As much of the country begins to get back to a sense of normalcy, Michigan residents still face a burden when trying to utilize some of the most basic services from our state government. While states like Indiana and Ohio can receive same-day services, Michiganders are still being turned away from our secretary of state branch offices because they don’t have an appointment.

Recently, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced her plan to keep branch offices closed permanently to same-day and walk-in services. In addition, Benson has eliminated evening and weekend hours at all branches. To make matters worse, if a customer misses a scheduled appointment, they could be blocked from making another appointment.

Making hard-working residents wait months for an appointment has consequences for families who are already hurting. People can’t transfer a title to buy or sell a car, boat, or trailer, and skilled workers like mechanics and CDL drivers can’t get the certifications they need for their employment.

In response to the secretary of state’s decision, the Senate added a requirement in the upcoming budget that the department must offer in-person services without an appointment in order to receive funds for branch operations. The budget requirement won’t take effect until the beginning of fiscal year 2022 on Oct. 1. In the meantime, it is important that people make their voices heard and let Secretary Benson know we are not in favor of her decision!

Last month, I asked constituents to voice their opinion when our governor was trying to make permanent changes to the MIOSHA workplace rules. I believe the large number of Michigan residents who voiced their opinion is why Gov. Whitmer withdrew her efforts.

Michiganders need to, again, make their voices heard and send a message to Secretary of State Benson. I encourage you to visit the newly created website at www.misenategop.com/openupsos to share your thoughts on Secretary Benson’s decision to close branch offices to same-day and walk-in services.