The 2018 midterms ushered in significant changes in legislatures across the United States. Michigan experienced a particularly significant change in representation as all 110 seats in the Michigan House were up for re-election and 24 representatives were bound by term limits (meaning they have served the maximum terms allowed). All 38 seats in the Senate were also up for re-election with 26 senators term-limited.
Overall, Michigan welcomed 74 new representatives to the House and Senate. Democrats won five seats in the house, resulting in a 58 to 52 majority for Republicans. In the Senate, Democrats saw a net gain of five seats, resulting in a 22 to 16 majority for Republicans.
Michigan also welcomed a new governor, Gretchen Whitmer. Governor Whitmer campaigned on the belief that everyone in Michigan has a right to quality healthcare they can afford. She was also instrumental in developing Michigan’s Medicaid expansion titled Healthy Michigan during her time in the State Senate. We feel optimistic that we will find support for the bleeding disorders community from her administration.
As the 2019 legislative cycle begins, HFM will be monitoring the introduction of bills and assessing their possible impact on the bleeding disorders community. It is HFM’s goal to develop positive relationships with all the new and re-elected representatives in Lansing to ensure our community’s voice is heard if/when healthcare decisions are made. It is a priority to HFM to ensure Michigan representatives understand the importance of Children’s Special Health Care Services and continued funding of the program.
Do you have a new state representative or senator? Introduce yourself and start building a relationship.
Please contact Sarah Procario at sprocario@hfmich.org if you have any questions getting in touch with your representative.
