Update from Rep. Lipton, March 12, 2010

By Ellen Cogen Lipton, State Representative
Friday, March 12, 2010

As your State Representative, I am here to represent and to work on your behalf, not just in Lansing but also in our communities. I hope this e-newsletter will be a helpful tool to let you know what I am working on and keep you informed on the important issues coming up at the Capitol.

Ethics Reform Plan Passes House

Lawmakers must be held accountable to the citizens they are working for. That's why on Thursday, I voted to ban legislators from voting on a bill when a conflict of interest is present. This legislation is part of a wave of government reforms I have supported to tighten ethics laws and make elected officials more accountable to the people they represent.

Legislation Threatens Vital Stem Cell Research

Stem cell research provides hope for thousands of people throughout Michigan who are battling diseases like Parkinson's or junvenile diabetes. That's why I oppose legislation in the Republican-controlled state Senate that would prevent life-saving stem cell research and derail the industry from taking hold and creating jobs in Michigan.

With our wonderful educational and research facilities, Michigan is poised to become the epicenter of the emerging life sciences industry, attracting job providers from around the world. We have a wonderful opportunity to help find cures to devastating diseases while also creating good-paying jobs, yet this legislation is putting it all at risk.

Tax Town Hall Discussion in Pleasant Ridge

On Thursday, March 25, I will be hosting a town hall discussion on Michigan's tax structure. Please join me to learn and discuss taxes in Michigan and how it affects you this April. The town hall discussion will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Pleasant Ridge Community Center , 4 Ridge Road in Pleasant Ridge. I hope to see you there!

Free Tax Help

It is the time to file your 2009 tax returns, and if you seek free tax filing assistance, there are people to help! Until the April 15 deadline, volunteers will be available at the Ferndale Senior Center at Kulick Community Center (1201 Livernois St.) on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Berkley Community Center (2400 Robina Ave.) has hours every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Experienced AARP volunteer tax preparers will be on hand to answer questions and assist in filing your taxes. Even e-file services are available! Services are available for residents of all ages, with incomes lower than $50,000. Visit the tax help locator at www.aarp.org/money for more information.

'March is Reading Month'

This March, schools across the Michigan will be celebrating "March is Reading Month." I will be visiting elementary schools in the district to read with students. Reading is a vital skill and tool that will help your child excel in school and throughout life. Whether you read from the newspaper or check out books from the public library, reading is an important family activity. Check out "March is Reading Month" activities all month at your local public library!

U.S. Census: Be Sure You're Counted

The 2010 U.S. Census will be arriving in your mailbox soon. It is very important to fully complete this document and return it in the mail. The Census helps determine how vital federal funding for community programs and services is distributed between states.

All Census information is confidential to the U.S. Census Bureau and by law, cannot be shared with any other federal agencies or law enforcement officials. Visit www.2010.census.gov for more information.

Insurance Tips for 'Boomerangers'

In these difficult economic times, more young adults and students are returning home to live with parents after graduation. Michigan's Office of Financial and Insurance Regulation (OFIR) offers insurance tips for parents of so-called "boomerangers."

Review your insurance policies to determine coverage and dependency status for adult children living at home. If adult children are not covered under a parent's policy, explore alternative insurance options to ensure your child is covered. For more information, visit OFIR's Web site at www.michigan.gov/ofis or if you questions about a Michigan insurance company, call (877) 999-6442.

'Spring Forward' This Weekend

Daylight saving time begins this Sunday, March 14, at 2 a.m. Don't forget to "spring forward" and set your clocks ahead one hour before you go to bed on Saturday. When you change your clocks, also remember to change the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

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