{"id":8963,"date":"2025-08-04T11:17:51","date_gmt":"2025-08-04T15:17:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/chang\/?p=8963"},"modified":"2025-08-04T11:18:13","modified_gmt":"2025-08-04T15:18:13","slug":"protecting-our-air-quality-medical-debt-uia-news-and-more","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dev.senatedems.com\/chang\/2025\/08\/04\/protecting-our-air-quality-medical-debt-uia-news-and-more\/","title":{"rendered":"Protecting Our Air Quality, Medical Debt &amp; UIA News, and More"},"content":{"rendered":"\n[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#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\/chang\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2023\/02\/Sen_Chang_Email_Banner_2.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Senator Chang Email Banner&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Sen_Chang_Email_Banner_2&#8243; 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;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#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><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">It\u2019s nearing the end of summer, so it would be an ideal time to get outdoors before the back-to-school season, but unfortunately for many in Michigan, poor air quality makes enjoying time outdoors difficult. This week, I participated in a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/1237905654478097\/permalink\/1237905684478094\/?rdid=kFr18BEujLkn6MPP&amp;share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2Fp%2F166R9GTn4h%2F\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">press conference<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> with the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/cleartheairmi.org\/about\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Clear the Air Coalition<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> to talk about why we need the Protecting Overburdened Communities Act sponsored by me and Rep. Donavan McKinney. See more information below.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Meanwhile, my team and I have been working hard at serving our community \u2014 meeting with folks at local events to hear what\u2019s on their minds, planning district events like our upcoming Outdoor Resource Fair in Highland Park, and knocking on doors across neighborhoods to find out what\u2019s on your minds.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">As always, please feel free to reach out to share your thoughts or seek assistance with any challenges you may be facing with state departments. You can email me at <\/span><a href=\"mailto:SenSChang@senate.michigan.gov\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">SenSChang@senate.michigan.gov<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> or call 313-922-6949.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Sincerely,<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/senatedems.com\/chang\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/03\/Chang_Stephanie_Signature.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Chang Stephanie Signature&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Chang_Stephanie_Signature&#8221; width=&#8221;29%&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#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\">Stephanie Chang<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">State Senator<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">District 3<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#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\/chang\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2025\/02\/EnewsHeaders_Recent-Highlights-1.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Recent highlights&#8221; title_text=&#8221;EnewsHeaders_Recent Highlights (1)&#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;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#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 data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"40\" 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;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Thanks to a $4.5 million investment Senate Democrats secured in last year\u2019s state budget, nearly 210,000 Michiganders in communities across our state have had their medical debt forgiven. And we\u2019re not done yet! Learn more below.<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"40\" 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;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Join me for my upcoming coffee and conversation event with Detroit Councilmember Gabriela Santiago-Romero and the Detroit Economic Justice Coalition at Avalon Bakery (441 W. Canfield) on August 8, from 2:00 \u2013 3:00 p.m.<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"40\" 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;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Because of state investments secured by Senate Democrats, Michiganders can save up to $5,500 a year on higher education costs with the Michigan Achievement Scholarship. Learn more below.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#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\/chang\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2025\/01\/EnewsHeaders_Upcoming-Events.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Upcoming events&#8221; title_text=&#8221;EnewsHeaders_Upcoming Events&#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;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#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\">Community Conversation with Detroit Councilmember Gabriela Santiago-Romero<br \/><\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Join us for our next community conversation in Detroit, which will feature a special presentation from the Detroit Economic Justice Coalition.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">WHEN: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Friday, August 8, from 2:00 \u2013 3:00 p.m.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><br \/><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">WHERE: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Avalon Bakery, 441 W. Canfield, Detroit, MI 48201<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Outdoor Resource Fair with the City of Highland Park<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">WHEN: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Saturday, August 16, from 12:00 \u2013 3:00 p.m.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><br \/><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">WHERE: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Ernest T. Ford Recreation Center, 10 Pitkin St., Highland Park, MI 48203<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#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\/chang\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2025\/01\/EnewsHeaders_Legislative-Updates.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Legislative Updates&#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;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#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\">Protecting Overburdened Communities Act (POCA)<br \/><\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">For many years, I have had the honor of serving several neighborhoods in Detroit and Downriver that have been heavily burdened by concentrations of heavy industry, truck traffic, construction, and more. From the oil refinery and multiple industrial facilities in Southwest Detroit to the now closed steel mill Downriver and over to the East Side with a large automotive manufacturing facility and recent fires at an oil recycling plant, the list of impacts on my current and former residents from polluting facilities is quite long. Cumulative impact refers to the combined impact of multiple polluting facilities and multiple pollutant types, and consideration of health conditions and demographic factors.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Michigan\u2019s Dept. of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) is tasked with protecting the state\u2019s environment and public health. Unfortunately, right now our systems are not set up to officially consider the combined impact of numerous facilities and numerous pollutants on our health. This puts overburdened communities that bear the brunt of pollution at further risk for more harmful health impacts and a lesser quality of life.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">So, along with Rep. Donavan McKinney, I reintroduced the Protecting Overburdened Communities Act \u2014 Senate Bill 479 and House Bill 4742 \u2014 to require EGLE to use a commonsense, science-based approach to instead consider combined health impacts for new or expanding polluting facilities. Michiganders deserve these changes to help protect their health and quality of life.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Tax Changes for Michiganders Under Trump\u2019s Big, <\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Beautiful<\/span><\/b> <b><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Bad <\/span><\/i><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Bill<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Earlier this summer, Republicans in Washington paved the way for the passage of Trump\u2019s budget mega-bill. Signed into law on July 4, this massive spending bill continues to add to the chaos and concern spurred by federal actions since January of this year. This Big Terrible Bill will certainly have a big impact, but that impact looks to be anything but beautiful.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Along with stripping health care and food assistance away from millions of Americans, including an estimated 500,000 Michiganders expected to lose their health coverage, ballooning our national debt, adding several billion dollars for unchecked deportation efforts, and restricting opportunities for student loan borrowers, this <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">new federal budget bill notoriously marks the largest transfer of wealth from the poorest to the richest in our nation\u2019s history<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">By making the 2017 Trump tax cuts permanent, this new Republican-backed law hands out trillions of dollars in tax cuts to the country\u2019s wealthiest individuals, businesses, and corporations while leaving millions of low-income and working families nationwide to foot the bill.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">With Michigan being the Great Lakes State, let\u2019s break down how Trump\u2019s big, bad bill impacts Michiganders with different incomes and their ability to take a summertime trip.<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> For Michigan taxpayers, here\u2019s what the average tax cut looks like for the&#8230;<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Bottom 20%<\/span><\/b> <b><span data-contrast=\"none\">who make up to $21,900 a year: $20 <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u2014 enough to fill about one-third of a tank of gas for a trip to the beach.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Second 20%<\/span><\/b> <b><span data-contrast=\"none\">who make up to $48,100 a year: $550 <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u2014 enough to pay for weekend accommodations near one of our shorelines.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Top 1% who make $715,800 and above: nearly <\/span><\/b><b><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">$50,000 <\/span><\/i><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u2014 enough to afford a yearly mortgage for a house on Lake Michigan. That\u2019s <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">2,500 times<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"none\"> the size of the average tax cut for those Michiganders who are struggling the most.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Find the <a href=\"https:\/\/itep.org\/tax-provisions-in-trump-megabill-national-and-state-level-estimates\/#statedata\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">full breakdown by income group here.<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> And, keep in mind that for everyday Michiganders, these figures do not reflect resource losses from cuts to vital social safety programs or price increases linked to Trump&#8217;s tariff policies.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">While Republicans in Washington have clearly shown who they\u2019re working for, my Senate Democratic colleagues and I remain committed to putting YOU \u2014 the hard-working people of Michigan \u2014 first. I\u2019m proud to continue advocating for Gleaners Community Food Bank funding and was proud to vote for a budget that includes grants to support food banks providing meals that vulnerable community members desperately need as food insecurity rises. From including funds to protect Michiganders from rash federal actions in our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/blog\/2025\/06\/06\/combat-federal-mayhem\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">own state budget proposal<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> to calling on Michigan\u2019s congressional delegation to reject this dangerous federal budget bill, the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/federal-oversight\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Michigan Senate Democrats have done whatever we can to fight back against Trump<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> and used every tool at our disposal to safeguard Michigan residents \u2014 and we will keep doing so every step of the way.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Eliminating Medical Debt for Michiganders<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Health care is a human right. No one should be forced into a cycle of debt and poverty just for seeking the medical care they need and deserve. That\u2019s why Michigan Senate Democrats have remained committed to providing economic relief for Michiganders who have been saddled by medical debt.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/michiganadvance.com\/2025\/07\/17\/whitmer-and-gilchrist-mark-144-million-in-medical-debt-forgiveness-fueled-by-state-efforts\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Announced recently<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">, nearly 210,000 Michiganders in communities across our state have had their medical debts forgiven <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/anthony\/2024\/03\/20\/medical-debt\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">thanks to the $4.5 million we secured in last year\u2019s state budget under Sen. Sarah Anthony&#8217;s leadership.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">And, while <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.msnbc.com\/msnbc\/amp\/shows\/top-stories\/blog\/rcna219189\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">attacks at the federal level<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> attempt to amplify the burden shouldered by those with medical debt, our work here at the state Capitol is far from over. Building off last year\u2019s progress, Senate Democrats proposed an additional <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">$5 million for debt forgiveness in the 2026 State Budget<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> along with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/anthony\/2025\/06\/26\/sens-anthony-and-lindsey-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-tackle-growing-issue-of-medical-debt\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">reintroducing bipartisan legislation to continue tackling this growing issue<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">. Championed again by Sen. Anthony, this new legislation would establish clear guidelines for hospitals to offer financial assistance programs and strengthen consumer protections for patients struggling with medical expenses.<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#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\/chang\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2025\/04\/EnewsHeaders_Community-Connections-scaled.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#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;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#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\">Upcoming Public Hearing on Draft for Overburdened Criteria for the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Programs<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">The Michigan Dept. of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) will hold a virtual public hearing at 1:00 p.m. on August 11, 2025 to receive comment on the draft Municipal Water and Wastewater System Overburdened Criteria for the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Programs. The hearing will cover the draft criteria and any changes made to the current overburdened criteria that will impact projects beginning in fiscal year 2027. The draft criteria is available on the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/links-2.govdelivery.com\/CL0\/https:%2F%2Fwww.michigan.gov%2Fegle%2Fregulatory-assistance%2Ffunding%2Ffd%2Fstate-revolving-fund%2Faffordability-criteria%2Fnew-affordability-criteria-development\/1\/010101983390c10d-aeefc0fa-7aa4-440d-8651-cd12498b64d2-000000\/yPcCxKsGW2iZGdO8s9rW24QVxHVHeNny9zs7Vaui_3U=414\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">New SRF Affordability Criteria Development webpage<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> for review.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Click <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/links-2.govdelivery.com\/CL0\/https:%2F%2Fus06web.zoom.us%2Fwebinar%2Fregister%2FWN_rVRivkvVSKWKcolelRowmA%23%2Fregistration\/1\/010101983390c10d-aeefc0fa-7aa4-440d-8651-cd12498b64d2-000000\/lrAvLFItynSMqVEUgO4DINICK_e59zIZqDTO9-gyJTU=414\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> to register for the virtual hearing.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">EGLE Hearing Regarding Hazardous Waste Facility License<br \/><\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">The Michigan Dept. of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) Materials Management Division (MMD) intends to issue a Hazardous Waste Management Facility operating license to EQ Detroit Inc., doing business as US Ecology Detroit South. This license, will allow the facility to continue storing and treating hazardous waste in containers and tanks. EGLE will host a public informational meeting and a public hearing to receive comments on the draft license. The meeting will provide information about the facility\u2019s application and answer community questions. The deadline for public comment is September 15, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Facility Location:<br \/><\/span><\/i><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">1923 Frederick Street, Detroit, Michigan<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Register to attend online or join at the start of the informational meeting scheduled for Wednesday, August 13, 2025 using <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/40kRYHa\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">this link<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Informational Meeting:<br \/><\/span><\/i><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">WHEN: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Wednesday, August 13, 2025, from 6:00 \u2013 8:00 p.m.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><br \/><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">WHERE: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Wayne State University Innovation Center, 461 Burroughs St., Detroit 48202<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Register to attend online or join at the start of the Informational Meeting and Public Hearing scheduled for September 4, 2025 using <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/44zPib4\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">this link<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Informational Meeting and Public Hearing:<\/span><\/i><\/b><span><br \/><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">WHEN: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Thursday, September 4, 2025, from 6:00 \u2013 9:00 p.m.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><br \/><\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">WHERE: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Wayne State University Innovation Center, 461 Burroughs St., Detroit 48202<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Agenda:<\/span><\/i><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">6:00 \u2013 6:20 p.m.: Presentations by EGLE staff<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">6:20 \u2013 8:00 p.m.: Question and answer period\/hearing to following immediately after<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">How to Submit Comments:<\/span><\/i><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">You can email <\/span><a href=\"mailto:EGLE-MMD-HWS@Michigan.gov\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">EGLE-MMD-HWS@Michigan.gov<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> or send mail to:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">EGLE, Materials Management Division<\/span><span><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Attn: Tianna Kilgore<\/span><span><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">P.O. Box 30241<\/span><span><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Lansing, MI 48909-7741<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#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\/chang\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2025\/01\/EnewsHeaders_News-Resources.png&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; alt=&#8221;Helpful News and Resources&#8221; title_text=&#8221;EnewsHeaders_News &amp; 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;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.3&#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\">Save on Higher Education with the Michigan Achievement Scholarship<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><br \/><\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">With a new school year right around the corner, learn more about how you can save money on the cost of higher education with the Michigan Achievement Scholarship!<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Recognizing the vital role colleges play in shaping the future of our state, my colleagues and I worked to expand the Michigan Achievement Scholarship (MAS) program and create the \u201cCommunity College Guarantee.\u201d This scholarship is available to most graduating high school seniors and incoming college freshmen this year.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Under the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, students can receive:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Up to $2,750 annually if they enroll in a Michigan community college, for up to three years.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"49\" 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;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Up to $4,000 annually if they enroll in a Michigan private college or university, for up to five years.<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"49\" 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;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Up to $5,500 annually if they enroll in a Michigan public university or a baccalaureate degree program at a Michigan community college, for up to five years.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you\u2019re interested in learning more about how you or your student can take advantage of the scholarship, the Michigan Dept. of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) is hosting a series of informational webinars that will give an overview of the scholarship, eligibility requirements, award amounts, and more. You can find a date that works with your schedule and register <a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/mistudentaid\/programs\/michigan-achievement-scholarship\/informational-session\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Michiganders Feeling Economic Relief from New Unemployment Law<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}\"><br \/><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Nearly 48,000 Michiganders are receiving retroactive unemployment payments thanks to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/wojno\/2024\/12\/05\/workers\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">legislation my Senate Democratic colleagues and I secured last legislative session<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> to strengthen our state\u2019s benefits for workers trying to make ends meet. Signed into law in December, this new law raised the maximum weekly unemployment benefit from $362 to $466 starting on April 1 of this year and is set to continue incremental increases up to $614 in Jan. 2027. Our comprehensive bill package also restored the maximum number of weeks claimants could access benefits from 20 to 26, among other long overdue benefit changes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Totaling $34 million, the back payments were issued after a thorough review by the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA). Claimants should check their Michigan Web Account Manager (MiWAM) account for a Monetary Redetermination Letter; they will also receive a copy of the letter mailed to the address listed on their account. Learn more <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/leo\/news\/2025\/07\/17\/thousands-of-michiganders-receive-$34-million-in-back-payments-under-jobless-benefits-increase\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Dear Neighbor, It\u2019s nearing the end of summer, so it would be an ideal time to get outdoors before the back-to-school season, but unfortunately for many in Michigan, poor air [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":8813,"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":[11],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8963","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>Protecting Our Air Quality, Medical Debt &amp; UIA News, and More - Senator Stephanie Chang<\/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\/chang\/2025\/08\/04\/protecting-our-air-quality-medical-debt-uia-news-and-more\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Protecting Our Air Quality, Medical Debt &amp; UIA News, and More\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Dear Neighbor, It\u2019s nearing the end of summer, so it would be an ideal time to get outdoors before the back-to-school season, but unfortunately for many in Michigan, poor air [&hellip;]\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/dev.senatedems.com\/chang\/2025\/08\/04\/protecting-our-air-quality-medical-debt-uia-news-and-more\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Senator Stephanie Chang\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-08-04T15:17:51+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-08-04T15:18:13+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/dev.senatedems.com\/chang\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2025\/05\/MDS_250319-7818-1024x683.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"683\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"rstarbowski\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"rstarbowski\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"11 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.senatedems.com\/chang\/2025\/08\/04\/protecting-our-air-quality-medical-debt-uia-news-and-more\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.senatedems.com\/chang\/2025\/08\/04\/protecting-our-air-quality-medical-debt-uia-news-and-more\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"rstarbowski\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/dev.senatedems.com\/chang\/#\/schema\/person\/a6fafa19854494e303e092907dcd28e9\"},\"headline\":\"Protecting Our Air Quality, Medical Debt &amp; 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