Update from Rep. Ellen Cogen Lipton, Nov 23, 2009

By State Rep. Ellen Cogen Lipton
Monday, November 23, 2009

Investment Traps

The Office of Financial and Insurance Regulation (OFIR) reminds Michigan residents to continually evaluate their investments. Common scams – like senior citizen investment fraud, fraudulent promissory notes, and other schemes that take advantage of the current economic climate – often catch people off guard duping residents into making poor investments. Talk with an experienced financial advisor before making large investments. Questions or complaints about firms, professionals, or products can be directed to OFIR toll-free at (877) 999-6442.

Property Improvement Program

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) is offering low-interest loans to homeowners looking to make energy efficiency home improvements through their Property Improvement Program. Loans up to $65,000 are offered to low-to-moderate income homeowners and landlords who rent to low-to-moderate income tenants. Home improvements can include: roof repair or replacement, insulation, siding, windows, furnaces, solar water heating systems, foundation repair, kitchen remodeling, among other improvements. Details about the program can be found at www.michigan.gov/mshda or by calling (517) 241-0453.

Insurance Fraud

Schemes of insurance fraud are increasing the cost of premiums to Michigan's families. The Michigan Insurance Fraud Awareness Coalition is fighting back against people who file false insurance claims. Insurance fraud is a felony in Michigan, punishable by up to four years in jail or up to $50,000 in fines. Insurance companies also are fighting back by creating Special Investigative Units to detect and fraudulent claims. The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NCIB) has an anonymous tip hotline at (800) 835-6422. Information on stolen cars or suspected auto theft activities can be reported at (800) 242-4328. Rewards of up to $5,000 are given for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of arsonists at (800) 44-ARSON (442-7766).

Student Eligibility for Food Assistance

The Michigan Department of Human Services wants to make Michigan students aware of eligibility requirements for the Food Assistance Program (FAP). Students 18 to 49 years of age who are enrolled at least half-time in an educational, trade, business, or technical college or university may be eligible for assistance. Students are not eligible who are employed for more than 20 hours of paid work per week or students in participating in employment-related programs. Full requirements and eligibility status can be found at the DHS Web site.

Medicare Drug Coverage

Enrollment for Medicare prescription drug coverage is open until Dec. 31. It is important to evaluate your Medicare plan, as seniors will soon have to choose new options for the upcoming year. Comparing plans based on your budget, premiums, prescription and pharmacy needs is very important when choosing a new plan. Prescription coverage can be provided by Medicare or by private insurance companies selling plans approved by Medicare. Questions regarding Medicare plan changes should be directed to MMAP at (800) 803-7174 or at www.mmapinc.org.

H1N1 Call Center

Beaumont Hospital has opened a 24-hour community resource hotline for the latest H1N1 information. The center provides information on when it is necessary to see a physician or go the emergency room for medical assistance for flu symptoms, or if home treatment is sufficient. The call center can be reached at (888) 375-H1N1 (4161) and more flu information is available on Beaumont's Web site: www.beaumonthospitals.com.

Additional tips to stay healthy and safe:

• Cover your nose and mouth while sneezing
• Wash hands more thoroughly than usual
• Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth
• Disinfect surfaces
• Handle trash carefully
• Get your flu shots!
• Stay home at the first sign of flu symptoms

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) DIST-027, or you can e-mail me at ellenlipton@house.mi.gov.

Sincerely,
Ellen Cogen Lipton

State Representative, 27th District
Website: http://lipton.housedems.com, http://www.voteforellen.org
Email: ellenlipton@house.mi.gov
Phone: 888-DIST-027, 517-373-0478