A column by state Rep. Diana Farrington, of Utica Elder abuse is a serious problem in Michigan, and it’s not just limited to physical abuse or neglect. Elder abuse can also be verbal, psychological or financial. We’ve heard about family members who exploit an aging loved one for money, or caregivers in assisted living facilities…
State Rep. Greg VanWoerkom has introduced a plan to update Michigan’s curriculum standards to better prepare students for their future careers. “Michigan’s job market is changing,” said VanWoerkom, of Norton Shores. “Our education system must keep up if we want our children to thrive after graduation.” VanWoerkom’s plan would allow students to complete a computer…
By State Rep. Rodney Wakeman of Saginaw Township Whether it be walking the dog, driving the kids to school, running errands or biking to the local ice cream shop, it’s very likely road quality will be brought up as a discussion topic. We all assess the condition of the roads we use and these…
The amount of money Michigan spends on information technology projects has spiraled out of control. Far too often, state departments start IT projects that cost more and perform worse than expected, with lax oversight. The list of state government’s IT failures is long and inexcusable. For example, a Department of Health and Human Services system…
State spending plan headed to governor for final approval Rep. Ann Bollin said she voted in favor of a new Michigan state budget plan that invests more in schools, roads, and other essential services without tax increases because that’s what Livingston County taxpayers expect and deserve. Bollin’s votes came as the Legislature completed its work…
A proposal recently introduced by state Rep. Michael Webber, of Rochester Hills, would name a section of Rochester Rd. from Tienken Rd. to I-75 the ‘Congressman William S. Broomfield Memorial Highway.’ Broomfield passed away in February at the age of 96 and had an extensive history of civil service, representing Oakland County in both Lansing…
Rep. Sarah Lightner of Springport voted this week in favor of a new Michigan state budget investing more in roads and bridges, public health and safety, and strengthening communities — without raising taxes. Gov. Whitmer declined to participate in budget negotiations after her demands for a 45-cent per gallon gas tax increase were rejected. The…
State budget includes study on feasibility of corrections training center State Rep. Greg Markkanen today said the Michigan Department of Corrections budget approved by the Legislature this week directs the department to consider the former Ojibway Correctional Facility as one of the potential locations for a training academy for corrections officers. Markkanen, of Hancock, fought…
State Rep. James Lower, of Greenville, on Tuesday voted in favor of a new Michigan state budget investing more in roads and bridges as well as vital health and safety public services – without raising taxes. The votes are the latest in the Legislature’s work to have a state budget for the fiscal year starting…
A proposal introduced on Tuesday by state Rep. Jim Lower, of Greenville, waives correctional facilities from requirements to post emergency exit maps in areas where inmates could see them. Lower explained public safety is the primary concern behind the legislation. Mapped routes out of a correctional facility that are readily available to those housed inside…
Rep. Matt Hall said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer should sign budget bills recently approved by the Michigan Legislature, avoiding a government shutdown while putting more money into schools and road repairs without her proposed 45-cent per gallon gas tax increase. “People said ‘no’ to the governor’s massive tax increase, and she walked away from budget negotiations,”…
State Rep. Aaron Miller, of Sturgis, has voted to support the Michigan Legislature’s state budget investing more in roads and bridges, public health and safety and community investment across the board – without raising taxes. Miller’s votes came as the Legislature completed its work on the state budget for the fiscal year starting Oct. 1….
Rep. Daire Rendon of Lake City announced her October office hours for residents of Missaukee, Crawford, Kalkaska, Roscommon and Ogemaw counties. “We are working on an assortment of things in Lansing,” Rendon said. “I am looking forward to sharing updates and hearing what is on the minds of those back in district.” Rep. Rendon’s office…
State Rep. Steve Johnson this week introduced legislation that would exempt low level nicotine-flavored vaping products from the governor’s flavored vaping ban. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has announced revised emergency rules banning flavored vaping products, and ordering all retailers to comply within 14 days. “Government bureaucrats should not make sweeping decisions…
Rep. Luke Meerman, voted Tuesday in favor of a new Michigan state budget investing more in agricultural communities, mental health and infrastructure – without raising taxes. “We need a budget plan that doesn’t pit rural communities against urban ones, and the budget I voted for today accomplishes that,” said Meerman. “This plan makes important investments…
