Dear Neighbors,

Welcome to this month’s edition of my e-newsletter. I will continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to tackle the tough issues that will help lower the cost of living, help families get ahead, and build a brighter future for all who call Michigan home.

As always, I welcome your feedback on current issues facing Michigan or the Greater Rochester Area, Troy, Sterling Heights, and Utica communities. Constituent feedback is vital as I represent our communities in Lansing. If you are experiencing a problem with one of our state government agencies, my office is always available to assist with finding a solution. I respect your opinion and will always do my best to make myself available and accessible to you.

Please take a moment to visit my website, like my official Facebook page, send me an email or call my office at 517-373-0994. If you have any questions, concerns or opinions on what is happening, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Michael Webber
State Senator
9th District

On March 12, I sent a letter to Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Director Elizabeth Hertel and Walter P. Reuther Psychiatric Hospital Director Mary Clare Solky requesting patient weight change data and nutritional guidelines used by the facility and previously at the Hawthorn Center. Reuther Hospital hosts Michigan’s only state-run psychiatric care facility for minors while the Hawthorn Center is being rebuilt.

I have heard from many parents and patient advocacy groups that children at Walter Reuther are not being given enough food and are losing weight while under the state’s care. The state has a duty to properly care for the children on its watch, and I am dedicated to holding our state departments accountable.

On Feb. 27, I questioned three MDHHS deputy directors over growing concerns for patient care at Walter Reuther as part of a Senate subcommittee meeting focused on MDHHS appropriations. I believe that parents know their kids better than state officials, and I found the dismissive explanation that obese children are merely losing weight to be out of touch with parents’ genuine concerns about nutrition and food service. This testimony was very troubling and the lack of follow-through from MDHHS to provide the Legislature with more information further illustrates the real need for public conversations with the department over the growing list of serious concerns for the young people at Walter Reuther.

Residents who would like to share their experience or concerns over care received at state-run psychiatric hospitals may contact Disability Rights Michigan, the federally mandated protection and advocacy system for Michigan, toll-free at 1-800-288-5923 or visit drmich.org.

On Feb. 29, I gave a floor speech urging the Michigan Senate to take up my bill, Senate Bill 154, that would clarify what and who is covered under the Freedom of Information Act as a case involving a Rochester Community Schools teacher continues to unfold in court.

I introduced SB 154 in March 2023 following a shocking Oakland County Circuit Court ruling that found a teacher’s class curriculum was not accountable to FOIA, despite the educator being an employee of a public school system. The case is ongoing. State Rep. Mark Tisdel also introduced a companion measure, House Bill 4220.

My bill would expand access to information to meet what the citizens already believe is covered under the current law. Parents have demanded accountability from their schools, and I am listening. No parent should be denied access to what is being taught inside the classroom. We must support parents and provide them with greater awareness and accountability when it comes to their children’s education.

SB 154 has remained before the Senate Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety since its introduction. HB 4220 was referred to the House Committee on Judiciary.

On Feb. 24, I presented Junior Chamber International (JCI) Michigan 99th President Carena Thompson (right) and 100th President Michelle McGrann (left) with Senate Resolution 97 and a legislative tribute honoring the organization’s 100th anniversary during its annual Year-End Celebration. SR 97 was adopted by the Michigan Senate on Feb. 20.

Since 1924, JCI Michigan has had an esteemed history of supporting and developing young leaders. Today, hundreds of Jaycees serve their communities from the 25 local chapters that make up JCI Michigan. The impact that being a part of the Jaycees has made on my life is invaluable, and I know that I am not alone. I am proud to honor such an esteemed organization. JCI Michigan has been a force for good in Michigan through the growth and development of a civic organization that instills the American spirit and ideals in young people. I am proud to honor such an esteemed organization.

During the month of March, I visited several elementary schools throughout the 9th Senate District to read to students as part of March is Reading Month. Reading is a key feature of learning, and I am happy to participate in its celebration and to encourage students and people of all ages to read. Reading is fun and has many benefits, particularly for children.

I also spoke to a group of fourth and fifth graders about my job as a legislator and the electoral process. I answered questions about the legislative process and the day-to-day responsibilities of a state senator. Educating students about government helps to ensure that we have civically minded and engaged citizens in the future.

Click here or on the image below to watch a video of me reading “Do Unto Otters” from the Senate floor.

I have compiled information into a digital newsletter that I hope you will find helpful as you prepare to file your state and federal income taxes. I have included information on the expanded EITC and the updated retirement tax structure, as well as links to free services for help with your taxes.

I am holding office hours next month in Rochester Hills. No appointment is necessary to attend. The 9th Senate District includes the cities of Rochester, Rochester Hills, Troy, and Utica, along with parts of Oakland Township, Shelby Township and Sterling Heights.