Upgrading Ukraine; Punishing Putin

Upgrading Ukraine; Punishing Putin

by | Mar 28, 2022 | Regional News

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Hi there,

We have all been watching what has been happening in Ukraine over these past couple weeks – a ruthless Russian invasion and an incredible display of courage and resilience by the Ukrainian people.

Michiganders, especially those in the Ukrainian-American community, have been standing up to show their support.

And whether it’s calling into my office or speaking with me on the ground, folks from across the 8th District have been making it clear they want Congress to act. With that in mind, I want to lay out the four pieces of concrete legislation I have introduced to support Ukraine’s fight for freedom. I have also linked to the actual text of the bills, so you can review them yourself.

The Ukraine Lend-Lease Act

The Ukrainian people have no shortage of courage and bravery, but they do need Stinger missiles and Javelin anti-tank systems. To provide Ukraine with the might of American firepower, the bipartisan Ukraine Lend-Lease Act:

  • Authorizes the President to lend or lease military equipment to Ukraine to bolster their defensive capabilities
  • Streamlines the process of providing defense equipment support to Ukraine
  • Requires the administration develop procedures to expedite the delivery of equipment to Ukraine

You can view the full text of the bill here.

The American Energy for Europe Act

Because of Europe’s dependence on Russian energy, they have been restrained in their ability to respond to Putin’s aggression. To help wean them off Russian oil and gas, while also supporting American manufacturing, the bipartisan American Energy for Europe Act:

  • Creates a Department of Energy program to reduce the reliance of European countries on Russian energy
  • Provides supplies and equipment to European allies
  • Requires that the Secretary of Energy only approve projects that promote U.S. manufacturing

You can view the full text of the bill here.

The DICTATOR Act:

While the world focuses on Ukraine, I haven’t taken my eye off China and their relationship with Russia. Introduced with my colleague Rep. Young Kim (R-CA), the DICTATOR Act:

  • Requires the State Department to conduct an investigation to determine whether China has helped Russia evade sanctions
  • Directs the State Department to develop a strategy to block efforts by China to help Russia evade sanctions.

You can view the full text of the bill here.

Stop Russian Gold Act:

The Russians are feeling the heat of U.S. sanctions, and we must slam shut every door they could use to evade them. Introduced by equal numbers of Republicans and Democrats, the Stop Russian GOLD Act:

  • Closes a loophole to prevent Russia from using its gold reserves to evade sanctions
  • Directs the U.S. Treasury Department to develop guidelines for American citizens to ensure they do not unwillingly invest in Russian gold
    Is co-sponsored by equal numbers of Republicans and Democrats

You can view the full text of the bill here.

 

How do you think Congress should address this crisis? And how do you feel about the work I have done so far? I am always looking for input from folks back home, so please submit your thoughts below. 

  

 

*By responding to this survey you are signing up for my newsletter

In addition to these bills, I have been urging the Biden administration to take deliberate steps to ramp-up our support for the Ukrainian armed forces, impose more devastating sanctions, and work with international partners to alleviate the compounding humanitarian and refugee crises.

Sending weapons such as Javelin missiles and Switchback drones, levying additional sanctions like cutting more banks off from SWIFT and seizing the assets of Russian oligarchs, and finally taking steps to support civilians while they evacuate through humanitarian corridors and after they cross the border, will inflict serious damage on the Putin regime and bolster the Ukrainian people.

I have been struck by the unity and resolve with which America has confronted this crisis. In Washington, and across the country, we are united in our commitment to freedom over tyranny. 

– Rep. Elissa Slotkin

 
Whitmer to Sign Building Michigan Together Plan

Whitmer to Sign Building Michigan Together Plan

by | Mar 28, 2022 | Regional News

Gov. Whitmer Press Release Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 28, 2022

Contact: [email protected]

                Lauren Leeds, [email protected]

Gov. Whitmer to Sign Building Michigan Together Plan to Protect Water, Fix Roads, Expand Internet, Improve Parks, Build Housing

 Bipartisan infrastructure supplemental makes historic investments, supports tens of thousands of jobs

 

ST. CLAIR SHORES, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer celebrated the Building Michigan Together Plan, a bipartisan plan to invest nearly $5 billion in Michigan’s infrastructure, grow the economy, create jobs, and benefit families in every region of the state.

 

“The Building Michigan Together Plan makes bold, bipartisan investments in the kitchen-table issues that matter most to Michigan families, including clean water, smooth roads, fast internet, and beautiful parks,” said Governor Whitmer. “I am so proud that the Michigan Legislature and I were able to come together to get this done. This bill will make a real difference in our communities, support tens of thousands of good-paying jobs, and set up Michigan’s economy for decades of success. It is a testament to what is possible when we put Michiganders first.”

 

“This supplemental uses one-time resources to make long-term strategic investments in the state’s infrastructure to improve the lives of Michiganders today and well into the future,” said State Budget Director Christopher Harkins. “I look forward to continuing to build on this success and working with our legislative partners to enact a budget that will benefit all residents of our great state.”

 

Water

The Building Michigan Together Plan includes nearly $2 billion to address critical water infrastructure needs.

  • More than $1 billion for drinking water improvements, including:
  • At least $325 million to replace lead service lines, including 100% of lead service lines in Benton Harbor.
  • $55 million to help communities tackle toxic contaminants like PFAS.
  • $43 million in assistance for small and disadvantaged communities.
  • $712 million for clean water initiatives to address storm and wastewater including:
  • $$669 million for clean water infrastructure.
  • $35 million for loans to help repair failing septic systems.
  • $20 million for public health risk reduction.
  • $8 million to address emerging contaminants.
  • $210 million to repair dams in Midland and Gladwin counties and another $40 million to address the repair, renovation, or elimination of dams statewide.

 

 

Transportation

The Building Michigan Together Plan calls for critical investments of $645 million in Michigan’s infrastructure, including:

  • $317 million for road and bridge programs, benefitting both state and local projects.
  • $66 million to make state transportation infrastructure more resilient to future flooding events by adding reliable generator backup power to all 164 state-owned pumping stations.
  • $98 million for airport infrastructure improvement grants.
  • $66 million to improve public transportation.
  • $25 million investment in the statewide Mobility Futures Initiative to position Michigan to lead the nation in mobility innovation.

 

 

Parks

The Building Michigan Together Plan invests $450 million in Michigan’s state parks to improve state and local parks and trails to enhance tourism and boost the outdoor recreation industry.

  • $250 million for state parks, including the creation of a new state park in the city of Flint.
  • $200 million for local park systems, including transformative greenway projects in Detroit and Grand Rapids.

 

 

High-Speed Internet

The Building Michigan Together Plan will connect more households and small businesses to fast, reliable high-speed internet through:

  • $250 million in funding to improve access and adoption of broadband – helping ensure all Michigan residents and businesses can compete in a 21st century economy.

 

 

Housing

The Building Michigan Together Plan provides funding centered on housing in underserved rural and urban areas, including:

  • $150 million for housing and home improvements, such as:
  • $50 million investment in the Housing and Community Development Fund to meet the housing needs of low-income households throughout the state.
  • $50 million to create a missing middle housing gap fund.
  • $50 million for residential home improvements including grants to incentivize energy efficiency and provide energy assistance.
  • $383 million for COVID Emergency Rental Assistance to help tenants facing pandemic-related hardships avoid eviction while also ensuring landlords can recoup owed rent.
  • $121 million to help Michigan homeowners avoid the personal devastation of foreclosure.

 

Additionally, the Building Michigan Together Plan includes:

  • $133 million to strengthen Michigan’s Unemployment Insurance System and tackle fraud.
  • $46 million to protect funding for public safety and first responders in cities, villages and townships with population losses in the 2020 Census.

Gov Whitmer speaking at podium at Building Michigan Together event

Gov. Whitmer with a small group of people at the Building Michigan Together Event

Detroit Wins Bid to Host 2024 NFL Draft  

Detroit Wins Bid to Host 2024 NFL Draft  

by | Mar 28, 2022 | Regional News

Gov. and Lt. Gov. general message banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

March 28, 2022

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer & Lt. Gov. Gilchrist Announce Detroit Wins Bid to Host 2024 National Football League Draft

 

LANSING, Mich.— Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist issued the following statements after the National Football League (NFL) selected Detroit to host the 2024 NFL Draft.

 

“Bringing the 2024 NFL draft to Detroit is a huge win for Detroiters and football fans across the state of Michigan,” said Governor Whitmer. “It will inject energy into our economy, benefitting countless small businesses and working families in Southeast Michigan. The NFL’s selection is a testament to the Motor City’s hustle and spirit, and I’m so proud that yet another major company has decided to make a historic investment in Michigan since Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist and I took office. I am grateful to all the local leaders, community organizations, and business owners who continue to get things done in Detroit. Together, we will continue landing marquee projects and events as we stay focused on growing our economy to help every working family, small business, and community thrive.”

 

“This announcement is a win for Detroit and for Michigan,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “Governor Whitmer and I have worked hard to build a Detroit with opportunity and prosperity for everyone, and we are excited that the NFL has recognized Detroit’s strength as a center for tourism, culture, innovation, and athletics. We look forward to hosting the 2024 NFL draft and we will continue standing tall alongside Detroiters.”

 

Governor Whitmer wrote to the NFL in March 2021, supporting Detroit’s bid to be the home of the 2024 NFL Draft. A year later, thanks to the hard work and advocacy of so many Michiganders, Detroit landed the bid. To view the full letter, click the link below:

 

 

Detroit

Detroit is on the move. Over the last couple of years, the city has attracted jobs and investment from around the world, continued building and repairing its infrastructure, and advanced its reputation as a hub of arts, culture, and athletics.

 

Since Governor Whitmer took office, the State of Michigan has made bold, bipartisan investments in Southeast Michigan’s economic growth, housing, and infrastructure.

 

Economic Investments in Detroit

Since 2019, over 20,000 auto jobs have been created in Michigan, including the opening of a Stellantis auto plant, the first auto manufacturing plant in Detroit in nearly 30 years. The $1.6 billion Mack Avenue assembly plant created nearly 5,000 good-paying auto jobs for Michiganders in SE Michigan.

 

Another project in Detroit includes the 30-acre Michigan Central Innovation District in Detroit’s Corktown neighborhood, where Google and Ford are incubating entrepreneurs and local businesses building the future of mobility and electrification. The Michigan Central Innovation District will help Detroit attract and retain highly skilled talent and high-growth companies while supporting the development of neighboring neighborhoods.

 

On top of these two bold investments, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) has invested over $610 million to support over 130 business development projects in SE Michigan and $330 million in over 120 community development projects. Combined, these investments have leveraged over $16 billion in private investment and reactivated over 3 million square feet of public space.

 

Workforce Development in Detroit

Governor Whitmer established two game-changing workforce development programs—Michigan Reconnect and Futures for Frontliners—that have put tens of thousands of Michiganders on a tuition-free path to good-paying, high-skill jobs.

 

There are 53,742 Michigan Reconnect applicants and 44,586 Futures for Frontliners in SE Michigan on tuition-free paths to higher education or skills training. Additionally, there have been 8,390 new registered apprenticeships created in SE Michigan since 2019, with a focus on supporting opportunities for underrepresented populations: veterans, women, people of color, those with disabilities, and young Michiganders.

 

Infrastructure in Detroit

Since Governor Whitmer took office, Michigan has fixed 2,172 lane miles of road and 320 bridges in SE Michigan, supporting 23,440 jobs. The state has invested $460 million into water infrastructure in the region to upgrade sewer systems, replace lead pipes, and protect safe drinking water for families, and $14.8 million to improve SE Michigan’s state and local parks. And when it comes to housing, Michigan has constructed 4,770 affordable, attainable housing units, helped 7,004 families with mortgages and down payments, and kept 49,766 families in their homes with rental and utility assistance in Southeast Michigan.
DNR News Digest – Week of March 28, 2022

DNR News Digest – Week of March 28, 2022

by | Mar 28, 2022 | Recreation

Michigan DNR banner

News Digest – Week of March 28, 2022

the tops of four, upright black fishing rods, with orange goldfish-shaped bobbers tied to the line, and blurred grass and people in background

The 2022 fishing season starts April 1! Get all the info you need at Michigan.gov/Fishing.
This week’s stories may reflect how the Department of Natural Resources has adapted to meet customer needs and protect public health and safety. Follow our COVID-19 response page for updates on access to facilities and programs.

We’ll continue to share news and information about the best ways to discover and enjoy Michigan’s natural and heritage resources! Here’s a look at some of this week’s stories:

See other news releases, Showcasing the DNR stories, photos and other resources at Michigan.gov/DNRPressRoom.

PHOTO FOLDER: Larger, higher-res versions of some of the images used below, and others, are available in this folder.

Photo ambassador snapshot: Stunning sunset at Grand Haven

orange and pink sunset view of a concrete and steel pier connecting a tall, red light tower and a smaller lighthouse, dark gray waves crashingWant to see more pictures like this, taken by Michigan state parks photo ambassador Blair Celano at Grand Haven State Park in Ottawa County? Visit Instagram.com/MiStateParks to explore photos and learn more about the photo ambassadors! For more on the photo ambassador program, call Stephanie Yancer at 989-274-6182.

Be a good trail partner; steer clear of muddy trails

A small group of mountain bike riders emerging from the woods single-file, on a curving, dirt trail surrounded by lush green trees.With warming spring temperatures right around the corner for much of the state, it’s a good time to remind everyone to help protect trails. Using muddy trails can leave ruts, uneven tire tracks and footprints, contribute to erosion and inadvertently widen trails.

It’s best to avoid muddy trails altogether; however, if you do encounter muddy sections, please keep the following tips in mind to avoid widening the trails:

  • When bike riding: Dismount and tiptoe down the center – not the sides – of the trail.
  • When hiking: Go right through the center of the trail, rather than traveling around the mud.
  • When horseback riding: Carefully travel with your horse through the center of the trail.

“Following these tips may mean a little more cleanup for shoes, tires and hooves after an outing, but I think most trail users would agree it’s worth it to ensure our trails stay in the best possible condition during this seasonal transition,” said Kristen Bennett, acting state trails coordinator for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. “Plus, when trails do start to widen, it can pose safety risks to users and cause damage to surrounding wildlife habitat.”

Learn more about etiquette on nonmotorized trails at Michigan.gov/DNRTrails.

Questions? Contact Kristen Bennett at [email protected].

Protect migrating birds from window collisions

side view of a bright-blue bird with blue and black wings, perched on a dried reeds and a few blades of tall, green grass. The Great Lakes lie at the intersection of two migratory flyways, or superhighways, which bring over 350 bird species through the region each spring. While a beautiful spectacle for us, migration is a harrowing journey for birds. One of the biggest dangers they face? Collisions with windows and other glass surfaces.

Migrating songbirds like indigo buntings and Swainson’s thrushes are at highest risk of building collisions. These species also face steep population declines; doing what we can to prevent window collisions will help ensure their survival. (This photo of an indigo bunting is by photographer Dan Pancamo.)

Collisions with human-made structures are a leading cause of bird deaths in the United States, causing up to 1 billion bird deaths each year in North America. Birds cannot detect glass, and collisions are just as likely regardless of bird health or age.

When birds hit windows, it is a life-threatening occurrence. Even birds that are able to fly away are likely to succumb to their injuries later. The good news is that there are opportunities to make your home or office more bird-friendly:
a group of smiling men and women in DNR apparel stand in front of a tall, 6x6 pane window entrance, with superimposed nature scenes on windows

  • Identify problematic windows. To see which windows have caused collisions, check them from outside two or three times a week. Look for imprints, smudges or feathers on the glass, injured or dead birds, or clumps of feathers within 6-8 feet of the glass.
  • Install bird-friendly solutions. Patterns on the outside surface of glass are the best way to reduce collisions. Studies have shown that exterior window patterns should be about 2-4 inches apart; 2×2-inch spacing is even better for smaller species, like Michigan’s ruby-throated hummingbirds, which are more prone to window-collisions.

For a list of quick, affordable ways to protect birds from your windows, check out American Bird Conservancy’s bird-friendly windows flyer and bird-friendly products database, Animal Help Now’s flyer on preventing bird window strikes and Audubon’s resources on reducing collisions with glass. Learn about Audubon’s Lights Out Program and how to make your hometown safer for migratory birds.

For information on how you can get involved in Safe Passage Great Lakes building monitoring efforts, and what to do if you find a window-collision survivor, visit the Audubon Great Lakes website.

Updated state forest road maps available online Friday

Three black, muddy off-road vehicles driving single-file away the camera down a muddy, grass road, surrounded by green forestThrilling ORV rides, outdoor exploring and forest adventures are waiting down one of Michigan’s thousands of miles of state forest roads. Every year, the DNR updates maps of these roads to improve accuracy and protect the environment, and then notifies the public of any changes. New maps go up at Michigan.gov/ForestRoads Friday, April 1, in an interactive web format and as printable PDF maps.

Map changes are based on considerations that include changing road conditions, data cleanup and input received from residents around the state. Maps show where state forest roads are open or closed to off-road vehicle use and which roads are only open to conventional vehicles. It’s important to stay on these roads when using motor vehicles to reduce erosion and damage to wildlife habitat.

The following mileages will be open to ORVs starting April 1:

  • In the Upper Peninsula, about 5,498 miles – roughly 98% of the total 5,594 miles.
  • In the northern Lower Peninsula, about 6,205 miles – roughly 85% of the total 7,317.2 miles.
  • In the southern Lower Peninsula, more than 9 miles – roughly 2.5% of the total 370.9 miles.

Trial access at Camp Grayling

New this year is a trial opening to ORV use of nearly 95 miles of forest roads located within the Camp Grayling training area in Crawford County. The roads, located on 16,000 acres of state forest lands leased from the DNR for military training, are north of County Road 612 near the city of Grayling.

The forest roads will be open to the public when not in use for military training. When the area is used for training activities, roads will be gated off for public safety. Notice will be posted on the Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center Facebook page and shared on local radio stations.

Review ORV rules, regulations, closures and more at Michigan.gov/ORVInfo. Find maps and other information at Michigan.gov/ForestRoads.

Questions? Contact Jason Caron at 906-235-4361.

Enjoy watching baby animals, but from a distance

an adult brown and dark gray bird perched on nest near red brick ledge, plump worm in mouth, prepares to feed baby birds with upturned beaksSpring brings a new generation of wildlife and plenty of opportunities for people to observe these natural wonders. While you’re enjoying the season, be sure to give wildlife lots of space to raise their babies. Also, don’t be surprised to see young animals on their own.

“As we get into spring and summer you might see fledgling birds hopping around on the ground. This is completely normal,” said Hannah Schauer, wildlife communications coordinator with the DNR. “These fluffy youngsters are getting ready to start trying to fly and need more space than nests provide. The adults aren’t far and will continue to feed and care for their young.”

In addition to birds, you might see other young animals left alone, but the parents are nearby. This is especially true for rabbits and fawns.

“One survival strategy wild mammal moms may use is hiding their young while they are elsewhere,” said Schauer. “This tactic helps young animals stay safer from predators because mom leaves and pulls the attention away from where they’re hidden.”

Eventually, the youngsters will be strong and fast enough to venture out on their own or accompany their mother.

No matter where you find them, never remove animals from the wild. Young animals rarely are abandoned and their best chance for survival is to remain in the wild.

Only licensed wildlife rehabilitators may possess abandoned or injured wildlife. Unless a person is properly licensed, it is illegal to possess a live, wild animal in Michigan.

Learn more about what to do if you find a baby animal at Michigan.gov/Wildlife or contact the DNR Wildlife Division at 517-284-9453.

THINGS TO DO

Looking for nearby outdoor adventures? Check out these fishing and trail opportunities carefully curated by our convention & visitors bureau partners.

BUY & APPLY

The clock is ticking toward Thursday’s deadline to apply for the 2022 conservation officer academy. Interested? Connect with a recruiter now!

GET INVOLVED

Do you know which pests and diseases threaten our woods and water? As you spend time outdoors this spring, stay up to date on invasive species.

The DNR recently launched a new website, and we’d love to hear what you think via this brief survey. Thanks for helping us improve our site for all users!
Oakland County Offers Free Rabies Vaccine

Oakland County Offers Free Rabies Vaccine

by | Mar 28, 2022 | Regional News

Oakland County Offers Free Rabies Vaccine with Dog License Purchase in April

  • Free rabies vaccine clinics Tuesday mornings throughout April.
  • One- and three-year vaccines and dog licenses available.
  • No appointment needed.

Pontiac, Michigan – Oakland County residents can get a free rabies vaccine for their canine with the purchase of a dog license at the Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center in Pontiac 9-11:30 a.m. every Tuesday in April. No appointment is necessary.

“Michigan law requires your dog to have its rabies shot up to date before buying a dog license,” said Bob Gatt, Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center manager. “We don’t want the cost of the rabies vaccine to be a barrier for anyone getting a dog license, especially as spring approaches and we’re spending more time outdoors with our pets.”

If a dog is spayed or neutered, a dog license costs $15 for one year or $40 for three years. For a dog that is not spayed or neutered, those fees rise to $25 or $70, respectively. The three-year license requires a three-year rabies vaccine. Pet owners must bring proof of a prior rabies vaccination to get the three-year vaccine.

Michigan law requires licenses for all dogs as a public health measure to ensure dogs have their rabies vaccines. Plus, it makes it easier to return strays to their owners. For more information, go to www.oakgov.com/petadoption or call 248-858-1070.

About Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center

Since 1980, the Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center has been helping animals by providing shelter and care while attempting to reunite them with their owners or to find new homes. The shelter handles more than 4,000 animals per year. The new state-of-the-art shelter is located at 1200 North Telegraph, Building 42 East, in the city of Pontiac on the Oakland County Government campus. The shelter is 35,000 square feet and provides the very best in industry standards to the animals residing here.