[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\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2024\/09\/Polehanki_EmailBanner.png” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” alt=”Polehanki Email Banner” title_text=”Polehanki_EmailBanner” 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
Dear Neighbor,<\/span><\/p>\n <\/span>This week marks the end of July and the beginning of August, so it\u2019s time to get outdoors and enjoy the last few weeks of summer before the back-to-school season is in full swing!<\/span><\/p>\n Meanwhile, my team and I have been hard at work serving our community \u2014 meeting with folks at local events to hear what\u2019s on their minds, crafting legislation to help move our state forward, and fighting back against dangerous cuts coming from the Republicans in Washington. Read more about this work below.<\/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><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2023\/02\/Polehanki_sig.jpeg” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” alt=”Senator Polehanki signature” title_text=”Polehanki_sig” 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 Dayna Polehanki<\/span><\/b> [\/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\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2024\/11\/EnewsHeaders_Recent-Highlights.png” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” alt=”If you’re in a rush… recent highlights” title_text=”EnewsHeaders_Recent Highlights” 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\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2024\/11\/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 Tax Changes for Michiganders Under Trump\u2019s Big, <\/span><\/b>Beautiful<\/span><\/b> Bad <\/span><\/i><\/b>Bill<\/span><\/b> Along with stripping health care and food assistance away from millions of Americans, ballooning our national debt, adding several billion dollars for unchecked deportation efforts, and restricting opportunities for student loan borrowers, this <\/span>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><\/p>\n 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 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> For Michigan taxpayers, here\u2019s what the average tax cut looks like for the…<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n Find the full breakdown by income group here.<\/span><\/a> 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’s tariff policies.<\/span><\/p>\n 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.\u00a0 From including funds to protect Michiganders from rash federal actions in our <\/span>own state budget proposal<\/span><\/a> to calling on Michigan\u2019s congressional delegation to reject this dangerous federal budget bill, the <\/span>Michigan Senate Democrats have done whatever we can to fight back against Trump<\/span><\/a> 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 Eliminating Medical Debt for Michiganders<\/span><\/b> Announced recently<\/span><\/a>, nearly 210,000 Michiganders in communities across our state have had their medical debts forgiven <\/span>thanks to the $4.5 million we secured in last year\u2019s state budget under Sen. Sarah Anthony’s leadership.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n And, while <\/span>attacks at the federal level<\/span><\/a> 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>$5 million for debt forgiveness in the 2026 State Budget<\/span><\/b> along with <\/span>reintroducing bipartisan legislation to continue tackling this growing issue<\/span><\/a>. 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>\n Celebrating & Protecting Michigan\u2019s Greatest Natural Treasure: Our Great Lakes<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2025\/08\/LakesAppreciationMonth-1-scaled.png” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” title_text=”LakesAppreciationMonth (1)” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″ align=”center” width=”60%”][\/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 The Great Lakes boast more than their scenic sandy shorelines and unmatched recreational opportunities. Containing more than 20% of the world\u2019s freshwater, the Great Lakes region is used as <\/span>the primary water source for more than 40 million people. These iconic water bodies form a vital component of our state\u2019s natural ecosystem, providing a home to a diverse range of wildlife while also serving as crucial shipping routes and energy sources. In short, they\u2019re vital to our state and national economy, environment, and day-to-day way of life.<\/span><\/p>\n As the Great Lakes State, we\u2019re home to 11,000 more inland lakes and tens of thousands of miles of rivers and streams. With Lakes Appreciation Month wrapping up this past week, there\u2019s no better time to take a moment and celebrate our water resources. For all the reasons mentioned above and more, it\u2019s absolutely critical that we work to protect our lakes and waterways as much as we seek to enjoy them.<\/span><\/p>\n Committed to safeguarding our lakes and water bodies for future generations to come, Senate Democrats have worked to:<\/span><\/p>\n Some Ways YOU Can Celebrate Lakes Appreciation Month in the Great Lakes State<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/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\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2024\/11\/EnewsHeaders_Community-Connections.png” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” alt=”Community Connections” title_text=”EnewsHeaders_Community Connections” 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 Community Conversation & Neighborhood Outreach<\/span><\/b> [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2025\/08\/PolehankiCoffeeHour.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” title_text=”PolehankiCoffeeHour” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/senatedems.com\/polehanki\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/11\/2025\/08\/PolehankiDoorknocking.jpg” _builder_version=”4.27.3″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” alt=”senator Polehanki Door knocking” title_text=”PolehankiDoorknocking” 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_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” theme_builder_area=”post_content” 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” 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 Save on Higher Education with the Michigan Achievement Scholarship 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 Under the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, students can receive:<\/span><\/p>\n 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 here<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n Michiganders Feeling Economic Relief from New Unemployment Law<\/span><\/b>
<\/span>State Senator<\/span>
<\/span>District 5<\/span><\/p>\n\n
<\/span>Last month, in the wee hours of the night, 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. Touted as Trump\u2019s \u201cBig, Beautiful Bill\u201d \u2014 this legislation will certainly have a big impact, but that impact looks to be anything but beautiful.<\/span><\/p>\n\n
<\/span>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\n
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<\/span>Last month, I had the pleasure of hosting a constituent outreach day that began with a community conversation and continued with neighborhood outreach. It was a wonderful opportunity to sit down with constituents over coffee, listen to their concerns, and discuss the issues that matter most to our district. Afterward, I joined a dedicated group of volunteers to knock on doors and connect directly with residents. These conversations are invaluable to me \u2014 they help shape my work in Lansing and ensure your voices are heard. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make the day a success!<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/span><\/b>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\n
<\/span>Nearly 48,000 Michiganders are receiving retroactive unemployment payments thanks to <\/span>legislation my Senate Democratic colleagues and I secured last legislative session<\/span><\/a> 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