Smoking ban just weeks away

By Ellen Cogen Lipton, State Representative
Monday, April 19, 2010

Smoking Ban Takes Effect on May 1

We are just weeks away from having smoke-free air here in Michigan. The smoking ban that my colleagues and I passed takes effect on May 1 and will apply to nearly all workplaces, bars, restaurants and hotels. This change will help safeguard Michigan workers and families from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.

The Michigan Department of Community Health has created a Web site that explains the new law, answers any questions you may have and provides resources for businesses. You can also call toll-free (866) 597-6653 for more information.

Our Men and Women in Uniform Have a Right to be Heard

On Tuesday, the House passed a plan to make it easier for Michigan troops stationed overseas to vote by absentee ballot and to help ensure their ballots are returned in time to be counted.

The plan is set to be signed into law. Our brave men and women in uniform risk their lives to protect our freedoms and it's the least we can do to ensure their votes are counted.

Thursday is Earth Day

On Earth Day we are reminded of the importance of environmental protection and conservation of our natural resources, including the Great Lakes. I am excited to celebrate Earth Day in Lansing with second grade students from Ferndale's Kennedy Elementary.

The students will participate in a conservation and environment protection celebration hosted by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE) and the Michigan Department of Agriculture. I am proud of our students that participated in the DNRE Earth Day Poster contest, and the three local winners we had!

Pothole Reporting Hotline

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has created a toll-free pothole reporting hotline for state roads around Michigan. Potholes are caused by the freezing and thawing process of road surfaces over the winter.

MDOT encourages motorists to report potholes at (888) 296-4546 toll free 24 hours a day. Please include the route name, county, nearest community, and closest cross streets. Potholes on non-state roads should alternately be reported to local road commissions. Visit www.michigan.gov/mdot with any other concerns.

I-75 Construction

MDOT began a reconstruction project along I-75 in Hazel Park. Two lanes will be open between Breckenridge and Highland avenues. The lane shifts will utilize the existing shoulder as a travel lane, to maintain two open lanes of traffic during the reconstruction. All lanes are expected to be open to traffic in late July.

The reconstruction project comes after the July 2009 tanker crash that caused the collapse of the Nine Mile Road overpass. For statewide lane closure information, click here.

Detroit Zoo Senior Day Event

Seniors of Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne counties are invited to the Detroit Zoo for a day of free admission on Wednesday, April 28. The Zoo will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with complimentary admission and parking for seniors 62 and older and their caregivers.

The event will feature live music, bingo and tractor train tours. For more information, call (248) 541-5717 or visit www.detroitzoo.org.

My Door is Always Open

Please do not hesitate to contact me if I or my staff can be of assistance to you or your family, or if you would like to express an opinion or concern. My toll-free number is (888) 347-8027, or you can email me at ellenlipton@house.mi.gov.

Sincerely,

Ellen Cogen Lipton
State Representative
27th District