{"id":7605,"date":"2024-12-05T09:41:28","date_gmt":"2024-12-05T14:41:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/?p=7605"},"modified":"2024-12-05T09:41:29","modified_gmt":"2024-12-05T14:41:29","slug":"district-29-updates","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dev.senatedems.com\/brinks\/2024\/12\/05\/district-29-updates\/","title":{"rendered":"District 29 Updates"},"content":{"rendered":"\n[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2024\/03\/brinks.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Senator Brinks Email Banner&#8221; title_text=&#8221;brinks`&#8221; force_fullwidth=&#8221;on&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Dear Neighbor,<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Happy holidays! It&#8217;s the season of gratitude, so I\u2019m taking this opportunity to thank you for allowing me to serve you in the state Senate. Getting to advocate on behalf of the needs and desires of our neighbors is an honor that I don\u2019t take lightly, and I\u2019m grateful our community has entrusted me to be a voice for change.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">We are in the midst of the \u201clame duck\u201d period \u2014 the time between the election and the end of the term. As we close out the 102nd Legislature, there\u2019s a lot left to accomplish, and I\u2019m committed to continuing to push for the priorities that make the lives of everyday Michiganders better.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">If you or someone you know would like to provide any feedback about what\u2019s happening in Lansing, or needs assistance of any sort, please feel free to reach out to my office. You can contact me by sending an email to <\/span><a href=\"mailto:senwbrinks@senate.michigan.gov\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">senwbrinks@senate.michigan.gov<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> or calling (517) 373-1801.\u202f\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:360,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Sincerely,\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2022\/12\/Brinks-signature.jpeg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Senator Brinks Signature&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Brinks-signature&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Winnie Brinks<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Majority Leader\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">District 29\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2024\/12\/EnewsHeaders_Recent-Highlights.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Recent Highlights&#8221; title_text=&#8221;EnewsHeaders_Recent Highlights&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<ul>\n<li><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Democrats honor International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, enacting bipartisan legislation and delivering budget investments that support and protect survivors of violence.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"2\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">The holidays are a perfect time to give back and invest in our local communities. That\u2019s why my colleagues and I are working hard to tackle food insecurity in Michigan and bolster support for our local small businesses.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2024\/10\/EnewsHeaders_Legislative-Updates.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;EnewsHeaders_Legislative Updates&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><strong><span data-contrast=\"auto\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" lang=\"EN-US\" class=\"TextRun SCXW95326060 BCX4\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW95326060 BCX4\">Recognizing International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW95326060 BCX4\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2024\/12\/StopViolenceAgainstWomen.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Recognizing International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women &#8221; title_text=&#8221;StopViolenceAgainstWomen&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">According to the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/Bills\/Bill#:~:text=About%2041%20percent,formerly%2Dintimate%20partners.\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Citizens Research Council of Michigan<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, about 41% of women have experienced Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) during their lifetime. In 2021, 70,564 incidents of domestic violence were reported to Michigan police, underscoring the serious public health concern plaguing our state, nation, and globe.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Nov. 25 is <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/blog\/2023\/11\/03\/survivors-of-domestic-violence\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">annually recognized<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Senate Democrats have passed <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/blog\/2023\/10\/11\/protect-survivors-of-domestic-violence\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">bipartisan legislation<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and delivered budget investments that protect survivors of violence, ranging from:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Allocating <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">$1 million<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> in the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/budget\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">2025 budget<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> to support programs that serve survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Enacting <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/links-2.govdelivery.com\/CL0\/https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/msp\/divisions\/ohsp\/safety-programs\/winter-driving\/drive-slow-on-ice-snow\/1\/010101932b32bdaf-b4c7ac6a-9d37-4d0c-b514-f39df6a11170-000000\/HumYTr2BR23ChiSpE49UrZ3WsDPKv_AvAdyhXS9iHzM=379?ObjectName=2023-SB-0471\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bills 471<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/Bills\/Bill?ObjectName=2023-SB-0528\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">528<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, along with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/chang\/2024\/11\/18\/pregnancy-support\/?ObjectName=2023-HB-4945\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">House Bill 4945<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, to prevent those convicted of domestic violence crimes from possessing, using, or purchasing a firearm in Michigan for eight years, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/links-2.govdelivery.com\/CL0\/https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/msp\/divisions\/ohsp\/safety-programs\/winter-driving\/winter-tire-safety-tips%23:~:text=check%2520your%2520tread.-,THE%2520PENNY%2520TEST,-Insert%2520a%2520penny\/1\/010101932b32bdaf-b4c7ac6a-9d37-4d0c-b514-f39df6a11170-000000\/g2-StcWv1X7Mv42g1qc0MNbCT8ALvDAwMN3ZBATDVEQ=379\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">protecting survivors of violence from further abuse<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">And championing an extensive, bipartisan <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/whitmer\/news\/press-releases\/2023\/06\/29\/whitmer-signs-bills-to-protect-michigan-students-at-schools_colleges-and-universities-from-abuse\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">bill package<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> to bolster state laws regarding sexual assault and provide better, trauma-informed support for survivors.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This Past Month, Senate Democrats Introduced Bills to:<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Expand Healthcare Supports for Expectant Parents: <\/span><\/i><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Introduced by Sen. Stephanie Chang, Senate Bills <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/msp\/divisions\/ohsp\/safety-programs\/winter-driving?ObjectName=2024-SB-1127\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">1127<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/Bills\/Bill?ObjectName=2024-SB-1128\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">1128<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> would <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/Bills\/Bill\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">enable more individuals to receive prenatal care in a group-based setting<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, such as the childbirth classes offered through the CenteringPregnancy programs. Building on <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/whitmer\/news\/proclamations\/2024\/11\/30\/november-30-2024-small-business-saturday\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">a slew of other legislation<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> championed by Senate Democrats earlier this year to improve equity and accountability in the maternal healthcare system and expand Michiganders\u2019 reproductive rights, this legislation would require private insurers and Medicaid to provide coverage for group-based pregnancy support programs, which are shown to result in improved health outcomes for both the birthing parent and baby.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Enhance Public Safety:<\/span><\/i><\/b> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">A large-scale <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/chang\/2024\/11\/22\/public-safety\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">bipartisan bill package<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> to improve public safety and build community trust has been introduced in the Senate. Incorporating extensive feedback from stakeholders, law enforcement professionals, and legislators on both sides of the aisle, Senate Bills <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/links-2.govdelivery.com\/CL0\/https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/msp\/divisions\/ohsp\/safety-programs\/winter-driving\/be-prepared\/1\/010101932b32bdaf-b4c7ac6a-9d37-4d0c-b514-f39df6a11170-000000\/LWt81PCH4fxC-VtQnkL_kT-wx1fgyWa56alUiBpBexs=379?ObjectName=2024-SB-1091\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">1091<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">&#8211;<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/blog\/2024\/10\/16\/housing-and-human-services\/?ObjectName=2024-SB-1101\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">1101<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> seek to reform how police officers <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">handle interactions with community members to strengthen the profession and prevent the use of excessive force and abuse of power by bad actors.<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Some of the proposed reforms include issuing a verbal warning before using physical force, exhausting other alternatives before using deadly force, and limiting use of no-knock warrants.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Protect Michigan Consumers: <\/span><\/i><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Sen. Mary Cavanagh introduced a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/cavanagh\/2024\/11\/13\/sen-cavanagh-champions-legislation-to-strengthen-enforcement-of-insurance-regulations-better-protect-michigan-consumers\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">comprehensive bill package<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> to ensure greater accountability and transparency in the insurance industry and better serve millions of Michigan consumers. Cosponsored by Sens. Rosemary Bayer, Veronica Klinefelt, and Stephanie Chang, Senate Bills <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/crcmich.org\/michigan-can-do-more-to-combat-intimate-partner-violence?ObjectName=2024-SB-1087\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">1087<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">&#8211;<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/Bills\/Bill?ObjectName=2024-SB-1090\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">1090<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> work to bolster the Michigan Dept. of Insurance and Financial Services\u2019 (DIFS) enforcement of insurance code regulations and expand the department\u2019s ability to discipline offenders.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2024\/10\/EnewsHeaders_Community-Connections.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Community Connections&#8221; title_text=&#8221;EnewsHeaders_Community Connections&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Thanksgiving Festivities<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2024\/12\/TurkeyTrot.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221; Thanksgiving Festivities &#8211; Turkey Trot&#8221; title_text=&#8221;TurkeyTrot&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" lang=\"EN-US\" class=\"TextRun SCXW228379054 BCX4\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW228379054 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\" data-ccp-charstyle-defn=\"{&quot;ObjectId&quot;:&quot;a1e342d9-bcfe-4f3b-9180-a1343758d8bb|71&quot;,&quot;ClassId&quot;:1073872969,&quot;Properties&quot;:[201342446,&quot;1&quot;,201342447,&quot;5&quot;,201342448,&quot;3&quot;,201342449,&quot;1&quot;,469777841,&quot;Calibri&quot;,469777842,&quot;&quot;,469777843,&quot;&quot;,469777844,&quot;Calibri&quot;,201341986,&quot;1&quot;,469769226,&quot;Calibri&quot;,268442635,&quot;22&quot;,469775450,&quot;normaltextrun&quot;,201340122,&quot;1&quot;,134233614,&quot;true&quot;,469778129,&quot;normaltextrun&quot;,335572020,&quot;1&quot;,469778324,&quot;Default Paragraph Font&quot;]}\">Team Brinks spent Thanksgiving morning up<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW228379054 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">&#8211;<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW228379054 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">and<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW228379054 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">&#8211;<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW228379054 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">at-<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW228379054 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">em<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW228379054 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\"> early, joining more than 6,000 others to run in the G<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW228379054 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">rand Rapids Public Schools <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW228379054 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">Foundation\u2019s annual Turkey Trot<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW228379054 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\"> in<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW228379054 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\"> downtown Grand Rapids. What fun to celebrate the <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW228379054 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">great work<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW228379054 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\"> the foundation is doing for GRPS scholars, supporting athletics and arts programming, and <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW228379054 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">join with neighbors in moving our feet before we sit down to feast<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW228379054 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW228379054 BCX4\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2024\/12\/TurkeyGiveaway.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Senator Brinks Turkey Giveaway&#8221; title_text=&#8221;TurkeyGiveaway&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">I also had the pleasure of joining other community leaders like Rep. Kristian Grant and Commissioner Kelsey Perdue in distributing turkeys at Gerald R. Ford Academic Center \u2014 a generous donation from McDonalds.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Encuentro de Dos Culturas<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2024\/12\/PuertoRicanCommittee.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;I also had the pleasure of joining other community leaders like Rep. Kristian Grant and Commissioner Kelsey Perdue in distributing turkeys at Gerald R. Ford Academic Center \u2014 a generous donation from McDonalds. \n \nEncuentro de Dos Culturas &#8211; Puerto Rican Committee&#8221; title_text=&#8221;PuertoRicanCommittee&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"none\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" lang=\"EN-US\" class=\"TextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\" data-ccp-charstyle-defn=\"{&quot;ObjectId&quot;:&quot;a1e342d9-bcfe-4f3b-9180-a1343758d8bb|71&quot;,&quot;ClassId&quot;:1073872969,&quot;Properties&quot;:[201342446,&quot;1&quot;,201342447,&quot;5&quot;,201342448,&quot;3&quot;,201342449,&quot;1&quot;,469777841,&quot;Calibri&quot;,469777842,&quot;&quot;,469777843,&quot;&quot;,469777844,&quot;Calibri&quot;,201341986,&quot;1&quot;,469769226,&quot;Calibri&quot;,268442635,&quot;22&quot;,469775450,&quot;normaltextrun&quot;,201340122,&quot;1&quot;,134233614,&quot;true&quot;,469778129,&quot;normaltextrun&quot;,335572020,&quot;1&quot;,469778324,&quot;Default Paragraph Font&quot;]}\">For the tenth year in a row, the Puerto Rican Cultural Committee of West Michigan has invited our community to enjoy the Encuentro de dos <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">Culturas<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\"> <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">\u2014<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\"> a celebration of Puerto Rican culture and the contributions that Puerto Ricans make to our local community. <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">It\u2019s<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\"> always <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">a great time<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\"> <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">\u2014<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\"> food, friends (like Rep. Hillary Scholten), <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">and this year <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">something special: alongside <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">Rep. <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">John Fitzgerald, I had the pleasure <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">of awarding the committee with a legislative <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">t<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"normaltextrun\">ribute to honor their decade of service.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW245595704 BCX4\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2024\/10\/EnewsHeaders_News-Resources.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;EnewsHeaders_News &#038; Resources&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><strong><span data-contrast=\"auto\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" lang=\"EN-US\" class=\"TextRun SCXW231664825 BCX4\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW231664825 BCX4\">Shining a Spotlight on Small Businesses <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW231664825 BCX4\">Last <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW231664825 BCX4\">Saturday<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW231664825 BCX4\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2024\/12\/SmallBusinessSaturday.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;SmallBusinessSaturday&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, spurring job creation and growth, revenue, innovation, and community engagement. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/Bills\/Bill#:~:text=according%20to%20the%20U.S.%20Small%20Business%20Administration%2C%20small%20businesses%20comprise%20over%2098%25%20of%20Michigan%20businesses%20and%20employ%20half%20of%20Michigan%20workers%3B%20and%2C\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">According to the U.S. Small Business Administration<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, small businesses make up over 98% of Michigan businesses and employ half of all Michigan workers.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Small Business Saturday has been observed <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/blog\/2023\/11\/21\/small-business-saturday\/#:~:text=Since%202010%2C%20Small%20Business%20Saturday%20has%20been%20observed%20on%20the%20Saturday%20following%20Thanksgiving.\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">since 2010<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, encouraging consumers to support our invaluable local brick-and-mortar stores during the busiest shopping season of the year. Nov. 30 is Small Business Saturday, and I hope you\u2019ll join me in shopping small right here in our community this holiday season!<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Honoring Michigan\u2019s Native American Communities<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2024\/12\/NativeAmericanHeritageMonth.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Native American Heritage Month&#8221; title_text=&#8221;NativeAmericanHeritageMonth&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor and celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Native American communities here in Michigan and across the country. As home to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/libraryofmichigan\/public\/michigan\/michigan-booklists\/booklists-compilations\/michigan-native-american-authors\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">12 federally recognized tribes<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> that operate on sovereign land, Michigan\u2019s Indigenous communities are vast and diverse.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">From raising awareness about the history of Indian boarding schools in our state to protecting tribal fishing areas, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/blog\/2024\/11\/22\/native-american-heritage-month-2\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Democrats have been working hard to tackle issues important to our state\u2019s Native American communities<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Earlier this year, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/Bills\/Bill\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">legislation to ensure that Michigan\u2019s Foster Care Review Boards work effectively with tribal governments to serve Native American children was signed into law by Gov. Whitmer<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. Sponsored by Sen. Jeff Irwin, Michigan\u2019s only Native American State Senator, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/Bills\/Bill?ObjectName=2023-SB-0498\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bill 498<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> takes a critical step towards repairing the harm done to tribal communities by the child welfare system and will keep children better connected to their communities and cultures.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">And, just last month, the Senate Appropriations Committee favorably passed <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/Bills\/Bill?ObjectName=2024-HB-5600\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">House Bill 5600<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> on to the Senate floor, legislation that would establish the Office of Tribal Legislative Liaison to strengthen partnerships and communication between Michigan\u2019s tribal communities and the state legislature.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Whether by cracking open a new book written by a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/irwin\/2023\/09\/20\/foster-care-review-boards\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">local Native American<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> author or making plans to visit any of the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.org\/article\/trip-idea\/4-must-see-native-american-cultural-sites\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">four must-see Native American cultural sites in our state<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, I hope you\u2019ll join me in honoring and uplifting Michigan\u2019s resilient Indigenous communities who\u2019ve been here for millennia and are here to stay.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tips to Stay Safe on the Roads this Winter<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Michiganders know all too well \u2014 wintertime driving in this state is no joke. To encourage safe-driving habits while traveling on Michigan roadways during the winter months, the Michigan State Police\u2019s Office of Highway and Safety Planning (OHSP) reminds motorists to keep these safety tips in mind:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/en\/observances\/ending-violence-against-women-day\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Drive slow on ice and snow<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. It can take up to ten times longer to stop your vehicle on snowy and\/or icy roads. Slow down and allow more room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/mdhhs\/inside-mdhhs\/tribal-government-services-and-policy\/native\/overview\/federally-recognized-tribes-in-michigan\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Be prepared<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> by taking time to winterize your vehicle and stock it with emergency supplies. Refer to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/links-2.govdelivery.com\/CL0\/https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/msp\/-\/media\/Project\/Websites\/msp\/ohsp\/pdfs\/2020_ohsp_winterdriving_infographic_emergencies_v511_b.pdf\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">this packet<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> for a complete list of supplies to keep in your vehicle.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">During the winter months, check your tire pressure weekly. Additionally, examine the tread on your tires for wear when you check tire pressure, when rotating your tires, and before you take long trips. Use the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/Bills\/Bill\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">penny test<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> to check your tread.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">A new Michigan law (led by my colleague Sen. Sam Singh) requires drivers following a snowplow to stay at least 200 feet away from snowplows. It also states that motorists cannot stop within 20 feet of a snowplow at an intersection.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Know how to handle <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/links-2.govdelivery.com\/CL0\/https:%2F%2Fwww.michigan.gov%2Fmsp%2Fdivisions%2Fohsp%2Fsafety-programs%2Fwinter-driving%2Fknow-how-to-handle-winter-driving-emergencies\/1\/010101932b32bdaf-b4c7ac6a-9d37-4d0c-b514-f39df6a11170-000000\/GdBsYZP6y9iSHXhXI8Ge33aB6abK4lcCjGLSriTNO0c=379\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">winter-driving emergencies<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> should you find yourself stopped or stalled on the road. Stay with your vehicle and call 911 or a roadside service like AAA. Make yourself visible to other motorists by turning on your hazard lights.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Visit the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/Bills\/Bill\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">OHSP\u2019s Winter-Driving web page<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> for more safety tips and information.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2024\/10\/EnewsHeaders_Stay-in-Touch.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Stay in Touch&#8221; title_text=&#8221;EnewsHeaders_Stay in Touch&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Contact Us<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202f\u202f\u202f<\/span><span>\u00a0<br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">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.\u202f<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/find\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Click here to find who represents you in the Senate<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.\u202f\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Comment on Legislation:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202fYou can stay updated on legislative advancements through my e-newsletters or by clicking\u202f<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/(S(gusf4ivndydihphwwksgjowe))\/mileg.aspx?page=home\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.\u202fGiven the high volume of messages my office receives daily, please note that it may take time for your inquiry to receive a response.\u202f\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">If You Need Help:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> 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.\u202f\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">You may always feel free to call my office at (517) 373-1801 or email me at\u202f<\/span><a href=\"mailto:SenWBrinks@senate.michigan.gov\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">SenWBrinks@senate.michigan.gov<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.\u202f<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202f\u202f\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Helpful Links<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202f\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">State Senator Winnie Brinks<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202f\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/brinks\/district\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate District 29 Map<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202f\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.senate.michigan.gov\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Michigan Senate<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202f\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.house.mi.gov\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Michigan House of Representatives<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202f\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Michigan Legislature<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202f\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.senate.gov\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">U.S. Senate<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202f\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.house.gov\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">U.S. House of Representatives<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202f\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.accesskent.com\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Kent County<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202f\u202f\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"http:\/\/grcity.us\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">City of Grand Rapids\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul><\/ul>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Dear Neighbor,\u00a0\u00a0 Happy holidays! It&#8217;s the season of gratitude, so I\u2019m taking this opportunity to thank you for allowing me to serve you in the state Senate. Getting to advocate [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":17,"featured_media":7610,"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-7605","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-email"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v26.4 (Yoast SEO v26.9) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>District 29 Updates - Senator Winnie Brinks<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/dev.senatedems.com\/brinks\/2024\/12\/05\/district-29-updates\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"District 29 Updates\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Dear Neighbor,\u00a0\u00a0 Happy holidays! It&#039;s the season of gratitude, so I\u2019m taking this opportunity to thank you for allowing me to serve you in the state Senate. 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