These issues are ones that are near and dear to my heart.
They are causes I have fought for in Lansing as a Democratic staffer, and I am committing to continuing that work if elected as your state representative.
Education
As a former paraprofessional working in our local K-12 schools, I recognize the critical importance of investing in PK-12 education, particularly in addressing the learning loss exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. My former students have shared their concerns about feeling unprepared for college and uncertain about their paths to success. It is essential that we continue to prioritize resources to support students' academic recovery, including targeted tutoring, mental health services, high quality child care, and technology access. While working for Rep. Felicia Brabec, we secured record-breaking investments for our schools and relieved debt in local school districts to assure children and staff can have the resources they need. As your State Representative, I will continue advocating for our schools and our children.
Additionally, I am committed to expanding pathways to higher education, trade programs, and alternative avenues to success. Michigan ranks 40th in the nation in funding higher education; we must do better to ensure that all students have the opportunity to thrive and pursue their dreams, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Consumer Protection
I am deeply committed to safeguarding consumer rights and holding large corporations accountable for their actions. Too often, consumers are faced with unfair practices, deceptive billing, and inadequate service. I will champion policies that strengthen consumer protection measures, including transparency in billing, accountability for service disruptions, and fair resolution mechanisms for disputes. Additionally, I will advocate for laws that ensure utility companies prioritize safety, reliability, and affordability for all consumers. I would use this same approach on internet providers as well, as we have seen locally residents being taken advantage of by internet companies.
Furthermore, I will champion laws that crack down on price gouging and junk fees. President Biden’s administration has made substantial headway in putting consumers first and I believe we need to take a similar approach in Michigan. Together, we can protect and empower consumers, promoting fairness and accountability in our communities.
Supporting Seniors
As a caregiver, I am committed to addressing the pressing need for policies and programs that support aging in place within our communities. As our population ages, we must enable our seniors to live independently and comfortably in their own homes for as long as possible. I will advocate for initiatives that promote accessible housing, affordable healthcare, transportation options, and social services tailored to the unique needs of our aging population. Together, we can ensure that seniors have the support and resources necessary to maintain their dignity, autonomy, and quality of life as they age.
Protecting Our Fundamental Rights
I am pro-choice and am proud to have worked with Rep. Felicia Brabec in the legislature to pass Michigan’s Reproductive Health Act. As your State Representative, I will continue to fight to protect access to quality health care, including contraceptives. I will work vigorously to protect the rights of the LGBTQ community. And I will consistently protect the right of every Michigander to vote – which is vital as extremists continue to attack our right to vote.
Quality Healthcare for All
We have made progress in recent years, but health care still remains too expensive and inaccessible for many residents. As your State Representative, I will fight for affordable health care for every Michigander – including full access to mental health care, which is a growing challenge, especially in our schools.
Worker Rights & Economic Justice
As a former member of the Michigan Education Association and having been raised by grandparents who were proud UAW members, I know firsthand the importance of protecting the rights of Michigan workers. As a part of Rep. Felicia Brabec’s team in Lansing, I was proud to help repeal Michigan’s anti-worker Right to Work law. If elected to represent you, I will always fight to protect the rights of hard-working Michiganders.
Protecting Our Natural Resources
Last summer, the State of Michigan experienced record breaking temperatures and flooding. We must work together to address climate change by pursuing carbon neutrality and investing in clean water and building decarbonization. I also support holding polluters accountable for their actions – the cost of cleaning up contaminated sites should be borne by those who are responsible, not by taxpayers.
Common Sense Gun Safety
I support common sense gun safety legislation to keep our families and schools safe. The legislature has taken important steps by passing “red flag” laws and, during my time working in the legislature, I am proud to have worked with Rep. Brabec on the legislative Firearm Safety Caucus. But more must be done, including legislation to address ammunition stockpiling and “ghost guns”.