I am proud to serve the people of western Wayne County every day in the Michigan Senate. Wayne County is a great place with incredible career opportunities. If reaching your goals means going back to school, learning new skills in your field, acing an interview, or starting a whole new career path, we have resources to help. I\u2019ve put this newsletter together to make it easier to learn about available state and local programs, and to let you know what my colleagues and I have been doing to support working folks across the state.<\/span><\/p>\n When you call, email, or write a letter to my office, you are helping me better represent the issues you value. If you would like to share your ideas or if you need help with navigating our state government, you can contact my office by email at <\/span>SenDPolehanki@senate.michigan.gov <\/b>or by phone at <\/span>(517) 373-7350<\/b>, including a toll-free option at <\/span>(855) DIST007 (855-347-8007)<\/b>.<\/span><\/p>\n If you would like to be more informed about my work at the Capitol and in-district activities, consider signing up for my biweekly email updates online at SenatorPolehanki.com. It\u2019s an honor to continue to serve you in the legislature as your state senator.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Dayna Polehanki<\/b> [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2024\/04\/polehanki2.jpeg” alt=”Senator Polehanki Signature” title_text=”polehanki2″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2024\/03\/MDS_Polehanki_W3A6037-214×300.jpg” title_text=”MDS_Polehanki_W3A6037″ _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Website:<\/b> SenatorPolehanki.com<\/span><\/a> [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Senate Democrats are working hard every day to ensure that when you are without work, you\u2019ll still have the support you need to keep food on the dinner table. Whether it\u2019s increasing the minimum wage, requiring earned paid sick time, or protecting employees from dishonest employers, we\u2019re working for YOU. Here are some of the bills we\u2019ve introduced to support workers who are on the job or looking for one:<\/span><\/p>\n Senate Bill 2<\/b><\/p>\n Increases the maximum number of unemployment benefit weeks.<\/span><\/p>\n Senate Bill 161<\/b> Senate Bills 162-164<\/b> Senate Bill 165<\/b> Senate Bill 173<\/b><\/p>\n Removes rules that prevent seasonal employees from collecting unemployment benefits during the off-season.<\/span><\/p>\n Senate Bill 174<\/b> Senate Bill 175<\/b> Senate Bill 208<\/b> Senate Bill 863<\/b> [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The Southeast Michigan Community Alliance (SEMCA) Michigan Works! Agency administers a variety of workforce programs and services. In partnership with employers, educators, economic developers, and community organizations, it seeks to create a qualified workforce that meets the current and future talent needs of the county\u2019s businesses.<\/span><\/p>\n Services provided for job seekers include:<\/b><\/p>\n Services provided for employers include:<\/b><\/p>\n Visit <\/span>SEMCA.org<\/b><\/a> for more information on any of these topics or to find an office near you.<\/span><\/p>\n The new Michigan Reconnect program provides eligible adults aged 25 or older with the opportunity to earn a tuition-free associate degree or skills certificate at their local, in-district community colleges or select private training schools.<\/span><\/p>\n Certifications and licenses often can be obtained in less than a year, and many skilled trades can be learned through apprenticeships or short-term training. Visit <\/span>Michigan.gov\/Reconnect<\/b><\/a> to learn more.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Michigan\u2019s Unemployment Insurance Agency urges Michiganders to use Michigan Web Account Manager (MiWAM) to file unemployment claims and to check the status of those claims. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, folks are experiencing longer wait times, but filing online remains the fastest way to apply for unemployment benefits.<\/span><\/p>\n TO FILE A CLAIM:<\/b><\/p>\n Go online at to <\/span>Michigan.gov\/UIA<\/b><\/a> to use the MiWAM portal, OR<\/span> TO SUBMIT A CLAIM, YOU WILL NEED YOUR:<\/b><\/p>\n WORK SEARCH REPORTING\/GETTING PAID<\/b><\/p>\n In order to get paid, EVERY TWO WEEKS you must report (certify) that you are still unemployed by answering some questions. Michigan also requires that you show proof you are actively searching for work while unemployed. A \u201cwork search activity\u201d includes:<\/span><\/p>\n A waiver of the work search requirement may be granted due to certain COVID-19 related reasons. The preferred method for reporting work search activities is online using your Michigan Web Account Manager (MiWAM) account, but you can also call <\/span>(866) 638-3993<\/b>.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n MICHIGAN COVID-19 HOTLINE<\/b><\/p>\n FAQs, latest information, testing sites near you<\/span><\/p>\n Michigan.gov\/Coronavirus<\/a> | (888) 535-6136<\/span><\/p>\n MICHIGAN COVID-19 VACCINE<\/b> SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCES<\/b> CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL & PREVENTION<\/b><\/p>\n How to protect your health, what to do when sick<\/span><\/p>\n CDC.gov<\/a> | (800) 232-4636<\/span><\/p>\n REPORT PAYROLL FRAUD<\/b> WAYNE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT<\/b> [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Business Resources<\/b><\/p>\n Entrepreneurship and\/or owning a business has never been more challenging: Finding cash flow, hiring workers, paying taxes, social media, advertising, and COVID-19 all make running a business incredibly challenging. Fortunately, there is help through the state and Wayne County that can help you reach your next business milestone.<\/span><\/p>\n As a resident of Wayne County, you have a competitive advantage over many other businesses in Michigan and around the world. We have access to incredible talent, a great business environment, and access to the Great Lakes and Canada. The Wayne County Economic Development Department and the Michigan Economic Developmental Corporation are great assets for anyone running or starting a business in Wayne County. You can find access to business development opportunities, including funding networking, and so much more.<\/span><\/p>\n Wayne County offers a variety of resources to help you take the next steps in developing your business and career. For more information, visit <\/span>waynecounty.com\/departments\/econdev<\/b><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n The Michigan Economic Development Corporation has access to startup help, incentives, and tax benefits that can help companies of all sizes. For more information, visit: <\/span>MichiganBusiness.org<\/b><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n Childcare Resources<\/b><\/p>\n Access to quality childcare is fundamental for working people in Michigan. Good childcare shouldn\u2019t require a full-time job to afford, but costs have been increasing nonetheless, making quality care unattainable for many.<\/span><\/p>\n If you\u2019re not familiar with it already, the Great Start Readiness Program is the state-funded preschool program for more than 35,000 4-year-olds across Michigan and that helps parents who meet income eligibility requirements. Just last year, we passed the largest education investment in our state\u2019s history, which included an additional $168.5 million for Great Start \u2014 setting the program on a historical path whereby the state will seek to ensure access to another 22,000 additional income-eligible children within the next three years.<\/span><\/p>\n If you are looking for resources on eligibility and access to the GSRP, visit <\/span>Michigan.gov\/GSRP<\/b><\/a> or call the Great Start to Quality Resource Center at <\/span>(877) 614-7328<\/b>.<\/span><\/p>\n Having difficulty paying for childcare? You may be eligible for assistance through the MI Bridges program. Visit <\/span>Michigan.gov\/MIBridges<\/b><\/a> to learn more.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Dear Friend, I am proud to serve the people of western Wayne County every day in the Michigan Senate. Wayne County is a great place with incredible career opportunities. If […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"\n Dear Friend, Dayna Polehanki<\/strong> Website:<\/strong> SenatorPolehanki.com<\/a> Senate Democrats are working hard every day to ensure that when you are without work, you\u2019ll still have the support you need to keep food on the dinner table. Whether it\u2019s increasing the minimum wage, requiring earned paid sick time, or protecting employees from dishonest employers, we\u2019re working for YOU. Here are some of the bills we\u2019ve introduced to support workers who are on the job or looking for one:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Senate Bill 2<\/strong> Senate Bill 161<\/strong> Senate Bills 162-164<\/strong> Senate Bill 165<\/strong>
<\/span>Working for you,<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/b>State Senator<\/span>
<\/span>7th District<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/span>Email:<\/b> SenDPolehanki@senate.michigan.gov<\/span>
<\/span>Toll-Free: <\/b>(855) DIST007 (855-347-8007)<\/span>
<\/span><\/p>\nWorking for You!<\/b><\/h1>\n
<\/b>Expands workers\u2019 compensation for all essential employees who contract COVID-19 by creating a presumption that they were exposed at work.<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/b>Protects workers from adverse action if they report unsafe work conditions or cannot come to work because of COVID-19 exposure.<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/b>Requires employers to publish a list of COVID-19 testing sites for their employees<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/b>Allows certain lower-wage school employees to collect unemployment<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/b>Expands unemployment benefits during a declared emergency.<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/b>Expands Michigan\u2019s Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act by adding sexual orientation and gender identity as protected classes.<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/b>Restores the film incentive tax credits.<\/span><\/p>\nWayne County<\/b><\/h2>\n
Michigan Works! Programs<\/b><\/h2>\n
\n
<\/span>\u2022 Tuition Assistance for Education\/Training<\/span>
<\/span>\u2022 Career Coaching<\/span>
<\/span>\u2022 Workshops \u2013 Interviewing, Resume Development and Job Searches<\/span>
<\/span>\u2022 Job Fairs and Events<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
<\/span>\u2022 Training Funds<\/span>
<\/span>\u2022 Apprenticeship Programs<\/span>
<\/span>\u2022 Candidate Pre-Screening<\/span>
<\/span>\u2022 Hiring and Training Support<\/span>
<\/span>\u2022 Employee Retention Programs<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\nCHANGING CAREERS? NEED TO UPGRADE YOUR SKILLS?<\/b><\/h3>\n
TRY MICHIGAN RECONNECT!<\/b><\/h3>\n
UNEMPLOYMENT 101<\/b><\/h2>\n
<\/span>Call <\/span>(866) 500-0017<\/b>, <\/span>select Option 1<\/b>; TTY callers: <\/span>1-866-366-0004<\/b><\/p>\n\n
<\/span>\u2022 Employment information from the past 18 months, including employer name and address, first\/last day worked, and gross earnings<\/span>
<\/span>\u2022 Your address, phone number, date of birth<\/span>
<\/span>\u2022 Non-citizens registration and the expiration date of your work authorization card<\/span>
<\/span>\u2022 Driver\u2019s license or state ID<\/span>
<\/span>\u2022 Your most recent employer\u2019s UIA account number or Federal ID number, especially if you have not filed a claim within the last three years or have been employed for less than six months. (Your employer\u2019s federal ID number can be found on your annual W-2 form and having this information may speed up the processing of your claim.)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
<\/span>\u2022 Attending job fairs,<\/span>
<\/span>\u2022 Creating a profile or resume on a professional networking or job site, or<\/span>
<\/span>\u2022 Participating in online job search workshops or seminars.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\nCOVID-19 RESOURCES<\/b><\/h2>\n
<\/b>FAQs, information, distribution plan and guidance<\/span>
<\/span>Michigan.gov\/COVIDvaccine<\/a> | (888) 535-6136<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/b>Michigan Economic Development Corporation<\/span>
<\/span>MichiganBusiness.org<\/a> | (888) 522-0103<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/b>Michigan Attorney General, Payroll Fraud Enforcement Unit<\/span>
<\/span>Michigan.gov\/AG<\/a> | (833) 221-1099<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/b>Local dashboards, information, COVID-19 help hotline<\/span>
<\/span>WayneCounty.com\/COVID19<\/a> | (734) 287-7870<\/span><\/p>\nBusiness & Childcare Resources<\/b><\/h3>\n
I am proud to serve the people of western Wayne County every day in the Michigan Senate. Wayne County is a great place with incredible career opportunities. If reaching your goals means going back to school, learning new skills in your field, acing an interview, or starting a whole new career path, we have resources to help. I\u2019ve put this newsletter together to make it easier to learn about available state and local programs, and to let you know what my colleagues and I have been doing to support working folks across the state.
When you call, email, or write a letter to my offi ce, you are helping me better represent the issues you value. If you would like to share your ideas or if you need help with navigating our state government, you can contact my office by email at SenDPolehanki@senate.michigan.gov<\/a> <\/strong>or by phone at (517) 373-7350<\/strong>, including a toll-free option at (855) DIST007 (855-347-8007)<\/strong>.
If you would like to be more informed about my work at the Capitol and in-district activities, consider signing up for my biweekly email updates online at SenatorPolehanki.com<\/a>. It\u2019s an honor to continue to serve you in the legislature as your state senator.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Working for you,<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2022\/04\/Polehanki_Dayna_FullSignature_Black.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
State Senator
7th District<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2022\/01\/Polehanki_CMYK-731x1024.jpg\"){kind=spacer}
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Email:<\/strong> SenDPolehanki@senate.michigan.gov<\/a>
Toll-Free: <\/strong>(855) DIST007 (855-347-8007)
Click here to review PDF version of newsletter<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2022\/04\/M-18-11-08-040-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>Working for You!<\/h1>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Increases the maximum number of unemployment benefit weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Expands workers\u2019 compensation for all essential employees who contract COVID-19 by creating a presumption that they were exposed at work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Protects workers from adverse action if they report unsafe work conditions or cannot come to work because of COVID-19 exposure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Requires employers to publish a list of COVID-19 testing sites for their employees<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n