[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ theme_builder_area=”post_content” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/chang\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2023\/03\/Screen-Shot-2023-03-13-at-4.27.39-PM.png” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” alt=”Senator Chang Email Banner” title_text=”Senator Chang Email Banner” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″ force_fullwidth=”on”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
Dear Neighbor,\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Over the past few weeks, I\u2019ve been working hard connecting with residents, refining legislation, and advocating for our immigrant and refugee neighbors. Read on to learn more.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n 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>SenSChang@senate.michigan.gov<\/span><\/a> or call 313-922-6949.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u202f\u202f<\/span><\/p>\n Sincerely,<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/chang\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2025\/02\/Chang_Stephanie_Signature.png” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” alt=”Chang Signature” title_text=”Chang_Stephanie_Signature” width=”30%” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Stephanie Chang<\/span><\/b>\u00a0 [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/chang\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2025\/02\/EnewsHeaders_Recent-Highlights-1.png” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” alt=”Recent highlights” title_text=”EnewsHeaders_Recent Highlights (1)” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/chang\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2025\/08\/EnewsHeaders-Chang-Standing-Up-for-Your-Rights-1-scaled.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” title_text=”EnewsHeaders-Chang Standing Up for Your Rights 1″ hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n A few weeks ago, I learned about a number of Hmong and Laotian refugees who were detained by ICE in Michigan. I worked alongside Rep. Mai Xiong, immigrants\u2019 rights nonprofits, and Asian American community organizations to hold two press conferences, mobilize Michiganders in support of our community members, and co-author a letter to ICE.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n I and many others have called on ICE to stop the deportations of Michigan Hmong and Laotian refugees and to allow them to return home to their families. Unfortunately 15 individuals were deported and have arrived in Laos. However, Lue Yang and Khamsay Syrattanakoun are still being held at the North Lake Detention Center in Baldwin, MI and they need our help. America owes a debt of gratitude to the Hmong people for their role in protecting U.S. troops during the Vietnam War. The Hmong and Laotian refugees being held by ICE came here decades ago and have built their families, contributed to their communities, and are beloved community leaders. We must keep immigrant and refugee families together. Immigrants and refugees seeking the American Dream deserve opportunity and dignity, just like every other American. Now is the time for us to come together as Michiganders \u2014 it’ll take all of us to restore the rights and opportunities our neighbors deserve.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Click here<\/span><\/a> to read the letter I co-authored with Rep. Mai Xiong urging ICE Field Director Kevin Raycraft to not deport the Michigan Hmong refugees. If you are concerned about this, please consider contacting the U.S. ICE Field Office at <\/span>detroit.outreach@ice.dhs.gov<\/span><\/a> or 313-771-6601.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/chang\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2025\/01\/EnewsHeaders_Upcoming-Events.png” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” alt=”Upcoming events” title_text=”EnewsHeaders_Upcoming Events” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Outdoor Resource Fair with the City of Highland Park<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n We are excited to welcome many community partners at our resource fair this weekend: United Way, Equality Michigan, MDHHS, Wayne Metro, Delta Dental, DTE Assistance Program, Matrix Head Start, Gleaners, Wayne County Treasurers Office, Detroit Area Agency on Aging, Molina Healthcare, Boll Family YMCA, Detroit Reconnect, Detroit At Work, Mothering Justice, Detroit Housing Department, Secretary of State, Backpack Healthcare, Authority Health, Safe and Just MI, Unemployment Office, Justice Impact Platform, SEMA, and more.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n WHEN: <\/span><\/b>Saturday, August 16, from 12:00 \u2013 3:00 p.m.<\/span>\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Ice Cream Social \u2014 Community Conversation\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n WHEN:<\/span><\/b> Friday, August 22, from 1:00 \u2013 2:00 p.m.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0 [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/chang\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2025\/01\/EnewsHeaders_Legislative-Updates.png” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” alt=”Legislative Updates” title_text=”EnewsHeaders_Legislative Updates” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Fighting for School Safety and Mental Health Resources<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Michigan State Police\u2019s Recent Report Highlights Critical Need for Support<\/span><\/i>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n OK2SAY<\/span><\/a>, Michigan\u2019s confidential student safety tipline, reported a 20% surge in tip volume compared to the previous year, according to the program\u2019s most <\/span>recent report<\/span><\/a> compiled by the Michigan State Police. With an unprecedented 11,671 tips received, the program has reached its highest reporting level since its inception in 2014, underscoring the vital role it plays in safeguarding our youngest Michiganders.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n My colleagues and I recognize this and the responsibility we have to invest in our children and in their safety, well-being, and success. That\u2019s why we\u2019ve invested a historic $450 million in school safety and mental health over the last few budget cycles. These dollars have gone into supporting the OK2SAY program, modernizing school security systems, as well as hiring more counselors, social workers, and school resource officers.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n But as we see our kids carrying heavier burdens and facing greater threats than ever before, our work is far from over. In our 2026 State Budget proposal, Senate Democrats put another $350 million behind these efforts to ensure every child feels safe while in the classroom. Unfortunately, as back-to-school season rapidly approaches, House Republicans are continuing to stall the budget process, keeping this funding for school safety out of reach for districts to use.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n In the Senate, my colleagues and I continue to remain at the negotiating table, ready to reach a final budget agreement that truly supports our students and their families. To keep up to date on the latest developments and learn more about our budget proposal, click <\/span>here<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Rx Kids: A Prescription for Improving Families\u2019 Physical and Economic Health<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/chang\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2025\/08\/BuildingBlocks-Web_Banner.png” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” alt=”Building blocks” title_text=”BuildingBlocks-Web_Banner” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Rx Kids<\/span><\/a> is a first-of-its-kind program in the United States, initially launched in Flint in 2024, before expanding to seven other communities across the state in early 2025 \u2014 thanks in part to funding secured by Senate Democrats. Now, we\u2019re working to pass legislation to <\/span>expand this successful program statewide to reach more families around Michigan<\/span><\/a>. Rx Kids supports parents and babies by providing all pregnant moms, regardless of income, with a no-strings-attached cash allowance of $1,500 during pregnancy and $500 each month throughout the baby\u2019s first year. Research shows that this direct, cash support for new parents helps improve housing security, access to nutritious food, and maternal and child health.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n This week, the Senate Housing and Human Services Committee held a hearing on this legislation sponsored by Sen. Sylvia Santana, exploring the far-reaching benefits of Rx Kids and how its expansion would continue improving maternal and child health outcomes throughout the state. To watch the committee hearing, click <\/span>here<\/span><\/a>.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n In addition to our proposal to expand Rx Kids, Michigan Senate Democrats have introduced <\/span>bold, transformative legislation to lower costs for working families<\/span><\/a> and make sure kids in Michigan have the best start possible \u2014 including through a Working Parents Tax Cut and expanded access to child care. Learn more about this \u201cBuilding Blocks\u201d package <\/span>here<\/span><\/a>.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Supporting Michigan Mothers and Their Babies<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/chang\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2025\/08\/8.1-7_BreastfeedingWeek.png” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” title_text=”8.1-7_BreastfeedingWeek” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Every year, the first week of August is recognized as World Breastfeeding Week, a time where public health advocates come together to highlight the importance of breastfeeding and share resources to encourage one of the most effective methods of improving maternal and infant health.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding up to age two, as breastmilk provides countless benefits to infants, including preventing diseases such as respiratory and ear infections, asthma, and diabetes. According to the World Health Organization, optimal breastfeeding is so critical that it could save the lives of more than 820,000 children under the age of five each year.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Because of the power of breastfeeding, our caucus has worked to champion legislation to expand Michigan\u2019s Public Breastfeeding Nondiscrimination Act to ensure parents are protected from discrimination for pumping breastmilk in public, which is often necessary when parents are away from their breastfeeding baby for several hours. This legislation, <\/span>Senate Bill 351 of 2023<\/span><\/a>, was signed into law last year and now provides Michigan mothers with the legal protections they need to promote the health and safety of themselves and their babies.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/span>State Senator<\/span>\u00a0
<\/span>District 3<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n
<\/span>WHERE: <\/span><\/b>Ernest T. Ford Recreation Center, 10 Pitkin St., Highland Park, MI 48203<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/span>WHERE: <\/span><\/b>MJ\u2019s North End Ice Cream Parlor, 8801 Oakland Ave., Detroit, MI 48211<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n