Whitmer Signs Order Creating Jail Reform Council 

Whitmer Signs Order Creating Jail Reform Council 

by | Apr 21, 2021 | Regional News

Governor Gretchen Whitmer Banner - headshot with bridge graphic

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 21, 2021

Contact: press@michigan.gov

 

Governor Whitmer Signs Executive Order Creating Michigan Jail Reform Advisory Council

 

LANSING, Mich. —  Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order No. 2021-5, creating the Michigan Jail Reform Advisory Council.

 

“The Jail Reform Advisory Council will play a critical role in implementing long overdue reforms to our justice system,” said Governor Whitmer. “Michigan will continue to lead the way as we take tangible steps to reform our justice system, and I know that the bipartisan work of this council will make our communities and state safer, save taxpayer dollars, and help us achieve the goals laid out by the Task Force on Jail and Pretrial Incarceration.”

 

“This council will do critical work to implement the recommendations of last year’s Task Force on Jail and Pretrial Incarceration that I was proud to co-chair,” said Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist. “Together, we can make substantive, lasting changes to our justice system that make us all safer and help us live up to our highest ideals.”

 

In April 2019, Governor Whitmer signed Executive Order No. 2019-10 creating the Michigan Joint Task Force on Jail and Pretrial Incarceration co-chaired by Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist and Chief Justice Bridget Mary McCormack. The Task Force issued its final report and recommendations in January of 2020 and found significant growth in county jail populations, costing taxpayers nearly half a billion dollars annually. Jail populations have been driven equally by pretrial and post-conviction incarceration, with limited guidance in state law on the preferred or presumed intervention.

 

The Task Force recommended extensive state policy changes related to traffic violations, arrests, behavioral health diversion, pretrial release and detention, speedy trials, sentencing, probation and parole, financial barriers for system-involved individuals, victim services, and data collection.

 

The Michigan Legislature passed many of the Task Force recommendations with bipartisan support in December of 2020, which were signed into law by Governor Whitmer on January 4, 2021. Executive Order No. 2021-5 creates the Michigan Jail Reform Advisory Council as an advisory body within the Department of Technology, Management, and Budget. This new Council will facilitate, assist with, monitor, and evaluate the successful implementation of jail reform legislation throughout the state of Michigan.

 

“Thanks to the data-driven, bipartisan work of the Jail and Pretrial Incarceration Task Force, Michigan is a national leader in reforming our criminal justice system to be more fair, effective, transparent, and accountable,” said Chief Justice Bridget M. McCormack. “The council will support the implementation of these pioneering improvements, making sure the vision of a justice system that makes us all safer and stronger that inspired us becomes reality.”

 

The Council will include Chief Justice Bridget Mary McCormack who will serve as Chair, Robyn Liddell serving as designee of Attorney General Dana Nessel, Department of Corrections Director Heidi Washington, Capt. Dale Hinz serving as designee of Col. Joe Gasper of the Michigan State Police, Melissa Smiley serving as designee of Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, and Deb Cain serving as designee of Department of Health and Human Services Director Elizabeth Hertel.

 

The Governor appointed the following members of the Council:

 

Jerry L. Clayton, Sr., of Ypsilanti, is the sheriff for Washtenaw County. He is a certified criminal justice trainer and instructor, and a graduate of the Eastern Michigan University School of Staff and Command. Sheriff Clayton is appointed to represent a county sheriff or jail administrator for a term commencing April 21, 2021 and expiring March 31, 2023.

 

Barbara Hankey, of Holly, is the manager of the Oakland County Community Corrections Division. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Master of Science in Administration from Central Michigan University. Ms. Hankey is appointed to represent community corrections or pretrial services for a term commencing April 21, 2021 and expiring March 31, 2023.

 

D.J. Hilson, of Muskegon, is the prosecuting attorney for Muskegon County. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Economics from Marquette University and a Juris Doctor degree from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Mr. Hilson is appointed to represent a county prosecutor for a term commencing April 21, 2021 and expiring March 31, 2023.

 

Takura N. Nyamfukudza, of Lansing, is a litigator and partner with Chartier & Nyamfukudza, PLC. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis and a Juris Doctor degree from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Mr. Nyamfukudza is appointed to represent an individual who is a public defender or criminal defense attorney for indigent clients for a term commencing April 21, 2021 and expiring March 31, 2023.

 

Bill Peterson, of Alpena, is a commissioner with Alpena County. He is also the owner and operator of Twin Acres 19th Hole restaurant. Commissioner Peterson is appointed to represent a member of a board of county commissioners for a term commencing April 21, 2021 and expiring March 31, 2023.

 

Vasilis K. Pozios, M.D., of Ann Arbor, is the chief medical officer for the Oakland Community Health Network and medical director of NorthCare Network. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and a Doctor of Medicine from Tufts University. Dr. Pozios is appointed to represent a community mental health employee for a term commencing April 21, 2021 and expiring March 31, 2023.

 

William Riley, III, of Dearborn Heights, is the chief of police for the City of Inkster Police Department. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Saint Paul’s College. Chief Riley is appointed to represent a police chief for a term commencing April 21, 2021 and expiring March 31, 2023.

 

The Council will include participation from Judge Prentis Edwards of the 3rd Circuit Court of Wayne County and Judge Carrie Lynn Fuca of the 41B District Court of Clinton Township who are designated by Chief Justice McCormack, Sen. Jim Runestad nominated by the Senate Majority Leader, Sen. Sylvia Santana nominated by the Senate Minority Leader, Rep. Mike Mueller nominated by the Speaker of the House, and Rep. Tenisha Yancey nominated by the House Minority Leader.

 

Appointees will serve until the Council dissolves on March 31, 2023. These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

To view the full executive order, click the link below:

 

 
Whitmer and Gilchrist on Chauvin Trial 

Whitmer and Gilchrist on Chauvin Trial 

by | Apr 21, 2021 | Regional News

header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 20, 2021

Media Contact: Press@Michigan.gov

 

Governor Whitmer and Lt. Governor Gilchrist on Chauvin Trial

 

LANSING, Mich. — Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Lt. Governor Gilchrist issued the following statements after the verdict was delivered in the trial of Derek Chauvin:

 

“For George Floyd and his family, justice. For the rest of us, a reminder to continue pushing for justice in every corner of our society. My heart is with George Floyd’s family, and I want them to know that millions of Michiganders, Minnesotans, and Americans mourn with them. No verdict can bring George back, but his legacy will live on. Last year, millions of people around the world spoke with a collective voice when we said Black Lives Matter. Together, we will continue tackling the deep-rooted, structural racism and inequity present in our institutions and faced by Black Americans every day. Our work is just getting started. I think George’s daughter Gianna Floyd said it best, “Daddy changed the world.” — Governor Gretchen Whitmer

 

“Today, justice was served for George Floyd and his family. As a Black man in America, I have felt the sting of racism and injustice personally, and too many of our brothers and sisters know the visceral pain and exhaustion that communities of color face every day. That is why we must honor George Floyd’s legacy and the legacy of countless others as we advance justice and tackle inequities through our words and deeds. We have to address the pain that so many individuals are feeling with purpose as we work towards restoring the respect that all individuals of color deserve. When we do that, we can ensure that everyone makes it home to their loved ones at the end of the day. This verdict is a good outcome, and it was made possible by the community organizers, faith leaders, and law enforcement officers, who had to courage to make their voices heard, but the work is not done. We must continue to press for policies that protect and expand access to justice and opportunity.” — Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist

Wildlife Habitat Grant application now open

by | Apr 21, 2021 | Recreation

Centennial banner

– DNR News –
April 20, 2021
Contact: Clay Buchanan, 517-614-0918 or Chip Kosloski, 517-284-5965

Wildlife Habitat Grant application period now open

Pigeon River Country habitat grant projectNow through June 4, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Habitat Grant Program will accept applications for habitat improvement and enhancement projects.

“We look forward to the opportunity to partner with those who want to increase habitat and enhance existing habitat through the Wildlife Habitat Grant Program,” said DNR Wildlife Division Chief Jared Duquette. “Healthy and abundant habitats not only benefit wildlife, but also benefit Michigan residents.”

Funding is available for local, state, federal and tribal governments, profit and nonprofit groups, and individuals through an open, competitive process. Minimum grant amounts will be set at $15,000, with the maximum being the amount of funds available for the grant cycle. The 2021 overall available grant amount is approximately $1 million.

The Wildlife Habitat Grant Program began in October 2013 and is funded from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses. The DNR administers the program with the main objective to enhance and improve the quality and quantity of game species habitat in support of the Wildlife Division’s strategic plan.

The grant application period began April 19. Applications must be submitted through the MiGrants system no later than June 4 to be considered for funding. Projects enhancing game species habitat will be given priority. Successful grant applications will be announced in August 2021.

The detailed program handbook and more information are available at Michigan.gov/DNRGrants.

/Note to editors: An accompanying photo is available below for download. Caption information follows.

Regeneration: Regeneration of young plants after a prescribed fire in the Pigeon River Country to benefit elk and other wildlife species, funded by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Habitat Grant Program, is shown./
Enjoy responsible recreation
Stand UP for kids: Child Abuse Prevention Month

Stand UP for kids: Child Abuse Prevention Month

by | Apr 21, 2021 | Health and Wellness

MDHHS banner with logo no names

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 21, 2021 

CONTACT: Bob Wheaton, 517-241-2112, wheatonb@michigan.gov     

Gov. Whitmer, MDHHS Children’s Trust Fund ask Michiganders to Stand UP for kids during Child Abuse Prevention Month
Virtual program to spread important message 

LANSING, Mich. – The message is being delivered virtually this year, but it remains the same: Everyone in Michigan must Stand UP for kids to prevent child abuse and neglect.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has issued a proclamation declaring April to be Child Abuse Prevention Month in Michigan. The Children’s Trust Fund within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is spreading the prevention message.

“Preventing child abuse is a community responsibility,” Gov. Whitmer said. “I will continue to work with MDHHS and the Children’s Trust Fund to protect our children so they can grow up safe and realize their dreams. Our children represent the future of Michigan, and I invite all Michiganders to Stand UP for kids in April and every month.”

The Children’s Trust Fund is sponsoring social media events and programming during April. Today on Wednesday, April 21, the Children’s Trust Fund will host a virtual Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Day event with videos featuring Gov. Whitmer, U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, its Board of Directors, and others to bring awareness to the importance of preventing child maltreatment in Michigan. Watch the 8:30 a.m. event on Facebook Live.

Please visit the Michigan Children’s Trust Fund Facebook page and Twitter account to view postings and videos in celebration of Child Abuse Prevention Month throughout the day today. This year’s event is being done virtually instead of in-person to protect against the spread of COVID-19.

Michigan’s Child Abuse Prevention Awareness events will highlight two messages. First, Michigan will continue the statewide initiative campaign inviting all Michiganders to Stand UP for Children. Second, blue and silver pinwheels will continue to be the symbol for child abuse prevention. Each pinwheel signifies the free spirit of a happy childhood.-

“The Children’s Trust Fund is dedicated to working with our locally based prevention partners in each county across the state to serve as a voice for Michigan children and their families,” said Suzanne Greenberg, Executive Director of the Children’s Trust Fund. “We must all Stand UP to promote the health, safety and well-being of our children by investing in and supporting local programs and services that prevent child abuse and neglect.”

Last year 26,912 Michigan children were confirmed victims of abuse or neglect.

The Children’s Trust Fund was established by the Michigan Legislature in 1982 through Public Act 249 of 1982 and Public Act 250 of 1982.  It serves as a voice for Michigan’s children and families and promotes their health, safety and welfare.

For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/CTF.
Additional food assistance extended through April 

Additional food assistance extended through April 

by | Apr 21, 2021 | Health and Wellness

MDHHS banner with logo no names

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 20, 2021 

CONTACT: Bob Wheaton, 517-241-2112, wheatonb@michigan.gov    

Additional food assistance for 350,000 Michigan families in response to COVID-19 extended through April 

LANSING, Mich. – Approximately 350,000 Michigan families will continue to have access to additional food assistance benefits during April as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced today.

Michigan previously approved the additional food assistance beginning in March 2020 – and now that is being extended for April 2021 with approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service.

Eligible clients will see additional food assistance benefits on their Bridge Card April 24-May 4.

Additional benefits will be loaded onto Bridge Cards as a separate payment from the assistance that is provided earlier in the month.

“Michigan will recover from the pandemic as more people received the safe and effective vaccine, said MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel. “In the meantime, MDHHS will continue to help families affected by the pandemic put food on the table.”

More than 1.3 million people in Michigan receive federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits through the state’s Food Assistance Program.

Households eligible for Food Assistance Program benefits will receive additional benefits in April to bring all current SNAP cases to the maximum monthly allowance for that group size. This change only applies to customers not currently receiving the maximum benefit amount. The 350,000 households that receive increased benefits represent close to 50 percent of the more than 709,000 Michigan households that received food assistance in January. The remaining households already receive the maximum benefit.

Below are the maximum allowable benefits for SNAP customers based on their respective household size:

  • One Person: $234
  • Two Persons: $430
  • Three Persons: $616
  • Four Persons: $782
  • Five Persons: $929
  • Six Persons: $1,114
  • Seven Persons: $1,232
  • Eight Persons: $1,408

The federal government is providing additional funding to states for food assistance under House Resolution 6201, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

Eligible families do not need to re-apply to receive the additional benefits. People who receive food assistance can check their benefits balance on their Michigan Bridge Card by going online to www.michigan.gov/MIBridges or calling a consumer service representative toll-free at 888-678-8914. They can ask questions about the additional benefits by calling or emailing their caseworker.

Customer service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Spanish and Arabic service is available. If you are deaf, deafblind, or hard of hearing or speech-impaired, call the Michigan Relay Center at 7-1-1.

Information around the COVID-19 outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.