McCall Hamilton Advocacy and Public Affairs

Updates About Press Releases

State Announces New EMS Protocols

Update: Oct 31-Nov 11, 2022

On November 2, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that emergency responders will now be permitted to carry emergency contraception and sexually transmitted infection treatment (post-exposure prophylaxis). These new protocols serve as another measure to improve Michigan’s sexual assault response to ensure survivors have access to appropriate medical care.

The Quality Assurance Task Force recently voted unanimously to approve new Medical Control Authority protocols proposed by the Whitmer Administration for critical follow-up care for sexual assault patients. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) also adopted the new protocols, advocating for more prevention and response tactics.

MDHHS will be providing training to all EMS agencies to better aid survivors. The protocols align with research that indicates there has been an increase in sexual assault survivors seeking medical care. Additionally, emergency department visits for sexual assault have been 15 times higher in the past decade.

This development comes after Governor Whitmer signed an executive directive 2022-05, for all state departments to identify opportunities to increase protections for reproductive healthcare.

Jury Convicts Whitmer Kidnap Plotters

Update: Oct 17-28, 2022

A Jackson County jury convicted three members of the Wolverine Watchmen on terrorism charges for plotting to attack Michigan’s Capitol building, hold government officials for ransom, and kidnap Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Joseph Morrison, Paul Bellar, and Pete Musico were originally charged under Michigan’s Anti-Terrorism Act of 2002 and were later found guilty of providing support for terrorist acts, as well as gang membership and felony firearms on October 26.

The three men will be sentenced on December 15.

MDHHS Promotes New Crisis Hotline

Update: Oct 3-14, 2022

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is promoting Michigan’s new crisis hotline as a part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

The hotline provides 24/7 live one-on-one crisis support for victims and survivors, as well as support people and professionals. The hotline is free and provides local support through trained advocates who are available to call, text, or chat online. All hotline services can be accessed here.