Updates About Governor

The Senate Oversight Committee has reported SB 669 and SB 670, legislation aimed at expanding the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to cover the Legislature and Governor’s office. Both bills received bipartisan and unanimous support from committee members, with only one abstention. If passed, the legislation lists exemptions for sensitive records, such as communication with constituents, internal investigations, and caucus counsel records. Exemptions for the Governor and Lieutenant Governor would also include information regarding appointments and personal safety concerns. Also outlined in the legislation are procedures for appointing FOIA coordinators and handling FOIA appeals.

With the passing of SB 669 and SB 670 out of committee, Michigan is one step closer to improving legislative transparency and accountability within our state government. After nearly a decade of unsuccessful attempts at passing similar legislation, the bills now face deliberation by the entire Senate. This upcoming vote will collectively decide the fate of the bills, representing the latest effort to increase government transparency in Michigan.

Last Thursday, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed HB 4511 and HB 4512, aimed at updating Michigan’s child car seat restraint requirements.

HB 4511 (now PA 21 of 2024), aligns Michigan law with federal safety guidelines, providing additional protections for properly restrained children during travel. Sponsored by Rep. Carrie Rheingans (D-Ann Arbor), the bill received support from the Department of State Police and medical professionals, emphasizing the importance of proper child safety restraints in vehicles. Similarly, HB 4512 (now PA 22 of 2024), sponsored by Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming), allows courts to waive fines or assessments for child restraint system violations if individuals can demonstrate evidence of receiving education on child safety restraints.

By aligning state standards with federal guidelines and providing avenues for education on child safety restraints, Michigan aims to create a safer environment for families and young passengers during travel.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced new appointments and staff members for key positions in her administration. Marlon Brown will take on the role of Director at the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), bringing his extensive experience in public service to the department. Suzanna Shkreli has been selected as the new Commissioner of the Michigan Bureau of State Lottery, with a strong background in juvenile justice reform and government service.

Additionally, several promotions and hires have been made within the executive office, including Shelia Marshall-Curtis as Chief Compliance Officer and Vignesh Meyyappan as Associate Legal Counsel.

Former acting commissioner of the Lottery, Jessica Weare, has accepted a new position within state government.