Funding to Help Build 708 Rental Homes Statewide

Funding to Help Build 708 Rental Homes Statewide

by | Jan 30, 2025 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    

January 29, 2025

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer Announces Funding to Help Build 708 Rental Homes Statewide

Latest awards advance Statewide Housing Plan through 15 investments across 10 communities

 

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced significant new investments have been awarded to 15 new construction and rehabilitation rental housing projects in 10 communities to build 708 affordable rental homes across the state. The construction projects will create 85 permanent jobs, support 1,097 temporary jobs, and generate a total development investment of over $208 million.

 

“I am committed to growing access to affordable housing so every Michigander can raise their family in a vibrant community. We need more affordable places to call home in Michigan, and MSHDA is leading the way to get it done,” said Governor Whitmer. “These latest awards in communities across our state will create good-paying jobs, grow our economy, expand housing options, and make our state a better place to live. Our housing strategy is paying off, and we’ll keep working to help more families ‘make it’ in Michigan.”

 

“Our mission is grounded in the belief that every Michigander deserves a safe, affordable, and quality place to call home in a community of their choice,” said Tony Lentych, MSHDA Deputy Director and Chief Housing Investment Officer. “With 708 affordable rental homes on the horizon, these investments will not only provide much-needed housing but also create jobs and boost local economies. We’re proud to work alongside developers and communities to make a lasting impact and address housing needs across the state.”

 

This Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program is awarding $17,332,458 in tax credits, with a total value over the next 10 years of about $173 million. LIHTCs are federal tax credits allocated by MSHDA following a competitive application process. Developers can claim credit against their tax liability annually for up to 10 years.

 

The following projects are receiving LIHTC awards:

 

725 Amsterdam, Detroit – Credit Awarded: $1,650,000

 

725 Amsterdam is being developed by a unique partnership between Henry Ford Health, Michigan State University along with Tom Gores and the Detroit Pistons. This development is being funded with a 9% tax credit award along with HUD 221(d)(4) funding and 45L Solar Tax Credits. The project is part of a wider neighborhood initiative and is projected to have a total development cost of $19,681,090 and is expected to create 40 new studio, one-, and two-bedroom affordable housing units targeted to households earning between 30% and 80% of the area median income (AMI). The development of 725 Amsterdam is projected to create one permanent and 50 temporary construction jobs.

 

Gesu Senior Housing, Detroit – Credit Awarded: $1,080,000

 

Gesu Senior Housing is a senior housing development being developed by MHT Housing, Inc. along with Gesu Parish Detroit. The project is being financed by a 9% tax credit award, HOME funds from the City of Detroit and a conventional mortgage from Cinnaire. The total development cost is projected to be $13,788,502 and will include the renovation and repurposing of the historic Gesu Parish Center building. The development is expected to create 36 one- and two-bedroom affordable units for senior households earning between 30% and 80% of the AMI. Eight of these units will be assisted by Project-Based Vouchers through the Detroit Housing Commission. The development is expected to create two permanent and 75 temporary construction jobs.

 

Orchardview Apartments, Traverse City – Credit Awarded: $1,360,500

 

Orchardview Apartments is an affordable housing development being developed by the Traverse City Housing Commission and Cove Investments, LLC. The project is being financed by a 9% tax credit award and a conventional mortgage from CPC Mortgage Company LLC. The project is expected to have a total development cost of $20,131,959 and will include a renovation of existing townhome units and the construction of new apartment units. Upon completion, the project will provide 54 one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom affordable housing units for households earning between 40% and 60% AMI. Twenty-one of these units will receive rental assistance through the Traverse City Housing Commission. The development is expected to create three permanent and 114 temporary construction jobs.

 

Villages of Parkside Phase III, Detroit – Credit Awarded: $1,565,000

 

Villages of Parkside Phase III is an affordable housing development being developed by Ginosko Development Company and Infinite Horizons Parkside Phase III LLC. The project is being financed by a 9% tax credit award and a loan from Citibank. The project is expected to have a total development cost of $21,658,658. The project will provide 54 one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom units for households earning between 40% and 60% AMI. Twenty-five of these units will be assisted by Project-Based Vouchers through the Detroit Housing Commission. The development is expected to create 68 temporary construction jobs.

 

Rivercrest Apartments, Croswell – Credit Awarded: $320,500

 

Rivercrest Apartments is sponsored by PK Development Group and will rehabilitate 24 units of affordable housing. This development has 9% tax credits along with an existing Rural Development (RD) 515 mortgage and a new RD 538 mortgage. The project is expected to have a total development cost of $4,378,625 and will include the renovation of 24, one-, two-, and three-bedroom affordable housing units for individuals earning 60% of AMI. All 24 units carry rental assistance from the USDA RD. The project is expected to create four permanent jobs and 27 temporary jobs.

 

Flats on Bridge, Elk Rapids – Credit Awarded: $790,720

 

Flats on Bridge is sponsored by Ide Development LLC and HomeStretch Nonprofit Housing Corporation. This development is being funded with a 9% tax credit award along with a permanent loan through IFF and an Affordable Housing Program (AHP) award from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis. The project is expected to have a total development cost of $8,055,331 and is expected to create 24 new, one- and two-bedroom affordable housing units for individuals earning between 30% and 80% of AMI. The development of Flats on Bridge is expected to create 18 permanent jobs and 17 temporary jobs.

 

Lincoln Avenue Lofts, Port Huron – Credit Awarded: $1,650,000

 

Lincoln Avenue Lofts is sponsored by Community Housing Network, Inc. and the Algonac Housing Commission. This development has 9% tax credits and a HUD 224(d)4 permanent loan, as well as a contribution from the general partner to support the on-site supportive services. It has a total development cost of $16,758,200. This development will have 24 one-bedroom units, and 16 two-bedroom units for households at or below 60% of area median income. This project intends to request 20 Project-Based Vouchers from MSHDA to support the permanent supportive housing units. An additional six units will benefit from project-based rental assistance from the Port Huron Housing Commission. The project will create 17 permanent jobs and 64 temporary jobs.

 

Shea Ravines II, Wyoming – Credit Awarded: $1,650,000

 

Shea Ravines II is sponsored by Woda Cooper Development, Inc. and Cherry Street Services, Inc. This development has 9% tax credits and a permanent loan from PNC Real Estate, 45L energy credits, as well as a contribution from the general partner to support the on-site supportive services. It has a total development cost of $17,824,982. This development will have 40 one-bedroom units, and 16 two-bedroom units for households ranging from 30%-80% of area median income. This project intends to request 20 Project-Based Vouchers from MSHDA to support the permanent supportive housing units. The project will create two permanent jobs and 62 temporary jobs.

 

LVD LIHTC I, Watersmeet – Credit Awarded: $1,493,227

 

LVD LIHTC I is sponsored by the Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians and RTHawk Housing Alliance. This development has 9% tax credits and a permanent loan from the Lac Vieux Desert Band. It has a total development cost of $13,439,857. This development will have 13 one-bedroom units, 20 two-bedroom units and 11 three-bedroom units for households at or below 60% of AMI. Twenty-two units will be covered by a Housing Assistance Payments contract from the Lac Vieux Desert Band. The project will create four permanent jobs and 228 temporary jobs. 

 

Centennial Arms I, Evart – Credit Awarded: $1,277,808

 

Centennial Arms I is sponsored by Edison Community Partners LLC and the Evart Housing Commission. This development has 9% tax credits and a permanent loan from Cinnaire, energy credits, and a seller note. It has a total development cost of $18,957,210. This development will have eight one-bedroom units, 52 two-bedroom units, and 20 three-bedroom units for households ranging from 30%-80% of AMI. Fifty-six of these units will be assisted by Project-Based Vouchers through the Evart Housing Commission. The project will create 2.5 permanent jobs and 100 temporary jobs.

 

Centennial Arms II, Evart – Credit Awarded: $830,492

 

Centennial Arms II is sponsored by Edison Community Partners LLC and the Evart Housing Commission. This development has 9% tax credits and a permanent loan from Cinnaire, energy credits, a seller note, and a contribution from the general partner. It has a total development cost of $11,463,733. This development will have 53 one-bedroom units, eight two-bedroom units, and four three-bedroom units for households ranging from 30%-80% of AMI. Fifty-three of these units will be assisted by Project-Based Vouchers through the Evart Housing Commission. The project will create 2.5 permanent jobs and 100 temporary jobs.

 

Nelson School Apartments, Muskegon – Credit Awarded: $1,650,000

 

Nelson School Apartments is sponsored by General Capital Development LLC, Little River Real Estate Management LLC, and the Muskegon Housing Commission. This development has 9% tax credits and a permanent loan from Cedar Rapids Bank and Trust. It has a total development cost of $19,285,896. This development will have 38 one-bedroom units, and 14 two-bedroom units for households ranging from 30%-80% of AMI. Eight of these units will be assisted by Project-Based Vouchers through the Muskegon Housing Commission. The project will create 22 permanent jobs and 83 temporary jobs.
Last Call to Apply for the Oakland Together 40 Under 40 Class of 2025

Last Call to Apply for the Oakland Together 40 Under 40 Class of 2025

by | Jan 29, 2025 | Regional News

40 under 40
40 Under 40 reception

Last Call to Apply for the Oakland Together 40 Under 40 Class of 2025

Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter’s Oakland Together 40 Under 40 program is looking to recognize dynamic individuals making an impact in their community or career for the class of 2025. Apply before 11:59 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 31: OakGov.info/40under40_2025.

“We’re excited to continue celebrating the remarkable young leaders in Oakland County,” said County Executive Dave Coulter. “Through Oakland Together 40 Under 40, we acknowledge and honor those who embody our county’s vision of ‘All Ways, Moving Forward.’ These individuals are driving positive change and making a significant impact in our communities.”

A panel of judges comprised of community and county leaders will recommend the 40 award recipients. Award winners will receive an invitation to the 2026 State of the County Address and pre-reception and the Oakland Together 40 under 40 Award celebration.

To be eligible, a candidate must live or work in Oakland County, be 18 years of age or older, and have been born after Dec. 31, 1984. For more information or to apply, go to www.oakgov.com/40under40.

APPLY NOW
40 under 40 footer
Bill Signing Expanding Hate Crimes Legislation

Bill Signing Expanding Hate Crimes Legislation

by | Jan 24, 2025 | Regional News

Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 22, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

AG Nessel Celebrates Bill Signing Expanding Hate Crimes Legislation

LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel today issued the following statement praising Governor Gretchen Whitmer on the signing of House Bills 5400-5401, sponsored by state Representatives Noah Arbit and Kristian Grant.

“Our state’s previous hate crime laws were inadequate to deter and properly prosecute those that target Michigan residents with fear and hatred, simply for who they are. Hate Crimes are intended to send a message, an inherently violent message of intolerance, to vulnerable communities. At the Department of Attorney General, and particularly in our Hate Crimes unit, we know that stronger laws such as these can help us better protect Michigan residents from the scourge of hatred in our state.

“Over the past decade, we have seen not just an uptick in hate crimes, but a normalization of racist, antisemitic and bigoted language, symbolism and actions – including a close adviser to the President giving the Nazi salute during an inaugural rally just this week. It’s incumbent upon those of us with the authority to unilaterally denounce such sentiments; otherwise, there’s no stopping this behavior.

“I applaud the Governor for signing these long overdue changes to the state’s statutes.”

If you are a victim of a hate crime or have credible information about a hate crime, please contact your local police department first and then the Hate Crimes and Domestic Terrorism Unit at the Department of Attorney General via email or at 313-456-0180. The Department of Attorney General will follow up on every credible tip, will launch independent investigations when sufficient cause exists, and will offer departmental resources to assist our law enforcement partners.
Tips to Help Protect from Scams During Extreme Cold 

Tips to Help Protect from Scams During Extreme Cold 

by | Jan 24, 2025 | Regional News

Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 22, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

AG Nessel Shares Tips to Help Protect Residents from Scams During Extreme Cold

LANSING – As extreme cold sweeps across the state, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reminding residents of important tips to avoid additional hardships. If your home or property is damaged from frigid temperatures, such as a pipe burst or broken furnace, Nessel urges residents to research contractors before hiring to avoid having an emergency repair become a financial disaster.

“Fraudsters often look for emergency situations to scam people out of their hard-earned money,” Nessel said. “When facing property damage during extreme cold, the last thing anyone needs is to fall victim. The best way to protect yourself is to stay aware of common scam tactics.”

Review these warning signs before hiring a “professional”:

  • They have special offers that seem too good to be true;
  • Feeling pressured to act now;
  • The contract is confusing;
  • They don’t have a license;
  • They can’t give you references;
  • You must pay for everything before they start the work;
  • You must pay in cash;
  • They will not write out their offer;
  • Their vehicle has out-of-state license plates; and
  • They don’t have a business sign on their vehicle.

To protect yourself, always:

  • Check online reviews, such as the Better Business Bureau;
  • Get in touch with your insurance company;
  • Speak to a local licensed professional;
  • Review credentials and references;
  • Get more than one written estimate; and
  • Ask for a contract and read it carefully.
To file a complaint with the Attorney General, or get additional information, contact:

Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form
Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions 

Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions 

by | Jan 23, 2025 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 23, 2025

Contact: [email protected]

 

Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

 

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced appointments to the following boards and commissions: Michigan Appellate Defender Commission; Mackinac Island State Park Commission; State Board of Ethics, Council on Future Mobility and Electrification; Workers’ Compensation Board of Magistrates; and the Natural Resources Trust Fund.

 

Michigan Appellate Defender Commission

Darryl Woods, of Detroit, is a community support liaison at Growth Works. Additionally, Woods served as chairman of the Detroit Branch NAACP Prison Program Committee for over 15 years. Darryl Woods is reappointed as a member of the general public to represent the interests of individuals who have been impacted by the youth or adult justice system for a term commencing January 23, 2025, and expiring May 24, 2028.

 

The Michigan Appellate Defender Commission is responsible for the development of a system of indigent appellate defense services which shall include services provided by the office of the state appellate defender and locally appointed private counsel. The Commission will be responsible for the development of minimum standards to which all indigent criminal defense appellate services shall conform and will compile and keep current a statewide roster of attorneys eligible for and willing to accept appointment by an appropriate court to serve as criminal appellate defense counsel for indigents.

 

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Mackinac Island State Park Commission

Lori Frohoff, of Mackinaw City, is the owner of Marshall’s Fudge. Frohoff is the third-generation owner of Marshall’s Fudge – the first fudge shop to move from Mackinac Island to Mackinaw City. Frohoff holds an associate’s degree in paralegal studies and a Bachelor of Business in economics from Ferris State University, as well as a clear credential for K-6 education from Concordia University. Lori Frohoff is appointed as a resident of Mackinaw City for a term commencing January 23, 2025, and expiring April 12, 2030. Frohoff succeeds William Marvin, whose term has expired.

 

The Mackinac Island State Park Commission was formed in 1895 and is responsible for all aspects of managing Mackinac State Historic Parks. The Commission retains and exercises its authority and responsibility for developing the mission, goals, policies, objectives and direction for the unique properties under its jurisdiction.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

State Board of Ethics

Carlos Escurel, of West Bloomfield, is an associate principal attorney at Foley, Baron, Metzger & Juip, PLLC. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in international relations from Michigan State University and a Juris Doctorate from Wayne State University School of Law. Carlos Escurel will be reappointed to represent Independents for a term commencing February 8, 2025, and expiring February 7, 2029.

 

Afia Phillips, of Detroit, is chief information security officer for Little Caesars. Previously, Phillips was global chief information security officer for Mercedes-Benz Mobility AG. Phillips is a certified information systems security professional and holds a Bachelor of Arts in computer science from Wayne State University. Afia Phillips will be reappointed to represent Democrats for a term commencing February 8, 2025, and expiring February 7, 2029.

 

The State Board of Ethics is authorized to determine the ethical conduct of classified or unclassified state employees, and public officers of the executive branch of Michigan state government who are appointed by the Governor or another executive department official.

 

These appointments are subject to advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Council on Future Mobility and Electrification

Judd Herzer, of Holt, is the mobility director for Michigan State University. Previously, Herzer was the director of strategic policy at the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and an infrastructure and technology advisor in the Executive Office of Governor Whitmer. Herzer holds a Bachelor of Arts in political economy and a Juris Doctorate from Western Michigan University. Judd Herzer is appointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing January 23, 2025, and expiring October 21, 2025. Herzer succeeds Satish Udpa, who has resigned.

 

Alan Taub, of West Bloomfield, is the director of the University of Michigan Electric Vehicle Center and a professor of engineering in materials science and mechanical engineering. Prior to joining the University in 2012, Taub retired from General Motors as vice president for global research and development. Taub holds a Bachelor of Science in materials engineering from Brown University and a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in applied physics from Harvard University. Alan Taub is appointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing January 23, 2025, and expiring October 21, 2025. Taub succeeds Eric Michielssen, who has resigned.

 

Beverly Watts, of Detroit, is the president and chief executive officer of BME Consulting and president of the Council of Minority Transportation Officials of Michigan. Watts was previously the director of the Department of Public Services for Wayne County and a member of the Michigan Infrastructure Council. Watts holds a Bachelor of Arts in telecommunications from Michigan State University and an executive leadership certification from the Harvard Kennedy School. Beverly Watts is appointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing January 23, 2025, and expiring October 21, 2027. Beverly Watts succeeds Patrick Cadariu, whose term has expired.

 

Emily Frascaroli, of Grosse Ile, is global director of the Automotive Safety Office at Ford Motor Company, a lecturer at the University of Michigan Law School, and co-chair of the legal and insurance workgroup for MCity at the University of Michigan. Previously, Frascaroli was managing counsel of the product litigation group at Ford. Frascaroli holds a Bachelor of Science in aerospace engineering from the University of Southern California, a Master of Engineering in aerospace engineering from the University of Michigan, and a Juris Doctorate from Wayne State University Law School. Emily Frascaroli is reappointed to represent insurance interests for a term commencing January 23, 2025, and expiring October 21, 2028.

 

Matthew Rudnick, of Birmingham, is the director of climate, environment, and energy policy for General Motors, where he has worked since 2003. Rudnick earned a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science Engineering in industrial engineering from the University of Michigan. Matthew Rudnick is reappointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing January 23, 2025, and expiring October 21, 2028.

 

The Michigan Council on Future Mobility and Electrification serves in an advisory capacity to the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, the Governor, and the Legislature, providing annual recommendations on changes in state policy. In doing so, the Council works to ensure Michigan continues to be an epicenter of future transportation solutions around mobility and electrification.

 

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Workers’ Compensation Board of Magistrates

Jane Hofmeyer, of Grand Rapids, is an attorney at Kluczynski, Girtz & Vogelzang, representing employers, insurers, and third-party claims administrators in the area of workers’ compensation. Hofmeyer serves on the Board of Directors of the Community Media Center and is a past president of the Grand Rapids Bar Association’s Workers’ Compensation section and Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Greater Lansing. Hofmeyer holds a Bachelor of Arts in history from The College of Wooster and a Juris Doctorate from Cooley Law School. Jane Hofmeyer will be appointed to the Workers’ Compensation Board of Magistrates for a term commencing January 27, 2025, and expiring January 26, 2029. Hofmeyer succeeds Richard Ehrlich, who passed away following his recent reappointment.

 

The Workers’ Compensation Board of Magistrates has been established as an autonomous entity within the Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency per Executive Order No. 2019-13. Only workers’ compensation magistrates can hear cases for which an application for hearing has been filed with the Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency. The Board of Magistrates currently consists of 14 members appointed by the Governor. All members of the board shall be members in good standing of the State Bar of Michigan and have been an attorney licensed to practice in the courts of this state for 5 years or more.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Natural Resources Trust Fund

William “Bill” Rustem, of Mason, is the former president and chief executive officer of Public Sector Consultants. Rustem previously served as Governor William Milliken’s chief staff advisor on environmental matters and as director of the Governor’s Policy Council. In addition, Rustem served as the director of strategy for the Office of Strategic Policy under Governor Rick Snyder. Rustem earned a Bachelor of Science in social sciences and a Master of Science in resource development from Michigan State University. William Rustem is reappointed to the Natural Resources Trust Fund for a term commencing January 23, 2025, and expiring October 1, 2028.

 

The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board oversees the Michigan Natural Resource Trust Fund (MNRTF) which has been in place since 1976. The Trust Fund provides financial assistance to local governments and the Department of Natural Resources to purchase land or rights in land for public recreation or protection of land because of its environmental importance or its scenic beauty.  It also assists in the appropriate development of land for public outdoor recreation.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Bills to Protect Students, Increase School Safety 

Bills to Protect Students, Increase School Safety 

by | Jan 22, 2025 | Regional News

 

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

January 22, 2025

Contact: [email protected]

 

Governor Whitmer Signs Bills to Protect Students, Increase School Safety

Additionally, the governor issued an executive order to bolster new school safety commission

 

LANSING, Mich.  – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed 19 commonsense, bipartisan bills to make Michigan schools, homes, and communities safer. The governor also signed an executive order to ensure the diverse needs of Michigan’s students and educators are represented on the new School Safety and Mental Health Commission.

 

“Michiganders should feel safe whether they’re watching a movie at home or heading into the classroom,” said Governor Whitmer. “That’s why I’m proud to sign these 19 commonsense bills that will keep Michigan families and neighborhoods safe from gun violence and other violent crimes. Each of these bills build on my administration’s commitment to protecting Michiganders and their families. Since I took office, we’ve invested over $1.6 billion into public safety programs across six balanced, bipartisan budgets, ensuring Michiganders can feel safe no matter where they are. Together, let’s keep making a real difference in people’s lives.”

 

“Keeping Michiganders and our communities safe is our top priority,” said Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “That’s why the Whitmer-Gilchrist administration has remained committed to bolstering public safety across our communities. From ensuring Michigan families know the proper way to store their guns to keeping illegal firearms stay off the streets, these bills will save lives and help us build a safer Michigan for everyone.”

 

House Bills 5450 and 5451, sponsored by state Representatives Sharon MacDonell (D-Troy) and Julie Brixie (D-Okemos), will help protect our kids from gun violence by requiring information developed by the Department of Health and Human Services, on the safe storage of firearms, be distributed to parents of students. Currently, an estimated 150,000 Michigan children live in homes that have an unsecured firearm. Nationally, more than 70% of school shootings involve a firearm that is owned by a parent or close family member and taken by the shooter. By distributing information on the safe storage law to students and their families, more Michiganders will be aware of the law and can take actions to abide by this guidance. This will help keep more Michiganders and their children safe from gun violence at home, school, or anywhere else.

 

“Michigan has seen far too many school shootings. Last term, Democrats passed a number of monumental laws that help curb gun violence throughout the state. Our kids, teachers and families deserve safety and security at home and in their classrooms,” said state Representative Sharon MacDonell (D-Troy). “With this bill becoming law, Michigan schools will now provide helpful resources on Michigan’s new firearm safety measures — which continue efforts to keep our children and communities safe from reckless firearms use.”

 

“Firearm-related incidents have plagued our communities for too long,” said state Representative Julie Brixie (D-Meridian Township). “These new safe storage education laws will help educate Michigan families on how to properly exercise their rights as a firearm owner by safely storing their weapons and keeping them out of the hands of children. It’s on all of us to work together to prevent gun violence and save lives. One firearm-related incident is too many.”

 

“The Michigan Parent Alliance for Safe Schools appreciates the passing of these bills by Governor Whitmer and the Michigan Legislature,” said Erin Stepek, Representative for Michigan Parent Alliance for Safe Schools. “As a teacher and parent, I have seen the tragedy of firearm accidents and teen suicides over the years, and we need to do everything we can as a society to help prevent these deaths. Having schools distribute information on safe firearm storage and laws along with the other safety information they already routinely send out is a simple measure that will have lasting impact.”

 

“Governor Whitmer is a proven gun sense champion who understands that common-sense laws like the ones she just signed will make Michigan safer, and Everytown is incredibly grateful for her leadership,” said John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety. “While the balance of power in Lansing will shift in the next session, one thing won’t change: Everytown’s commitment to working with Governor Whitmer and our statehouse allies to pass common-sense measures to keep guns out of the wrong hands.”

 

“Michigan’s gun sense trifecta has worked hand in hand with our movement to pass lifesaving gun safety laws up until the last possible moment,” said Angela Ferrell-Zabala, executive director of Moms Demand Action. “Although Lansing’s incoming political landscape will pose new challenges for us, we’re not going anywhere. The state has seen what is possible when it comes to addressing this crisis, and our Michigan moms and students are in it for the long haul. While we have made incredible progress in Michigan due to so many gun safety champions led by Governor Whitmer, gun violence continues to impact families and communities across the state. We look forward to continuing to build on our progress and make a safer Michigan.”

 

“Students and educators need to feel safe in our schools, and these bills are an important step to helping ensure that,” said Chandra Madafferi, President and CEO of the Michigan Education Association. “By making sure families are aware of the best ways to keep guns stored safely, schools can be part of the solution in preventing firearms from falling into the wrong hands.”

 

House Bills 6144, 6145, and 6146, sponsored by state Representatives Felicia Brabec (D-Pittsfield Township) and Natalie Price (D-Berkley), will keep Michigan communities safer from gun violence by ensuring the Michigan State Police (MSP) destroy all firearms turned over to it that were purchased under a gun buyback program. These bills build on the Whitmer-Gilchrist administration’s commitment to bolstering public safety and reducing gun violence in our communities by ensuring there are fewer guns on our streets.

 

“This legislation ensures when we destroy a firearm, our current practice of destroying all parts of the firearm will remain the standard now and for the future,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the MSP.

 

House Bills 4095 and 4096, sponsored by state Representatives Stephanie A. Young (D-Detroit) and Ranjeev Puri (D-Canton), will help keep students and educators safe amidst public safety threats by requiring a standardized response terminology used by schools in response to emergency situations. These initiatives will ensure Michigan schools are able to respond to emergencies quickly and efficiently, keeping students and teachers safe when they’re in the classroom.

 

Video of Gov. Whitmer signing bills

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

House Bills 5659 and 5660, sponsored by state Representatives Luke Meerman (R-Coopersville) and Nancy DeBoer (R-Grand Traverse), improve school safety for Michigan students and educators by creating the new School Safety and Mental Health Commission in the Department of State Police. The new commission will focus on improving mental health outcomes for school-aged children, adolescents, and their families, as well as reducing suicide rates amongst Michigan youth. These bills will work to keep our kids safer both inside the classroom and out.

 

In conjunction with the signing of House Bills 5659 and 6660, Governor Whitmer also issued the Executive Order 2025-1 to ensure that this new commission includes each critical viewpoint, voice, and role in its work. Specifically, the executive order ensures the below members are included in the School Safety and Metal Health Commission:

  • One member who is a prosecutor.
  • The Director of MiLEAP (or her designee).
  • Gives the ex officio members of the board (the directors of MSP, DHHS, MiLEAP and the superintendent of public instruction) voting rights on the Commission.
  • Adds the duties of the former School Safety Commission to the new Commission.

 

To learn more about EO 2025-1, click this link.

 

House Bills 5400 and 5401, sponsored by state Representatives Noah Arbit (D-West Bloomfield) and Kristian Grant (D-Grand Rapids), bolster public safety efforts in Michigan, protecting individuals from hate crimes. The bills also amend the sentencing guidelines for a hate crime. By expanding the definition of a hate crime, these bills will help keep Michiganders of all backgrounds safer in their communities and across our state.

 

House Bills 5887 and 5888, sponsored by state Representatives John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) and Kara Hope (D-Holt), expand protections from sexual violence of all kinds, by creating specific criminal penalties for sextortion. Sextortion is a crime in which an individual blackmails others, threatening to distribute sexually explicit photographs or videos of another person. The bills also define sentencing guidelines for these crimes. These bills address a growing form of crime in a modern world, helping Michiganders to live without fear of retribution.

 

House Bill 4485, sponsored by state Representative Reggie Miller (D-Van Buren Township), will help bring justice to survivors of sexual assault by extending the time for filing an indictment of criminal sexual conduct (CSC) charges in the second or third degree. Under the bill, an indictment for CSC in the second or third degree could be found and filed by the victim’s 42nd birthday, regardless of when the offense occurred. The bill will also reduce the danger of sexual violence against our children by holding sex offenders accountable under an increased statute of limitations, ensuring these predators stay registered.

 

House Bill 6046, sponsored by state Representative Christine Morse (D-Texas Township), will expand access to services that help prevent the worst of violent events before they occur. The bill ensures eligible providers working to offer community violence intervention services can utilize Medicaid to cover the cost. The bill also establishes a certification pathway and training requirements for violence prevention professionals.

 

House Bill 5549, sponsored by state Representative Kelly Breen (D-Novi), protects students and educators in the classroom by creating a behavior threat assessment and management team. This team will monitor concerning behavior of students and devise supportive measures to mitigate potential threats and give students the tools they need to thrive. This bill builds on the Whitmer-Gilchrist administration’s commitment to keeping our kids and educators safe as they head to school.

 

House Bill 4173 and 4384, sponsored by state Representatives Abraham Aiyash (D-Hamtramck) and Luke Meerman (R-Coopersville) support the Whitmer-Gilchrist administration’s commitment to pursuing criminal justice reform by creating the Michigan Sentencing Commission. Our shared view of crime and rehabilitation have significantly shifted since the adoption of our current guidelines. This commission will support criminal justice reform in Michigan by recommending sentencing updates that reflect prevailing opinions towards reform and rehabilitation, decarcerating our facilities and giving more Michiganders a chance to “make it in Michigan.”

 

House Bill 5695, sponsored by state Representative Mike McFall (D-Hazel Park), will increase the financial support available to local municipalities that provide ground ambulance services to individuals relying on Medicaid. The bill authorizes a supplemental federal reimbursement program to enhance the financial stability of public ambulance service providers, providing support these programs need to continue providing vital services within our communities.