Whitmer Makes Appointments to Board and Commissions 

Whitmer Makes Appointments to Board and Commissions 

by | Aug 26, 2021 | Regional News

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 26, 2021

Contact: [email protected]

 

Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Board and Commissions

 

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the following appointments to the Certificate of Need Commission, Elevator Safety Board, Michigan Board of Nursing Home Administrators, and the Governor’s Educator Advisory Council.

 

Certificate of Need Commission

 

Eric C. Ferguson, M.D., an Independent of Dexter, is the president and CEO of Huron Valley Radiology, P.C. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Physics and Doctor of Medicine from the University of Michigan. Dr. Ferguson is appointed to represent physicians licensed under part 170 to engage in the practice of medicine, for a term commencing August 26, 2021 and expiring April 9, 2024. He succeeds Melisa Oca whose term expired April 9, 2021.

 

Donald A. Haney, a Republican of Middleville, is an administrator for Thornapple Manor in Hastings. He earned his Master of Business Administration from Grand Valley State University and Bachelor of Business Administration from Western Michigan University. Mr. Haney is appointed to represent nursing homes for a term commencing August 26, 2021 and expiring April 9, 2024. He succeeds John Lindsey Dood whose term expired April 9, 2021.

 

The Certificate of Need (CON) Commission has the responsibility to develop, approve, disapprove, or revise CON Review Standards that are used by the CON Program Section to issue decisions on CON applications. The Commission evaluates the Review Standards for modification on a three-year rotating schedule as identified in the Commission Workplan. The Commission also has the authority to make recommendations to revise the list of covered clinical services subject to CON review.

 

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

 

Elevator Safety Board

 

Sean K. Walker, of Commerce Township, is the business agent and recording secretary for the International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 36. He earned a certification from the National Elevator Industry Education Program. Mr. Walker is appointed to represent the elevator constructors’ union for a term commencing August 26, 2021 and expiring July 22, 2025. He succeeds Michael Vandervennet whose term expired July 22, 2021.

 

The Elevator Safety Board promulgates rules and prepares examinations in relation to contractor licenses. The Board also conducts hearings to determine whether an elevator contractor license or certificate of competency or commission should be suspended or revoked.

 

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

 

Michigan Board of Nursing Home Administrators

 

Cheryl Q. Bray, of Norway, is an administrator for ManorCare Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Kingsford. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing Administration and Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Northern Michigan University. Mrs. Bray is reappointed to represent nursing home administrators for a term commencing August 26, 2021 and expiring June 30, 2025.

 

Dana Prince, Ph.D., of Byron Center, is the executive director for St. Ann’s Home in Grand Rapids. She earned her Master of Health Administration and Bachelor of Arts in Biological Sciences from Florida Atlantic University and Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Health Sciences from Western Michigan University. Dr. Prince is appointed to represent nursing home administrators for a term commencing August 26, 2021 and expiring June 30, 2025. She succeeds Ricky Ackerman whose term expired June 30, 2021.

 

The Michigan Board of Nursing Home Administrators was created to license nursing home administrators who plan, organize, direct, and control the total operation of nursing homes on behalf of the governing board or owner of a nursing home. The Board promotes and protects the public’s health, safety, and welfare by ascertaining minimal entry-level competency of nursing home administrators.

 

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

 

Governor’s Educator Advisory Council

 

Leah J. Porter, of Lansing, is a teacher with Holt Public Schools and the 2021-2022 Teacher of the Year. She earned her Master of Arts in Literacy Education and Bachelor of Arts in Education from Michigan State University. Mrs. Porter is appointed to represent the Teacher of the Year for a term commencing September 1, 2021 and expiring August 31, 2022. She succeeds Owen Bondono whose term expires August 31, 2021.

 

The Governor’s Educator Advisory Council was created by Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order No. 2019-9. The Council will review and make recommendations regarding legislation relevant to this state’s public education system, identify and analyze issues impacting the effectiveness of Michigan’s public education system, identify best practices in public education and recommend corresponding changes and improvements to Michigan’s public education system, and provide other information or advice relevant to public education.

 

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
Veterans get connected with service dogs

Veterans get connected with service dogs

by | Aug 26, 2021 | Regional News

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Greetings,

A piece of legislation I led in the House that will help more veterans get connected with service dogs was just signed into law by President Biden, and yesterday I had the chance to join him at the White House as it officially was signed into law.

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The PAWS Act will offer funding for nonprofits to continue the great work they have done running work-therapy programs for veterans, in which the veterans learn about training the dogs, and then have the option to adopt the dog.

I’ve had the chance to visit with veterans and their service dogs in the district, at places such as Blue Star Service Dogs, where it was clear to see what a difference these dogs can make in the lives of our veterans. If you’ve ever been around a service dog or even just had a dog as a pet — you probably can imagine just how impactful these pups can be.

Service dogs offer such a wide range of benefits to veterans. Research conducted by Kaiser Permanente and Purdue University has shown that working with service dogs alleviates the symptoms of PTSD, leading to better relationships, a lower risk of substance abuse, and overall better mental health.

Getting bipartisan legislation passed in Congress isn’t always easy. But I’m proud to say that the PAWS Act passed the House and Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support. When it comes to dogs and supporting our country’s veterans — working together to get this passed was just common sense.

Rep. Elissa Slotkin
Whitmer Proclaims August 26 as Women’s Equality Day 

Whitmer Proclaims August 26 as Women’s Equality Day 

by | Aug 26, 2021 | Regional News

Header 2021

FOR PLANNING PURPOSES

August 26, 2021

Contact: [email protected]

 

Governor Whitmer Proclaims August 26 as Women’s Equality Day

 

LANSING, Mich. — Governor Whitmer today proclaimed August 26 as Women’s Equality Day. August 26, 2021 commemorates the 101st anniversary of the addition of the 19th amendment to the United States Constitution, granting women the right to vote.

 

“I applaud the suffragists, activists, and civil rights leaders who fought tirelessly over centuries to secure women’s voting rights,” said Governor Whitmer. “Over the long arc of history, women have secured footholds in the halls of power, shattered ceilings, and broken down doors meant to keep us out. I am honored to serve as Michigan’s second woman governor and I am laser-focused on empowering women in Michigan by creating economic opportunity, expanding access to childcare, furthering paid parental leave, and achieving pay equity. This Women’s Equality Day, let’s commit ourselves to doing all that we can to ensure that women in Michigan can pursue their potential.”

 

“Voting is a fundamental right in our democracy,” said Cheryl Bergman, CEO of the Michigan Women’s Commission. “It is the first and most immediate means for women – and all citizens – to shape our governments. But we can’t stop there. We must ensure that voting rights and access to the ballot are protected. We must encourage women to use their voice and their vote in shaping the decisions of our governments by running for office ourselves, by engaging with our elected officials, and by spotlighting the issues that need attention to ensure our economic and social success.”

 

Since she took office, Gov. Whitmer has been committed to addressing issues that disproportionately affect women. The first month in her administration, the governor signed an executive directive to ensure pay equity for state employees. Earlier this year, the governor announced her proposal to invest $1.4 billion in federal child care funding to expand access to high-quality child care, make child care more affordable, and support child care professionals as part of the administration’s Economic Jumpstart Plan. The governor also recently proposed an investment to modernize Michigan Army National Guard facilities to address inequities that exist in the facilities provided to Michigan’s female service members.

 

Last year on Women’s Equality Day, Gov. Whitmer moved the Michigan’s Women’s Commission from the Department of Civil Rights to the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) to enhance the capacity of both entities to address the economic issues Michigan women face every day.

 

Michigan was one of the first three states to pass the 19th amendment, paving the way for other states to ratify the amendment. Michigan was once home to notable suffragettes including Sojourner Truth, Anna Howard Shaw, Clara Arthur, and Lucia Voorhees Grimes. Women’s Equality Day celebrates the monumental efforts of those who have fought and continue to fight to protect women’s constitutional right to vote.

 

View the full proclamation here.
State’s Vaccine Response to Deliver Booster Shots

State’s Vaccine Response to Deliver Booster Shots

by | Aug 25, 2021 | Regional News

Header 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

August 25, 2021

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer Signs Executive Directive Readying the State’s Vaccine Response to Deliver Booster Shots, Prioritizing Residents in Long-Term Care Facilities

 

LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer today, in preparation for the Biden Administration to begin offering booster shots to all vaccinated residents on September 20, issued an executive directive to state departments and agencies to begin preparing the state’s vaccine response to administer booster doses to Michiganders. The governor specifically directs the state of Michigan to prioritize booster doses beginning with residents in long-term care facilities, including nursing homes and adult foster care.

 

“Last year, we built the largest vaccine program in our state’s history in record time to ensure that anyone who wanted a vaccine could get one,” said Governor Whitmer. “With booster doses on the horizon, we are reactivating our close partnerships with local health departments and pharmacies to get shots in arms as quickly as possible. We know that this virus still disproportionately affects older Michiganders, which is why I’m also prioritizing booster shots for residents in nursing homes and long-term care facilities. Let’s continue to put the health and safety of Michiganders first, so we can keep our economic jumpstart moving full speed ahead.”

 

On August 18, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Surgeon General, and Food and Drug Administration announced their conclusion that booster shots of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines will be needed to maximize the protection that the vaccines provide against the virus. The Biden Administration plans to begin offering booster shots beginning September 20, 2021 to all Americans whose second dose was at least 8 months prior.

 

“The COVID-19 vaccines continue to be incredibly effective in reducing the risk of severe disease, hospitalization and death, even against the widely circulating Delta variant,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and MDHHS chief deputy director for health. “Many vaccines, not just COVID vaccines, are associated with a reduction in protection over time, and the FDA, CDC and U.S. Surgeon General have determined that additional vaccine doses could be needed to provide long lasting protection against the virus. These booster doses are an opportunity to stay ahead of the virus and its variants, and protect Michiganders from COVID-19.”

 

Beginning September 20, the state will offer booster shots to residents who received their second dose of either the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines at least eight months prior. Michigan has an ample supply of the COVID-19 vaccine to meet the projected demand.

 

“Vaccine providers across the state are actively preparing to administer booster shots to Michiganders once once ACIP makes its recommendation,” said MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel. “Available data shows a decrease in protection over time and a booster dose may be needed to better fight the virus, especially as it continues to evolve into more aggressive variants. For those who have not received their first dose, I urge you to do so as soon as possible. The vaccine remains our best protection against the virus and it is the way we are going to end the pandemic together.”

 

Under an executive order signed by Governor Whitmer on August 13, the state of Michigan has been working to expedite delivery of third doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines to residents who have compromised immune systems. This includes, but is not limited to, individuals who have received organ or stem cell transplants, have advanced or untreated HIV infection, or are in active treatment for cancer or taking high-dose corticosteroids. The state began administering third doses to eligible Michiganders on Saturday, August 14.

 

“We are pleased Michigan is putting an action plan in place to administer booster shots,” said Paula D. Cunningham, State Director of AARP Michigan. “It certainly makes sense to start in long term care facilities, where the most vulnerable Michiganders reside. With the increasing impact of the Delta variant, we need to do everything we can to prioritize and protect residents in nursing homes.”

 

“The MLTCOP appreciates the Governor prioritizing the nursing home population for the COVID-19 vaccine booster shot,” said Salli Pung, State Long Term Care Ombudsman, Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program. “Residents should be given the choice to accept the booster as they did the initial COVID vaccine.”

 

“We greatly appreciate that the Whitmer Administration is prioritizing residents of long-term care facilities in planning for booster shots,” said Robert Stein, General Counsel, Michigan Assisted Living Association. “This decision reflects prudent public policy to support the health and well-being of older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout Michigan.”

 

“We are grateful that the Governor is prioritizing the most vulnerable Michigan residents with this directive, and we encourage the state to also focus on patients receiving in-home care,” said John Grib, President, Michigan Home and Community Services Network.

 

Michigan residents seeking more information about the COVID-19 vaccine can visit Michigan.gov/COVIDVaccine. Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.

 

COVID-19 vaccine locations can be found at Vaccines.gov.

 

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

 

 
Oakland County Requiring Masks In Educational Settings

Oakland County Requiring Masks In Educational Settings

by | Aug 25, 2021 | Regional News

Oakland County Issues Emergency Health Order Requiring Masks In Educational Settings

Oakland County, Michigan – The Oakland County Health Division issued an emergency health order today requiring masks in daycares and elementary, middle, high, and vocational schools regardless of vaccination status to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The order aligns with recent guidance from the Michigan Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to ensure children, teachers, and staff are able to begin the school year safely.

This order comes on the heels of Oakland County returning to an indoor mask requirement for all employees last week regardless of vaccination status.

“Our top priority is keeping students in school for in-person learning. Masking is one of the best defenses against increased transmission of COVID and higher hospitalization rates among kids,” Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter said. “This order allows teachers to get back to educating our students and focusing on their success.”

Oakland County Health Division issued Emergency Health Order 2021-1 through the authority of the county’s health officer after evaluating local, state, and national data and conditions.

COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations are rising among children in the United States, with over 180,000 children testing positive the week of August 12-19, an increase from the prior week when 120,000 child COVID-19 cases were reported, according to a report from the AAP.

Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have indicated Oakland County is at substantial risk of COVID-19 transmission, especially the Delta variant. Of the 2,740 new cases of COVID-19 in Oakland County from August 4-17, more than one in six were school age children. Over 52,000 Oakland County residents ages 12-19 years old remain unvaccinated as the 2021-2022 school year gets underway. Plus, students younger than 12 years are ineligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

Oakland County’s seven-day case average is 178 new cases per day or about 1,250 new cases per week, many among the unvaccinated. The county’s seven-day test positivity rate has climbed to 6.6 percent.

The test positivity rate has been rising since the beginning of July and has exceeded 5.0 percent since early August.

Masks help reduce the transmission of COVID-19 by reducing the number of respiratory droplets containing the virus that may emanate from an infected individual who is asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic. Studies of COVID-19 incidence in school districts during the 2020-2021 school year show that proper masking is the most effective mitigation strategy to prevent secondary transmission in schools. One study out of North Carolina indicated masking helped reduce COVID-19 transmission between 40 and 70 percent.

Masking is part of a multi-layered approach to prevent the transmission of COVID-19. Other preventative measures include immunization, social distancing, good hand hygiene, staying home when sick, and avoiding high-risk activity.

Emergency Health Order 2021-1 does not apply to the following individuals:

  • Those eating or drinking.
  • Children under the age of four years (supervised masking is recommended for children who are at least two years old).
  • Anyone living with developmental conditions for whom it has been demonstrated that the use of a face covering would inhibit the person’s access to education (those with Individualized Education Plan, Section 504 Plan, Individualized Healthcare Plan or equivalent).
  • Vaccinated teachers working with children who are hard of hearing or students with developmental conditions who benefit from facial cues.
  • Persons who have a medical reason confirmed in writing from a physician.
Whitmer on Full FDA Approval of COVID-19 Vaccine 

Whitmer on Full FDA Approval of COVID-19 Vaccine 

by | Aug 23, 2021 | Regional News

Header 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 23, 2021

Contact: [email protected]

 

Governor Whitmer & Dr. Khaldun on Full FDA Approval of Michigan-Manufactured Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine

 

LANSING, Mich.—Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Dr. Joneigh Khaldun issued the following statements after the FDA granted full approval to the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. To date, over 5.4 million doses of the Pfizer vaccine have been administered in Michigan and 65% of Michiganders have gotten at least their first dose of one of the three safe, effective vaccines. From January to July of 2021, unvaccinated Michiganders accounted for a staggering 98% of COVID cases, 95% of hospitalizations, and 96% of deaths.

 

“Today, the FDA granted full approval to Pfizer’s safe, effective COVID-19 vaccine, manufactured right here in Michigan,” said Governor Whitmer. “The FDA-approved Pfizer vaccine has already saved countless lives in Michigan and around the world, so if you have already gotten your shots, thank you for doing your part to keep yourself, your family, and your community safe. If you still have not, I hope today’s announcement encourages you to get your FDA-approved vaccine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you have more questions and get your free shot soon. The FDA-approved Pfizer vaccine can protect you against COVID-19 and keep you out of the hospital if you get sick. If we all do our part to protect ourselves and the people we love from COVID, we can continue our economic jumpstart and usher in a new era of prosperity for our great state.”

 

“The FDA’s approval of this vaccine is an exciting milestone as we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic. Michiganders can be very confident that this vaccine meets the high standards for safety and effectiveness as required of approved products by the FDA,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health. “While more than 5.2 million Michigan residents 16 and older have already received their first dose, we recognize that for some the FDA approval of a vaccine may now instill additional confidence to get vaccinated. We urge all eligible Michiganders to get vaccinated as soon as they are able. Visit VaccineFinder.org to find a vaccine.”