If we can’t cut taxes now, with a $9 billion surplus, we can never cut taxes. I stood firm for every Michigan resident and voted against House Bill 4001. You can click here or on the below image to hear my remarks on the Senate floor prior to my ‘no’ vote.

Michigan’s state parks are largely self-supporting thanks to the Recreation Passport program. Funds derived from purchase of a Recreation Passport go directly into maintaining and improving our state parks.

The Recreation Passport program was established by the Legislature in 2010, giving residents the opportunity to purchase a passport through the secretary of state when renewing a license plate. A Recreation Passport gives year-round access to over 100 state parks and recreation areas, more than 1,000 state-managed boating access sites, over 140 state forest campgrounds, and parking at thousands of miles of trails and other outdoor spaces.

The 2010 statute that created the program included a provision to adjust the fee based on the Consumer Price Index. This fee structure ensures the rates keep with the pace of the economy. Effective March 1, the Recreation Passport resident vehicle fee increases from $12 to $13 and from $6 to $7 for motorcycles. This is the first such increase since 2020.

The Michigan attorney general and the Department of Health and Human Services have alerted EBT users about a phishing text message scam claiming a user’s EBT benefit card has been locked. The message includes a phone number to call for help, however responding to this message may result in the scammer having access to the card’s funds.

Always remember, Michigan agencies will NEVER:

For more information about how to avoid this and other government imposter scams, visit the Michigan Department of Attorney General consumer alerts page. Consumers can report suspected phishing or other consumer scams to the Attorney General by completing this Consumer Complaint/Inquiry Form.

Another Tax season is upon us. Having worked with QuickBooks and the IRS for over 20 years, I know firsthand how frustrating and complex it can be. Please take a moment and visit my website to see the latest tax guides, which will hopefully take the edge off of this troublesome process.

As always, if you have any issues with your tax return this year, please contact my office right away!

Do you know anybody that would benefit from legislative experience? Working in the office of your elected official is a great way to gain experience, network, and simply add a deeper understanding to your knowledge of the way our government operates.

Our office is currently looking for a legislative intern or two. If you or anyone you know are interested, please feel free to apply!

Michigan’s 37th Senate District includes Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Leelanau counties and portions of Mackinac and Chippewa counties.