[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ theme_builder_area=”post_content” _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2023\/02\/BrinksEmailBanner.png” _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” title_text=”BrinksEmailBanner” url=”www.senatedems.com\/brinks\/” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” custom_margin=”-11px|auto||auto||”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
Hello neighbors,\u00a0<\/p>\n
Exciting news: The Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) is one step closer to helping communities in our district and throughout Michigan fight the rising costs of medicine. It is already challenging enough to deal with a life-changing diagnosis and adding enormous medication bills on top of that stress can be unbearable. The PDAB means we can make the system work better for everyone and reduce financial barriers to wellness.<\/p>\n
Our efforts to establish this board in Michigan have support from medical professionals and associations to policy experts and patients. The coalition of support highlights the importance of immediate intervention to alleviate the financial strain imposed by high prescription drug costs and promote equitable healthcare opportunities. This bill now heads over the House for their consideration.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n I hope you enjoy the other updates I have for you from Lansing. As always, it is my honor to work for you, the people of District 29, to deliver honest, diligent representation in Lansing on the issues that matter most.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Sincerely,\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” custom_margin=”-11px|auto||auto||”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2022\/12\/Brinks-signature.jpeg” _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” title_text=”Brinks-signature” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” custom_margin=”-12px|auto||auto||”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Winnie Brinks <\/p>\n In This Issue <\/b><\/p>\n Legislative Update<\/span><\/p>\n District News and Updates<\/p>\n Helpful Information<\/p>\n Contact Us<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Legislative Updates <\/b><\/p>\n Michigan Reconnect Eligibility Expanded To be eligible, you just need to:<\/p>\n Don\u2019t wait, apply today<\/a>!<\/p>\n Auto No Fault Revisited During hearings on those bills, Senators have heard testimony from car crash survivors, health care providers and those who pay for auto insurance who feel frustrated with the lack of support and high prices under the current law. I look forward to continued progress on addressing these important issues. <\/p>\n LCV Action Day at the Capitol<\/b><\/i><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” custom_margin=”-17px|auto||auto||”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2023\/10\/Brinks-LCV_Rally.jpg” _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” title_text=”Brinks-LCV_Rally” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” custom_margin=”-12px|auto||auto||”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Last week, Michiganders from around the whole state showed up to the Capitol to express their support for our need for a speedy and just transition to renewable energy. I am so encouraged by the support we have received and calls to continue working hard on finding solutions that are the right fit for Michigan.<\/p>\n One important step forward: I recently was able to cast a yes vote on Senate Bill 277, which passed our chamber. It allows farmers to rent land for solar operations while maintaining the preservation of farmland. This bipartisan bill is pro-farmer and pro-environment and will not only help farmers to diversify revenue sources, but it will also help to move our state toward a clean energy future.<\/span><\/p>\n I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to build a sustainable energy portfolio that serves us today and protects future generations, too.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n District News and Updates<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n Celebrating Black Nurses\u00a0\u00a0<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” custom_margin=”-18px|auto||auto||”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2023\/10\/blacknursesgala.jpg” _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” title_text=”blacknursesgala” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” custom_margin=”-13px|auto||auto||”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n I recently had the honor of attending and speaking at the first annual Grand Rapids Black Nurses Association Dream Gala. Nurses that represent the diversity of our community are crucial to ensuring patience are listened to, cared for and receive the medical interventions they need. This is especially critical given the disparities that we know exist for BIPOC patients in healthcare settings.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n I know that all nurses work incredibly hard, and their work often goes without thanks, so it was a privilege to have an opportunity to express my deep gratitude to these Black nurses, in particular, for the work and sacrifices they put in, day in and day out. Their legacy is an example of courage, grace and perseverance for all of us.<\/p>\n Coffee Hour with Rep. Skaggs<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” custom_margin=”22px|auto||auto||”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2023\/10\/coffeehour.jpg” _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” title_text=”coffeehour” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” custom_margin=”-12px|auto||auto||”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Last week I joined Representative Skaggs \u2014 whose House district overlaps my Senate district in East Grand Rapids, southeast Grand Rapids and Kentwood \u2014 for a joint coffee hour. We had a tremendous turnout and had a chance to discuss critical issues like energy, climate and immigrant rights. It is an honor to ensure that the views of the residents of my district are part of important decisions made in Lansing. Thank you to all those who attended, and keep reading to learn about my upcoming coffee hour with Rep. Glanville!<\/p>\n Visiting a UAW Picket Line<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” custom_margin=”-16px|auto||auto||”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2023\/10\/visitingauawpicketline.jpg” _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” title_text=”visitingauawpicketline” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” custom_margin=”-11px|auto||auto||”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Autoworkers are not the only UAW members on strike this fall! I was able to join the Local 2145 UAW call center workers on strike and greet local President Janice Hilliard in Grand Rapids. Workers deserve to reap the rewards of their hard work, and it’s time to ensure that they can fully enjoy the economic success they help create. I continue to stand in solidarity with UAW International Union and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan strikers!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Helpful Information <\/p>\n <\/b>Breast Cancer Awareness Month The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) urges Michiganders to put their health needs first through the following free health screening programs:<\/p>\n To learn more about Michigan\u2019s Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Navigation Program and the WISEWOMAN Program, call 844-446-8727 or visit Michigan.gov\/cancer<\/a>. For Spanish resources, call 800-379-1057. <\/p>\n Public Comment Needed: Federal Funding Available for High-Speed Internet Access Expansion As of 2023, close to 500,000 Michigan households are unserved or underserved by high-speed internet infrastructure, and another 730,000 households face barriers related to a combination of affordability, adoption, device access and digital literacy.<\/p>\n Therefore, public comments will be incredibly useful in helping to draft MIHI\u2019s proposal and determine how the state of Michigan will utilize the historic funding. Public comment on Volume 1 of the BEAD Initial Proposal is open now through 11:59 p.m. on October 31.<\/p>\n To submit a comment via form, click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Most Michigan residents can still get a COVID-19 vaccine for free. For people with health insurance, most plans will cover COVID-19 vaccine at no cost to you. Michigan residents who don\u2019t have health insurance or have health plans that do not cover the cost can reach out to a health care provider or local pharmacy participating in the CDC\u2019s Bridge Access Program<\/a>, their health department or visit Vaccines.gov<\/a> for additional information on ways to obtain a free vaccine.<\/p>\n For more information, click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) also continues to partner with libraries across the state to provide free at-home COVID-19 tests to Michiganders. Click here<\/a> for a list of participating libraries.<\/p>\n For Michiganders who are thinking about plans for in-person testing, Michigan.gov\/COVIDTest<\/a> remains in place to assist in locating a testing site. <\/p>\n Upcoming Coffee Hour<\/i><\/b> WHEN<\/b>: Monday, October 23, 2023, from 12 \u2013 1 p.m. Hope to see you there! <\/p>\n Contact Us<\/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, contact your local State Senator.\u202fClick here to find who represents you in the Senate<\/a>.<\/p>\n Comment on Legislation: <\/b>You can stay updated on legislative advancements through my biweekly e-newsletters or by clicking\u202fhere<\/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: <\/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 may always feel free to call my office at (517) 373-1801 or email me at\u202fSenWBrinks@senate.michigan.gov<\/a>.<\/p>\n Helpful Links <\/b><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Hello neighbors,\u00a0 Exciting news: The Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) is one step closer to helping communities in our district and throughout Michigan fight the rising costs of medicine. It […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":6995,"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-6988","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
\n
<\/b><\/i>The Michigan Reconnect Program is now available to Michiganders 21 and older who don\u2019t have a college degree. Previously, Michigan Reconnect was limited to people 25 and older. This program allows eligible students to pursue an associate degree or skills certificate at a community college without paying tuition.<\/span><\/p>\n\n
<\/b><\/i>Ever since the legislature passed a series of changes to our state\u2019s no-fault auto insurance, I have been very concerned about the impact those changes have had on people who depend on care after surviving an auto accident. For many, the changes have been devastating. I applaud Senator Anthony and Senator Cavanaugh for introducing Senate Bills <\/span>530<\/a> and <\/span>531<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/b><\/i>Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed to honor those impacted by breast cancer and spread awareness surrounding it. In our state, breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer among Michigan women. In fact, the American Cancer Society estimated that Michigan had 8,900 new cases of breast cancer and 1,390 deaths from breast cancer in 2022.<\/span><\/p>\n\n
<\/b><\/i>The Michigan High-Speed Internet Office (MIHI) is now accepting public comment on Volume 1 of Michigan\u2019s Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Initial Proposal. Michigan has received $1.559 billion in funding from the BEAD Act to expand access to high-speed internet service to more communities.<\/span><\/p>\n
Take Steps to Protect Yourself from COVID-19
<\/i><\/b>As the fall season begins, immunizations and testing continue to be critical tools in managing the spread of COVID-19. To help keep yourself and your community healthy, I encourage you to take advantage of the free vaccine and testing options available to you.<\/span>
<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n
Updated COVID-19 Vaccine Protects Against New Variants
<\/b><\/i>The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recommends all Michiganders 6 months and older receive the updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine which is designed to provide protection against severe COVID-19 disease from currently circulating variants.<\/span><\/p>\n
Testing Options: At-Home and In-Person
<\/b><\/i>As of September 25, 2023, all U.S. residents are able to go to <\/span>COVIDTests.gov<\/a> and sign up to receive up to four free at-home tests per household delivered via the U.S. Postal Service.<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/i><\/b>Join me and Rep. Glanville (House District 84) in person in Grand Rapids\u202fto discuss the issues that are important to you!<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/span>WHERE<\/b>: You can register for this coffee hour here<\/a>\u00a0or call our office at (517) 373-1801 to RSVP. You will receive the location details and an email reminder before the event.<\/span><\/p>\n\n