Lowering drug costs for Michiganders

Lowering drug costs for Michiganders

by | Jul 25, 2023 | Regional News

Hi there,

You may have seen U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra was in our district last week discussing important prescription drug provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act. Before that press conference, though, we had a few meetings I want to tell you about.

I invited Secretary Becerra to our 7th Congressional District because of your calls, emails and letters surrounding high prescription prices, drug shortages and maternal health disparities. It’s important for federal officials to see firsthand the issues that affect Michiganders in their daily lives.

First, we met with local hospital leaders, so Secretary Becerra could hear directly from them about the issues they’re facing.  Our first priority was the ongoing shortage of lifesaving cancer drugs that has forced our hospitals in Michigan to ration care. This crisis has shown once again that maintaining a sufficient supply of pharmaceuticals is critical for not just patients, but for our national security.  This issue of supply-chains for critical items has become a bit of an obsession of mine since shortages upended our economy during the pandemic.  It’s why I co-founded the bipartisan Domestic Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Caucus and have introduced legislation, like the Ensuring Access to Lifesaving Drugs Act, to keep vital medicines on pharmacy shelves.

In our second meeting with Secretary Becerra, we met with advocates and talked about the issue of black maternal health.  Today, Black & Native American women are three to four times more likely to die from complications surrounding pregnancy & childbirth than white women. Our meeting allowed Secretary Becerra to learn about the systemic & financial challenges faced by those who’ve been in the trenches on this issue. Thank you to the doctors, midwives, doulas, & public health & nonprofit leaders who provided ways to address this issue at the federal level.

Finally, we held a press conference on the Inflation Reduction Act.  This bill sends a really clear signal to the rest of the prescription drug world that the day where you can just charge whatever you want — where there’s no transparency on the price of medication — is an era that’s coming to an end.

I am thankful to all those who helped us have a productive day discussing federal solutions that would help Michiganders.

Rep. Slotkin

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Hi there,

Earlier this month, I told you about welcoming U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra in our district to address prescription drug costs and shortages, in addition to meeting with advocates to discuss maternal health disparities.

The cost of prescription drugs continues to be one of the top reasons constituents reach out to my office, so it was important to me that Secretary Becerra visit our district.

I will also keep pushing in Congress to bring costs down, and last week I introduced the Increasing Prescription Drug Competition Act.

In short, the new bill expands the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s ability to quickly approve generic drugs under certain conditions because, right now, many pharmaceutical companies abuse the patent system – layering patents over patents – to keep low-cost drug options from coming to market.

This legislation will make it easier for generics to hit shelves, increase competition and ultimately drive down costs.

As Big Pharma uses every tool at their disposal to prop up drug prices, we need to do the same to keep money in people’s pockets.

– Rep. Elissa Slotkin
Farmington has their new Girls Basketball Coach

Farmington has their new Girls Basketball Coach

by | Jul 20, 2023 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Farmington has their new Girls Basketball Coach.

Written Tuesday July 18th at 12:30 PM

Farmington went within with their next girls basketball coach.

The Falcons have named Natalie Nowak their new girls basketball coach according to a very accurate source. Nowak takes over Laura Guzman who left for Troy a few weeks ago.

Nowak is a teacher at Farmington. She was an assistant under Guzman and coached the Junior Varsity program. Nowak was an assistant at Adams and also was an assistant at Schoolcraft College for three years.

Farmington has EdiMari King, Anna Tornachuk, and Jayla Silver coming back for Nowak.

The Falcons will be in the Blue with Troy whom is coached by Guzman, along with Troy Athens, Southfield Arts and Tech, Adams, and Berkley. They are also in a brutal district which has North Farmington, West Bloomfield, Birmingham Marian, and Farmington Hills Mercy at Farmington Hills Mercy.

Thoughts

I like the hire of Nowak. She is in the building and brings a ton of basketball experience. The coaching transition should be a smooth one with Nowak being an assistant under Guzman. Program strength is a concern for Nowak but in time she can get the numbers back up at Farmington.

Stay tuned to OAA Now for the latest on this developing story.

Farmington has their new Girls Basketball Coach

Some of the Well Known OAA Rivalries

by | Jul 20, 2023 | Feature Writers, High School Sports

Some of the Well Known OAA Rivalries.

Written Friday July 14th at 2:00 AM

Updated Friday July 14th at 9:00 AM

Here are some of the well know rivalries and some of the famous clashes around the OAA when it came to the rivalries. I don’t have all the rivalries, if you want to add any more just feel free to DM me.

Lake Orion vs Oxford: This rivalry you can write a documentary on that is for sure. The Dragons and the Wildcats are the Hatfield’s and the McCoy’s. Whether it’s football, boys basketball, girls basketball, soccer, baseball, softball, track, wrestling, you name it. It’s almost close to Michigan vs Michigan State when describing this rivalry. There are legendary names on both sides and there is a trophy in football. This has been a rivalry since the 1950’s. Expect more to write their names on this rivalry in the future.

Clarkston vs West Bloomfield: When you think of Clarkston, you think of Lake Orion being the rival. That has certainly have not been the case as of late. West Bloomfield has clearly became Clarkston’s arch rival whether it is football, basketball, you name it. These two have been arch rivals with their first ever meeting being in 1953 and have been part of the Oakland Wayne Conference. The Wolves and Lakers have had battles in football and in basketball. Expect this rivalry to intensify in the next few years.

Berkley vs Royal Oak: When Royal Oak Kimball and Royal Oak Dondero merged in 2006 and became Royal Oak. Most people would think that Royal Oak High School would overcome their rivals to the west but it hasn’t been the case in most sports. The Bears are 6-3 all time against the Ravens including winning the last three meetings in football. Berkley has either played even or dominated against Royal Oak with the exception being Girls Basketball. The Ravens beat the Bears 20-9 in the softball district finals which was a monster win for the program. Could Royal Oak’s softball district crown over Berkley be a rivalry game changer??? Who knows but it’s a start. The Ravens need to start winning over their arch rivals on a consistent basis if they want to turn the rivalry in their favor.

Troy vs Troy Athens: These two neighborhood rivals have been at it since 1976 with the city of Troy in red and gold or black and gray. Troy used to be a football powerhouse but have struggled on hard times. This rivalry has had some intense battles especially in soccer and also basketball. Soccer is where both rivals are very competitive and it’s intense. The fan bases are also intense as well. Troy has dominated Troy Athens in girls basketball and volleyball. They have also found some success in football and boys basketball. This rivalry will be going on for a long time that is for sure in the future.

Groves vs Seaholm: The Battle of Birmingham has been very strong between the green and gold and the maple and white. These two city rivals first met in 1961 and have played 67 times with Seaholm winning 42 of those games. Groves has won 12 of the last 14 meetings in this rivalry in football. Football is not the only sport where these two neighborhood rivals compete at. Both schools are very good in tennis, soccer, and in swimming and diving. Boys Basketball has had some great battles including a shocking upset where Seaholm upset Groves in the pre-district. These rivals will be in the conversation for a long time in all sports.

West Bloomfield vs Bloomfield Hills: The Battle of Bloomfield has been more evident in boys basketball. These two have split their contests and played in the postseason where West Bloomfield won on the road in the pre-district over Bloomfield Hills. It is possible that these two schools could meet again in the postseason next season. The Blackhawks lost a lot of proven talent from this offseason. The Lakers have a ton of proven experience coming back. In other sports, these two teams are not in the same division except for boys soccer but really this rivalry have been really been intense in boys basketball.

North Farmington vs Farmington: North Farmington and Farmington have always been the battle to decide Farmington even when they first met in 1963 but when Harrison became a school, the Hawks dominated the city of Farmington especially in football. North Farmington has always been a basketball power and it has shown. When Harrison closed in 2018, Farmington benefited from Harrison closing but the Hawks coaching staff went to North Farmington. 2019 was a classic when both teams went in unbeaten but the Raiders beat the Falcons 13-9 winning the Blue crown. The Falcons had dominated the rivalry under then coach Jon Bectel and also Kory Cicroch but when Coach Jon Herstein came to North Farmington, the rivalry has changed in a big way until overtime game where Farmington beat the Raiders which was huge for Coach Jason Albrecht who played under Bectel in 2022. Basketball has been dominated by the Raiders as has most of the spring sports as well. Farmington has a ton to prove especially against their arch rivals to the north in football and in basketball.

Berkley vs Ferndale: This has been a neighborhood rivalry that has been played since 1950 in football. Berkley and Ferndale are no strangers to each other when it comes to sports. Football and boys basketball have been the greatest areas of this rivalry. In 2018, no one would ever forget a 23-1 Bears lead on Steve Rhodes Appreciation Night only for the Eagles to comeback and stun the Bears. Ferndale has changed their program under then Coach Juan Rickman which included a Division Two State Crown. Berkley has been a very strong program under Coach Joe Sermo. These two schools have been solid in football as well. Other sports they clash in softball where both teams have had tight games in the past. The rivalry hasn’t been the same as in recent years but it’s still there.

Lake Orion vs Clarkston: The Dragons and the Wolves have been a rivalry but it hasn’t shown in football or boys basketball where Clarkston has dominated Lake Orion in recent years. Girls Basketball and volleyball this rivalry has been very competitive especially in girls basketball. Both teams are in the Red and have split games in the last two years. These two rivals first met in 1951. Lake Orion has to fix the boys sports especially football and boys basketball against Clarkston if this rivalry wants to come back to its spark of the past.

Oak Park vs Southfield Arts and Tech: Oak Park and Southfield are no strangers to one another with both schools close to one another. The Knights have played the Warriors/Blue Jays/and Chargers really tight. Southfield has been a girls basketball power in the past while Oak Park has really struggled. Oak Park has become the boys basketball power and has become a track and field power as well. Football is the biggest sport where this rivalry has really excelled. There has been star studded coaches from Greg Carter at Oak Park and Tim Conley and Aaron Marshall at Southfield. These two teams won’t meet each other in football this season but that rivalry is still there.

West Bloomfield vs Southfield Arts and Tech: The Lakers and Warriors have become an interesting rivalry when it comes to football. It hasn’t been a much a rivalry in other sports as of late with West Bloomfield having Southfield Arts and Tech’s number. West Bloomfield has won five of the last six meetings over Southfield Arts and Tech including a 42-21 stunner in Southfield last season. The Lakers are 5-3 all time against the Warriors in football.

Clarkston vs North Farmington: The great wars of boys basketball with coaching icons like Dan Fife and Tom Negoshian where the Raiders have famously had problems on big courts but most times have been successful against the Wolves at home. North Farmington has won the last two meetings in Clarkston over the Wolves. The philosophies of Fife and Negoshian are still there with Tim Waslik, a Fife and Todd Negoshian, Todd’s son coaching the present day basketball programs.

Clarkston vs Pontiac: The Wolves and the city of Pontiac was the rivalry from in the 1990’s and 2000’s when Pontiac was Pontiac Northern and Pontiac Central. When the schools merged it was a great rivalry but the Phoenix had fallen on hard times while Clarkston has been very consistent. Pontiac named Andrew Myers, a Clarkston graduate as their new head coach to turn around the program. The last time Pontiac beat Clarkston was when then coach Joel Schroeder coached the Phoenix in 2019 outside of that the Wolves have been dominant against the Phoenix.

Rochester vs Adams: The Falcons vs Highlanders is a very interesting city rivalry with Walton Blvd separating the two schools. Adams has owned Rochester in football. The Highlanders have won 26 straight meetings (last loss was 1996) over their rivals from Livernois. Rochester and Adams have been very good in soccer with both schools having to see each other in districts. Adams has really improved in volleyball and Rochester has been on the rise as of late. The Highlanders and Falcons have had some wars in the past in boys basketball especially the coaching matchups between John Hall and John Pleasant and the many players that have played in that rivalry ranging from Paris Perria (Rochester 2008-2012 and is the current Adams Junior Varsity Coach) who has been on both sides of this rivalry. Girls basketball has had some moments in this rivalry as well and the coaching wars between Shay Lewis/Fran Schiowisz vs Jeff Haney/Bill Thurston have been great in the past as well. It’s a rivalry that has grown and will continue to grow in time.

Adams vs Stoney Creek: The Highlanders and Cougars have had some wars particularly in soccer and cheerleading. Stoney Creek has beaten Adams twice in football since 2013. They have had some wars in basketball as well particularly the coaching matchups between John Hall/Jaret Thomas against Steve Norgrove in boys to Shay Lewis vs Kellen James in girls. Cheerleading has been very interesting between the two schools and also fellow city rival Rochester when it comes to the Division One State crown having visited all three schools. Stoney Creek has had Adams number in volleyball but it seems to be turning a little bit and it’s a good coaching rivalry between Terry Baughman and Ross Talbot. In soccer they have to go through each other every year to have a deep postseason run. It’s a rivalry that can keep growing in time.

Rochester vs Stoney Creek: The Falcons and the Cougars have developed into a really good rivalry especially in football, basketball, cheerleading, and soccer. Current Stoney Creek football coach Nick Merlo has connections to both sides of this rivalry. He coaches the Cougars but he was a Rochester grad, assistant coach, and his father is legendary coach Mark Merlo who coached at Rochester. Rochester beat Stoney Creek 21-20 in the first round of the postseason in 2022 which was the Falcons first postseason win in school history after winning on an extra point. Rochester has been the dominant power in cheerleading but Stoney Creek has a fair share of State crowns of their own. Girls basketball has been very competitive especially the coaching rivalries of the past between Jeff Haney and Brad Crighton to Bill Thurston vs Kellen James and big name players have came through both sides of this rivalry. Soccer has been very insturmental on both sides, the Falcons were the top team in the State in girls soccer but fell to Stoney Creek whom was ranked third in the State. The Cougars won the Division One State crown this season. Their paths go through each other usually in the postseason.

Lake Orion vs Adams: The Dragons and Highlanders have had their fair share of battles especially in football. Lake Orion is 21-16 all time against Adams but the Highlanders won the last two meetings last season.Lake Orion has had some monster wins in this rivalry as well 2019 36-31, 2018 28-24, and 2008 31-28 were all Dragons wins with two of them being at Adams. This rivalry is not just in football but also in basketball, baseball, softball, and track and field. Adams beat Lake Orion in track and field in the regular season but the Dragons got them in some invitationals and it’s been a great rivalry between Eric Lohr and Stan Ford/Andrew McDonald. The Highlanders won two of three against the Dragons in baseball but Lake Orion had a deeper postseason run than Adams. In Girls Basketball the coaching rivalries were classic between Bob Brydges and Shay Lewis along with Steve Roberts against Shay Lewis. The Highlanders had the Dragons number in the postseason but that all changed in 2022 when Lake Orion beat Adams in the district first round. The Highlanders upset the Dragons in the regional semifinal in 2022 with a 1-0 win in that game. They have had battles in boys basketball, boys lacrosse, and boys golf. This rivalry has excelled over the years and will continue to be one in all sports for a while.

Adams vs Clarkston: The Highlanders and Wolves are no strangers to each other especially in football. Clarkston is 22-15 all time against Adams and the Wolves won three of the last four meetings including twice in 2022. The Desman Stephens touchdown with one second in the regional final was nuts. The 36-33 stunner sent the Wolves to the Division One State Semifinals and ended the Highlanders season to which Adams had one of their best sports classes in school history (Class of 2023.) Adams did get Clarkston back in boys basketball by beating them three times including in the regional final at Fenton. The Highlanders and Wolves have gone back and fourth in the past. It will be very interesting to see how this rivalry evolves into the future.

Lake Orion vs Rochester: The Dragons and Falcons are no strangers to one another when it comes to sports. Some will look back to when Rochester beat Lake Orion twice in the regular season on route to a 19-1 season but the Dragons stunned the Falcons 48-44 in the boys basketball district finals in 2012. Lake Orion went on to the State Quarterfinal that season. The rivalry has really blossomed in Girls Basketball. Lake Orion and Rochester have went back and fourth when it comes to wins and losses. They have built their programs from the Blue and are now back in the Red. The coaching matchups between Steve Roberts and Jeff Haney and Bob Brydges against Bill Thurston have featured classics from Little Caesars Arena to the game at Rochester where Lake Orion was without four rotational players and won that game. The Dragons won the district crown in 2021 over the Falcons 40-34. Lake Orion has had the upper hand in most sports against Rochester with the exception of cheerleading and soccer but girls basketball the rivalry has really blossomed.

Gov. Statement on Lowest Unemployment Rate in 23 Years  

Gov. Statement on Lowest Unemployment Rate in 23 Years  

by | Jul 20, 2023 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

July 20, 2023

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer Statement on Lowest Unemployment Rate in 23 Years 

Labor force increases by 23,000, 76,000 jobs added year over year, unemployment rate drops to 3.6%, only third time below 4% since the 1970s and 2nd time since governor was elected. 

 

LANSING, Mich. — Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued the following statement after Michigan’s unemployment rate fell to 3.6% in June, the lowest rate in 23 years. The state’s labor force participation rate continued increasing, the labor force grew by 23,000, and the economy added 76,000 jobs year over year. Michigan’s labor force has increased by 85,000 in the first half of 2023, the most ever for the first six months of a year since the data series began in the 1970s.

 

“Michigan’s economy continues to grow.

 

“Our unemployment rate is the lowest in 23 years. Our labor force participation rate is up again, meaning more people are working and filling open positions at businesses across the state. Michiganders are rolling up their sleeves, working hard, and bringing home more money to provide for themselves and their families.

 

“The investments we have made this year to win manufacturing projects, build housing, revitalize communities, and empower workers are paying off. We are making it in Michigan. Soon, I will sign my fifth balanced, bipartisan budget that will further lower costs for Michiganders, power economic development, and build all kinds of infrastructure.

 

“Let’s keep our foot on the accelerator and build on our economic momentum.”

 

Another Strong Jobs Report

  • Unemployment rate dropped to 3.6% in June, the lowest in 23 years.
  • Since the mid-1970s, Michigan’s unemployment rate only fell below 4.0% during three periods: periodically from 1998-2000, from November 2019 to March 2020 (during the Governor’s first year in office), and now, from April 2023-present.
  • The state recorded 4,439,000 payroll jobs, an increase of 2,000 over the month and 76,000 over the year.
  • The state’s labor force rose by 85,000 in the first half of 2023, the most ever for first six months of a year since the data series began in the mid-1970s.
  • Labor force participation rate climbed to 60.7 percent this month.

 
Gov. Whitmer Signs Bills Revitalizing Communities

Gov. Whitmer Signs Bills Revitalizing Communities

by | Jul 18, 2023 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 18, 2023

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer Signs Bills Revitalizing Communities, Delivering on Make it in Michigan Plan to Invest in Places Around Michigan

Tax increment financing, Transformational Brownfield Fund will build more affordable housing and transform underutilized or abandoned property into productive space.

 

LANSING, Mich.—Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation to power economic development in communities across Michigan by unlocking new tools to finance affordable housing and setting up the Transformational Brownfield Fund to convert vacant land and other abandoned property into productive space.

 

“Today, we are taking a solid step forward on our Make it in Michigan strategy to help more people, businesses, and communities ‘make it’ in Michigan,” said Governor Whitmer. “Whether it’s renovating the old bank or theater on main street or building affordable housing on abandoned land, Michigan communities are on the move, open for business, and showing the world how much we have to offer. These bills will create good-paying jobs, grow the economy, and lower costs for businesses and families looking for affordable housing options. Let’s keep our foot on the accelerator and work together to ensure anyone can make it in Michigan.”

 

Senate Bills 129, 130, 131, and 132 unlock new economic development tools for affordable housing development projects through the state Brownfield program. The bills allow tax revenues captured through local brownfield redevelopment authorities to fund affordable housing costs with the approval of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, making it easier and more affordable to build affordable housing in Michigan.

 

“Affordable housing is a national crisis, and Michigan is no exception,” said State Senator Sam Singh (D-East Lansing), sponsor of SB 129. “It’s critical we take action to address the needs of residents in communities across the state to ensure they have access to stable and affordable housing. These bills will give our local communities more tools, and incentive, to invest in affordable housing projects, signaling the commitment to addressing this crisis head-on.”

 

“We’re not just removing eyesores, we’re removing barriers to transform literal and economic landscapes,” said State Senator Kristin McDonald Rivet (D-Bay City), sponsor of SB 130. “I’m proud to help give local governments this option to redevelop blighted properties for residential purposes because it will improve our environment, revitalize neighborhoods and increase affordable housing.”

 

“Affordable housing is a crisis across Michigan that the legislature is committed to addressing from every angle,” said State Senator Mary Cavanagh (D-Redford Twp), sponsor of SB 131. “I was proud to work with my colleagues to introduce this legislation, creating another tool we can utilize in solutions to affordable housing access and community development.”

 

“With the signing of the TIF package, we can help put sites that are no longer contributing to the economy to good use providing housing for local residents, a need we consistently hear about from residents, businesses, and local governments alike,” said State Senator Sue Shink (D-Northfield Township), sponsor of SB 132. “This type of financing will incentivize the cleanup of these sites while also bringing new investment to our communities.”

 

“The new TIF tool will be a game-changer for MSHDA and local governmental units interested in developing attainable/workforce housing in their communities,” said MSHDA Executive Director Amy Hovey. “It’s a flexible tool that can be used to help fund rental, for sale, single family, multifamily, new construction, and rehabilitation opportunities for those up to 120% of area median income. Having an adequate supply of housing in this range is critical for attracting and retaining talent and helping more people reach their full potential in Michigan.”

 

Senate Bill 289 would establish the Transformational Brownfield Fund to help convert underutilized, vacant, or abandoned property in communities across Michigan into productive space ready for business investment and community revitalization projects.

 

“There is no other program designed for, or capable of, supporting brownfield redevelopments of this scale and impact, putting obsolete vacant land back to proper use,” said State Senator Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield), sponsor of SB 289. “It’s a tool that will help keep and attract talent here, grow our population, and create the kind of vibrant locations that people want to live in—while retaining the local input and control that communities are looking for. This legislation is called ‘transformational’ for a reason, and is another key piece to Michigan Democrats’ holistic, comprehensive approach to economic development.”

 

“This legislation amplifies our Make it in Michigan economic development framework that focuses on people, places, and projects. It will allow us to win more for Michiganders by accelerating our ability to impact where people and businesses call home, including accessible housing and attractive physical places,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “Prosperity must be widely shared for our state to thrive, and whether it is increasing affordable housing projects in the state, or transforming unproductive spaces into economic drivers, these programs build momentum for our efforts to create economic opportunity for all Michiganders.”

 

“These important amendments will allow for redevelopment of underutilized sites into vibrant, mixed-use community assets on property that is currently generating little to no taxes,” said Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss. “Thank you to the governor and legislature for recognizing the importance of this valuable tool and financing strategy for transformational projects in the City of Grand Rapids and cities throughout our state.”

 

Make it in Michigan

A comprehensive strategy to make more in Michigan. From good-paying jobs; a skilled, talented workforce; vibrant places to live, work, and raise a family; and powerful tools to bring manufacturing and supply chains home, Make it in Michigan will continue the state’s momentum to build a brighter future.

 

The strategy aims to:

  • Make Michigan a top state for talent with low unemployment, higher labor force participation, more training and upskilling, and stronger talent attraction.
  • Make Michigan more competitive in key sectors like research & development, advanced manufacturing, and clean tech–electric vehicles, batteries, semiconductor chips to ensure long-term economic strength.
  • Make Michigan an arsenal of innovation where entrepreneurs and young companies have opportunities and resources to grow and expand.
  • Make Michigan a state full of attractive, vibrant communities where people want to live, work, and grow with investments to build more housing, expand access and lower the cost of child care, connect homes and businesses to high-speed internet, redevelop vacant or blighted properties, and bring new life to main streets and downtowns.

 

The three pillars of Make it in Michigan are projects, people, and places. Governor Whitmer is focused on competing for and winning projects to bring manufacturing and supply chains home, investing in people so they can pursue their potential from pre-K through postsecondary and have their personal freedoms protected, and revitalizing places to make them more attractive places to live, work, and invest.
Whitmer Signs Bipartisan Legislation Expanding Voting Rights

Whitmer Signs Bipartisan Legislation Expanding Voting Rights

by | Jul 18, 2023 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 18, 2023

Contact: [email protected]

Gov. Whitmer Signs Bipartisan Legislation Expanding Voting Rights

Legislation will implement Prop 2, voted for overwhelmingly by Michiganders last November

 

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a package of bipartisan legislation expanding voting rights. The bills implement Ballot Proposal 22-2, also known as ‘Prop 2,’ which was passed overwhelmingly by Michiganders last November. The new laws make it easier to vote in a secure way, ensuring Michiganders can make their voices heard in every election.

 

“Voting is the cornerstone of our system of government,” said Governor Whitmer. “Michiganders spoke with a clear, united voice last November when they voted overwhelmingly in favor of Proposal 2, expanding voting rights. Today, I am proud to sign bipartisan legislation implementing the will of the people, ensuring they can make their voices heard in every election. Let’s keep fighting to expand the constitutional right to vote freely, fairly, and securely with commonsense reforms so we can build a government of the people that delivers for the people.”

 

“This is what it means to have a government that works for the people,” said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. “Last November, Michiganders turned out in record numbers to expand our voting rights. Legislative leaders worked collaboratively with my office, local clerks, and voting rights advocates from around the state to make sure these bills provide the flexibility and resources we need to carry out the will of the voters. This was a thoughtful, bipartisan effort and I’m grateful to the leaders in both chambers for getting this done. We are ready to work with Michigan’s clerks to implement these new laws in time for next year’s elections.”

 

“Michigan voters overwhelmingly supported Proposal 2 last year and sent a clear message to the Legislature: reduce barriers to voting and increase access to the ballot box,” said state Senator Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield). “I’m proud to lead this effort that provides more convenient early options to vote through nine days of in-person voting before Election Day, easier ways to sign up to receive absentee ballots, required drop boxes in each community, and more. This – along with early processing of absentee ballots, just as 38 other states do – will allow for our accurate election results to be published much quicker and further instill confidence that our voting systems work. With Gov. Whitmer’s signature, we are strengthening the core functions of our democracy and ensuring Michiganders can fully participate in their representative government.”

 

“MAMC members were honored to work side by side with our county colleagues and our legislators to help shape these important laws,” said Jackie Beaudry, Ann Arbor City Clerk, President of Michigan Association of Municipal Clerks. “We are excited for the implementation of early voting in 2024 as approved by Michigan voters in Proposition 22-2.”

 

“After many months of collaboration between local clerks, county clerks and legislators, these laws create the framework and tools needed to carry out the will of the voters in a safe and secure manner,” said Vanessa Guerra, Saginaw County Clerk, Co-Chair of the Michigan Association of County Clerks Legislative Committee.

 

“Congratulations to Michigan voters for adopting commonsense voting reforms last November!” said Christopher Thomas, former nonpartisan Michigan Director of Elections. “The legislature wasted no time enacting these reforms into law and providing financial assistance to state, county and municipal election officials, who are now well-positioned to provide new voting opportunities to Michigan voters in the 2024 election. With the Governor’s signature, Michigan returns to the forefront of states with well-balanced election systems, offering voters secure voting and increased access to the ballot box.”

 

“The signing of today’s bills into law will strengthen our democracy,” said ACLU of Michigan Executive Director, Loren Khogali. “The new laws will ensure Michigan elections are secure, accessible, and convenient. Together, we must build on this progress, as we continue to create a voting system that enables every voter to make their voice heard and ensures every vote is counted.”

 

“We have a lot to celebrate today. All of these laws will expand access to the ballot, which voters resoundingly endorsed through their support of Proposal 2,” said Micheal Davis, Jr., Executive Director of Promote The Vote. “Even better, these laws provide more clarity to both voters and election officials. Voters now have unprecedented choice regarding when and how they cast their ballot. And with the supporting pre-Election Day tabulation bill, we should see election results more quickly, making Michigan a leader in voter experience.”

 

“The late Congressman John Lewis told us that the right to vote is the most powerful non-violent tool we have in a democracy’, said Reverend Dr. Wendell Anthony, President of the Detroit branch of the NAACP. “Today, Michigan is leading the nation in providing those tools to protect and expand the rights of all the people to vote. As other states are suppressing the fundamental right of their citizens to vote, the state of Michigan serves as a model in the effort to demonstrate how we have indeed increased our own. We in Michigan say to everyone, take your souls to the polls and vote, because your very lives depend upon it.”

 

“I applaud the people of our great state on facilitating access to a fundamental, Constitutional right—the right to vote—which as we navigate the many issues facing us, has never been more important,” said Cle Jackson Jr., President of the Greater Grand Rapids NAACP. “This legislation implements the changes that the people of Michigan chose in November. A Michigan where more people participate will be a more equitable Michigan for all.”

 

Senate Bill 339, sponsored by Senator Mallory McMorrow (D-Royal Oak), will establish a website for Michiganders to track their ballots. It will ensure voters are notified when their vote is received and counted and inform them if there are any errors and offer a solution to remedy them.

 

“Michiganders spoke loudly in favor of expanded voting rights – and voter information – with the passage of Prop 2 of 2022,” said state Senator Mallory McMorrow (D-Royal Oak). Part of the that conditional amendment requires an updated ballot tracking system so voters will know exactly where their absentee ballot is, and the option of receiving updates via email or text. The signing of SB 339 today is the next step in implementing Prop 2 and empowering voters with an updated system to track their ballot in every election.”

 

Senate Bill 367, sponsored by Senator Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield), requires at least nine days of early voting before each statewide and federal election so people can find a convenient time to vote that works for them without facing lines on Election Day. Also authorizes pre-processing and early tabulation of absentee ballots, ensuring a timely result after polls close on Election Day.

 

Senate Bill 370, sponsored by Senator Sylvia Santana (D-Detroit), implements requirements to allow voters to fix clerical errors with their ballots. It also requires prepaid postage for all absentee ballot applications and envelopes, saving voters time and trips to the Post Office.

 

“I am proud to have legislation to help uphold the will of Michiganders in implementing Proposal 2 and expanding voting access and improving our democracy,” said state Senator Sylvia Santana (D-Detroit). Clerks play a vital role in ensuring safe and secure elections. Providing clerks the tools to verify signatures on absentee ballot applications will continue to ensure our elections are completed with integrity and fairness.”

 

Senate Bill 373, sponsored by Senator Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit), allows Michiganders to use their US passport, tribal photo ID card, military ID card, or student ID to identify themselves when they show up to vote. As has always been the case, they will need to be registered to vote in their precinct to cast a ballot. This law simply expands the valid forms of ID accepted to certify that you are who you say you are.

 

“Michiganders have shown time and again that they support increasing access to our democracy, and I’m thrilled to be part of this effort to codify changes from Proposal 2 into law,” said state Senator Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit). Students of any valid educational institution should be able to use their student ID as voter ID so we can increase voting among students of all ages. Also, I’ve introduced legislation several times before to allow municipal ID to be used as voter ID and am excited that this is finally Michigan law. Thank you to Senator Moss, Secretary Benson and every organization who made this bill package a reality.”

 

House Bill 4696, sponsored by Representative Penelope Tsernoglou (D-East Lansing), makes disclosing an election result from an early voting site before Election Day a Class E felony against Public Trust with a statutory maximum of five years’ imprisonment.

 

“Ever since I took office, making elections free, fair and accessible has been a top priority for me. The voters spoke loud and clear in November, and I’m proud to be part of the effort to put Proposal 2 into law,” said state Representative Penelope Tsernoglou (D-East Lansing), chair of the House Elections Committee. “This package of laws will ensure that every voter can exercise their constitutional rights. I will continue to work to strengthen voting rights and safeguard democracy in Michigan.”

 

House Bill 4697, sponsored by Representative Matt Koleszar (D-Plymouth), requires at least one secure drop box for every municipality or at least one drop box for every 15,000 registered voters in municipalities with more than that many registered voters. These drop boxes will be used to return absentee ballots safely and securely and must be accessible 24 hours a day 40 days before an election and until 8 p.m. on Election Day.

 

“Voting is one of our most basic foundational rights,” said state Representative Matt Koleszar (D-Plymouth). “Access to drop boxes has proven to be a secure, effective way for Michiganders to exercise that right and I’m thrilled Governor Whitmer is signing HB 4697 into law.” – State Representative Matt Koleszar

 

House Bill 4699, sponsored by Representative Erin Byrnes (D-Dearborn), makes it so voters can fill out a single application to vote by mail and have a ballot mailed to them in all future elections without going through the hassle of extra paperwork, saving them time and money.

 

“The implementation of Proposal 2 will create generational change for Michigan voters at a critical moment in our democracy,” said state Representative Erin Byrnes (D-Dearborn). House Bill 4699 will establish a permanent absentee voter list, easing access to the ballot and empowering voters with the option to vote by mail indefinitely. I am thrilled to be part of this process, and excited to see Michigan leading the way on voting rights.”

 

House Bill 4702, sponsored by Representative Penelope Tsernoglou (D-East Lansing), increases the maximum size of an election precinct from 2,999 active registered electors to 5,000, lowering costs for local governments.

 

Expanding Voting Rights

Michigan’s elections are free, fair, secure, and accurate and the results reflect the will of the voters. The results are certified and audited by Republican, Democratic, and non-partisan election officials.

 

In May 2022, Governor Whitmer signed executive directive 2022-04, instructing all state departments and agencies to identify and assess potential opportunities when engaging with Michiganders from all walks of life and all 83 counties to help eligible voters register and gain access to reliable information about voting, including displays in public spaces, printed materials, online information, public announcements, and social media posts. The executive directive can be viewed here.

 

In February 2023, Governor Whitmer signed Senate Bill 13, moving the state’s presidential primary to February and strengthening Michiganders’ votes and voices in the presidential primary.

 

In May 2023, Governor Whitmer signed Senate Bill 259, bipartisan legislation ensuring that absentee voter ballots from military and overseas voters are counted if received up to six days after an election.