E-Newsletter, July 11, 2008
LAWSUIT UNDERSCORES THE NEED TO PASS HUNTER LEGISLATION TO REQUIRE INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR AUTISM SERVICES
The press recently reported a lawsuit against Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan by a man with an autistic son. The father alleges that the insurer wrongfully refused the coverage needed for his child’s therapy and care. According to PR Newswire, the suit also seeks certification of a class of people who have been refused coverage by Blue Cross for their autistic children, as well as damages and an injunction requiring Blue Cross to provide coverage for the care in the future.
Autism is one of the fastest-growing developmental disabilities among children in America, and I believe all children deserve a fair shot at a healthy life. There are effective forms of therapy available to children with autism and exciting new research conducted every day, but action needs to be taken to make sure more Michigan families have access to the treatment their children need.
To help cover the costs of autism treatment, I’ve sponsored legislation (SB 784 and SB 785) that would require insurance companies in Michigan to provide coverage for autism-related services. Considering how many families are affected by autism, we need to take immediate action in ensuring those who suffer from autism have access to the care and therapy they need. This recent lawsuit reiterates the plight of families facing autism and the need to pass my legislation.
HUNTER PARTICIPATES IN LEGISLATIVE BUILD WITH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
This past week, I joined constituents in Inkster to support Habitat for Humanity and take part in the Legislative Build, an advocacy event connecting legislators with their constituents for community development projects in their district. These community development activities include affordable housing projects, downtown development projects, neighborhood cleanups, and ribbon cutting ceremonies or celebrations to involve residents.
The Legislative Build’s goal is to have legislators working on projects in every district, educating the state and general public on Michigan’s need for affordable housing and demonstrating the economic impact of programs that produce these affordable housing options and economic development projects. It was a great experience to work alongside residents within my district to support the community and help build these homes which are in such high-demand.
For more information about the Legislative Build, visit their website.
INKSTER HOUSING COMMISSION TO OPEN HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHER PROGRAM
The Inkster Housing Commission will open the Housing Choice Voucher Program to the general public for one day only on July 18 to determine an applicant’s program qualifications. Housing staffers will distribute 300 pre-applications for determining an applicant’s eligibility. Only one per household will be issued.
To receive a pre-application, residents must arrive at the Inkster Housing Commission offices between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and noon. They will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until all 300 available applications have been issued. Applications may be obtained at the Inkster Housing Commission, Section 8 Division, located at 29150 Carlysle Rd. in Inkster and must be mailed to the Inkster Housing Commission, Section 8 Division, with a postmarked date on or before Friday, July 25.
For more information about the program, call Juanita Nathan at (313) 561-2355
LEANNA HICKS LIBRARY KEEPS KIDS READING THIS SUMMER
The Leanna Hicks Library in Inkster will host their annual summer reading program for children to continue their education throughout the summer and exercise their imagination. The “Catch the Reading Bug” events will focus on the world of insects. The program is open to area children of all ages, and will take place July 15 and 22. Children who read for 10 hours will receive a certificate at the end of the summer, and other rewards at the conclusion of the cycle.
The Leanna Hicks Library is located at 2005 Inkster Road, behind the old City Hall building. For more information, call the library at (313) 563-2822.
GOVERNOR GRANHOLM LAUNCHES CONSUMER RESOURCE WEBSITE
Governor Jennifer M. Granholm recently revealed a new feature now available on the State of Michigan’s website to provide consumers with advice and information they can use to help ease their pocketbooks and save money.
The website includes information on how consumers can save money in their homes, education, and on health care. It also features information on ways consumers can save money on gas by partaking in other forms of transportation along with tips to stretch out your gas dollar. The website provides a great, easy way for Michigan citizens to learn helpful tips and tricks to save money.
To visit the State’s new web feature, click here.
GRANHOLM ANNOUNCES ENERGY SAVINGS IN STATE FACILITIES
Governor Granholm recently announced that the State of Michigan achieved an 18 percent reduction in energy use at state facilities throughout Michigan during the last fiscal year compared to FY 2002. From the number of efficiencies the state has implemented, Michigan has saved more than $21 million in annual utility costs.
With energy costs high, it’s important we incorporate the cost-saving steps the state has taken in their facilities. The following are simple tips provided by Consumer’s Energy to save money on energy in your home:
- Turn your thermostat down and turn off heat in unoccupied rooms. Lowering your heating temperature is the most effective way to save energy.
- Replace furnace filters regularly.
- Install or repair weather stripping or caulking to eliminate cold drafts.
- Turn electronic appliances off. When you're not using stereos, televisions, computers and other electronics, they only waste energy by staying on.
- Reduce unnecessary exterior lighting. Turn off unnecessary ornamental lighting and turn off exterior lighting during the day.
- Turn your hot water heater down.
- Reduce hot water use by shortening your showers and running your clothes washer and dishwasher only when full.
LOCAL EVENTS
The Inkster Downtown Development Authority, the City of Inkster, and the Inkster Summerfest Committee will be hosting a summer jazz festival July 12-13 in downtown Inkster. The event will feature live musical entertainment, food, merchandise vendors, fireworks and more. To learn more about the event visit this website.
TALK TIME WITH TUPAC: COFFEE HOUR TIMES & LOCATIONS
Detroit Coffee Hour: Every First Friday, 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Mary’s Grill, 20804 Plymouth Road
Dearborn Heights Coffee Hour: Every Third Friday, 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. McDonald’s, 6412 North Telegraph Road
Inkster Coffee Hour: Every Second Friday, 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. McDonald’s, 27125 Cherry Hill Road
You are invited to attend whichever coffee hours work best for your schedule. If you are interested in joining me, please call my office toll-free at 1-866-262-7305 in order to confirm your attendance. Please be sure to leave a message if you call after hours.
