SENATE APPROVES STATE PARKS LEGISLATION TO CUT ANNUAL FEE BY 60 PERCENT AND PROVIDE LONG-TERM PARKS FUNDING SOURCE The Senate today approved bipartisan legislation that would reduce the annual park entrance fee for Michigan residents from $24 to $10 and provide a long-term funding source for state parks and recreational areas, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, chair of the Senate Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Committee.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ APPLAUDS MEASURE TO CREATE 800 JOBS IN LANSING AREA Sen. Patty Birkholz today announced that Auto-Owners Insurance Company in Delta Charter Township will receive nearly $29 million for a business expansion project.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ CANCELS OCT. 26 AFTERNOON OFFICE HOURS IN ALLEGAN Sen. Patty Birkholz, R-Saugatuck Township, announces cancellation of her district office hours scheduled on Oct. 26 at the Allegan City Hall at 2 p.m. due to legislative activities.   [more]

SENATE APPROVES BIRKHOLZ LEGISLATION TO HELP FINANCE ENERGY PROJECTS IN MICHIGAN The state Senate today approved legislation that will create a fund to provide loans for private and public sector renewable energy and energy efficiency projects in Michigan, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, sponsor of the measure.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES OCTOBER DISTRICT OFFICE HOURS Office hours are open to everyone who resides in the 24th District which includes Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties.   [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES $2.1 MILLION FOR COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS IN ALLEGAN AND EATON COUNTIES Sen. Patty Birkholz is pleased to announce that several communities in Allegan and Eaton counties will receive more than $2.1 million for public infrastructure projects.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ WETLAND PROTECTION PLAN WILL KEEP PROGRAM IN STATE Senate sends legislation to governor   [more]

SENATE APPROVES BIRKHOLZS LEGISLATION TO KEEP WETLANDS PROTECTION PROGRAM IN MICHIGAN The state Senate today approved legislation that will keep Michigans wetlands protection program under state control instead of the federal government, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, sponsor of the measure.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ PROMOTES SEPT. 30 EVENT TO STOP CHILD ABUSE IN MICHIGAN Goal to raise half a million at the Childrens Trust Fund seventh-annual charity auction  [more]

SENATE APPROVES BIRKHOLZS OMBUDSMAN BILL TO HELP IMPROVE STATES REGULATORY SYSTEM The state Senate approved legislation Tuesday to create an office of independent business ombudsman in Michigan to help improve the states regulatory system, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, sponsor of the measure.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ AND REP. CALLEY ANNOUNCE $1 MILLION TAX CREDIT FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT IN BARRY COUNTY Sen. Patty Birkholz and Rep. Brian Calley are pleased to announce that Bradford White Corp. in Middleville will receive a Rural Employment Tax Credit valued at $1,020,623 over seven years. The credit was approved by the Michigan Economic Growth Authority Board.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ AND REP. GENETSKI ANNOUNCE $22 MILLION TAX CREDIT FOR HAWORTH INC. Sen. Patty Birkholz and Rep. Bob Genetski today announced that Haworth, Inc. will receive a Standard Employment Tax Credit valued at $22,437,419 over 13 years. The credit was approved by the Michigan Economic Growth Authority Board.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES AUGUST DISTRICT OFFICE HOURS Office hours are open to everyone who resides in the 24th Senate District which includes Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties.   [more]

CHILDRENS TRUST FUND GEARING UP FOR EVENT TO HELP MICHIGAN CHILDREN DURING CHALLENGING ECONOMIC TIMES Tickets available for Signature Event; online auction open for bids  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ AND REP. JONES ANNOUNCE HOUSING GRANT FOR GRAND LEDGE Sen. Patty Birkholz and Rep. Rick Jones today announced that the city of Grand Ledge will receive a state grant of $325,500 for a rental housing project.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ CANCELS AUGUST 10 DISTRICT OFFICE HOURS IN HASTINGS Sen. Patty Birkholz, R-Saugatuck Township, announces cancellation of her district office hours scheduled on August 10 at the Hastings City Hall at 9:30 a.m.   [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ AND REP. CALLEY ANNOUNCE $434,548 FOR COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS IN BARRY COUNTY Sen. Patty Birkholz and Rep. Brian Calley are pleased to announce that several communities in Barry County will receive a total of $434,548 for public infrastructure projects.  [more]

SENATE APPROVES RENAMING PORTION OF M-188 IN EATON COUNTY TO ELGIE G. HANNA MEMORIAL HIGHWAY The Senate today approved legislation that would change a portion of M-188 in Eaton County to the Elgie G. Hanna Memorial Highway.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ AND REP. CALLEY ANNOUNCE TRANSPORTATION GRANT TO FUND ROAD PROJECT IN BARRY COUNTY Sen. Patty Birkholz and Rep. Brian Calley are pleased to announce that Barry County will receive a Transportation Economic Development Fund Category A grant for a major road project in Barry County.   [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ CANCELS JUNE 22 DISTRICT OFFICE HOURS IN ALLEGAN Sen. Patty Birkholz, R-Saugatuck Township, announces cancellation of her district office hours scheduled on June 22 at the Allegan City Hall at 2 p.m.   [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES JUNE DISTRICT OFFICE HOURS Office hours are open to everyone who resides in the 24th Senate District which includes Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties.   [more]

LAWMAKERS TO HOLD HEARING IN SAUGATUCK ON STATE OF FILM INDUSTRY IN MICHIGAN Media Advisory  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES GRANT FOR BEACH WATER QUALITY TESTING Sen. Birkholz announces grant for beach water quality testing   [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ WELCOMES VETERANS TO CAPITOL FOR MEMORIAL DAY SERVICE Photo Advisory  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ AND REP. JONES ANNOUNCE TAX CREDIT FOR WJG ENTERPRISES MOLDING COMPANY IN CHARLOTTE Sen. Patty Birkholz and Rep. Rick Jones today announced that WJG Enterprises Molding Company in Charlotte will receive a Standard Employment Tax Credit valued at $993,024 over seven years. The credit was approved by the Michigan Economic Growth Authority Board.  [more]

SENATE COMMITTEE APPROVES STATE PARKS LEGISLATION TO REDUCE ENTRANCE FEES AND PROVIDE LONG-TERM PARKS FUNDING SOURCE The Senate Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Committee today approved bipartisan legislation that would reduce the annual park entrance fee for state residents from $24 to $10 and provide a long-term funding source for state parks and recreational areas, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, chair of the committee.  [more]

LAWMAKERS TO HEAR HOW THE GREAT LAKES CAN HELP REVITALIZE MICHIGANS ECONOMY A legislative briefing on leveraging the Great Lakes to advance Michigans economic and environmental health, featuring a recent study from a regional coalition of chambers of commerce, An Agenda for Jobs and Economic Transformation in the Great Lakes Region.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ RECOGNIZED BY LAND CONSERVANCY OF WEST MICHIGAN State Sen. Patty Birkholz was recently recognized by the Land Conservancy of West Michigan with the Mary Jane Dockeray Award for her outstanding support of the conservation and preservation of Michigans natural resources.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ SPONSORS RESOLUTION TO PROMOTE E-WASTE RECYCLING DURING MICHIGAN CONSERVATION WEEK Conservation newsletter available for constituents on her Web site   [more]

LAWMAKERS AND DEQ HIGHLIGHT E-WASTE RECYCLING AT EARTH DAY AND MICHIGAN CONSERVATION WEEK CELEBRATION Lawmakers partnered with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality today to highlight the importance of e-waste recycling at a press conference observing Earth Day and the third annual Michigan Conservation Week.  [more]

NEW STATE PARK FUNDING PLAN SLASHES PARK FEES AND IMPROVES PARKS State and local parks and state forests link residents to the outdoors and make Michigan a great place to live, work, play and visit. State parks alone annually generate $650 million for Michigans economy and help support a tourism industry that employs more than 200,000 residents.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES APRIL DISTRICT OFFICE HOURS Office hours are open to everyone who resides in the 24th Senate District which includes Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties.  [more]

JOINT SENATE AND HOUSE COMMITTEES HEAR TESTIMONY ON STATE PARKS AND RECREATIONAL AREAS PASSPORT LEGISLATION Bills will reduce annual park fee from $24 to $10 for state residents  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ RECOGNIZED BY MICHIGAN FFA ASSOCIATION AT THE STATE CAPITOL Photo Advisory  [more]

LAWMAKERS ANNOUNCE BILLS TO REDUCE ANNUAL PARK FEE FROM $24 TO $10 FOR STATE RESIDENTS State lawmakers today announced bipartisan, bicameral legislation that would reduce the annual park entrance fee for state residents from $24 to $10 through an alternative funding plan for Michigans state parks and recreational areas, which will celebrate their 90th anniversary this year.   [more]

BIRKHOLZ RECOGNIZED BY MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU State Sen. Patty Birkholz was recently recognized by the Michigan Farm Bureau with the Silver Plow Award for her outstanding legislative service in 2008.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ: GUIDE ON HOW TO APPEAL PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENTS NOW AVAILABLE Sen. Patty Birkholz announced today that her Web site will help constituents access a guide on how to effectively appeal their property tax assessments.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES FEBRUARY DISTRICT OFFICE HOURS Office hours are open to everyone who resides in the 24th District which includes Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties.   [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ OFFERS COMMENTS FOLLOWING STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS Under the constitution, the Legislature is responsible for protecting our natural resources. We must join the governor in reorganizing the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and Department of Natural Resources. The plan must be carefully developed to conserve natural resources and protect the needs of our residents and business community as they seek to properly utilize them."  [more]

BIRKHOLZ WARNS RESIDENTS OF IDENTIFY THEFT SCAM Individuals masquerading as employees of U.S. Bureau of the Public Debt   [more]

MICHIGANS COMPUTER ELECTRONICS RECYCLING LEGISLATION SIGNED INTO LAW AS NATIONAL E-WASTE RECYCLING RATE SEES HUGE INCREASE Legislation that establishes a manufacturer-driven program in Michigan to increase the recycling of consumer computer electronics was recently signed into state law, said Sens. Patty Birkholz and Valde Garcia, sponsors of the measures.  [more]

SENATE SENDS COMPUTER ELECTRONICS RECYCLING LEGISLATION TO GOVERNOR The Michigan Senate today approved legislation that will establish a manufacturer-driven program to increase the recycling of consumer computer electronics without a charge on consumers.   [more]

AMENDMENT RESTORES FUNDING FOR MSU BIO-RESEARCH CENTER Birkholz strongly supports funding restoration  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES DECEMBER DISTRICT OFFICE HOURS Office hours are open to everyone who resides in the 24th District which includes Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties.   [more]

LANDMARK GREAT LAKES PROTECTIONS TAKE EFFECT Ratification of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact, which goes into effect Dec. 8, was one of the most significant public policies accomplished by state and federal lawmakers this year. The compact is critical for the protection of our Great Lakes. It develops common measures for regulating in-state water withdrawals and prohibiting out-of-basin water diversions.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ APPLAUDS COURT OF APPEALS RULING UPHOLDING MICHIGANS BALLAST WATER LAW Sen. Patty Birkholz today praised the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit for upholding Michigans ballast water law. The court rejected a lawsuit filed by shipping companies which sought to overturn state law regulating ballast water discharges by oceangoing ships.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ RECEIVES AWARD FOR LEGISLATION FIGHTING BREAST CANCER State Sen. Patty Birkholz has received the Hero of Breast Cancer Leadership Award from the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute for her legislative work fighting breast cancer.   [more]

SENATE CELEBRATES AMERICA RECYCLES DAY BY APPROVING LEGISLATION TO SPUR COMPUTER ELECTRONICS RECYCLING Recycling plan free for consumers   [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES OCTOBER DISTRICT OFFICE HOURS Office hours are open to everyone who resides in the 24th District which includes Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties.   [more]

BIRKHOLZ APPLAUDS PRESIDENT BUSH FOR SIGNING GREAT LAKES COMPACT Sen. Patty Birkholz today praised President George W. Bush for signing into law the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact.   [more]

SENATE COMMITTEE REPORTS BIRKHOLZ/GARCIA E-WASTE LEGISLATION TO SPUR COMPUTER RECYCLING Measures part of Senate Republican “Green Michigan Initiative”  [more]

CHILDREN’S TRUST FUND RAISES $450,000 AT STATE’S ANNUAL EVENT TO STOP CHILD ABUSE “We couldn’t make our dream of stopping child abuse in Michigan a reality without the hundreds of Michigan businesses and residents who have generously donated gifts and their time to this worthy cause,” said Sen. Patty Birkholz, R-Saugatuck Township  [more]

BIRKHOLZ APPLAUDS CONGRESS ON RATIFICATION OF GREAT LAKES COMPACT Sen. Patty Birkholz today praised the efforts of the U.S. House of Representatives in approving a resolution that will ratify the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact.  [more]

SENATE APPROVES BIRKHOLZ ENERGY LEGISLATION TO ESTABLISH RPS OF 10 PERCENT FOR MICHIGAN The state Senate today approved an energy plan, sponsored by Sen. Patty Birkholz, that will establish a Renewable Portfolio Standard for Michigan.  [more]

DONATIONS UP 40 PERCENT FOR STATE’S ANNUAL EVENT TO STOP CHILD ABUSE Children’s Trust Fund extends deadline for online auction  [more]

BIRKHOLZ PROMOTES EVENT TO STOP CHILD ABUSE AND LAUNCH FIRST-EVER ONLINE AUCTION TO BENEFIT CHILDREN’S TRUST FUND Sen. Patty Birkholz and a team of bipartisan legislators from the Senate and House today announced a charitable event and first-ever online auction to help fund child abuse prevention efforts in Michigan.  [more]

LAWMAKERS PROMOTE SEPT. 25 EVENT TO STOP CHILD ABUSE AND LAUNCH FIRST-EVER ONLINE AUCTION TO BENEFIT CHILDREN’S TRUST FUND Organization celebrates 25 years of helping prevent child abuse  [more]

LAWMAKERS UNITE TO FIGHT CHILD ABUSE - ANNOUNCE FIRST-EVER ONLINE AUCTION FOR CHILDREN’S TRUST FUND 25TH ANNIVERSARY News conference to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Michigan’s Children’s Trust Fund and kickoff the first-ever online auction and 6th annual charity event at the Kellogg Center at Michigan State University on Sept. 25.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES AUGUST DISTRICT OFFICE HOURS Office hours are open to everyone who resides in the 24th District which includes Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ URGES CONGRESS TO APPROVE GREAT LAKES COMPACT Sen. Patty Birkholz today urged the U.S. Congress to approve a resolution that would adopt the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ: PLAN SUPPORTED BY ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVISTS WILL COST STATE RESIDENTS BILLIONS "At a time when Michigan residents are facing the highest unemployment rate in the nation and an alarming increase in the cost of basic household needs, we must adopt an energy plan that minimizes the negative economic impact on our citizens. Senate Republicans refuse to impose an ill-informed government mandate for renewable energy that would require residents to pay significantly more for their energy needs—up to $6 billion to $8 billion more."  [more]

LANDMARK WATER PROTECTION LEGISLATION SIGNED INTO STATE LAW Along the scenic shoreline of Lake Michigan in Saugatuck, the governor today signed the state’s landmark water protection legislative package, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, the lead Senate sponsor of the measures.  [more]

SENATE APPROVES RELIABLE AND AFFORDABLE ENERGY PLAN The Michigan Senate today approved an energy plan to ensure reliable and safe energy for Michigan job providers and residents, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, sponsor of the measure.  [more]

MICHIGAN SENATE SENDS WATER PROTECTION LEGISLATION TO GOVERNOR The Michigan Senate today voted to send the Senate water protection legislation to the governor and also approved the House water measures, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, who is the lead sponsor of the package.  [more]

MICHIGAN SENATE AND HOUSE REACH CONSENSUS ON LANDMARK WATER PROTECTION LEGISLATIVE PACKAGE Sen. Patty Birkholz and Rep. Rebekah Warren today announced that they have reached consensus on Michigan’s landmark water protection legislative package to adopt the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact and implement a new standard for evaluating large quantity water withdrawals.   [more]

MEDIA ADVISORY: LAWMAKERS TO HEAR HOW THE GREAT LAKES CAN STRENGTHEN MICHIGAN'S ECONOMY John Austin, senior fellow at The Brookings Institution and director of the Great Lakes Economic Initiative, will present the study's findings and discuss how they can help revitalize the region's economy.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES JUNE DISTRICT OFFICE HOURS Office hours are open to everyone who resides in the 24th District which includes Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties.   [more]

GOVERNOR SIGNS BIRKHOLZ MILK SAFETY LEGISLATION The governor signed legislation Thursday sponsored by Sen. Patty Birkholz that updates Michigan’s dairy laws to improve food safety regulations.  [more]

SENATE PASSES RENEWABLE FUELS LEGISLATION PROVIDING TAX RELIEF FOR NEW FARM MACHINERY THAT HARVESTS BIOMASS "Renewable transportation fuels help decrease our dependence on foreign imports while stimulating economic growth domestically, promoting sustainability of resources, and reducing emissions that can negatively impact the environment.", said Birkholz, R-Saugatuck Township.  [more]

SENATE APPROVES RENAMING PORTION OF M-188 IN EATON COUNTY TO ELGIE G. HANNA MEMORIAL HIGHWAY The Senate today approved legislation that would change the name of M-188 in Eaton County to the Elgie G. Hanna Memorial Highway, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, sponsor of the measure.  [more]

MICHIGAN'S WATER PACKAGE An OpEd from Senator Patty Birkholz  [more]

FOCUS ON POLICY OVER POLITICS TO PROTECT MICHIGAN WATERS A recent guest column by Cyndi Roper of Clean Water Action criticized the state Senate for passing its water protection legislative package last week. Several points in the column require an immediate corrective response.   [more]

LANDMARK WATER WITHDRAWAL TOOL LEGISLATION APPROVED BY SENATE The Michigan Senate today approved the final bill in a water protection package, sponsored by Sen. Patty Birkholz and spearheaded by Republicans, that will adopt a landmark assessment process to evaluate the impacts of proposed large water withdrawals.   [more]

SENATE APPROVES GREAT LAKES COMPACT TO SAFEGUARD MICHIGAN WATERS The Senate today unanimously approved legislation that will adopt the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact to further safeguard Michigan waters, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, sponsor of the measure.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES TAX CREDIT FOR VON WEISE, INC. IN EATON RAPIDS Sen. Patty Birkholz today announced that Von Weise, Inc. in Eaton Rapids will receive a Standard Employment Tax Credit valued at $1,145,000 over seven years.   [more]

SENATE APPROVES BIRKHOLZ LEGISLATION TO RESTORE AIRBOAT SAFETY REGULATIONS The Michigan Senate today approved legislation that will restore safety and operational procedures for airboat usage in Michigan, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, sponsor of the measure.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES TRANSPORTATION GRANT TO FUND ROAD PROJECT IN EATON COUNTY Sen. Patty Birkholz is pleased to announce that Eaton County will receive a Transportation Economic Development Fund Category A grant to fund a major road project near the Charlotte industrial center. The park is located east of Battle Creek Highway and south of Shepard Street.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES LAND PRESERVATION LEGISLATION AT MICHIGAN CONSERVATION WEEK KICK-OFF EVENT Photo Advisory: Sen. Patty Birkholz, R-Saugatuck Township, announces legislation that will help preserve more land in Michigan at the kick-off event for the second annual Michigan Conservation Week.  [more]

SENATE PROMOTES MICHIGAN CONSERVATION WEEK AND LAND PRESERVATION LEGISLATION AT WOLDUMAR NATURE CENTER The state Senate today announced legislation that will help preserve more land in Michigan at the kick-off event for the second annual Michigan Conservation Week.   [more]

SENATE APPROVES BIRKHOLZ LEGISLATION TO HELP INCREASE THE USE OF RENEWABLE FUELS IN MICHIGAN The Michigan Senate today approved legislation sponsored by Sen. Patty Birkholz that will help increase the use of biofuels in Michigan.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ WELCOMES CMU BIOLOGY STUDENTS TO CAPITOL Photo Advisory: Sen. Birkholz welcomes CMU biology students to Capitol  [more]

LETTER TO THE EDITOR FROM SENATORS BIRKHOLZ AND WAN WOERKOM A recent editorial in the Muskegon Chronicle about the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact criticized the state Senate. Several points in the column warrant rebuttal.   [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES APRIL DISTRICT OFFICE HOURS Office hours are open to everyone who resides in the 24th District which includes Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties.   [more]

SENATE APPROVES LEGISLATION THAT WILL INCREASE RENEWABLE ENERGY USE WITHOUT IMPOSING A GOVERNMENT MANDATE The Senate today unanimously approved three bills requiring state government to purchase increasing amounts of renewable energy during the next two decades as long as the energy can be economically produced.  [more]

SENATE APPROVES BIRKHOLZ LEGISLATION TO PROVIDE JOB TRAINING CREDITS FOR THE FILM INDUSTRY The Michigan Senate today approved legislation that will help reel the film industry into Michigan, provide a boost to the state's economy and create more jobs, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, sponsor of the legislation.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES $315,000 IN TRANSPORTATION GRANTS FOR EATON RAPIDS TO SUPPORT ECONOMIC GROWTH AND JOB CREATION Sen. Patty Birkholz is pleased to announce that Eaton Rapids will receive $315,000 from the Michigan Department of Transportation to improve two intersections. Because of local business expansions, the community expects traffic back-ups from increased commercial vehicle usage.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ: GUIDE ON HOW TO APPEAL PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENTS NOW AVAILABLE Sen. Patty Birkholz announced today that constituents can access a guide on how to effectively appeal their property tax assessments on her Web site.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ NAMED ONE OF WEST MICHIGAN'S 50 MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN Sen. Patty Birkholz recently was selected by the Grand Rapids Business Journal as one of West Michigan's 50 most influential women.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES $60,300 IN ARTS GRANTS Sen. Patty Birkholz is pleased to announce that the 24th Senate District has received $60,300 in grants for 2008 from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.  [more]

SENATE COMMITTEE MOVES LANDMARK MICHIGAN WATER PROTECTION BILLS The Senate Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Committee today unanimously approved bipartisan legislation that would provide greater protection for Michigan waters and those that depend on having access to them, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, chair of the committee and sponsor of the legislation.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ WELCOMES REV. WINTER TO CAPITOL Sen. Patty Birkholz, R-Saugatuck Township, left, is joined by Rev. Edith Winter and her husband, Dale. Rev. Winter, from First Congregational Church in Grand Junction, led members of the Michigan Senate during the invocation and joined Birkholz on the Senate floor for session.  [more]

SENATE COMMITTEE BEGINS ACTION TO ADVANCE MICHIGAN WATER PROTECTION BILLS The Senate Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Committee today heard testimony on legislation that would provide greater protection for Michigan waters and those that depend on having access to them, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, chair of the committee and sponsor of the legislation.  [more]

SENATE COMMITTEE PASSES LEGISLATION TO CLARIFY ANNEXATION PROCEDURES The Senate Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Committee approved legislation Wednesday that will clarify annexation procedures for cities, villages and townships, said Patty Birkholz, chair of the committee and sponsor of the legislation.  [more]

SENATE AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE APPROVES MILK SAFETY LAWS Senate Bills 1007 and 1008 will amend Michigan's dairy laws, which regulate the production of milk for drinking and other dairy products, such as yogurt, sour cream, butter, cheese and ice cream, by incorporating necessary changes from the federal 2007 Pasteurized Milk Ordinance.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ OFFERS COMMENTS FOLLOWING STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS "The governor addressed many of the serious economic and structural problems facing Michigan. To prevent additional job loss, home foreclosures, and other burdens on Michigan families, we must work together to help move Michigan forward. Cooperation will be crucial as lawmakers develop sound solutions."  [more]

SENATE DISCHARGES RENEWABLE ENERGY LEGISLATION Measures will increase green energy use without a government mandate  [more]

SENATE COMMITTEE HEARS TESTIMONY REGARDING FILM INDUSTRY The Senate Commerce and Tourism Committee today heard testimony regarding steps the state should take to encourage the film industry to produce more films in Michigan.  [more]

SENATE INTRODUCES RENEWABLE ENERGY LEGISLATION WITHOUT A GOVERNMENT MANDATE TO HELP INCREASE SUPPLY AND DEMAND Senate Republicans today introduced legislation, as part of their "Green Michigan Initiative," that will create a market for renewable energy in the state without imposing a government mandate.  [more]

GREAT LAKES COMPACT AND WATER WITHDRAWAL LEGISLATION WILL SAFEGUARD MICHIGAN WATERS A recent guest column by Mike Delp noted that Senate Bill 212, which I sponsored, "would seriously impact the waters of Michigan." Several points in the column warrant rebuttal.  [more]

SAUGATUCK WATERFRONT FILM FESTIVAL RANKED AS WORLD'S THIRD BEST Sen. Patty Birkholz and Rep. Bill Huizenga announced today that Saugatuck's Waterfront film festival was recently ranked as SAGIndie's third best film festival in the world. The ranking appears in the Winter 2007 edition of Screen Actor magazine.  [more]

SENATE COMMITTEE PASSES GREAT LAKES WATER PROTECTION LEGISLATION The Senate Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Committee today unanimously approved legislation that will adopt the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact to further safeguard the Great Lakes, said Patty Birkholz, chair of the committee and sponsor of the legislation.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES $9 MILLION FOR DOWDING MACHINING LLC EXPANSION PROJECT IN EATON RAPIDS Sen. Patty Birkholz announces that Dowding Machining LLC in Eaton Rapids will use a $9 million allocation through the Private Activity Bond Program to finance a business expansion project.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ INTRODUCES BILLS TO EXPAND STATE RECYCLING OPPORTUNITIES Legislation has been introduced in the state Senate that would expand recycling opportunities in Michigan, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, sponsor of the bills, on today's observance of America Recycles Day.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ ISSUES STATEMENT ON GREAT LAKES, GREAT MICHIGAN COALITION ANALYSIS ""I am very disappointed to learn of the Michigan Environmental Council's reaction to the groundwater assessment tool, especially as they were key participants in its development. The numbers mentioned in the press release are inaccurate and not reflective of the most recent version of our legislation and they know it. For instance, the proposed impact on the Betsie River is inaccurate by more than 80 percent."  [more]

BIRKHOLZ ISSUES STATEMENT ON GREAT LAKES WATER PROTECTION LEGISLATION AT SENATE COMMITTEE Water is the most important natural resource that Michigan has. We must protect and defend it. That is why we are here today to continue an earnest and expedited debate to move the compact, water withdrawal assessment tool and accompanying legislation. Given the well-publicized comments from New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson and others, there is a great urgency in getting our bills before the governor.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ INCOME TAX CHECKOFF LEGISLATION SIGNED BY GOVERNOR Legislation that will establish a fund through the state's income tax check-off program to provide money for breast cancer research was today signed by the governor, said Sen. Patty Birkholz.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ INTRODUCES BILL TO ALLOW FOR INCREASED METHANE GENERATION Sen. Patty Birkholz, R-Saugatuck Township, today introduced legislation that would encourage increased methane generation by lifting the current yard waste ban at selective state landfills.  [more]

SENATE BREAST CANCER RESEARCH FUND AND SIMPLIFIED INCOME TAX CHECK-OFF FORM SENT TO GOVERNOR The Senate today approved legislation sponsored by Sen. Patty Birkholz that will establish a fund through the state's income tax check-off program to provide money for breast cancer research.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES BROWNFIELD REDEVELOPMENT TAX CREDIT FOR EATON RAPIDS CONSTRUCTION PROJECT Sen. Patty Birkholz is pleased to announce that Eaton Rapids will receive a brownfield redevelopment tax credit valued at $80,000 for the construction of senior housing apartments.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES OCTOBER DISTRICT OFFICE HOURS Office hours are open to everyone who resides in the 24th District, which includes Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ OFFERS COMMENTS ON PASSAGE OF STATE BUDGET "Senate Republicans have stood firm in fighting for Michigan families and job providers. We passed legislation that will enact a continuation budget to prevent a state government shutdown and balance the 2008 fiscal year budget."  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ URGES THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE TO ALLOW A VOTE ON CONTINUATION BUDGET "The House's continuing failure to act during the past several weeks is unfortunate. Senate Republicans continue to work toward a budget solution and prevention of a government shutdown."  [more]

BIRKHOLZ CONSUMER PROTECTION LEGISLATION SIGNED INTO LAW Legislation that will protect residents from potential theft of their Social Security number was signed Tuesday by the governor, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, sponsor of the measure.  [more]

GUN LAKE CASINO NOT IN BEST INTEREST FOR WEST MICHIGAN An op-ed from Senators Wayne Kuipers and Patty Birkholz  [more]

SENATE PASSES PUBLIC EMPLOYEE BENEFITS REFORM PACKAGE The Senate passed legislation Tuesday aimed at saving local governments and school districts money on the cost of public employee health benefits by developing optional health care pools and opening the process to competition.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ PLEDGES PROMPT ACTION ON GREAT LAKES COMPACT Water withdrawal assessment tool report released  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ AND REP. JONES OBSERVE SEPTEMBER AS NATIONAL ALCOHOL AND DRUG ADDICTION RECOVERY MONTH Sen. Patty Birkholz and Rep. Rick Jones have introduced a resolution observing September 2007 as National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month in Michigan.  [more]

BIRKHOLZ APPLAUDS COURT RULING TO UPHOLD BALLAST WATER LAW AND URGES MORE STATE ACTION A lawsuit filed by nine shipping companies and associations which sought to overturn Michigan law regulating ballast water discharges by oceangoing ships was dismissed on Wednesday by U.S. District Judge John Feikens, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, who sponsored the 2005 measure.  [more]

SENATOR PATTY BIRKHOLZ'S LETTER TO THE EDITOR REGARDING THE GUN LAKE CASINO I have read with interest the August 2 edition of the Allegan County News which reported and then further discussed my recent testimony before the House Regulatory Reform Committee.  [more]

BILL WILL FUND $192,100 FOR GRAND LEDGE RIVERWALK State Sen. Patty Birkholz today announced that Grand Ledge will receive $192,100 for the expansion of the city's 2,500 foot riverwalk.  [more]

SENATE COMMITTEE APPROVES LEGISLATION TO REMOVE BARRIERS PREVENTING LOCAL AGREEMENTS The Senate Local, Urban and State Affairs Committee approved legislation Tuesday that would remove current barriers preventing local units of government and communities from consolidating and reaching inter-local agreements, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, a member of the committee.  [more]

SENATE ACTS TO HELP NEW PARENTS IMPROVE PARENTING SKILLS The Michigan Senate today passed a resolution sponsored by Sen. Patty Birkholz that strongly encourages the U.S. Congress to enact the Education Begins at Home Act. The measure would maintain programs designed to help improve parenting skills and promote healthy child development.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ SUPPORTS EFFORT TO PROTECT THE GREAT LAKES "Today's action by the parties to the lawsuit takes advantage of an important tool found in the Clean Water Act. Michigan, other Great Lakes states, and our Canadian neighbors are reeling with the quick spread of the Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia fish disease and many other invasive species."  [more]

SENATE URGES CONGRESS TO SECURE FUNDING FOR VHS FISH DISEASE The Michigan Senate today passed a resolution to urge Michigan's congressional delegation to secure supplemental funding to control the spread of Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia in fish populations, said Sen. Patty Birkholz, sponsor of the resolution.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES JUNE DISTRICT OFFICE HOURS Office hours are open to everyone who resides in the 24th District, which includes Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ JOINS BALLAST WATER CASE IN SUPPORT OF MICHIGAN'S RIGHT TO PROTECT THE GREAT LAKES State Sen. Patty Birkholz officially joined the federal court case in efforts to defend Michigan's ballast water discharge law with Judge John Feikens' acceptance of her amicus brief on behalf of the defense.  [more]

LEGISLATION WILL REFORM GOVERNMENT AND FREE UP FUNDS FOR PUBLIC SAFETY AND SCHOOL CLASSROOMS An editorial from State Senators Wayne Kuipers and Patricia Birkholz  [more]

BIRKHOLZ CONSUMER PROTECTION LEGISLATION PASSES SENATE The Senate today approved legislation sponsored by Sen. Patty Birkholz that will protect residents from potential theft of their Social Security number.  [more]

SENATE HEARS TESTIMONY ON EMERGING THREAT OF VIRAL HEMORRHAGIC SEPTICEMIA FISH DISEASE The Senate Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs committee today heard testimony regarding the Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia fish disease, which threatens to drastically change the way people fish and boat in Michigan. VHS is a virus that causes disease in fish, but not humans.  [more]

SENATE MOVES TO PROTECT HUNTING, FISHING AND TRAPPING The Senate today unanimously passed legislation sponsored by Sen. Patty Birkholz to help protect hunting, fishing and trapping in Michigan.  [more]

BUSINESS AND ECONOMIC STIMULUS TAX PLAN PASSES SENATE The state Senate today passed the Republican Business and Economic Stimulus Tax plan to help jump-start and diversify Michigan's economy.  [more]

SENATE PRESENTS CONSERVATIONIST OF THE YEAR TRIBUTE Sen. Patty Birkholz today presented Keith Charters of Traverse City with a special tribute honoring him as the 2007 Michigan Conservationist of the Year as the Senate observed the final day of Michigan Conservation Week. Northern Michigan lawmakers Sens. Jason Allen, R-Traverse City, and Michelle McManus, R-Lake Leelanau, also took part in the recognition ceremony.  [more]

SENATE REPUBLICANS AND COALITION OF SUPPORTERS DEFEND BALLAST WATER LAWS Senate Republicans and a coalition of conservation interest groups today defended Michigan's ballast water law at the final news conference for the first-ever Michigan Conservation Week. The event was held at the Eberhard Center in Grand Rapids along the Grand River.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ TO ANNOUNCE COALITION TO DEFEND THE BALLAST WATER LAW Sen. Birkholz will announce a coalition of organizations that will help defend Public Acts 33 and 34 from the lawsuit filed against the Department of Environmental Quality. One of the greatest threats to our natural resources is the introduction of aquatic nuisance species into the Great Lakes through ballast water discharge.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ INCOME TAX CHECK-OFF PROGRAM MEASURE PASSES HOUSE COMMITTEE The House Tax Policy Committee today passed Senate Bill 347 sponsored by Sen. Patty Birkholz to unify all income tax check-offs for various causes into one form.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ INVITES NONPROFITS TO APPLY FOR TECHNOLOGY FUNDING AT&T grants can improve education, health outreach, community services  [more]

CELEBRATING CONSERVATION IN MICHIGAN Conserving Michigan's natural resources is a priority for most Michigan residents, organizations and lawmakers. It's important to remember that conservation means to preserve our natural resources, while also using them wisely.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES FUNDRAISING EVENT ON MAY 1ST AT BRESLIN CENTER TO BENEFIT THE CHILDREN'S TRUST FUND Sen. Patty Birkholz and a bipartisan team of legislators from the Senate and House today announced a charitable event to help fund child abuse prevention efforts in Michigan.  [more]

SENATE REDUCES PHOSPHORUS LEVELS TO PROTECT MICHIGAN WATERS In an effort to keep Michigan's lakes and streams pristine, the Senate on Thursday approved legislation sponsored by Sen. Patty Birkholz to reduce excess phosphorus in the Great Lakes and Michigan's inland lakes.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ INTRODUCES A PLAN TO ADDRESS THE RISING COST OF HEALTH CARE FOR PUBLIC EMPLOYEES Sen. Patty Birkholz today introduced a comprehensive plan that will help public employers address the rising cost of health care.  [more]

SENATE CREATES BREAST CANCER RESEARCH FUND; SIMPLIFIES INCOME TAX CHECK-OFF FORM The Senate today approved legislation sponsored by Sen. Patty Birkholz to establish a fund through the state's income tax check-off program to provide money for breast cancer research.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES BUSINESS EXPANSION PROJECT LOAN FOR NUVAR PROPERTIES IN HOLLAND Sen. Patty Birkholz is pleased to announce that Nuvar Properties, LLC in Holland received a $1,875,000 loan from the Michigan Strategic Fund Board through the private activity bond program.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ DEFENDS STATE BALLAST WATER LAW "The states have the authority to regulate commerce when there is a valid interest relating to public safety. The introduction of invasive species into our Great Lakes is a huge threat to our ecosystem."  [more]

CO-CHAIRS OF THE MICHIGAN LEGISLATIVE CHILDREN’S CAUCUS ANNOUNCED The Children’s Caucus is composed of members of the Michigan Legislature who are interested in and committed to furthering early childhood education, health and care. The caucus will meet quarterly to educate legislative colleagues in the House and Senate on topics pertinent to early childhood in Michigan.  [more]

SEN. BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES MEDC GRANT FOR THE LCC BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY INSTITUTE Sen. Patty Birkholz is pleased to announce that Lansing Community College is receiving an Economic Development Job Training grant of $1,007,000.  [more]

SENATE APPROVES LANDMARK PLANNING LEGISLATION The Senate today approved landmark planning legislation, sponsored by Sen. Patty Birkholz, which will significantly ease current planning hurdles statewide.  [more]

OUR GREAT LAKES IN PERIL! We must continue to protect Michigan’s most important natural resource. Time is of the essence. If we fail to act soon, the Great Lakes, and our future, will remain in peril.  [more]

SENATOR BIRKHOLZ TO APPEAR ON PBS NOW PROGRAM Sen. Patty Birkholz, R-Saugatuck Township, will appear on the PBS NOW program on Friday, Feb. 23 to discuss legislation regarding the HPV vaccine for cervical cancer.  [more]

SENATOR BIRKHOLZ PRESENTS MICHIGAN WORKS! ALUMNI AWARDS Sen. Patty Birkholz, R-Saugatuck Township, recently presented Denise Weeks and Annia Alvarez Nodarse with a special tribute at the Michigan Works! alumni celebration and reception. Both were recipients of the Michigan Works! Alumni award.  [more]

SENATOR BIRKHOLZ OFFERS COMMENTS FOLLOWING STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS Michigan is facing many serious economic and structural problems. The governor mentioned many of these problems tonight. It is important that the Michigan Senate, state House and governor’s office all work together to develop solutions that will move Michigan forward.  [more]

SENATOR BIRKHOLZ RECEIVES GREEN ELEPHANT REPUBLICAN LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD Sen. Patty Birkholz, R-Saugatuck Township, recently received the 2007 Green Elephant Republican Legislator of the Year award from the Michigan Chapter of Republicans for Environmental Protection. President Susan McGillicuddy and Vice Presiden  [more]

SENATE REPUBLICANS TO ANNOUNCE WASTE, RECYCLING AND ENERGY PLAN MONDAY News conference to announce the Senate Republican proposal to restrict waste shipments, increase statewide recycling and promote alternative energy.  [more]

SENATOR BIRKHOLZ ANNOUNCES DISTRICT OFFICE HOURS Office hours are open to everyone who resides in the 24th District which includes Allegan, Barry and Eaton counties.  [more]

PATTY BIRKHOLZ SWORN IN AS SENATOR FOR 24TH DISTRICT Sen. Patty Birkholz, R-Saugatuck Township, was part of today’s swearingin ceremony at the state Capitol with Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Clifford Taylor administering the oath of office.  [more]

SENATOR BIRKHOLZ HONORED BY LAND USE FUNDERS OF MICHIGAN Sen. Patty Birkholz was recently presented with a tribute by the Michigan Land Use Funders Group, an affinity group of the Council of Michigan Foundations.  [more]

SENATOR BIRKHOLZ APPOINTED TO SEVERAL SENATE COMMITTEES Sen. Patty Birkholz today announced she will be serving as the chair of the Senate Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Committee during the new legislative session.  [more]

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