Recently I signed an expansion of the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act into law. The bipartisan expansion reaffirms and expands legal protections for sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression in state law, ensuring no one in Michigan can be fired from their job or evicted from their home because of who they are, who they love, or how they identify. It will protect the rights and freedoms of every Michigander to start a family, be safe, and live with dignity and respect.
This is about doing the right thing, and it is just good economics. Bigotry is bad for business and securing these protections will build on our reputation as a beacon of opportunity where anyone can succeed – no matter who they are.
I am committed to delivering real change that aligns our state with our values: that we are all created equal and all deserve dignity and respect. I want to thank sponsors Senator Jeremy Moss and Representative Jason Hoskins and so many others for their leadership on this issue. Let’s keep working together to build a Michigan where everyone can thrive.
Ensuring Reproductive Freedom for All
Earlier this month, the Michigan Senate voted to repeal the extreme 1931 abortion ban which severely restricts Michigander’s’ rights and criminalizes doctors and nurses for doing their jobs. This is a step forward to ensure that everyone can make their own decisions about their own body. Michiganders voted to enshrine reproductive freedom into our state constitution last year, and I will continue using every tool in my toolbox to protect and expand reproductive freedom in Michigan.
A Safer Michigan
Gun violence impacts communities every day. We have a duty to take commonsense action to protect people and make our communities safer. Gun violence is the leading cause of death in this country for kids and young people, and I am proud of the Michigan Legislature for taking action on this issue.
Earlier this month, I was honored to join former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, to rally on the steps of the Capitol and meet with Michiganders to hear about the impact gun violence has had on their lives. While their stories are unique, one thing rang true: thoughts and prayers are not enough. We need action. It’s our duty to create a safer state for every Michigander. These commonsense laws supported by a majority of Michiganders will help us keep our families and communities safe.
