Lansing Sun

As the year 2023 comes to a close, it's time to reflect on the accomplishments and ongoing efforts in the Michigan Legislature. The work done throughout the year focused on addressing the pressing needs of the people and championing bills that empower survivors, improve access to healthcare, and protect the vulnerable. Additionally, several ill-conceived ideas that were bad for Michigan were opposed. Let's take a comprehensive look at the highlights and ongoing efforts of the year.

One of the significant legislative triumphs of the year was the signing of Public Act 49 of 2023, also known as House Bill 4123. This critical bipartisan plan supports survivors of sexual assault and addresses the misuse of professional authority to silence victims. Speaking about this achievement, the representative states, "One of my proudest moments this year was the signing of Public Act 49, ensuring justice is served."

Another notable accomplishment was the signing of Public Act 177 of 2023 (HB 4422), which broadens the scope of the Crime Victims' Rights Act. This legislation gives crime victims enhanced rights, allowing them a stronger voice in the criminal justice process. The representative expresses their contribution to this broader plan, stating, "Contributing to a broader plan aimed at bolstering victims' rights, Public Act 177 empowers crime victims with enhanced rights."

In the realm of healthcare, the representative championed legislation that eliminates burdensome mandates for lower-income enrollees of the Healthy Michigan Plan. This legislation not only improves access to healthcare but also streamlines administration, saving taxpayer dollars. The representative shares their commitment, saying, "In the realm of healthcare, I championed legislation eliminating burdensome mandates for lower-income enrollees of the Healthy Michigan Plan."

Apart from the legislative triumphs, there are ongoing efforts to drive change in Michigan. One such effort is the bipartisan work to enhance protections within the guardianship and conservatorship system. These bills, approved by the House, aim to safeguard Michigan seniors and vulnerable adults from exploitation. Speaking about these efforts, the representative explains, "Through a bipartisan effort, I am working to enhance protections within the guardianship and conservatorship system."

Another significant ongoing effort is the bipartisan initiative to combat the opioid epidemic by imposing stricter penalties for the distribution of deadly drugs like heroin and fentanyl. This initiative aims to strike a balance between public safety and justice. Highlighting the importance of this initiative, the representative states, "Introduced in October, this bipartisan initiative seeks to impose stricter penalties for the distribution of deadly drugs like heroin and fentanyl."

The representative also proposed a bill to allow alcohol at university sporting events, which promotes responsible drinking and decreases alcohol-related incidents inside stadiums. Although the bill wasn't enacted, a similar one signed by the governor in July now enables Michigan's public universities to seek permits for selling alcohol at athletic events. The representative shares their initial proposal, saying, "I proposed a bill to permit Michigan universities to sell alcohol at specific on-campus sports gatherings."

While advocating for the best interests of the people, the representative stood strong against policies that could negatively impact the communities in Michigan. These include opposing extreme energy mandates, stripping local control, partisan court-packing, dangerous criminal justice reforms, road brine restrictions, and higher taxes. The representative emphasizes their stance, stating, "In the face of policies that could negatively impact our communities, I stood strong against extreme energy mandates, stripping local control, partisan court-packing, dangerous criminal justice reforms, road brine restrictions, and higher taxes."

Looking ahead, the representative believes that Michigan's energy future must include nuclear energy and is proud to co-chair a new bipartisan and bicameral caucus focused on nuclear energy issues. Expressing their vision, the representative states, "Michigan must examine nuclear energy as an important piece of our energy future."

In conclusion, the representative expresses gratitude for the trust placed in them to be the voice of the people at the Capitol. They assure the constituents that their commitment to serving them and championing policies that positively impact the communities remains strong. The representative states, "Thank you so much for placing your trust in me. Looking ahead to the new year, my commitment to serving you and championing policies that positively impact our communities remains strong."

To reach out to the representative, constituents are encouraged to contact their office through phone or email. The representative acknowledges the importance of the constituents' input, stating, "Your input is invaluable."

As the year comes to an end, the representative reflects on the work done, the accomplishments achieved, and the ongoing efforts to make Michigan a better place for all its residents.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://gophouse.org/posts/column-reflecting-on-my-work-at-the-state-capitol-in-2023