{"id":7127,"date":"2024-06-25T11:01:41","date_gmt":"2024-06-25T15:01:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/mccann\/?p=7127"},"modified":"2024-06-25T11:01:43","modified_gmt":"2024-06-25T15:01:43","slug":"senate-district-19-news-legislative-updates-4","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dev.senatedems.com\/mccann\/2024\/06\/25\/senate-district-19-news-legislative-updates-4\/","title":{"rendered":"Senate District 19 News & Legislative Updates"},"content":{"rendered":"\n[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/mccann\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/20\/2023\/04\/Screen-Shot-2023-04-06-at-2.10.03-PM.png” alt=”Senator McCann Email Banner” title_text=”Screen Shot 2023-04-06 at 2.10.03 PM” _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-14px|auto||auto||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]

Dear Neighbor,<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As we end the month of June and jump into summer season, I hope you are able to spend time outside in the sun. Whether you enjoy gardening, barbequing, swimming, or taking a stroll around a local park \u2014 there are many different ways to enjoy all our state has to offer this time of year.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In Lansing, we\u2019re hard at work advancing policy legislation and developing the best budget possible for Michigan residents for 2024-25. This E-newsletter will inform you of all the exciting things happening in the Legislature and throughout District 19.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As always, if you or someone you know would like to provide feedback about what\u2019s happening in Lansing or needs assistance, feel free to contact my office. You can email me at <\/span>sensmccann@senate.michigan.gov<\/span><\/a> or call 517-373-5100.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Sincerely,<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-11px|auto||auto||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/mccann\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/20\/2024\/02\/mccannsignature.png” alt=”Senator McCann Signature” title_text=”mccannsignature” _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]

Sean McCann
<\/strong><\/span>State Senator
19th District<\/span><\/p>\n

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Happy Pride Month!<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/mccann\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/20\/2024\/06\/Senators-Pride-scaled.jpg” alt=”Clean Energy Future” title_text=”Senators-Pride” _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]

My colleagues and I are <\/span>committed to cultivating true inclusion and belonging in Michigan \u2014 not only during the month of June, but every day year-round. Since taking office, the legislature has worked to expand the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA), reaffirming and expanding legal protections for the LGBTQ+ community. This effort has been 50 years in the making and will protect our LGBTQ+ family, friends, coworkers and neighbors against discrimination in employment, public accommodations and public services. It will also provide protection in educational facilities, housing and real estate.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In addition to passing a resolution recognizing June as Pride Month, the Michigan Senate has passed bills \u2014 including Senate Bills <\/span>348<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>349<\/span><\/a> \u2014 to ban the harmful practice of conversion therapy by mental health professionals seeking to change the gender identity or sexual orientation of minors. The Michigan Senate also passed House Bill <\/span>4718<\/span><\/a> to prohibit the use of disclosing anyone’s sexual orientation or gender identity, either real or perceived, as a defense in court. This defense has historically been used in court to justify violent acts against LGBTQ+ individuals by claiming the victim’s sexual orientation or gender identity provoked the defendant into a violent reaction.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

These legislative efforts are a big step forward for Michigan, but certainly not the last. I remain committed to working towards advanced equity and inclusion in our state.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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June is National Gun Violence Awareness Month<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/mccann\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/20\/2024\/06\/GVP.png” alt=”New Abortion Laws” title_text=”GVP” _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]

To draw attention to the issue of gun violence and advocate for life-saving policies, the Michigan Senate recently passed a resolution recognizing June as Gun Violence Awareness Month.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Gun violence is a public health crisis that plagues communities across our state, leaving an irrevocable mark on mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers, friends, and neighbors. Since 2012, we\u2019ve seen the rate of gun deaths in Michigan increase by 25%, and firearms are now the leading cause of death for children and teens. For all these reasons, there has never been a more important time for lawmakers to act on commonsense policies that are proven to make our communities safer.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After assuming the Majority, my colleagues and I delivered a slate of gun violence prevention legislation that Michigan residents have waited years for. This legislation closes dangerous loopholes to strengthen background checks, requires the secure storage of firearms, disarms individuals convicted of domestic violence and allows for the temporary removal of firearms from people who pose a significant risk to themselves or others.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As we work to build safe communities for all Michigan residents to enjoy, I remain committed to evidence-based solutions to this public health crisis.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Michigan Senate Memorial Day Celebration\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/mccann\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/20\/2024\/06\/Kzoo-Pipe-Band.jpg” alt=”New Gun Safety Laws” title_text=”Kzoo Pipe Band” _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]

Every year since 1995, the Michigan Senate has held a special session to commemorate Memorial Day and recognize Michigan veterans, active military servicemembers, and their families, including our state\u2019s Blue Star Mothers, to express both the Senate and the entire state\u2019s gratitude for their service. The ceremony also recognizes the Michigan soldiers who have lost their lives as well as their Gold Star Families they have left behind.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Video of the full ceremony can be found <\/span>here<\/span><\/a>. I was thrilled to see the Kalamazoo Pipe Band participate in this year\u2019s ceremony. It was an honor to be a part of this important ceremony to recognize our Michigan veterans and the sacrifices our service members and their families, and I remain committed to supporting our veterans through important policy changes and positive budget investments.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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<\/span>Comstock Coffee Hour Recap\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”|auto|-16px|auto||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/mccann\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/20\/2024\/06\/Screenshot-2024-06-24-094535.png” alt=”Dangerous Dog Testimony” title_text=”Screenshot 2024-06-24 094535″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]

Thank you to Comstock Township for hosting my coffee hour on May 17. We had great conversation and I appreciate those who stopped by! Stay tuned for my next coffee hour, which will be announced on the \u201cEvents\u201d page on my website <\/span>here.<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Vulnerable Road Users Legislation<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

On June 5, <\/span>Senate Bill 617<\/span><\/a>, my legislation to expand the statutory provision that provides enhanced penalties for a moving violation that causes injury to a \u201cvulnerable roadway user\u201d passed with bipartisan support in the Michigan Senate. <\/span>Senate Bill 618<\/span><\/a> also passed.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This legislation is part of a bipartisan bill package with Sen. Klinefelt (Macomb), Rep. Rogers (Kalamazoo), and Rep. Schutte (Midland). Senate Bills 617-618 and House Bills 5223-5224 would expand protections afforded to vulnerable roadway users including pedestrians, bicyclists, individuals using a wheelchair, or an individual riding or operating a vulnerable transportation device.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

House Bills 5223<\/span><\/a>–<\/span>5224<\/span><\/a> passed in the Michigan House on June 4.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

I look forward to this important legislation moving forward within the legislative process. Michigan law should ensure that road users face consequences for reckless behavior that results in injury or death of another person. Under these bills, law enforcement and prosecutors would be afforded another tool to fill the gap between basic traffic infractions and more serious crimes.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Senate Bill 807<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/mccann\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/20\/2024\/06\/senmccannregaffairstestimony.png” alt=”Senator McCann Coffee Hour” title_text=”senmccannregaffairstestimony” _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]

On June 20, I offered testimony in support of my Senate Bill <\/span>807<\/span><\/a> that would amend the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act to allow an individual who was 19 years old or older to work or volunteer for a marihuana establishment or tribal marihuana business if the individual were supervised by an agent of the establishment or business who was 21 years old or older.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Currently, the Act prohibits a marihuana establishment, including a marihuana grower,<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>processor, secure transporter, safety compliance facility, retailer, microbusiness, or tribal<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>marihuana business, from allowing an individual under the age of 21 to volunteer or work for the establishment. My bill would lower the minimum age to work or volunteer for a marihuana establishment from 21 to 19 years of age. It also would allow a person who was 19 years of age or older to manufacture, purchase, distribute, and sell marihuana accessories in the individual’s capacity as an employee or volunteer.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If enacted, this legislation would help with ongoing workforce concerns in the industry \u2013 and allow younger people to work in a lucrative and growing industry, particularly as several Michigan higher educational institutions begin offering programs related to marihuana and have noted the benefits that working in the industry can have for students in these programs. Northern Michigan University, University of Michigan, Lake Superior State, Grand Valley, and Kalamazoo Valley Community College are just a few of the higher education institutions in the state currently offering cannabis programs.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

I appreciate Robin Schneider, Executive Director of the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association, as well as Jevin Weyenberg, owner of Lake Effect from my district for joining me in testimony regarding the benefits of lowering the age threshold from 21 to 19 if an individual is acting on behalf of a marihuana establishment.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Stay In Touch<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Visiting the Michigan Capitol?\u202fIf you plan to visit Lansing for a conference or to advocate for an issue important to you, please\u202f<\/span>contact\u202fmy office so we can set up a time to meet you.\u202f<\/span><\/a>\u00a0
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<\/span>Paying tribute?\u202fIt is my pleasure to produce official legislative tributes honoring Kalamazoo County and Antwerp Township residents for milestone birthdays, anniversaries, retirements, and special accomplishments. If you would like a tribute from state officials, please\u202f<\/span>let me know\u202fand we would be glad to assist.\u202f<\/span><\/a>\u00a0
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<\/span>Publications<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

A resource my office has to offer, but many may not know about, are constituent publications! The Michigan Legislature produces several publications full of useful information for constituents to use, and my office can provide them.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Some of our most popular publications are our Constituent\u2019s Guide, the US and Michigan Constitutions, Services for Seniors, and Veterans Benefits. Many of these publications include how-to guides for forms and services that can be very helpful.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Please reach out to <\/span>my office<\/span><\/a> if you are interested in learning more or would like us to send you any copies.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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<\/span>HELPFUL LINKS\u202f<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n