Peri’s Public Policy Bulletin - February 6
Elected officials in the state and federal government have been busy addressing a wide variety of proposals that will impact Southeastern Michigan. They need to hear from advocates like you in order to make good policy decisions that contribute to quality of life for metro Detroit residents. So check out the policy update to see what’s happening in Lansing and Washington, D.C., and click the links to learn about the issues in greater depth.
Here are some of the highlights of the past two weeks. They cover United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s three focus areas -Education, Income, and Basic Needs - as well as special topics that impact our community’s public policy goals.
Education
- The House Education committee heard testimony on certain education reform proposals passed by the Senate in 2011, including those governing dual enrollment and cyber schools. Learn more about the bills here.
- Jack Martin appointed Emergency Manager for Highland Park Schools. Read coverage in the Detroit Free Press.
Income
- Gov. Snyder testified before Congress regarding job creation. His recommendations include greater flexibility and outcome-orientation in the Workforce Investment Act, and immigration policies that attract international talent. Read his testimony.
- Corporation for Enterprise Development (CFED) releases state-by-state 2012 Assets and Opportunity Scorecard. See the scorecard.
Basic Needs
- Senate Agriculture Committee to hold hearings on Farm Bill reauthorization in February and March. See the Committee’s schedule.
- State calls on community organizations to provide free meals for children over the summer. Learn more at the state of Michigan website.
Special Topics
- President Obama delivered the State of the Union address. See the speech ▪ Read about the experts’ reactions.
- On February 9, Gov. Snyder will present his budget recommendations for FY2013 and FY2014. Read coverage from Michigan Radio.
You can see the full recap of recent public policy developments by clicking here.
Want to get more involved? One way you can prepare to advocate for important policy issues is by attending our upcoming webinar, “Fighting Hunger in the Federal Farm Bill.” Learn more and RSVP here.