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Benson advances service-driven operations, applauds bipartisan support

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson today announced advances to the department’s service-driven operating model, and applauded the bipartisan support for legislation that affirms the model. “Right now anyone can access in-person services at our 130 branch offices by walking up, calling ahead or going online to schedule a visit, and no matter what they choose every Michigander is now provided accurate information on when they will be served and the certainty that their office visit will take on average just 20 minutes,” Benson said. “This operating model moves the department ...

Governor Whitmer makes appointments to boards and commissions

LANSING — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the following appointments to the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development, Michigan Board of Dentistry, Farm Produce Insurance Authority Board of Directors, Michigan Women's Commission, State Teacher Tenure Commission, and the Michigan Veterans' Memorial Park Commission. Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development — Andrew W. Chae, of Detroit, is the owner of Fisheye Farms, an urban farm that produces diverse specialty crops including mesclun mixes, eggplant, cabbage, and tomatoes. He holds a ...

Increasing vaccination rate, lower COVID prevalence prompts MDHHS to roll back mandatory testing for agricultural and food processing employees

LANSING – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has rescinded its order requiring COVID-19 testing for agricultural employees. This change is being made in light of increasing vaccination rates; declining COVID-19 cases; expanded access to testing and vaccinations; and enhanced housing and worker protections currently in effect to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. “With COVID-19 transmission numbers low and increasing vaccination rates, we are removing the requirement for testing for these workers,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “The most ...

Stabenow, Peters announce over $1 million in federal funds for Houghton County Memorial Airport

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (MI) and Gary Peters (MI) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation will be awarding $1,075,000 to Houghton County Memorial Airport. This Federal Aviation Administration grant will go towards purchasing snow removal equipment so the airport can keep serving families in the Upper Peninsula during the winter. The grant is possible because of the American Rescue Plan Act, which Senators Stabenow and Peters helped pass in Congress. "Having reliable and safe air service is important to Michigan tourism, commerce, and economic ...

MDARD celebrates 100 years of service

LANSING — The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) marked a milestone today: the 100th anniversary of the department’s creation. Then known as the Michigan Department of Agriculture, the department was created by Act 13, Public Acts 1921, to promote the agricultural interests of the State of Michigan, effectively transferring powers from existing boards, departments, and commissions on July 1, 1921. “Agriculture has always been an important industry from an economic standpoint in Michigan, and a way of life for our farming communities who serve as the ...

Michiganders should use caution when handling fireworks this Independence Day

Michiganders who plan on setting off a few fireworks this Independence Day should be aware of the risks and know the dangers involved. Take every safety precaution to prevent a tragedy this Holiday. “We anticipate that many people will purchase consumer fireworks and provide their own fireworks show over the Fourth of July holiday weekend,” said Fire Marshal Kevin Sehlmeyer. “BFS is asking consumers to understand basic fireworks safety before using consumer fireworks.” When handling and launching fireworks, please consider the following safety tips: — Follow the ...