Politics & Government
Update from State Sen. Steve Bieda
Sen. Steve Bieda shares his thoughts and updates from Lansing.
Dear Friend,
Season Greetings and Happy Holidays! I hope your celebrations are filled with joy and that your travels are safe. I’ve recorded a special holiday message that you can find by following this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnT9axsOIAQ&feature=youtu.be
Below, please find my newsletter with information about being prepared for the winter and upcoming changes to healthcare laws. Please feel free to distribute this information to others and contact my office with ideas about what we can do to better serve you. Communication with you is extremely important to me as I consider issues before the Michigan Senate.
Thank you for allowing me to serve you in the Michigan Senate. If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office.
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Affordable Care Act Information:
All politics aside, the Affordable Care Act is set to become law next year. It is important that everyone in Michigan is prepared and understands the changes being made. To help with this transition, Consumer Reports has created a free online tool, www.healthlawhelper.org, to provide individuals detailed, personalized information about their health-care options under the law.
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The intent of the website is to provide factual, nonbiased information for those legitimately seeking answers about how the healthcare law affects them. Simply answer a few anonymous questions about your personal situation, and the site will provide you with detailed options for your health coverage.
Prepare for Winter Hazards:
Winter is upon us and the snow has already started to fall. Winter storms can cause power outages and make traveling even short distance difficult, if not impossible. Make sure your family and home are prepared for a severe winter storm. The Insurance Institute of Michigan offers the following tips:
Make sure you have a battery operated flashlight and radio in your home. You should also have a supply of canned food, a hand operated can opener and bottled water.
Make sure each member of your home has a warm coat, gloves, hat and water resistant boots.
Make sure heavy blankets and clothing are available.
Keep extra items needed to take care of infants, elderly or special needs members of the family.
Be aware of potential fire and carbon monoxide hazards if you plan to use emergency heating sources such as a fireplace, wood stove or space heater.
Auto Theft Prevention:
As you finish your holiday shopping or make your gift returns, be aware that this season can attract opportunistic criminals who take advantage of holiday distractions. The Help Eliminate Auto Thefts organization has some advice for keeping your vehicle and possessions safe.
Be alert and aware of your surroundings as you approach your vehicle.
Park in well lit, high traffic areas and avoid shopping alone after dark if possible.
Never hesitate to ask for help if you feel uncomfortable. Retail security personnel can help you get to your car safely.
Make sure to place valuables and your purchase out of sight or in your trunk.
If you return to your car in the middle of a shopping trip, move your car. Even if it means giving up a prime spot, it will help deter would-be thieves.
Never leave your car unlocked or running unattended.
Criminals are getting bolder about approaching people in their driveways. Make sure to get children and the elderly in the house first before unloading your car.
If threatened by a carjacker, give up your car. Your safety is more important than your possessions. Be safe and get yourself out of harm’s way.
Arts and Cultural Affairs Grant Awarded:
The Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs (MCACA) approved 384 grants, located in 52 counties, totaling $7.6 million in awards. These grants represented awards in the Artist in Education -Residencies, Capital Improvement, Program for Operational and Projects Support, the Regional Regranting program and the Services to the Field program. Several venues in Macomb County received grants including: All the World’s a Stage, Macomb Community College and the Warren Symphony Orchestra.
Sincerely,
Senator Steve Bieda
Senate District 9
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