Dear Friends,

To better serve the great people of West Michigan, I’m offering this e-newsletter on what’s happening in the 30th Senate District and across our state.

I am active on social media to help keep you updated. You can check out my Facebook page, my  official account on X or my Instagram for recent updates.

I encourage you to contact me with any state issues. You can call toll-free at 855-347-8030 or email SenMHuizenga@senate.michigan.gov.  Let me know if I can assist you in any way or if you have an idea to help move our state forward.

Working for you,

Mark Huizenga
State Senator

The Michigan Legislature recently granted final approval to the fiscal year 2027 state budget.

Earlier this year, we saw proposals that increased spending, raised taxes and attempted to dip into the state’s emergency savings. My colleagues and I fought back, ultimately approving a final budget that reduces overall spending from last year, doesn’t raise taxes and protects the state’s savings account.

The budget also increases per-student funding to $10,300 and invests in phonics training for teachers to help kids learn to read.

Budget negotiations can sometimes be contentious, and not everyone gets everything they want — nor should they. As we worked to iron out spending priorities for the upcoming fiscal year, we were able to unite behind supporting our schools with record per-pupil funding, focusing on the needs of our communities back home, eliminating waste and inefficiencies, and continuing to repair Michigan’s aging infrastructure.

Families across the state have had to tighten their belts, and we’ve shown that we can do that in Lansing as well. I am proud to have voted for this spending plan that invests in real solutions and responsibly prioritizes Michigan taxpayers.

I hold in-person office hours throughout the district on a regular basis because hearing directly from people about the issues they are facing is an important part of representing everyone in West Michigan. These meetings give local residents a chance to express their viewpoints about what needs to be done and receive help with a variety of state issues.

On Friday, July 24, I will be available to meet on a one-on-one basis with constituents at the following times and locations:

Office hours are open to all residents, and no appointment is necessary. Anyone who is unable to attend the office hours may contact my office.

In this week’s episode of Conversations with Mark, I am joined by Bill Brennan, an active member of the League of Michigan Bicyclists.

We discuss the beautiful trails we have here in West Michigan, how cycling brings people together, and policies that keep cyclists safe on the road.

Click here or on the image below to watch the podcast. The episode is now available on all major platforms, and new episodes drop every other Thursday at noon.

I spent the day in Grand Rapids with Habitat for Humanity of Kent County helping build a home with a group of wonderful volunteers.

We installed molding, baseboards and a whole lot more. It was a great way to help others in need and support affordable housing right here in our community!

If you’re looking for something fun to do this summer, I encourage you to check out the summer concert series occurring throughout the area. There will be plenty of great opportunities to get out with friends and family, listen to some music and enjoy the beautiful summer weather.

Concerts will take place at the following locations:

My office was honored to celebrate Susan “Ms. Sue” Balcom for her remarkable commitment to Coopersville Athletics.

Her dedication to students and her recordkeeping across more than 3,800 games have made a lasting impact on the Bronco community and earned her the West Michigan Officials Association Outstanding Contributions Award.

Congratulations from my office and from the entire Coopersville community. It was an honor to commemorate this recognition with an official state of Michigan tribute!

When the National Weather Service issues an extreme heat warning, dangerously high temperatures are expected, and people should stay in air conditioned spaces whenever possible.

For those without air conditioning or access to a cool place such as a basement, Michigan 211 provides information on nearby cooling centers.

To find a cooling center:

Grant funding is available to help county and local governments, school districts, colleges and universities offer ORV safety classes taught by certified instructors.

Michigan law requires ORV operators younger than 16 to complete an approved ORV safety course. Courses cover safe riding practices, proper use of safety equipment and trail rules and regulations.

For more information or to apply for an ORV safety education grant, click here.

Michigan is home to more than 4,000 miles of state-designated ORV trails, 103 state parks and recreation areas, 3,288 miles of Great Lakes shoreline and countless outdoor recreation opportunities.

Parks and Recreation Month is a great opportunity to explore Michigan’s parks, trails, waterways and other outdoor destinations.

Serving the people of West Michigan is very important to me and I encourage you to contact me with any state issues. You may contact me by calling toll-free 1-855-347-8030 or emailing SenMHuizenga@senate.michigan.gov.

I look forward to serving you, and I encourage you to contact me if I can assist you in any way or if you have an idea to help move our state forward.