Update from Rep. Ellen Cogen Lipton, June 2010

By Ellen Cogen Lipton, Michigan House of Representatives
Thursday, June 24, 2010

Protecting the Voice of Michigan Voters

Democracy only works if the people can hold lawmakers accountable. That's why I sponsored a plan to ensure that our voters' voices are heard loud and clear – not lost in the flood of money from foreign corporations and other special interests. These comprehensive reforms to protect the integrity of Michigan elections by restoring transparency and accountability recently passed the House.

Permanent Drilling Ban Needed to Protect Our Water

We've all seen the images of the devastating effects of the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. This catastrophe is threatening priceless natural resources and livelihoods of an entire region. No amount of oil is worth risking the health of our Great Lakes. That's why I support a permanent ban on drilling in the Great Lakes. It's the only way to prevent a disastrous oil spill like the one in the Gulf from happening here in Michigan.

I urge you to visit www.dontdrillMIlakes.com to join the fight against drilling in the Great Lakes and see firsthand how a tragic accident similar to the one down South could devastate our community.

Helping Farmers, Residents Get Food to the Market

Recently, I voted to increase opportunities for Michigan residents to sell homemade food at farmers markets, roadside stands, county fairs and other events, which will boost their incomes and our local economy. The plan helps everyone from entrepreneurs looking to create an upstart food company to residents looking to supplement their income to help make ends meet. In this tough economy, we need to do everything we can to help our local businesses and vendors sell their products and keep money right here in our community.

Protecting Our Seniors From Financial Exploitation

Our seniors have worked hard their entire lives and they should be able to enjoy their retirement. Unfortunately, elder abuse is a growing crime that often goes unreported as our seniors have their lives turned upside down. That's why I voted to strengthen consumer protections for seniors and protect them from financial exploitation.

Name MET 's Owl to Win a Semester of Community College

The Michigan Education Trust (MET) prepaid tuition program has introduced a blue-and-white owl mascot who will help promote a smart way of saving for college. MET is calling on all adults in the state to participate in the "Name the MET Mascot Contest" for a chance to win a tuition-free semester at any Michigan community college.

Entries are being accepted through Tuesday, Aug. 31 at www.SETwithMET.com. Entrants must be legal Michigan residents age 18 or older. A panel of judges will score submissions based on creativity/originality and portrayal of the MET college savings message. The winner will have 60 days from notification to name a beneficiary. The beneficiary does not need to be related to the winner.

Follow Road Projects and Construction Online

Don't let road construction wreak havoc on your morning commute or your travel plans. For up-to-date information on road projects in Oakland County and across Michigan, visit www.michigan.gov/drive.

Emergency Energy Assistance Available

The Michigan Department of Human Services Director recently announced the launch of an online emergency energy assistance application. At this website, you can learn about programs offered by the State of Michigan to help families in need of help with medical, food, day care and other assistance.

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
Michigan House of Representatives, District 27