On Wednesday, I had the pleasure of attending the Fowlerville Rotary Club meeting and presenting Ed Prevo a state tribute for his many years playing Santa Claus during Christmas in the Ville. Ed brought much joy to residents and visitors through his involvement in the celebration, and now that he is retiring from the role, I felt it was important to recognize all the work he and his wife, Sherry, have done for the community. Thank you for your dedication to Fowlerville!

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As 2018 came to a close, I am happy to report Governor Rick Snyder signed several of my bills into law. They include the following:

• Public Act (PA) 535 of 2018 is part of a package updating laws related to HIV. Updates concerning definitions, testing, and patient consent were made to ensure Michigan law reflects the seriousness of this disease.
• PA 429 of 2018 makes changes to Michigan’s Medigap laws to ensure residents have the access they need to Medicare. A federal act passed in 2015 would have limited access starting next year, but this law keeps oversight in the state and protects citizens.
• PA 593 of 2018 updates ‘Kevin’s Law’ to ensure those with mental health needs are helped earlier to curb homelessness, dangerous behavior, and incarceration. Not only does it benefit those with mental health challenges, but it also saves tax dollars by reducing the state’s hospital and incarceration costs.

As always, if you have questions about these or any of my bills, then please feel free to contact my office. I’d love to hear your thoughts.

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This month marks the beginning of the 100^th Michigan Legislature. As we head back to session, I am excited to continue representing you in Lansing for the next two years. I also look forward to working with newly-elected state Rep. Ann Bollin, who represents southeast Livingston County in the 42^nd District, and state Sen. Lana Theis. We’ll work hard to be the voice of Livingston in Lansing!

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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!

 State Rep. Hank Vaupel is joined by former 47^th District representative Cindy Denby (right) as they present a state tribute to Ed and Sherry Prevo.