[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px|||||” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2023\/02\/BrinksEmailBanner.png” title_text=”BrinksEmailBanner” _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Hello Neighbors,<\/p>\n
Senate Democrats have been hard at work in Lansing, ensuring that we waste no time addressing the important issues that matter to the people of Michigan. We have organized our committees, appointed our chairs, finalized our agenda, negotiated between chambers, and begun to move policy forward at a record pace. In fact, when Governor Whitmer signed our $1.1 billion spending plan into law on January 31, it marked the first time in 75 years that Michigan legislation has been signed that early. Usually, it isn’t until March that we see bills being signed into law.<\/p>\n
Make no mistake, we are being deliberative and measured about these changes \u2013 but we entered this year with a deep drive and a clear set of goals. We plan to continue making advancements all while addressing the issues that matter to the people who entrusted us with this leadership role.\u00a0<\/p>\n
I hope your 2023 has been off to a good start. As always, it\u2019s my honor to work for you, the people of District 29, and deliver honest, diligent representation in Lansing on the issues that matter most.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Sincerely,<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2022\/12\/Brinks-signature.jpeg” title_text=”Brinks-signature” _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Winnie Brinks \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n In This Issue<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n Legislative and Government Updates<\/b><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n District Happenings\u00a0<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n Helpful Information\u00a0<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n Contact Us\u00a0\u00a0<\/b>\u00a0<\/i><\/b><\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”leg” _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n <\/b><\/p>\n <\/b><\/p>\n <\/b><\/p>\n Spending Bill Signed into Law<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The Senate and House sent our first public act of the new year to the Governor\u2019s desk in January \u2014 a $1.1 billion spending bill that utilizes Michigan\u2019s unspent federal COVID relief funds. It makes critical investments in the state\u2019s Housing and Community Development Fund to build and refurbish affordable housing for veterans, seniors, people with disabilities, and working-class families across our state. It funds the Missing Middle Housing Program, which aims to specifically build and rehabilitate properties for middle class families near where they work. The dollars will be used to help businesses, establish a water shutoff prevention fund, help workers with transportation and childcare costs, and encourage apprenticeship programs.<\/p>\n Repealing the 3rd Grade Reading Law<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n One immediate priority for Democratic leaders at the outset of this legislative session was to address the damaging portions of Michigan\u2019s third grade reading law. Sen. Polehanki introduced Senate Bill 12, which would repeal the portion of that law that requires that third graders who are not reading on grade level to be held back and repeat the grade.<\/p>\n Senate Bill 12<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>will ensure students are provided with individualized reading support, evidence-based reading interventions, at-home reading plans, and early literacy coaching. This bill passed the Senate on Wednesday and will be presented to the House for their consideration.<\/p>\n Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Sen. Moss introduced\u00a0<\/span>Senate Bill 4<\/a>, which would amend the Elliott-Larsen Civil Right Act to include sexual orientation and gender identity or expression as categories that are protected from discrimination. Our state of is home to\u00a0<\/span>over 373,000\u00a0<\/span><\/a>LGBTQ+ people who deserve the same protection and freedom from discrimination that any other Michigan resident can count on. This week, the bill passed out of the Senate Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety Committee, the first time in 40 years a bill to include LGBTQ protections has passed out of a state legislative committee.<\/p>\n I look forward to supporting the passage of this bill when it comes to a vote on the Senate floor.<\/p>\n Presidential Primary<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n The issues that matter to Michigan should matter to the whole nation, and on February 2 we made great strides to ensure that Michigan’s voice would be elevated to a higher level of significance by ensuring we are among the first states to hold our presidential primary vote.<\/p>\n The legislature passed\u00a0<\/span>Senate Bill 13<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>to move up Michigan\u2019s primary date. This would bring economic activity and enhanced voter engagement to our state, and I was glad to support Senate Bill 13.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”dis” _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n <\/b><\/p>\n <\/b><\/p>\n <\/b><\/p>\n Statement on Tyre Nichols Death<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n On January 28, 2023, I issued the following statement in reaction to recently released video footage showing Tyre Nichols being brutally beaten by Memphis police officers earlier this month:<\/p>\n \u201cThe footage released of the brutal beating of Tyre Nichols is absolutely horrifying. My heart aches for his loved ones, particularly his mother.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThose whose duty it is to protect and serve clearly failed this young man, resulting in his needless and tragic death. Trust cannot and will not be restored until meaningful action is taken. That means ensuring swift legal action when officers act beyond the power of their badge, rooting out internal culture problems that fuel violence, centering policing policies around the human dignity of all involved, and putting Black and Brown voices at the front of these important conversations.\u201d<\/p>\n Governor Whitmer Visits Economic Club of Grand Rapids\u00a0<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2023\/02\/1-EconomicClubofGR-Brinks.jpeg” title_text=”1-EconomicClubofGR-Brinks” _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n On February 6, 2023, Governor Whitmer spoke at the Economic Club of Grand Rapids, highlighting the important work that Democratic leaders are doing to improve the state\u2019s economy and bring well-paying jobs to our communities. Additionally, she signed an executive order that will transfer the administration of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from the Michigan Strategic Fund to the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA). This will help Michigan respond more urgently to the housing issues we are facing.\u00a0<\/p>\n You can read more about the steps we have identified to address the housing crisis in the\u00a0<\/span>State Housing Plan<\/a>.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Events<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2023\/02\/2-MLKDayEvents-Brinks.jpeg” title_text=”2-MLKDayEvents-Brinks” _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n I was honored to start Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the 23rd annual corporate breakfast hosted by the Urban League of West Michigan. Later that afternoon, I helped prepare food that would be delivered to Kentwood seniors at The Candied Yam for their annual day of service. I was happy to see several other legislators there, including State Rep. Phil Skaggs and U.S. Representative Hillary Scholten.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2023\/02\/3-UrbanLeagueofWMi-Brinks.jpeg” title_text=”3-UrbanLeagueofWMi-Brinks” _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Every year, I\u2019m grateful to be part of such a vibrant community where so many are committed to the vision that Dr. King had. There is so much work to be done as we strive toward equity and justice.\u00a0 I\u2019m heartened to find so many dedicated, creative, and caring people who are working toward that goal in West Michigan.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u00a0ICCF Ribbon Cutting<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2023\/02\/4-ICCFRibbonCutting-Brinks.jpeg” title_text=”4-ICCFRibbonCutting-Brinks” _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Downtown Grand Rapids now has a new senior living center! My staff was proud to attend the ribbon cutting hosted by ICCF Community Homes for “The Southgate,\u201d a beautiful new building on Division Avenue in the Southgate neighborhood. It includes 56 housing units, a gym, a library, and beautiful community spaces.<\/span><\/p>\n The project was funded in part through Michigan State Housing Development Authority\u2019s (MSDHA) Low Income Housing Tax Credits and dollars from the Michigan Brownfield Redevelopment Plan. We know that there is an urgent need for more affordable housing for our seniors. This beautiful space will provide not only affordable living space, but also a dignified, safe, and truly beautiful place for seniors to call home.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”hel” _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n <\/b><\/p>\n <\/b><\/p>\n <\/b><\/p>\n New Text-to-911 Service Available<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Ever wanted to text law enforcement instead of calling them? Now, residents in Kent County can text 911 if they are in trouble.<\/p>\n On December 20, 2022, the Kent County Sheriff Department and Grand Rapids Police Department announced the joint launch of the text-to-911 service. Both law enforcement agencies equally recognized that there are high-stress situations where a phone call is not possible or where texting can be safer.<\/p>\n Furthermore, this text-to-911 service can benefit community members who identify as deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired. The text-to-911 service can translate languages for non-native English-speaking individuals as well.<\/p>\n When texting responders, include your location and specific details. Keep in mind that photos and videos will not go through to responders.<\/p>\n <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n Michigan Achievement Scholarship<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2023\/02\/MichiganAchievementScholarshipIrwin.jpg” title_text=”MichiganAchievementScholarshipIrwin” _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The Michigan Achievement Scholarship application has opened for all high school seniors! This scholarship provides:<\/p>\n There is no deadline for this scholarship. Students have 15 months from either their high school graduation or high school equivalency completion to enter college and use the funds they are awarded.<\/p>\n High school seniors can get started by following these steps:<\/p>\n <\/i><\/b><\/p>\n How to Stay Warm This Winter<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n In our district, it\u2019s important to watch out for one another. During our coldest months, local warming centers and shelters in the Greater Grand Rapids area are available for those who are experiencing homelessness or need a safe place to go:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”con” _builder_version=”4.19.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n <\/b><\/p>\n <\/b><\/p>\n <\/b><\/p>\n The Office of Senate Majority Leader Brinks values input from all Michiganders but prioritizes District 29 constituent concerns. If you have questions or concerns, but are not a resident of District 29, I encourage you to reach out to your local State Senator.\u00a0<\/span>Click here to find who represents you in the Senate.<\/a><\/p>\n Comment on Legislation:<\/i><\/b>\u00a0<\/span>You can stay updated on legislative advancements through my biweekly e-newsletters or by clicking\u00a0<\/span>here<\/a>. Given the high volume of messages my office receives daily, please note that it may take time for your inquiry to receive a response.<\/p>\n If You Need Help:<\/i>\u00a0<\/span><\/b>If you have a problem dealing with any department of state government, such as accessing unemployment benefits, my office is available to help resolve it. While we usually cannot assist with local or federal issues, we will always do our best to help direct you to the appropriate person or organization for help.<\/p>\n You many always feel free to call my office at (517) 373-1801 or email me at\u00a0<\/span>SenWBrinks@senate.michigan.gov.<\/a><\/p>\n Helpful Links<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Hello Neighbors, Senate Democrats have been hard at work in Lansing, ensuring that we waste no time addressing the important issues that matter to the people of Michigan. We have […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":6456,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[13],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-6450","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-email"],"yoast_head":"\n
<\/b>Senate Majority Leader
<\/span>29th District<\/span><\/p>\n\n
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LEGISLATIVE AND GOVERNMENT UPDATE<\/b><\/h4>\n
DISTRICT HAPPENINGS<\/b><\/h4>\n
HELPFUL INFORMATION<\/b><\/h4>\n
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CONTACT US<\/b><\/h4>\n
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