E-Newsletter, May 16, 2008
Smoke Free Workplace Legislation
In last week’s eNews update, I wrote to tell you about the recently-passed legislation that would make Michigan workplaces smoke-free. I supported this bill because numerous scientific studies have shown that there are no safe exposure levels to secondhand smoke, which is the number one cause of preventable death in America. This is a matter of public health, and at a time when health care costs are skyrocketing, we will actually save money in the long run by making sure Michigan workers can work in a healthy, smoke-free environment. I want to emphasize that this legislation WILL NOT affect the cigarette tax in any way, as some special interest groups have falsely claimed. Thirty-three states have already passed similar legislation to protect workers from deadly exposure to secondhand smoke, and I believe it’s time to put the health of our citizens first and make Michigan the 34th state on that list.
Great Lakes Compact Bills
This week I joined my colleagues in the Senate to pass legislation to enact the Great Lakes Compact bills (SB 858, 859, 723, 727) which would set strict guidelines on the use and protection of the precious freshwater that defines our state. The Great Lakes Compact was negotiated for over five years, receiving input from stakeholders, shipping, agriculture, conservative, and environmental groups. This is a positive step towards protecting our water for future generations of Michiganders. Unfortunately, I was not able to support additional legislation related to protecting our water because the Republicans refused to accept stronger measures proposed by the Democrats. I hope these differences will be resolved quickly and in a way that allows all citizens, businesses, and farmers to use this precious resource in a responsible way.
Autism Bills Discussed in Health Policy Committee
Earlier this week, my office submitted testimony to the Health Policy Committee regarding two bills of mine, Senate Bills 784 and 785, which will require insurance companies in Michigan to provide coverage for autism-related services.
Autism often involves treatments in order to live a healthy, productive life, however many insurance companies deem autism as a “pre-existing condition.” This forces families to choose between what is best for their child medically and what they can afford financially.
My legislation aims to give kids access to the treatments necessary for their condition without forcing their parents into a dire financial situation. 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. Twenty-five states have introduced similar bills or already require some degree of coverage. It’s time to add Michigan to that list.
You can watch a brief video of me discussing these bills on my website: http://www.senate.mi.gov/hunter/play.php?id=247
Rouge River Cleanup for Dearborn Heights and Detroit
Recently, I announced two grants for the Dearborn Heights Watershed Stewards Commission and the City of Detroit General Services Department for two Rouge River cleanup projects. These projects show the pride Michigan residents share for our lakes, rivers and steams. It is necessary for us to work together to preserve these beautiful natural resources and protect the environment.
Both of these river cleanup projects are part of “Rouge Rescue 2008,” an annual event that unites thousands of volunteers across Southeast Michigan to remove debris from the river and its flood plain. The state’s Volunteer River, Stream, and Creek Cleanup Program (VRSCCP) provide the grants to make this cleanup project possible, improving Michigan one step at a time.
Detroit Senators Salute Veterans
The five State Senators representing Detroit — Senator Irma Clark-Coleman, Senator Hansen Clarke, Senator Martha G. Scott, Senator Buzz Thomas and myself — will host the 2nd Annual Salute to Detroit Veterans Past, Present and Future on Monday, May 19, 2008, from 8-10 a.m. at the Northwest Activities Center Ballroom, 18100 Meyers Road, Detroit.
This event is free and open to all Detroit area veterans and their families and friends. Veterans will be able to learn about free benefits available to them, view a presentation from the famed Tuskegee Airmen, and talk to their elected officials about their issues and concerns. A free continental breakfast will be served. We look forward to seeing you there!
Talk Time With Tupac: Coffee Hour Times & Locations
Detroit Coffee Hour: Every First Friday, 10 - 11 a.m. Mary's Grill, 20804 Plymouth Road
Dearborn Heights Coffee Hour: Every Third Friday, 10 - 11 a.m. McDonald’s, 6412 North Telegraph Road
Inkster Coffee Hour: Every Second Friday, 10 - 11 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.
