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Dear Friends,
Welcome to the latest edition of my monthly e-newsletter. As always, I hope you find the news and information below helpful. Please feel free to share this newsletter with anyone who may be interested.
My staff and I are available should you have any thoughts or concerns about state government. Please feel free to contact my office at SenKDaley@senate.michigan.gov or 517-373-1777.
Sincerely,
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Kevin Daley
State Senator
26th District
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Fiscal year 2027 state budget passed by the Legislature
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The Michigan Legislature recently passed the fiscal year 2027 state budget.
In February, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer proposed an $88 billion budget that increased spending, raised taxes and raided the state’s emergency savings. After Republicans fought back against those proposals, the final budget reduces overall spending by $1 billion, 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.
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Find cooling centers with Michigan 211
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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:
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Call 211 to speak with a specialist who can locate nearby cooling sites. |
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Text your ZIP code to 898 211 for local options. |
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Visit mi211.org and search “cooling center” by ZIP code. |
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Senate-passed bills would crack down on spam robocalls
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Michigan residents have reported an increase in robocall scams, which often target seniors and other vulnerable consumers.
Earlier this year, the Senate passed bipartisan legislation that would strengthen consumer protections and empower the attorney general to crack down on harmful spammers who violate the law.
Senate Bills 351-355 would:
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Create explicit rules that telephone solicitors must follow to better protect consumers. |
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Prohibit telephone solicitors from blocking caller ID or displaying misleading names, phone numbers or area codes. |
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Strengthen tools to allow the attorney general to investigate and pursue civil actions for alleged violations or noncompliance. |
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Impose penalties and fines of up to $75,000 for telephone solicitors who target vulnerable residents. |
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The bills await action by the state House of Representatives.
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Mackinac Bridge confirmed structurally sound
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A recent report found that the Mackinac Bridge is highly unlikely to collapse if struck by a vessel.
The Mackinac Bridge Authority commissioned the report after the National Transportation Safety Board asked the owners of 68 bridges in 19 states to conduct vulnerability assessments following the 2024 collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore after it was struck by a container ship.
An engineering firm concluded that the Mackinac Bridge presents a lower risk of collapse from a vessel strike than the national safety threshold.
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Plan ahead for winter propane costs
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As summer continues, Michigan propane suppliers encourage residents to plan ahead for the upcoming heating season. Purchasing propane before demand increases may help reduce winter heating costs.
Many suppliers offer fixed-price or pre-buy plans, along with budget payment options that spread costs throughout the year. Consumers should compare providers, carefully review contract terms, and understand any fees or usage requirements before enrolling.
Because propane prices are not regulated in Michigan, early preparation is one of the best ways to manage heating expenses. Assistance programs are also available for eligible residents.
More information is available through the Michigan Public Service Commission’s tip sheets on energy assistance and propane assistance.
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Help monitor Michigan wildlife
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The Department of Natural Resources is asking residents to report sightings of several wildlife species.
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Wild turkeys: The annual wild turkey brood survey helps scientists monitor turkey populations and reproductive patterns. Residents can report sightings of wild turkeys and turkey broods through the online survey, which is open through Aug. 31. |
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Gray foxes: Recent research suggests gray foxes may be less common than previously believed. Although red foxes are more familiar to many Michiganders, gray foxes are also native to the state. Residents can report sightings through the DNR’s Eyes in the Field reporting system. |
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ORV safety training grants
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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.
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Parks and Recreation Month
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Celebrating a special occasion?
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My office is happy to offer legislative tributes in honor of noteworthy events such as retirement, anniversaries of businesses in our community, awards and public recognitions.
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