Dear Neighbor,
The official start of summer kicked off last week, bringing extreme temperatures and severe weather with it. Be sure to take care of yourself, your loved ones, and your community during this heatwave — and especially during this time of uncertainty and unrest for so many across our state and nation.
No matter what we’re up against, please understand that as your state Senator, I’m always fighting to protect our Michigan communities from the dangerous chaos ensuing in the federal government. My Democratic colleagues and I are in your corner, and we’ll continue doing everything in our power to safeguard our state and our residents from harm’s way.
As always, please feel free to reach out to share your thoughts or seek assistance with any challenges you may be facing with state departments. You can contact us by calling (517) 373-2417 or emailing SenRBayer@senate.michigan.gov. We are here to assist you!
Sincerely,
Rosemary Bayer
State Senator
District 13
- As chaos continues to unfold in the federal government, Senate Democrats are standing firm in the fight to safeguard Michigan families, farmers, workers, and local communities from the Trump administration’s dangerous actions.
- Join me for my next community conversation at the Plymouth District Library this Monday, June 30, from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
- As summer begins, our state is currently experiencing record high temperatures and a dangerous heatwave. To prevent heat-related illness, read on for safety tips to keep in mind.
Standing Against Federal Cuts & Chaos
From rash federal cuts to essential programs that serve the American people to haphazardly gutting entire federal agencies — it’s clear that the Trump administration has stoked unprecedented chaos, fear, and uncertainty across our nation. While this administration continues to disregard law and order and advance the priorities of America’s wealthiest, Senate Democrats remain steadfast in our commitment to serving you — the hardworking residents of Michigan.
Over the past few months, my colleagues and I have chaired Senate committee hearings to explore the devastating impacts of federal funding cuts on Michigan families, workers, consumers, seniors, and farmers. We’ve hosted community events across our districts to hear directly from folks impacted by the chaos coming out of Washington. And we’ve utilized the Senate floor as a platform to speak out against Trump’s pardoning of violent Jan. 6 criminals, his reckless tariffs, and his administration’s slew of other dangerous actions. Just this week, I joined colleagues in speaking in opposition to his “Big, Beautiful Bill,” or rather, the “Bad Billionaires Budget Bill” advancing through Congress. Watch my speech below, where I highlight how this reckless plan would lead to devastating consequences for the housing crisis already facing our state and nation.
This fight is far from over, but we’ll continue standing strong during these challenging times, no matter what we’re up against. Read more about our efforts to protect Michiganders from the effects of Trump’s federal mayhem and misconduct here — and read about how our proposed state budget works to further stand up for Michigan residents here.
A Snapshot of Legislative Activity at the Capitol
Along with recently passing a bold budget plan for 2026, Senate Democrats have been working hard to advance important legislation that breaks barriers faced by renters, protects access to reproductive health care, and improves public safety here in Michigan:
Strengthening Tenant Rights: This week, I shared testimony in the Senate Committee on Housing and Human Services on my legislation to lower costs and advance protections for Michigan renters. Sponsored alongside by colleagues Sens. Cavanagh, Geiss, and Irwin, Senate Bills 372-375 would add a cap on renter application fees, boost transparency in fees, provide one fee-free option for paying rent, and allow for the sealing of eviction records under certain circumstances. Learn more here, as well as by watching my testimony below.
Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act:
This week, Senate Democrats passed Senate Bills 154-155 to protect both those seeking reproductive health care and the medical professionals who provide it. The state-level FACE Act works to ensure patients can access
the care they need, when they need it — without intimidation or fear of harm. These bills now head to the House for further consideration.
Improving Public Safety: Senate Democrats also advanced bipartisan legislation to enhance public safety and community trust. Bipartisan Senate Bills 216-217 would improve roadway safety by strengthening penalties for drivers who injure or kill cyclists, pedestrians, wheelchair users, and other vulnerable roadway users. These bills passed the Senate floor this week and now head to the House for consideration.
We also heard testimony on the Police Practices Standardization, Transparency, and Trust (S.T.A.T.) package to improve law enforcement practices and transparency, making our communities safer for everyone. Crafted through extensive work with community stakeholders and law enforcement, these commonsense reforms would ensure Michigan remains a leader in advancing policies that enhance public safety and uphold justice for all.
Bridging to Belonging at First A.M.E. Church
I recently enjoyed some wonderful and uplifting conversations with our Bridging to Belonging group at the First A.M.E. Church in Farmington Hills! The stories that folks shared of their experiences coming to America were incredibly moving, and our conversations were truly amazing — what strong connections we made!
Plymouth Pride Event
I had an amazing time at Plymouth Pride over the weekend! Despite it being mighty hot outside, it was an awesome party in Old Village Plymouth. It was great to see Rep. Matt Koleszar there too, along with many Plymouth City Council members.
As June draws to a close, join me in reaffirming: equality hurts no one, and you belong. 🏳️🌈
Community Conversation
WHEN: Monday, June 30, from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Plymouth District Library, 223 South Main St., Plymouth, MI 48170
Protect Yourself from Heat-Related Illness
This week, temperatures are expected to reach the 90s with heat index values near and above 100 degrees. When it’s very hot, there’s an increased risk of heat-related illness, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can worsen and cause heat stroke or even death.
To stay healthy during these record high temperatures, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Drink more fluids and avoid liquids with large amounts of sugar or alcohol.
- Limit outdoor activities to when it’s coolest in the morning and evening.
- Spend time indoors with air conditioning.
- Check to make sure your air conditioner filters are clean, and the unit is working properly.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
- Wear sunscreen, as sunburn affects the body’s ability to cool down.
- Check on your neighbors and relatives.
- Never leave children or pets unattended in cars, even with the windows cracked.
Safe Firearm Storage Reminder
Each year in the United States, hundreds of children are accidentally injured or killed by firearms that are not properly secured.
With June being National Gun Violence Prevention Month, the Michigan State Police is reminding residents that Michigan gun owners are legally responsible for ensuring their firearms are stored in a safe manner. The state’s Secure Storage Law requires individuals to keep unattended firearms unloaded and locked with a locking device or stored in a locked box or container if it is reasonably known that a minor is likely to be present on the premises.
Safe storage can reduce the risk of both intentional and unintentional injuries and deaths, as well as lower the rates of firearm theft. Next time you store your firearm, ensure it’s unloaded, locked, and kept separate from ammunition. If you don’t have a gun lock but need one, free locks can be obtained through Project ChildSafe police partners across the state. To find one near you, click here.
Recognizing Juneteenth
Happy Juneteenth! Observed on June 19 every year, Juneteenth commemorates the day that the last people who were enslaved in the U.S. learned of their freedom — June 19, 1865, over two years after President Abraham Lincoln presented the Emancipation Proclamation.
The significance of Juneteenth extends beyond its historical roots. It symbolizes triumph over the injustices of slavery and stands as a testament to the progress made and the work still needed to achieve true freedom and equality for all. As we celebrate this day, please know that I remain committed to fighting for equity and justice so that all people are not only free but can have access to opportunity here in Michigan.