[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2024\/09\/Polehanki_EmailBanner.png” alt=”Polehanki Email Banner” title_text=”Polehanki_EmailBanner” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Dear Neighbor,<\/span><\/p>\n <\/span>Happy Fourth! Summer is officially underway, bringing extreme temperatures and severe weather with it. Be sure to take care of yourself, your loved ones, and your community during this heatwave <\/span>\u2014 and especially during this time of uncertainty and unrest for so many across our state and nation.<\/span><\/p>\n No matter what we\u2019re up against, please understand that as your state Senator, I\u2019m always fighting to protect our Michigan communities from the<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>chaos ensuing in the federal government. My Democratic colleagues and I are in your corner, and we\u2019ll continue doing everything in our power to safeguard our state and our residents from harm\u2019s way.<\/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 us at <\/span>SenDPolehanki@senate.michigan.gov<\/span><\/a> or call 517-373-7350.<\/span><\/p>\n Sincerely,<\/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” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2023\/02\/Polehanki_sig.jpeg” alt=”Senator Polehanki signature” title_text=”Polehanki_sig” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Dayna Polehanki<\/span><\/b> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2024\/11\/EnewsHeaders_Recent-Highlights.png” alt=”If you’re in a rush… recent highlights” title_text=”EnewsHeaders_Recent Highlights” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2024\/11\/EnewsHeaders_Legislative-Updates.png” alt=”Legislative updates” title_text=”EnewsHeaders_Legislative Updates” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n What Medicaid Means to Michigan<\/span><\/b> In response to the administration\u2019s threats to dismantle this essential safety net, the Senate Health Policy Committee and Appropriations Subcommittee on the Dept. of Health and Human Services (DHHS) <\/span>convened a joint meeting where they reviewed, accepted and adopted a new report<\/span><\/a> developed by Senate Democrats that outlines the impact federal cuts to Medicaid would have on Michiganders. In underscoring what Medicaid means to Michigan, the report highlights that:<\/span><\/p>\n To view the full report, click here<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n Standing Against Federal Cuts & Chaos<\/span><\/b> Over the past few months, my colleagues and I have chaired Senate committee hearings to explore the devastating impacts of federal funding cuts on Michigan <\/span>families<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>workers<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>consumers<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>seniors<\/span><\/a>, and <\/span>farmers<\/span><\/a>. We\u2019ve utilized the Senate floor as a platform to speak out against Trump\u2019s pardoning of violent Jan. 6 criminals, his reckless tariffs, and his <\/span>haphazard proposed slashing of Medicaid and other critical programming in his \u201cBig Beautiful Bill.\u201d<\/span><\/a> And, we\u2019ve hosted community events across our districts to hear directly from folks impacted by the chaos coming out of Washington.<\/span><\/p>\n This fight is far from over, but we\u2019ll continue standing strong during these challenging times, no matter what we\u2019re up against. Read more about our efforts to protect Michiganders from the effects of Trump\u2019s federal mayhem <\/span>here<\/span><\/a> \u2014 <\/span>and read about how our proposed state budget works to further stand up for Michigan residents <\/span>here<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n A Snapshot of Legislative Activity at the Capitol<\/span><\/b> Combatting Our Gun Violence Crisis: <\/span><\/i><\/b>Last week, Senate Democrats passed three commonsense gun safety measures to prohibit bump stocks, serialize ghost guns, and prohibit firearms in the Capitol and certain surrounding government buildings. I was proud to sponsor two bills in these packages, including <\/span>Senate Bill 224<\/span><\/a> to keep dangerous bump stocks out of the public\u2019s hands and <\/span>Senate Bill 225<\/span><\/a> to keep our Capitol safe for all who come to visit the building on school trips or for advocacy days.<\/span><\/p>\n Animal Fundraising License Plate Bill: <\/span><\/i><\/b>I proudly championed Senate Bill 106, which would create a <\/span>specialty fundraising license plate<\/span><\/a> that funds free or low-cost spay and neuter services, in addition to training and education programs for folks working or volunteering in Michigan\u2019s animal shelters and rescue organizations. My bill passed the Senate last week and now awaits further action in the House.<\/span><\/p>\n Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act: <\/span><\/i><\/b>Last week, Senate Democrats passed Senate Bills 154-155 to <\/span>protect both those seeking reproductive health care and the medical professionals who provide it<\/span><\/a>. The state-level FACE Act works to ensure patients can access the care they need, when they need it <\/span>\u2014<\/span> without intimidation or fear of harm. These bills now head to the House for further consideration.<\/span><\/p>\n Improving Public Safety: <\/span><\/i><\/b>Senate Democrats also recently advanced legislation to enhance public safety and community trust. Bipartisan Senate Bills 216-217 <\/span>would improve roadway safety<\/span><\/a> by strengthening penalties for drivers who injure or kill cyclists, pedestrians, wheelchair users, and other vulnerable roadway users. These bills passed the Senate floor last week and now head to the House for consideration.<\/span><\/p>\n We also heard testimony on the <\/span>Police Practices Standardization, Transparency, and Trust (S.T.A.T.) package<\/span><\/a> to improve law enforcement practices and transparency, making our communities safer for everyone. Crafted through extensive work with community stakeholders and law enforcement, these commonsense reforms would ensure Michigan remains a leader in advancing policies that enhance public safety and uphold justice for all.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2024\/11\/EnewsHeaders_Community-Connections.png” alt=”Community Connections” title_text=”EnewsHeaders_Community Connections” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Honoring Livonia\u2019s Legacy on Its 75th Anniversary<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2025\/07\/Polehanki-Video-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Polehanki-Video” url=”https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/reel\/731940915883566″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Click here to watch us celebrate Livonia\u2019s 75th Anniversary!<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/p>\n I was deeply honored to join our community in celebration of Livonia\u2019s 75th Anniversary. It is a true privilege to serve the people of Livonia and to present a special tribute honoring the spirit, resilience, and 75-year legacy of a city that continues to inspire all who call it home. Thank you to Mayor Maureen Miller Bronsan, the City Council, community leaders, local volunteers, and every neighbor who helped coordinate and participate in this celebration. Here\u2019s to the next 75 years!<\/span><\/p>\n Building Bridges at Livonia Pride<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2025\/07\/Polehanki-Pride-2.jpg” title_text=”Polehanki-Pride-2″ align=”right” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” min_height=”213px” max_height=”326px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2025\/07\/Polehanki-Pride-1.jpg” title_text=”Polehanki-Pride-1″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2025\/07\/Polehanki-Pride-3.jpg” title_text=”Polehanki-Pride-3″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n I was proud to attend Livonia Pride, hosted by Schoolcraft College, and stand in celebration of love, inclusion, and diversity that makes our community stronger. It was nice to see some familiar faces, State Representative Matt Koleszar, Livonia City Council member Carrie Budinski, and Livonia Pride organizer Renay Weiss-Stansell. Livonia Pride was a beautiful reminder that everyone deserves to feel seen, valued, and supported.<\/span><\/p>\n Hitting the Pavement in Livonia<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2025\/07\/Polehanki-DoorKnocking.jpg” title_text=”Polehanki-DoorKnocking” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n This week, Team Polehanki hit District 5 doors, meeting constituents and hearing firsthand what\u2019s on their minds. There\u2019s nothing like knocking on doors to remind us how connected and engaged Livonia truly is.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2025\/01\/EnewsHeaders_Upcoming-Events.png” alt=”Upcoming Events” title_text=”EnewsHeaders_Upcoming Events” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Community<\/span><\/span> Conversation<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2025\/07\/CommunityConversation-1.jpg” title_text=”CommunityConversation (1)” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n WHEN: <\/span><\/b>Friday, July 18, 2025, from 12:30 \u2013 1:30 p.m.<\/span> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2024\/11\/EnewsHeaders_News-Resources.png” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” alt=”Enews Headers News & Resources” title_text=”EnewsHeaders_News & Resources” 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”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Keep Your Animals Safe this Summer<\/span><\/b>
<\/span>State Senator<\/span>
<\/span>District 5<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n
<\/span>Medicaid is a lifeline for people in every corner of this state and country, allowing folks to get the health care they need, when they need it \u2014 no matter their income. The $535 billion that Trump and Congressional Republicans have been working to slash from the program would devastate Michigan families, hospitals, and our economy all while pumping more money into the pockets of our nation\u2019s wealthiest individuals and corporations.<\/span><\/p>\n\n
<\/span>From rash federal cuts to essential programs that serve the American people to haphazardly gutting entire federal agencies <\/span>\u2014 it\u2019s clear that the Trump administration has stoked unprecedented chaos, fear, and uncertainty across our nation. While this administration continues to disregard law and order and advance the priorities of America\u2019s wealthiest, Senate Democrats remain steadfast in our commitment to serving <\/span>you <\/span><\/i>\u2014 the hardworking residents of Michigan.<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/span>Along with <\/span>recently passing a bold budget plan for 2026<\/span><\/a>, Senate Democrats have been working hard to advance important legislation that address our gun violence crisis, supports Michigan\u2019s animal shelters and rescue organizations, protects access to reproductive health care, and improves public safety:<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/span>WHERE: <\/span><\/b>Madonna University Welcome Center \u2013 36700 Schoolcraft Road, Livonia, MI 48150<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/span>Summer can be an especially dangerous time for not only our families and communities, but also our pets and animals. With the high temperatures we\u2019ve been experiencing and more on the way, the Michigan Dept. of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) wants pet owners to know <\/span>these seven helpful tips to keep their furry friends safe and cool over the warm summer months<\/span><\/a>:<\/span><\/p>\n\n
<\/span>Be sure your animals have all the documentation, vaccinations, tests, and treatments they need to reach their destination.<\/li>\n
<\/span>No matter the species, animals should have access to an abundant supply of cool, clean, fresh water to prevent dehydration.<\/li>\n
<\/span>Salty, fatty, and\/or highly seasoned foods (like chips, nuts, and meat fat) can cause digestive upset. Also, chocolate, grapes\/raisins, onions, and xylitol (an artificial sweetener found in <\/span> many candies and gum) can be poisonous to animals; and bones can cause injury and <\/span> illness.<\/span><\/li>\n
<\/span>An animal\u2019s age, breed, type of coat, and health history can all play a role in their ability to\u00a0 tolerate the heat. Keep an eye on them for signs of heat stress like increased panting or <\/span> drooling and being more lethargic. If they are showing these signs, it is time to immediately <\/span> move them to a cooler area.<\/span><\/li>\n
<\/span>To prevent illness in animals, keep them out of areas with scums or discolored water, rinse them off after contact with any lake water, and bring clean, fresh water for them to drink. If <\/span> an animal becomes sick after contact with a suspected HAB, call your veterinarian right <\/span> away.<\/span><\/li>\n
<\/span>With all the fun outdoor activities, it can be easy for animals to sneak away and become lost. Make sure they have identification tags and\/or microchips that are up to date with your <\/span> current contact information, ensuring a better chance they can be returned home.<\/span><\/li>\n