Week in review: Awesome duck, part 2
As the second of three weeks in Lame Duck session comes to a close, let’s recap what House Republicans have done for Michigan House puts low-income heating needs first Legislation sponsored by Rep. Dale Zorn, R-Ida, allocates federal dollars—upfront—for weatherization so agencies can better protect the state’s low-income families from Michigan’s unpredictable elements, especially through the winter months. The bill requires…
Students first, athletes second
As of late, the line has been blurred as to whether student athletes are students or employees of the college they attend. On Tuesday, the Michigan House took decisive action toward clearing up some of the confusion. Representatives gave their stamp of approval on a bill ensuring student athletes remain classified as students—not employees—which in turn prohibits them from joining…
Get the facts: Understanding Michigan RFRA
Since the MiRFRA passed last week, there have been plenty of rumors, half-truths and exaggerated claims, and we are going to disprove those accusations. In fact, MiRFRA is merely a protection for people who are forced by government to violate deeply held religious beliefs. It does not provide a legal sword for people to use as a method…
What you might have missed this week
With a busy week of session wrapping up around 10 p.m. Thursday, a few pieces of House legislation appear to have flown under the radar. However, these bills are sound public policy and deserve their turn in the spotlight. So, here’s a brief look back at three lesser-known items approved by the House this week. Updating printing requirements for…
Keeping Michigan motorists safe
Drunk, drugged and distracted driving are very serious and dangerous offenses. December is dedicated as National Impaired Driving Prevention Month to raise awareness about the dangers of all forms of impaired driving. Drunk, drugged and distracted driving are equally dangerous to all Michiganders. Great strides have been made over the years to reduce impaired driving,…
More jobs creating more opportunities for Metro Detroit
Metro Detroit is roaring back, and the proof is in the number of jobs in the region According to a report from the Workforce Intelligence Network (WIN) released in November, Metro Detroit has returned to pre-recession level employment! Since Republican leadership took over in 2011, Michigan has been on a steady economic resurgence since hitting a…
Representatives’ hearts always close to home
Working day in and out to improve and protect the well-being of Michigan’s communities means leading by example. Just last week, Rep. Al Pscholka visited two young constituents who both proudly participated in the “Turning Pages with Pscholka” summer reading contest. Damarien Bell and Reunica Mays each won the reading contest in their age groups, which challenged…
Michigan rakes in an exceptional list of awards
2014 was a big year for Michigan and several of our great cities have been recognized nationally. On lists ranging from most beautiful small towns to best airport for a layover, Michigan certainly has its share of “best places.” Grand Rapids was a powerhouse this year, sweeping a handful of awards. Lonely Planet named the western Michigan community the No….