On Tuesday, I testified before the House Judiciary Committee in support of my legislation to better protect medical personnel from abuse. Sadly, Michigan hospitals have reported a significant increase in the number of violent encounters with patients and visitors, and my plan would stiffen penalties for those who assault health care workers, which is something already practiced by 32 other states. Workplace violence is a real and growing threat to health care providers, and it’s important we take it seriously.

According to a recent report from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, health care workers in the United States suffer more than 15,000 injuries each year due to workplace violence. 21 percent reported being physically assaulted while more than 50 percent reported verbal abuse. House Bills 4327-28 simply add health care workers and volunteers to a protected group of workers which already includes police officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel. Like our first responders, these professionals often put their own safety on the line, and we must do more to ensure it is taken seriously.

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Monday was Earth Day, and to celebrate, local students submitted artwork highlighting the importance of protecting our state and natural resources. The two winners were Fowlerville elementary students Molly Aldred and Jayce Milke, who visited Lansing on Wednesday for a special recognition program. I had the privilege of presenting them tributes and laminated copies of last week’s News and Views front page, which featured their photos. It is great to see young people caring so much about the future of our state and world. Congratulations, Molly and Jayce!

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It was a pleasure to have students from the Innovation Academy high school of Howell visit my office on Wednesday. They are part of the Michigan Student Caucus and were in Lansing to learn more about the Legislature. The future of our state depends on the involvement of the next generation, so it is always exciting to see young people taking an active interest in their state government!

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Livingston County is being well represented on the world stage this week as multiple local student robotics teams are participating at the FIRST robotics world championship in Detroit! The event features more than 15,000 students from 25 states and 40 countries who pit their robots in timed competitions. It is a tremendous display of technological education and teamwork. The Electro Eagles from Hartland High School, S.C.O.T.S. Bots from Howell High School, and the Gems from Charyl Stockwell Academy are all competing on the world stage. Congratulations on a great season, and best wishes!

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If you have any ideas, comments or questions for my office, please do not hesitate to call us at 517-373-8835 or send an email to [email protected]. We are happy to hear from you!

PHOTO INFORMATION: State Rep. Hank Vaupel testifies before the House Judiciary Committee in support of his legislation to better protect medical personnel from abuse.