tribes Receive Funding for Climate Action](https://mlcmi.com/tribes-receive-funding-for-climate-action/) - Four Michigan Tribes were selected to receive funding to empower them to implement community-driven climate solutions. - [Supreme Court Rules on Minimum Wage Increase Schedule](https://mlcmi.com/supreme-court-rules-on-minimum-wage-increase-schedule/) - Two state departments requested the Michigan Supreme Court to clarify the schedule of increases to Michigan’s minimum wage. - [Spotlight on Senator Mary Cavanagh](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-mary-cavanagh/) - Senator Mary Cavanagh (D-Redford) chairs the Senate Finance, Insurance, and Consumer Protection Committee. - [General Election Overview: 48th District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-48th-district/) - Democratic Representative Jennifer Conlin is running for a second term, facing Republican Brian Ignatowski and Green Party candidate Eric Borregard. - [General Election Overview: 46th District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-46th-district/) - Representative Schmaltz is running for a third term in office. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-71/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [General Election Overview: 44th District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-44th-district/) - Representative Jim Haadsma is running for a fourth term in the House. While this district is viewed as Democratic-leaning, his reelection isn’t a guarantee. - [House Republicans Announce Education Plan](https://mlcmi.com/house-republicans-announce-education-plan/) - Members of the House Republican Caucus announced their proposal aiming to help students succeed in school and beyond. - [Price Gouging Roundtable Held](https://mlcmi.com/price-gouging-roundtable-held/) - Attorney General Nessel, Senators Moss and Cavanaugh, and Representatives Hoskins and Pohutsky participated in a roundtable highlighting a package aimed at protections against price gouging. - [Robert Kennedy Will Be on Ballot](https://mlcmi.com/robert-kennedy-will-be-on-ballot/) - In a reversal of an earlier legal ruling, the Michigan Supreme Court ordered Robert F. Kennedy Jr. won’t be removed from Michigan’s general election ballot, as he requested. - [Online Mock Elections Portal Launched](https://mlcmi.com/online-mock-elections-portal-launched/) - Secretary of State Benson announced a resource for K-12 schools, educators, and youth organizations to encourage civic engagement by hosting mock elections. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of September 14 – 20, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-september-14-20-2024/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight on Representative Kara Hope](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-kara-hope/) - Representative Hope chairs the Criminal Justice Committee, serves as Vice Chair of the Ethics and Oversight Committee, and is a member of the Elections and Judiciary Committees. - [General Election Overview: 38th District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-38th-district/) - Representative Andrews is running for a second term in the House. This seat is a toss-up, with both parties having a viable chance at winning this November. - [General Election Overview: 31st District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-31st-district/) - Representative Reggie Miller is running for a second term serving in the House. - [General Election Overview: 29th District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-29th-district/) - Representative DeSana is running for a second term in the House. This toss-up district is located in southeast Michigan. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-70/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-56/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Presidential Ballot Court Orders](https://mlcmi.com/presidential-ballot-court-orders/) - Third-party presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will be removed from Michigan’s general election ballot following legal challenges this week. - [Lt. Governor Attends Bridge Walk](https://mlcmi.com/lt-governor-attends-bridge-walk/) - Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist led the annual Mackinac Bridge Walk on Labor Day this week. - [Economic Committee Members Appointed](https://mlcmi.com/economic-committee-members-appointed/) - Two appointments to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) Executive Committee were announced. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of September 7 – 13, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-september-7-13-2024/) - The Senate is scheduled for a typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule, while the House is scheduled to hold session on Wednesday. - [Spotlight on Senator Roger Victory](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-roger-victory/) - Senator Roger Victory (R-Hudsonville) was first elected to the Michigan Senate in 2018 and currently serves as the Republican Caucus Whip. - [General Election Overview: 28th District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-28th-district/) - The 28th House District is located in Monroe and Wayne Counties. The district includes Flat Rock, Rockwood, Newport, and Woodhaven, and portions of Taylor. - [General Election Overview: 27th District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-27th-district/) - This district is considered a toss-up and both parties have a shot at winning this seat. Furthermore, the Republican party is targeting this as a seat to flip. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-69/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [General Election Overview: 7th Congressional District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-7th-congressional-district/) - The 7th Congressional District is located in mid-Michigan, including the greater Lansing area. - [Changes to Earned Sick Time Laws](https://mlcmi.com/changes-to-earned-sick-time-laws/) - In July 2024, the Michigan Supreme Court ruled that the legislature’s use of adopt and amend on a ballot proposal increasing the minimum wage and earned sick time laws was unconstitutional. - [Supreme Court Candidates Selected](https://mlcmi.com/supreme-court-candidates-selected/) - Last weekend, the Michigan Democratic and Republican Parties held conventions to select their candidates for the Michigan Supreme Court. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of August 31 – September 6, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-august-31-september-6-2024/) - In observance of Labor Day, MLC will be closed on Monday, September 2. - [General Election Overview: 3rd Congressional District](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-3rd-congressional-district/) - The 3rd Congressional District is located on the west side of Michigan, including portions of Kent County and the City of Grand Rapids. - [Spotlight on Representative Jaime Greene](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-jaime-greene/) - Representative Jamie Greene (R-Richmond) is serving her first term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Learning Through Experience](https://mlcmi.com/learning-through-experience/) - Sarah McNally has been an intern with our firm. Before she left, I asked her to share some thoughts on her time at MLC. - [General Election Overview: United States Senate](https://mlcmi.com/general-election-overview-united-states-senate/) - Longtime Democratic Senator Debbie Stabenow is set to retire at the end of her term this year, leaving this seat open for the first time since 2000. - [Experiencing Michigan Through the Eyes of Kids](https://mlcmi.com/experiencing-michigan-through-the-eyes-of-kids/) - Finally, the days are stretched longer, the grass is green, and the sun beats down. - [Experiencing the Impact of State Government](https://mlcmi.com/experiencing-the-impact-of-state-government/) - Satyam Sinha has been an intern with our firm. Before he left to head back to school, I asked him to share some thoughts on his time at MLC. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-68/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-55/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Department Hosting Webinar on Earned Sick Time](https://mlcmi.com/department-hosting-webinar-on-earned-sick-time/) - The Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity is hosting a webinar to discuss how the recent Supreme Court opinion on earned sick time laws will impact workers and businesses. - [Attorney General Issues Consumer Warning](https://mlcmi.com/attorney-general-issues-consumer-warning/) - Attorney General Dana Nessel issued a consumer alert warning for toll road users. - [Applications Open for Funding Opportunity](https://mlcmi.com/applications-open-for-funding-opportunity/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced this week that applications are open for PitchMI, a statewide shark tank style pitch competition. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of August 24 – 30, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-august-24-30-2024/) - On August 24, the state parties will hold conventions to nominate candidates for the Michigan Supreme Court, and the State Board of Education, among others. - [Spotlight on Senator Jim Runestad](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-jim-runestad/) - Senator Runestad is serving his first term in the Senate where he serves as the Republican caucus chair and the ranking Republican on the Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety. - [Summer in Michigan. The Best Time of the Year!](https://mlcmi.com/summer-in-michigan-the-best-time-of-the-year/) - Michigan is a summer playground. While each season offers day trips and week-long vacation opportunities, the summer season is uniquely special. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-67/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [July Revenue Increases from Prior Year](https://mlcmi.com/july-revenue-increases-from-prior-year/) - Total cash collections from major taxes, penalties and interest, and lottery transfers increased last month from the prior year, totaling $2,962.6 million. - [Ten Communities Receive Grants](https://mlcmi.com/ten-communities-receive-grants/) - The Native American Heritage Fund (NAHF) Board selected ten communities as recipients of the fund’s 2024 grants. - [Governor Announces Staff Changes](https://mlcmi.com/governor-announces-staff-changes/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced promotions and hires within the executive office. The changes are detailed below. - [State Conferences Announced](https://mlcmi.com/state-conferences-announced/) - The State of Michigan is hosting a number of conferences this fall and winter, which are open to interested stakeholders to participate. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of August 17 – 23, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-august-17-23-2024/) - The legislature will continue its summer recess, during which neither committees nor sessions are scheduled. - [Spotlight on Senator Stephanie Chang](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-stephanie-chang/) - Senator Chang is serving her second term in the Senate and is the Senate Democratic Policy and Steering Chair and chairs the Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety Committee. - [Summers in Detroit – A Vibe Like No Other](https://mlcmi.com/summers-in-detroit-a-vibe-like-no-other/) - Michigan summers are wonderful! The Great Lakes, outdoor activities, and beautiful scenery make it a fantastic place to enjoy the warm weather. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-66/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Bill Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/extended-producer-responsibility-epr-bill-introduced/) - The below content was written by MLC intern, Satyam Sinha. Recently, Representative Abraham Aiyash (D), the House Majority Floor Leader, introduced HB 5902, an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) bill, which creates a comprehensive Packaging Reduction and Recycling Program aimed at significantly reducing packaging waste in Michigan. This EPR bill seeks to hold producers accountable for - [Looking Ahead to the Week of August 10 – 16, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-august-10-16-2024/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold session Tuesday – Thursday. - [Harris/Walz and J.D. Vance Visit Michigan](https://mlcmi.com/harris-walz-and-j-d-vance-visit-michigan/) - Both presidential campaigns made a stop in Michigan on Wednesday, August 7th. - [Michigan Primary Election Recap](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-primary-election-recap/) - All eyes are now on the November 5th general election, where nearly a dozen state House seats are in play to determine control of the chamber. - [Primary Election Results](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-results/) - Primary Election Results - [Spotlight on Representative Jerry Neyer](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-jerry-neyer/) - Representative Jerry Neyer (R-Shepherd) is serving his first term in the House and serves as the ranking Republican member on the Agriculture Committee. - [Cycling Through the Cycles of Summer](https://mlcmi.com/cycling-through-the-cycles-of-summer/) - People’s summers are usually denoted by the months or particular days. Memorial Day and Labor Day seem most common in addition to the Summer Solstice. - [Spotlight on Representative Reggie Miller](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-reggie-miller/) - Representative Miller is serving her first term in the House of Representatives and chairs the Agriculture Committee, a key committee given Michigan’s strong ties in the agricultural industry. - [Primary Election Overview: 66th District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-66th-district/) - Republican Representative Schriver is running for a second term in this safe Republican seat. - [Black Leadership Council Releases Policy Recommendations](https://mlcmi.com/black-leadership-council-releases-policy-recommendations/) - The Black Leadership Advisory Council launched their latest policy recommendations, which seek to remove barriers for Black families and communities. - [Governor Requests Emergency Fuel Waiver](https://mlcmi.com/governor-requests-emergency-fuel-waiver/) - To protect Michigan residents from potential fuel and gas supply disruptions, Governor Whitmer sent a letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requesting an emergency fuel waiver. - [Legislative Leaders Respond to Supreme Court Ruling](https://mlcmi.com/legislative-leaders-respond-to-supreme-court-ruling/) - The Michigan Supreme Court ruled that the legislature’s use of adopt and amend on a ballot proposal increasing the minimum wage and earned sick time laws was unconstitutional. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of August 3 – 9, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-august-3-9-2024/) - The legislature will continue its summer recess, during which neither committees nor sessions are scheduled. - [Primary Election Overview: 64th District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-64th-district/) - Republican Representative Andrew Beeler is not running for reelection, leaving this seat open. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-65/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Primary Election Overview: 61st District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-61st-district/) - Representative Mentzer is running for a second term in this Democratic-leaning seat. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-54/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Governor Signs Education Budget](https://mlcmi.com/governor-signs-education-budget-2/) - The $23 billion education budget was given final approval this week by Governor Gretchen Whitmer. - [Governor Signs State Budget](https://mlcmi.com/governor-signs-state-budget-2/) - This week, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the $82.5 billion state budget for the upcoming fiscal year, beginning on October 1. - [Election Information Program Launched](https://mlcmi.com/election-information-program-launched/) - Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced the 2024 Democracy Ambassador program, an initiative aimed at building trust in Michigan’s elections. - [Lt. Governor on Economic Mission](https://mlcmi.com/lt-governor-on-economic-mission/) - Lt. Gov Gilchrist traveled to Europe for a five-day investment mission, focusing on capitalizing on Michigan’s leadership in the defense and aerospace sectors. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of July 27 – August 2, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-july-27-august-2-2024/) - Early voting for Michigan’s primary election begins on Saturday, July 27. - [Primary Election Overview: 59th District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-59th-district/) - Representative Doug Wozniak is running for reelection in the House, facing Jean Zott in the primary race. - [Spotlight on Senator John Cherry](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-john-cherry/) - Senator John Cherry (D-Flint) is serving his first term in the Michigan Senate, after serving two terms in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Primary Election Overview: 58th District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-58th-district/) - Representative Nate Shannon is running for a fourth term in the House. - [Summer Fun in the Upper Peninsula](https://mlcmi.com/summer-fun-in-the-upper-peninsula/) - Even though I grew up in Michigan, I didn’t spend any time in the Upper Peninsula. - [Primary Election Overview: 55th District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-55th-district/) - Representative Mark Tisdel is running for a third term in this Republican-leaning seat. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-64/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-53/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Primary Election Voter Information](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-voter-information/) - Michigan’s Primary Election will be held on August 6, with voters casting their ballots for Michigan House and Congressional primary races, an open U.S. Senate seat, and local offices. - [Governor Seeking to Streamline Government](https://mlcmi.com/governor-seeking-to-streamline-government/) - Governor Whitmer announced that she will sign an executive order reorganizing boards, councils, and committees, to cut red tape and streamline government. - [Michigan Leading Clean Energy Projects](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-leading-clean-energy-projects/) - A new report shows Michigan continues to be a national leader in clean energy and electric vehicle manufacturing. - [Hearing Announced on Upper Peninsula Energy Issues](https://mlcmi.com/hearing-announced-on-upper-peninsula-energy-issues/) - The Michigan Public Service Commission is heading to Marquette at the end of the month for a public hearing on energy issues specific to the Upper Peninsula. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of July 20 – 26, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-july-20-26-2024/) - The legislature will continue its summer recess, during which neither committees nor sessions are scheduled. - [Primary Election Overview: 51st District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-51st-district/) - Representative Matt Maddock is running for a fourth term in this safe Republican district, facing a locally elected official in the primary race. - [Spotlight on Representative Doug Wozniak](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-doug-wozniak/) - Representative Wozniak is serving his third term in the House. He serves as the ranking Republican member on the Labor and the Families, Children, and Seniors Committees. - [Primary Election Overview: 50th District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-50th-district/) - This seat is considered safe for the Republican party, making that primary race key. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-63/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Primary Election Overview: 44th District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-44th-district/) - Representative Jim Haadsma is running for a fourth term representing this district in the House. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-52/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Looking Ahead to the Week of July 13 – 19, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-july-13-19-2024/) - The legislature will continue its summer recess, during which neither committees nor sessions are scheduled. - [Record Number Absentee Ballot Requests](https://mlcmi.com/record-number-absentee-ballot-requests/) - Four weeks ahead of Michigan’s primary race, over 1.5 million voters have requested an absentee ballot and more than 178,000 have been submitted. - [Michigan Receives High Business Ranking](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-receives-high-business-ranking/) - Moving up one spot from last year, CNBC has ranked Michigan 9th in the nation for business. - [MiLEAP Director Begins New Role](https://mlcmi.com/mileap-director-begins-new-role/) - On July 1, Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea began her new role as director of the Michigan Department on Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP). - [June Tax Collections Above Estimates](https://mlcmi.com/june-tax-collections-above-estimates/) - June 2024 major taxes and net lottery revenue totaled $3.0 billion, which was $100.5 million more than previous projections. - [Primary Election Overview: 42nd District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-42nd-district/) - House Republican Leader Matt Hall is running for a fourth term in the House in this Republican-leaning district. - [Primary Election Overview: 40th District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-40th-district/) - Representative Christine Morse (D-Kalamazoo) is not running for reelection, leaving this seat open. - [Spotlight on Representative Jim Haadsma](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-jim-haadsma/) - Representative Jim Haadsma (D-Battle Creek) is serving his third term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-62/) - Below are some of the articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Primary Election Overview: 38th District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-38th-district/) - The 38th House District is located in Allegan, Berrien, and Van Buren Counties. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-61/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-51/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… MLC lobbyist (and ice cream aficionado) Monica Martinez shared her list of top ice cream spots. - [Legislature Passes State Budget](https://mlcmi.com/legislature-passes-state-budget/) - During all-night marathon sessions, the House and Senate approved an $82.5 billion budget for the upcoming fiscal year, beginning on October 1. - [Legislation Expanding FOIA Passed](https://mlcmi.com/legislation-expanding-foia-passed/) - Bipartisan legislation expanding the Freedom of Information Act to include the governor, the lieutenant governor, and the legislature was passed by the Senate. - [Health Insurance Exchange Reform Passed](https://mlcmi.com/health-insurance-exchange-reform-passed/) - Legislation that would transition Michigan from the federally managed health insurance marketplace to a State-Based Exchange was passed by the Senate this week. - [Summer Energy Outlook Released](https://mlcmi.com/summer-energy-outlook-released-2/) - The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) released its projections for energy supply and demand in Michigan this summer. - [Looking Ahead to the Weeks of June 29 – July 12, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-weeks-of-june-29-july-12-2024/) - The legislature will start its summer recess, during which it won’t hold its typical weekly Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Department Announces Staff Changes](https://mlcmi.com/department-announces-staff-changes/) - The Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) announced staff changes in the department’s executive office. - [Spotlight on Senator Roger Hauck](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-roger-hauck/) - Senator Hauck is serving his second term in the Senate. He serves as Minority Vice Chair of the Regulatory Affairs Committee, serving as the ranking Republican member. - [Ice Cream – The Star of Summer](https://mlcmi.com/ice-cream-the-star-of-summer/) - Summertime in Michigan makes me think of sun, water, backyard BBQs, and most importantly, ICE CREAM. Yes, ice cream. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-60/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Primary Election Overview: 36th District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-36th-district/) - Representative Steve Carra (R-Three Rivers) is running for a third term in this safe Republican seat. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-50/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Unemployment Rate Steady](https://mlcmi.com/unemployment-rate-steady/) - In May 2023, Michigan’s unemployment rate remained stable at 3.9% for the fourth consecutive month, while the national unemployment rate rose by 0.1% to 4.0%. - [Gun Violence Prevention Task Force Established](https://mlcmi.com/gun-violence-prevention-task-force-established/) - Governor Whitmer established a task to identify the root causes of gun violence, compile and report relevant data, and recommend policy. - [Taylor Swift Package Moves](https://mlcmi.com/taylor-swift-package-moves/) - Legislation dubbed the “Taylor Swift” bills, which seeks to combat automated bots used during ticket sales, moved forward this week. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of June 22 – 28, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-june-22-28-2024/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight on Senator Jeremy Moss](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-jeremy-moss/) - Senator Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield) serves as the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, having been chosen by his peers to serve in this leadership position. - [Primary Election Overview: 35th District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-35th-district/) - Representative Andrew Fink (R-Hillsdale) isn’t running for reelection, leaving this seat open. - [Primary Election Overview: 33rd District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-33rd-district/) - Representative Felicia Brabec (D-Ann Arbor) decided against running for reelection, leaving this seat open. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-59/) - Below are some of the articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-49/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [May Revenue Collections Slightly Above Estimates](https://mlcmi.com/may-revenue-collections-slightly-above-estimates/) - The HFA released its monthly revenue update, showing cash collections last month increased $145.3 million from the prior year, totaling $2,636 million. - [MPSC Seeking Input on Proposals](https://mlcmi.com/mpsc-seeking-input-on-proposals/) - The MPSC is seeking input on proposals establishing financial penalties for utilities that don’t meet thresholds for getting power back on. - [Real Estate Tax Change Introduced](https://mlcmi.com/real-estate-tax-change-introduced/) - Representative Donni Steele (R-Orion) introduced legislation she believes will help combat the high cost of living residents are experiencing. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of June 15 – 21, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-june-15-21-2024/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold session Tuesday and Thursday. - [Spotlight on Representative Mike Mueller](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-mike-mueller/) - Representative Mueller is serving his third term in the Michigan House of Representatives. He’s currently serving as Minority Vice Chair of the House Regulatory Reform Committee. - [Primary Election Overview: 28th District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-28th-district/) - The district is a toss-up that both parties will work to win with the Democratic party targeting this seat to flip it from R to D. - [Primary Election Overview: 27th District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-27th-district/) - This district is considered a toss-up and both parties have a shot at winning this November. - [A Focus on Networking](https://mlcmi.com/a-focus-on-networking/) - At the beginning of 2024, I made networking a central focus of my lobbying strategy, recognizing its pivotal role in driving business growth. - [Primary Election Overview: 25th District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-25th-district/) - This seat is considered safe for the Democratic party, making that primary race key to who will represent this seat next year. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-58/) - Below are some of the articles that the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of June 8 – 14, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-june-8-14-2024/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Bills Aim to Create State Level Work Opportunity Tax Credit](https://mlcmi.com/bills-aim-to-create-state-level-work-opportunity-tax-credit/) - Legislation aimed at encouraging employers to hire workers facing significant barriers to employment was recently introduced. - [A.G. Issues Opinion on Financial Disclosure Act](https://mlcmi.com/a-g-issues-opinion-on-financial-disclosure-act/) - Attorney General Nessel issued a formal opinion addressing certain reporting requirements under the Michigan Constitution and the Public Officers Financial Disclosure Act. - [Roadway Protections Move Forward](https://mlcmi.com/roadway-protections-move-forward/) - Bipartisan legislation aimed at protecting vulnerable roadway users passed the House this week. - [Governor Travels to Washington D.C.](https://mlcmi.com/governor-travels-to-washington-d-c/) - Governor Whitmer was in Washington D.C. this week pitching additional investment in economic and workforce development, innovation, and cross-border cooperation. - [State Takes Steps to Address Youth Mental Health](https://mlcmi.com/state-takes-steps-to-address-youth-mental-health/) - Michigan is joining forces with ten other states and private industries to recruit, train, and deploy the nation’s first Youth Mental Health Corps. - [Spotlight on Representative Brenda Carter](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-brenda-carter/) - Representative Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) is serving her third term in the Michigan House of Representatives. - [Primary Election Overview: 22nd House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-22nd-house-district/) - This district is considered Democratic-leaning. Representative Matt Koleszar is running for a fourth term in the House. - [Primary Election Overview: 16th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-16th-house-district/) - This is considered a safe Democratic seat, making that primary race key to who will represent this district next year. - [Primary Election Overview: 14th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-14th-house-district/) - This district is considered a safe Democratic seat and Representative McFall is running for a second term in office. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-57/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-48/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog. Secretary Benson and business leaders launched acollaboration supporting safe and secure elections. - [Election Coalition Launched](https://mlcmi.com/election-coalition-launched/) - Secretary of State Benson and business leaders launched a new collaboration supporting safe and secure elections at the Mackinac Policy Conference this week. - [Public Service Commission Heads to Grand Rapids](https://mlcmi.com/public-service-commission-heads-to-grand-rapids/) - Next month, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) will hold its regular commission meeting in Grand Rapids, instead of its typical location in Lansing. - [“I Voted” Sticker Contest Launched](https://mlcmi.com/i-voted-sticker-contest-launched/) - Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced the first-ever contest to redesign the well-known “I Voted” stickers handed out to voters when they go to the polls. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of June 1 – 7, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-june-1-7-2024/) - The House and Senate have scheduled their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight on Representative Pauline Wendzel](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-pauline-wendzel/) - Representative Wendzel is the Minority Vice Chair of the Energy, Communications, and Technology Committee, serving as the lead Republican for the influential committee. - [Primary Election Overview: 13th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-13th-house-district/) - Representative Mai Xiong was elected to the House in a special general election in April to serve the remainder of the term, ending December 31, 2024. - [Primary Election Overview: 12th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-12th-house-district/) - The 12th House District is located in southeast Michigan. - [Primary Election Overview: 10th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-10th-house-district/) - The 10th House District is located in Wayne County. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-56/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Department Director Appointed](https://mlcmi.com/department-director-appointed/) - Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea was appointed the director of the Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP). - [Governor Signs Mental Health Insurance Coverage](https://mlcmi.com/governor-signs-mental-health-insurance-coverage/) - Bipartisan legislation requiring insurers to cover treatments for mental health and substance use disorder at the same level as physical health services was signed into law by Governor Whitmer. - [Changes to Renaissance Zones Signed Into Law](https://mlcmi.com/changes-to-renaissance-zones-signed-into-law/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed bipartisan legislation to streamline Renaissance Zones, a state program that incentivizes job growth and investment in areas of the state that need more of both. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of May 25 – 31, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-may-25-31-2024/) - MLC will be closed on Monday, May 27, in observance of Memorial Day. State offices are also closed that day. - [Primary Election Overview: 9th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-9th-house-district/) - Speaker of the House Joe Tate was drawn into this district after seven House districts were court-ordered to be redrawn. - [Spotlight on Representative Helena Scott](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-helena-scott/) - Representative Scott chairs the Energy, Communications, and Technology Committee, a highly influential committee responsible for energy policy and oversight. - [Primary Election Overview: 8th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-8th-house-district/) - This primary race will be a good one to watch as a current and a former state representative are both running for this seat. - [Kicking Off Summer with Bagpipes and Beer](https://mlcmi.com/kicking-off-summer-with-bagpipes-and-beer/) - Memorial Day weekend is for boating, barbequing, camping, or whatever else you enjoy doing to ring in summer in Michigan. - [Primary Election Overview: 7th House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-7th-house-district/) - This district has a strong Democratic base making the primary race the one to watch in this seat. Rep. Aiyash opted against running for another term leaving this seat open. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-55/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-47/) - Directors of the House and Senate Fiscal Agencies came together with Treasurer Eubanks and Budget Director Flood to reach a consensus for projected state revenue. - [Revenue Projections Change Slightly](https://mlcmi.com/revenue-projections-change-slightly/) - the directors of the House and Senate Fiscal Agencies came together with State Treasurer Eubanks and State Budget Director Flood to reach a consensus for projected state revenue. - [Senate Votes on Remaining Budgets](https://mlcmi.com/senate-votes-on-remaining-budgets/) - This week, the Senate wrapped up voting on their proposal for the state budget for the upcoming fiscal year. - [Committee Considers Computer Science Requirement](https://mlcmi.com/committee-considers-computer-science-requirement/) - All public high schools would be required to offer a computer science course(s) under legislation considered by the House Education Committee this week. - [Michigan Innovation Fund Considered](https://mlcmi.com/michigan-innovation-fund-considered/) - Bipartisan legislation creating a new Michigan Innovation Fund was considered this week by the House Economic Development and Small Business Committee. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of May 18 – 24, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-may-18-24-2024/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold their typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Spotlight on Representative Abraham Aiyash](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-representative-abraham-aiyash/) - Representative Abraham Aiyash (D-Hamtramck) is the Majority Floor Leader, responsible for running the floor operations when the chamber is in session. - [Primary Election Overview: 6th Michigan House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-6th-michigan-house-district/) - The 6th Michigan House District is located in southeast Michigan. - [Primary Election Overview: 5th Michigan House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-5th-michigan-house-district/) - The 5th House District is located in southeast Michigan, including portions of Oakland and Wayne Counties. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-54/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Primary Election Overview: 3rd Michigan House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-3rd-michigan-house-district/) - The 3rd House District is located in southeast Michigan. Representative Farhat is running for a second term in office, facing two opponents in the primary race. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-46/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… - [Budgets Move Forward](https://mlcmi.com/budgets-move-forward-2/) - This week, the House and Senate continued to work on the state budget for the upcoming fiscal year beginning on October 1, 2024. - [Senators Propose Safer Michigan Act](https://mlcmi.com/senators-propose-safer-michigan-act/) - Bipartisan legislation establishing Productivity Credits for incarcerated individuals was introduced this week. - [Governor Makes Reappointments to Commission](https://mlcmi.com/governor-makes-reappointments-to-commission/) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced two reappointments to the Liquor Control Commission. - [Looking Ahead to the Week of May 11 – 17, 2024](https://mlcmi.com/looking-ahead-to-the-week-of-may-11-17-2024/) - The House and Senate are scheduled to hold its typical Tuesday – Thursday session schedule. - [Primary Election Overview: 1st House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-1st-house-district/) - The 1st House District is located in Wayne County and includes a portion of the City of Detroit and the City of River Rouge. - [Spotlight on Senator Sean McCann](https://mlcmi.com/spotlight-on-senator-sean-mccann/) - Senator Sean McCann serves as chair of the Energy and Environment Committee and vice chair of the Appropriations Committee, two highly influential committees. - [Primary Election Overview: 13th U.S. House District](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-13th-u-s-house-district/) - This southeast Michigan district in Wayne County encompasses several cities, including a portion of the City of Detroit. - [Primary Election Overview: United States Senate](https://mlcmi.com/primary-election-overview-united-states-senate/) - Democratic U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow announced her retirement from this seat, which she’s held since 2001, setting off a wide-open race. - [Five Things We’re Reading](https://mlcmi.com/five-things-were-reading-53/) - Below are some articles the MLC lobby team has been reading this past week. We hope you find them as interesting and useful as we do. - [Last Week on the MLC Blog](https://mlcmi.com/last-week-on-the-mlc-blog-45/) - Over the past week, we covered these topics on the MLC Blog… ## Pages - [HOME](https://mlcmi.com/) - The lobbyists at MLC have been trusted partners for more than 60 years in helping clients achieve their business and legislative objectives. - [Peyton Wyatt](https://mlcmi.com/peyton-wyatt/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.0.11″ background_color=”#f5f5f5″ custom_padding=”29px||30px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”0px||||false|false”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.6.5″ background_color=”#586173″ background_image=”https://mlcmi.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Peyton-banner.jpg” width=”1200px” width_tablet=”” width_phone=”90%” width_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”30px||180px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”25px||10px||false|false” background_color_phone=”rgba(255,255,255,0.6)” background_last_edited=”on|phone” background_enable_color_phone=”on” background_blend_phone=”overlay” border_width_all=”15px” border_color_all=”#d9d7cc”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.0.11″ background_enable_color=”off”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.6.5″ text_font=”Archivo||||||||” text_text_color=”#ffffff” header_text_color=”#d9d7cc” header_2_font=”Crimson Pro|||||on|||” header_2_text_color=”#ffffff” header_2_letter_spacing=”1px” background_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.5)” width=”80%” custom_margin=”|||40px|false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”|||30px|false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”20px|15px|20px|15px|false|false” text_text_color_tablet=”” text_text_color_phone=”#ffffff” text_text_color_last_edited=”on|phone”] Fueled by a passion - [Jennifer Wilson](https://mlcmi.com/jennifer-wilson/) - As Administrative Assistant to MLC’s president, Jen’s lengthy experience in both corporate and non-profit sectors brings fresh insights to business processes and challenges. - [Kaylee Gingras](https://mlcmi.com/kaylee-gingras/) - With focused experience in managing, tracking, and data communication, Kaylee provides MLC clients with unmatched organizational and detail-oriented skills. - [Amber Chandler](https://mlcmi.com/amber-chandler/) - Amber is a strategic systems thinker and passionate advocate for families and housing stability in Michigan. - [Emily Simmons](https://mlcmi.com/emily-simmons/) - Emily’s time working in the legislature makes her well-positioned to provide key insight to our clients. - [Nicole Wandell](https://mlcmi.com/nicole-wandell/) - Nicole juggles a myriad of daily duties at MLC. From keeping the office organized and efficient, to coordinating all client events and activities. - [CLIENTS](https://mlcmi.com/clients/) - The MLC team has lobbied successfully for thousands of pieces of legislation and helped clients win more than $500 million in procurement contracts. - [PEOPLE](https://mlcmi.com/people/) - As Michigan’s first lobbying firm, MLC has mastered its approach to the ever-changing and fast-paced world of government and legislative consulting. - [ABOUT MLC](https://mlcmi.com/about-mlc/) - Trusted partners and lobbyists dedicated to helping clients achieve their legislative and business goals. - [MLC BLOG](https://mlcmi.com/mlc-blog/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.0.11″ background_color=”#f5f5f5″ custom_padding=”29px||30px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”0px||||false|false”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.6.5″ background_color=”#4c6a7f” background_enable_image=”off” background_blend=”overlay” width=”1200px” width_tablet=”” width_phone=”90%” width_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”35px|25px|35px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”25px||10px||false|false” background_color_phone=”#586173″ background_last_edited=”on|phone” background_enable_color_phone=”on” background_blend_phone=”soft-light” border_width_all=”15px” border_color_all=”#d9d7cc”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.0.11″ background_enable_color=”off”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”|||||on|||” header_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font_size=”36px” header_letter_spacing=”4px”] Insider Intelligence [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.0.11″ background_color=”#d9d7cc” custom_padding=”30px||30px|||”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||10px||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_blog_extras posts_number=”6″ - [Tom Cleary](https://mlcmi.com/tom-cleary/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.0.11″ background_color=”#f5f5f5″ custom_padding=”29px||30px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”0px||||false|false”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”https://mlcmi.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Tom-Cleary-banner2.jpg” alt=”In Memoriam, Tom Cleary” title_text=”Tom-Cleary-banner2″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_all=”15px” border_color_all=”#d9d7cc”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.0.11″ background_color=”#d9d7cc” custom_padding=”30px||30px|||”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”2″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ custom_padding=”0px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.0.11″][et_pb_text content_tablet=”” content_phone=” An icon of Michigan’s government and political scene, he was our friend and the friend of many around - [Legislative Directory](https://mlcmi.com/legislative-directory/) - Our Legislative Directory helps you locate and contact your state and local representative - [MLC Client Survey 2025](https://mlcmi.com/mlc-client-survey-2025/) - [forminator_form id="4096"] - [2024 POAM Candidate Questionnaire](https://mlcmi.com/2024-poam-candidate-questionnaire/) - [Liz Gullett](https://mlcmi.com/liz-gullett/) - As Communications and Social Media Manager, Liz keeps MLC clients informed and up to date on all Lansing activities and issues at the Capitol. - [Monica Martinez](https://mlcmi.com/monica-martinez/) - Monica has more than two decades of experience cultivating a wide-range of knowledge in public policy, the energy sectors, and technology issues. - [Matt Sowash](https://mlcmi.com/matt-sowash/) - With experience as a legislative director, analyst, campaign manager, and entrepreneur, Matt brings a fresh perspective to MLC clients. - [Rudy Hobbs](https://mlcmi.com/rudy-hobbs/) - During his time in the Michigan Legislature, Rudy applied his leadership skills as Minority Floor Leader making him the second highest ranking Democratic member in the House. - [Tony Des Chenes](https://mlcmi.com/tony-des-chenes/) - With more than 20 years of government and procurement experience, Tony provides invaluable connections to the Capitol. - [Brendan E. Ringlever](https://mlcmi.com/brendan-e-ringlever/) - Brendan has an innate ability to identify the right opportunities, at the right time, with the right decision maker to help achieve success for MLC clients. - [Timothy R. Ward](https://mlcmi.com/timothy-r-ward/) - As president of MLC, Tim brings more than 35 years of political consulting, government service, and policy advocacy to drive results for clients. - [Local Government Consulting Services](https://mlcmi.com/local-government-consulting-services/) - Understanding Michigan’s segmented and layered government is key to building lasting relationships with legislators and influencers at the state and local levels. - [Procurement and Business Development Services](https://mlcmi.com/procurement-and-business-development-services/) - MLC has the inside track on regulations, laws, and nuances to the procurement process and the decision makers you need to reach. - [Speakers Bureau Services](https://mlcmi.com/speakers-bureau-services/) - Access decades of professional legislative and procurement knowledge from MLC’s leadership to enhance board meetings, conferences, or special events. - [Strategy Solutions Services](https://mlcmi.com/strategy-solutions-services/) - From policy research and development, to tactical planning, MLC lobbyists provide an innovative blueprint to achieve your legislative goals. - [Legislative and Executive Advocacy Services](https://mlcmi.com/legislative-and-executive-advocacy-services/) - The MLC team applies over a century and a half of collective lobbying expertise to navigate complex governmental and policy challenges. - [Building and Managing Relationships Services](https://mlcmi.com/building-and-managing-relationships-services/) - Our team consistently builds and maintains relationships in the Capitol, throughout Lansing, and across Michigan, to build the strongest possible network. - [Regulatory Advocacy Services](https://mlcmi.com/regulatory-advocacy-services/) - The MLC team understands the importance of regulatory matters and the impact they have on industries. MLC provides strategic guidance that drives the best legislative outcomes. - [CONTACT US](https://mlcmi.com/contact-us/) - Achieving your legislative goals and business objectives can be attained with the right team on your side. Contact MLC to learn how we help drive your success. - [Overcoming Local Government Challenges](https://mlcmi.com/overcoming-local-government-challenges/) - The MLC team brings experience, relationships, and seasoned professionals to the challenges of understanding the local political landscape. - [Strategic Counsel Helps Win State Contracts](https://mlcmi.com/strategic-counsel-helps-win-state-contracts/) - MLC’s procurement expertise and experience helps clients understand the nuances of procurement opportunities and provides a hands-on, results-driven approach. - [Changing Budget Bill Language For DBI](https://mlcmi.com/changing-budget-bill-language-for-dbi/) - Through outreach to legislators, MLC was able to educate decision makers on the importance of DBI’s business with the State of Michigan procurement department. - [Managing Michigan Water Quality Association](https://mlcmi.com/managing-michigan-water-quality-association/) - The MWQA faced ongoing challenges of turnover and a lack of attentiveness and consistency. MLC developed processes and procedures to overcome organizational challenges. - [MLC Saves Satellite TV Millions](https://mlcmi.com/mlc-saves-satellite-tv-millions/) - The MLC team successfully lobbied and fought to exclude paid television services from being taxed at the state level, saving satellite TV providers millions. - [MLC Contributes Growth Opportunity For MSA](https://mlcmi.com/mlc-contributes-growth-opportunity-for-msa/) - The MLC team developed a strategy for the state to increase revenue through sales while avoiding the need for tax increases on the sale of spirits. - [Incentivizing New Job Growth](https://mlcmi.com/incentivizing-new-job-growth/) - MLC created a bipartisan solution for MCCA to build economic development through job funding programs and direct business outreach. - [Helping Graduation Alliance Establish State Law](https://mlcmi.com/helping-graduation-alliance-establish-state-law/) - MLC helped change traditional count day legislation and worked with the Michigan Department of Education and Graduation Alliance to implement their alternate business model. - [400 New Jobs For Challenged Residents](https://mlcmi.com/400-new-jobs-for-challenged-residents/) - Leveraging strategy and relationships, MLC helps adjust legislation in favor of expanding recycling programs in Metro Detroit, creating 400 new jobs. - [Increasing Provider Rates For Private Duty Nurses](https://mlcmi.com/increasing-provider-rates-for-private-duty-nurses/) - Healthcare industry group turns to MLC to help increase provider rates for in-home care private duty nursing agencies. - [Health Care Taxation Reform](https://mlcmi.com/health-care-taxation-reform/) - The MLC team successfully lobbied against a tax effort that would have affected Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC) and their ability to serve seniors. - [Changing The Adoption And Foster Process](https://mlcmi.com/changing-the-adoption-and-foster-process/) - MLC’s legislative strategy helps Michigan become the first state to formalize a process that reinforces ICWA at the state level. - [Protecting Roadway Fundraising (Updated)](https://mlcmi.com/protecting-roadway-fundraising-updated/) - MLC helps pass legislation to protect roadway fundraising—a critical part of Lions Clubs and other non-profit fundraising efforts. - [Protecting the Soft Drink and Food Industries from Targeted Tax](https://mlcmi.com/protecting-the-soft-drink-and-food-industries-from-targeted-tax/) - MLC leveraged experience and legislative relationships to defeat legislation that would have imposed a targeted tax impacting the food and beverage industries. - [OUR WORK](https://mlcmi.com/our-work/) - In the business of lobbying and legislative advocacy, no one fights harder for their clients than MLC. - [SERVICES](https://mlcmi.com/services/) - MLC creates strong relationships in Lansing to drive legislative advocacy on behalf of our clients, and has a proven track record of success. - [Terms of Use](https://mlcmi.com/terms-of-use/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.0.11″ background_color=”#f5f5f5″ custom_padding=”29px||30px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”0px||||false|false”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.6.5″ background_color=”#586173″ background_enable_image=”off” background_blend=”overlay” width=”1200px” width_tablet=”” width_phone=”90%” width_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”35px|25px|35px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”25px||10px||false|false” background_color_phone=”#586173″ background_last_edited=”on|phone” background_enable_color_phone=”on” background_blend_phone=”soft-light” border_width_all=”15px” border_color_all=”#d9d7cc”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.0.11″ background_enable_color=”off”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_text_color=”#ffffff” header_letter_spacing=”2px” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″] TERMS OF USE AGREEMENT [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ background_color=”rgba(217,215,204,0.5)” custom_padding=”30px||30px|||”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.0.11″ custom_padding=”0px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.0.11″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.6.5″ - [Privacy Policy](https://mlcmi.com/privacy-policy/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.0.11″ background_color=”#f5f5f5″ custom_padding=”29px||30px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”0px||||false|false”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.6.5″ background_color=”#586173″ background_enable_image=”off” background_blend=”overlay” width=”1200px” width_tablet=”” width_phone=”90%” width_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”35px|25px|35px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”25px||10px||false|false” background_color_phone=”#586173″ background_last_edited=”on|phone” background_enable_color_phone=”on” background_blend_phone=”soft-light” border_width_all=”15px” border_color_all=”#d9d7cc”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.0.11″ background_enable_color=”off”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default” header_text_color=”#ffffff” header_letter_spacing=”2px” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″] PRIVACY POLICY [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ background_color=”rgba(217,215,204,0.5)” custom_padding=”30px||30px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.0.11″ custom_padding=”0px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.0.11″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.6.5″ - [Public Policy Development Services](https://mlcmi.com/public-policy-development-services/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.0.11″ background_color=”#f5f5f5″ custom_padding=”29px||30px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”0px||||false|false”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.0.11″ background_color=”#586173″ use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_start=”rgba(0,0,0,0.4)” background_color_gradient_end=”rgba(255,255,255,0)” background_color_gradient_direction=”110deg” background_image=”/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/public-policy-development.jpg” background_blend=”multiply” width=”1200px” width_tablet=”” width_phone=”90%” width_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”125px||125px|||” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”25px||10px||false|false” background_color_phone=”#586173″ background_last_edited=”on|phone” background_enable_color_phone=”on” background_blend_phone=”overlay” border_width_all=”15px” border_color_all=”#d9d7cc”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.0.11″ background_enable_color=”off”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.0.11″ text_font=”Archivo||||||||” text_text_color=”#586173″ header_2_font=”Crimson Pro|||||on|||” header_2_text_color=”#ffffff” header_2_letter_spacing=”1px” width=”80%” custom_margin=”|||40px|false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”|||30px|false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone”] Public Policy Development [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ - [Sample Page](https://mlcmi.com/sample-page/) - This is an example page. It's different from a blog post because it will stay in one place and will show up in your site navigation (in most themes). Most people start with an About page that introduces them to potential site visitors. It might say something like this: Hi there! I'm a bike messenger ## Projects - [JailGeek](https://mlcmi.com/project/jailgeek/) - [FindHelp](https://mlcmi.com/project/findhelp/) - [Shipt](https://mlcmi.com/project/shipt/) - [Detroit-Wayne Joint Building Authority](https://mlcmi.com/project/detroit-wayne-joint-building-authority/) - [Cartwheel](https://mlcmi.com/project/cartwheel/) - [Alpena Area Convention and Visitors Bureau](https://mlcmi.com/project/alpena-area-convention-and-visitors-bureau/) - [Autism Alliance of Michigan](https://mlcmi.com/project/autism-alliance-of-michigan/) - [Teachers of Tomorrow](https://mlcmi.com/project/teachers-of-tomorrow/) - [Michigan Apple Association](https://mlcmi.com/project/michigan-apple-association/) - [Michigan Black Business Alliance](https://mlcmi.com/project/michigan-black-business-alliance/) - [YMCA](https://mlcmi.com/project/ymca/) - [vitu](https://mlcmi.com/project/vitu/) - [Lighthouse](https://mlcmi.com/project/lighthouse/) - [Detroit Regional Partnership](https://mlcmi.com/project/detroit-regional-partnership/) - [Prisms](https://mlcmi.com/project/prisms/) - [TC Energy](https://mlcmi.com/project/tc-energy/) - [Recycled Materials Association](https://mlcmi.com/project/recycled-materials-association/) - [Michigan Beverage Association](https://mlcmi.com/project/michigan-beverage-association/) - [Oakland Community Health Network](https://mlcmi.com/project/oakland-community-health-network/) - [Huron Waterloo Pathways](https://mlcmi.com/project/huron-waterloo-pathways/) - [Security Scorecard](https://mlcmi.com/project/security-scorecard/) - [Xerox](https://mlcmi.com/project/xerox/) - [Yes Every Kid](https://mlcmi.com/project/yes-every-kid/) - [MiSEPS](https://mlcmi.com/project/miseps-2/) - [Starfish Family Services](https://mlcmi.com/project/starfish-family-services/) - [SEIA](https://mlcmi.com/project/seia/) - [Brilliant Detroit](https://mlcmi.com/project/brilliant-detroit/) - [Michigan League of Conservation Voters](https://mlcmi.com/project/michigan-league-of-conservation-voters/) - [Goodwill Association of Michigan](https://mlcmi.com/project/goodwill-association-of-michigan/) - [TikTok](https://mlcmi.com/project/tiktok/) - [Oakland County Water Resource Commission](https://mlcmi.com/project/oakland-county-water-resource-commission/) - [Oakland County Michigan](https://mlcmi.com/project/oakland-county-michigan/) - [Dish](https://mlcmi.com/project/dish/) - [Butzel](https://mlcmi.com/project/butzel/) - [Allegis Redwood Maxim](https://mlcmi.com/project/allegis-redwood-maxim/) - [Teaching Strategies](https://mlcmi.com/project/teaching-strategies/) - [Carvana](https://mlcmi.com/project/carvana/) - [Exelon Corporation](https://mlcmi.com/project/exelon-corporation/) - [Upper Peninsula Travel and Recreation Association](https://mlcmi.com/project/upper-peninsula-travel-and-recreation-association/) - [Teach For America](https://mlcmi.com/project/teach-for-america/) - [Michigan Community College Association](https://mlcmi.com/project/michigan-community-college-association/) - [Wonderschool](https://mlcmi.com/project/wonderschool/) - [Northern Michigan University](https://mlcmi.com/project/northern-michigan-university/) - [Zillow](https://mlcmi.com/project/zillow/) - [Police Officers Association of Michigan](https://mlcmi.com/project/police-officers-association-of-michigan/) - [Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi](https://mlcmi.com/project/nottawaseppi-huron-band-of-potawatomi/) - [LeadingAge Michigan](https://mlcmi.com/project/leadingage-michigan/) - [Fantasy Sports Trade Association](https://mlcmi.com/project/fantasy-sports-trade-association/) - [Dun & Bradstreet](https://mlcmi.com/project/dun-bradstreet/) - [Agate Software](https://mlcmi.com/project/agate-software/) - [Tesla Motors](https://mlcmi.com/project/tesla-motors/) - [Michigan Judges Association](https://mlcmi.com/project/michigan-judges-association/) - [Fifth Third Bank](https://mlcmi.com/project/fifth-third-bank/) - [Michigan Land Title Association](https://mlcmi.com/project/michigan-land-title-association/) - [Municipal Employees' Retirement System](https://mlcmi.com/project/municipal-employees-retirement-system/) - [Maxim Healthcare Services](https://mlcmi.com/project/maxim-healthcare-services/) - [Erickson Living Management](https://mlcmi.com/project/erickson-living-management/) - [MiHIN](https://mlcmi.com/project/mihin/) - [MESSA](https://mlcmi.com/project/messa/) - [MISEPS](https://mlcmi.com/project/miseps/) - [Firekeepers Casino and Hotel](https://mlcmi.com/project/firekeepers-casino-and-hotel/) - [MACVB](https://mlcmi.com/project/macvb/) - [Fan Duel](https://mlcmi.com/project/fan-duel/) - [Draft Kings](https://mlcmi.com/project/draft-kings/) - [Imagine Learning, Inc.](https://mlcmi.com/project/imagine-learning-inc/) - [Graduation Alliance](https://mlcmi.com/project/graduation-alliance/) - [LKQ Corporation](https://mlcmi.com/project/lkq-corporation/) - [PGMI](https://mlcmi.com/project/pgmi/) - [Republic National Distribution Company](https://mlcmi.com/project/republic-national-distribution-company/) - [Michigan Spirits Association](https://mlcmi.com/project/michigan-spirits-association/) - [McDonald's](https://mlcmi.com/project/mcdonalds/) - [Michigan Water Quality Association](https://mlcmi.com/project/michigan-water-quality-association/) ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://mlcmi.com/category/uncategorized/) - [Liz Gullett](https://mlcmi.com/category/liz-gullett/) - [Matt Sowash](https://mlcmi.com/category/matt-sowash/) - [Monica Martinez](https://mlcmi.com/category/monica-martinez/) - [Brendan Ringlever](https://mlcmi.com/category/brendan-ringlever/) - [Tony Des Chenes](https://mlcmi.com/category/tony-des-chenes/) - [Rudy Hobbs](https://mlcmi.com/category/rudy-hobbs/) - [Amber Chandler](https://mlcmi.com/category/amber-chandler/) - [Tim Ward](https://mlcmi.com/category/tim-ward/) - [Emily Simmons](https://mlcmi.com/category/emily-simmons/) - [Karli Hensler](https://mlcmi.com/category/karli-hensler/) - [Therese Reinhold](https://mlcmi.com/category/therese-reinhold/) ## Tags - [House Republicans](https://mlcmi.com/tag/house-republicans/) - [Legislation](https://mlcmi.com/tag/legislation/) - [Ethics and Oversight](https://mlcmi.com/tag/ethics-and-oversight/) - [Governor Whitmer](https://mlcmi.com/tag/governor-whitmer/) - [Right-to-Work](https://mlcmi.com/tag/right-to-work/) - [House Labor Committee](https://mlcmi.com/tag/house-labor-committee/) - [Resources](https://mlcmi.com/tag/resources/) - [Spring Training](https://mlcmi.com/tag/spring-training/) - [Tigers](https://mlcmi.com/tag/tigers/) - [Pure Michigan](https://mlcmi.com/tag/pure-michigan/) - [Judicial Appointments](https://mlcmi.com/tag/judicial-appointments/) - [Kent County](https://mlcmi.com/tag/kent-county/) - [Department of Agriculture](https://mlcmi.com/tag/department-of-agriculture/) - [Gun Reform](https://mlcmi.com/tag/gun-reform/) - [DHHS](https://mlcmi.com/tag/dhhs/) - [Transportation](https://mlcmi.com/tag/transportation/) - [Grants](https://mlcmi.com/tag/grants/) - [SMART](https://mlcmi.com/tag/smart/) - [Benchmarks](https://mlcmi.com/tag/benchmarks/) - [Labor Rights](https://mlcmi.com/tag/labor-rights/) - [Non-profit](https://mlcmi.com/tag/non-profit/) - [Labor](https://mlcmi.com/tag/labor/) - [Economy](https://mlcmi.com/tag/economy/) - [Taxes](https://mlcmi.com/tag/taxes/) - [Dana Nessel](https://mlcmi.com/tag/dana-nessel/) - [House](https://mlcmi.com/tag/house/) - [Senate](https://mlcmi.com/tag/senate/) - [Revenue](https://mlcmi.com/tag/revenue/) - [Energy](https://mlcmi.com/tag/energy/) - [Technology](https://mlcmi.com/tag/technology/) - [5 Things](https://mlcmi.com/tag/5-things/) - [MPSC](https://mlcmi.com/tag/mpsc/) - [Voting](https://mlcmi.com/tag/voting/) - [Alcohol](https://mlcmi.com/tag/alcohol/) - [Native Americans](https://mlcmi.com/tag/native-americans/) - [Electric Vehicle](https://mlcmi.com/tag/electric-vehicle/) - [Infrastructure](https://mlcmi.com/tag/infrastructure/) - [Education](https://mlcmi.com/tag/education/) - [Personal Development](https://mlcmi.com/tag/personal-development/) - [Appointment](https://mlcmi.com/tag/appointment/) - [Budget](https://mlcmi.com/tag/budget/) - [Relationships](https://mlcmi.com/tag/relationships/) - [Lansing](https://mlcmi.com/tag/lansing/) - [Capitol](https://mlcmi.com/tag/capitol/) - [Insurance](https://mlcmi.com/tag/insurance/) - [DIFS](https://mlcmi.com/tag/difs/) - [Small Business](https://mlcmi.com/tag/small-business/) - [MEDC](https://mlcmi.com/tag/medc/) - [Economic Development](https://mlcmi.com/tag/economic-development/) - [Garlin Gilchrist](https://mlcmi.com/tag/garlin-gilchrist/) - [Marketing](https://mlcmi.com/tag/marketing/) - [Environment](https://mlcmi.com/tag/environment/) - [Courts](https://mlcmi.com/tag/courts/) - [Healthcare](https://mlcmi.com/tag/healthcare/) - [Professional Development](https://mlcmi.com/tag/professional-development/) - [Session](https://mlcmi.com/tag/session/) - [Medicaid](https://mlcmi.com/tag/medicaid/) - [Unemployment Rate](https://mlcmi.com/tag/unemployment-rate/) - [Public Safety](https://mlcmi.com/tag/public-safety/) - [Elections](https://mlcmi.com/tag/elections/) - [Secretary of State](https://mlcmi.com/tag/secretary-of-state/) - [Administrative Rules](https://mlcmi.com/tag/administrative-rules/) - [Climate](https://mlcmi.com/tag/climate/) - [Population](https://mlcmi.com/tag/population/) - [Mobility](https://mlcmi.com/tag/mobility/) - [LARA](https://mlcmi.com/tag/lara/) - [Election](https://mlcmi.com/tag/election/) - [Natural Resources](https://mlcmi.com/tag/natural-resources/) - [Traffic](https://mlcmi.com/tag/traffic/) - [Lt. Gov. Gilchrist](https://mlcmi.com/tag/lt-gov-gilchrist/) - [Agriculture](https://mlcmi.com/tag/agriculture/) - [Federal Government](https://mlcmi.com/tag/federal-government/) - [DNR](https://mlcmi.com/tag/dnr/) - [Police](https://mlcmi.com/tag/police/) - [Pension](https://mlcmi.com/tag/pension/) - [Local Government](https://mlcmi.com/tag/local-government/) - [Redistricting](https://mlcmi.com/tag/redistricting/) - [Water](https://mlcmi.com/tag/water/) - [Wages](https://mlcmi.com/tag/wages/) - [MVAA](https://mlcmi.com/tag/mvaa/) - [Ballot Proposal](https://mlcmi.com/tag/ballot-proposal/) - [Disclosure](https://mlcmi.com/tag/disclosure/) - [Lobbying](https://mlcmi.com/tag/lobbying/) - [Federal Gov](https://mlcmi.com/tag/federal-gov/) - [Congress](https://mlcmi.com/tag/congress/) - [Minimum Wage](https://mlcmi.com/tag/minimum-wage/) - [MI Supreme Court](https://mlcmi.com/tag/mi-supreme-court/) - [FOIA](https://mlcmi.com/tag/foia/) - [Vehicles](https://mlcmi.com/tag/vehicles/) - [Great Lakes](https://mlcmi.com/tag/great-lakes/) - [Appropriation](https://mlcmi.com/tag/appropriation/) - [State of the State](https://mlcmi.com/tag/state-of-the-state/) - [Detroit](https://mlcmi.com/tag/detroit/) - [Retirement](https://mlcmi.com/tag/retirement/) - [Legislator Spotlight](https://mlcmi.com/tag/legislator-spotlight/) - [Tourism](https://mlcmi.com/tag/tourism/) - [Federal](https://mlcmi.com/tag/federal/) - [EGLE](https://mlcmi.com/tag/egle/) - [Housing](https://mlcmi.com/tag/housing/) - [DTMB](https://mlcmi.com/tag/dtmb/) - [Employment](https://mlcmi.com/tag/employment/) - [Weekly Recap](https://mlcmi.com/tag/weekly-recap/) - [Federal Govt](https://mlcmi.com/tag/federal-govt/) - [Attorney General](https://mlcmi.com/tag/attorney-general/) - [Team MLC](https://mlcmi.com/tag/team-mlc/) - [MLC](https://mlcmi.com/tag/mlc/) - [Corrections](https://mlcmi.com/tag/corrections/) - [Oversight](https://mlcmi.com/tag/oversight/) ## Project Categories - [Consumer Products](https://mlcmi.com/project_category/consumer-products/) - [Manufacturing](https://mlcmi.com/project_category/manufacturing/) - [Education](https://mlcmi.com/project_category/education/) - [Energy](https://mlcmi.com/project_category/energy/) - [Entertainment](https://mlcmi.com/project_category/entertainment/) - [Health Care](https://mlcmi.com/project_category/health-care/) - [Human Services](https://mlcmi.com/project_category/human-services/) - [Financial](https://mlcmi.com/project_category/financial/) - [Legal](https://mlcmi.com/project_category/legal/) - [Technology](https://mlcmi.com/project_category/technology/) - [Transportation](https://mlcmi.com/project_category/transportation/) - [Real Estate](https://mlcmi.com/project_category/real-estate/) - [ALL](https://mlcmi.com/project_category/all/)