To the Journal editor:

As we begin a new year, I want to reflect on the historic accomplishments of the Michigan Legislature in 2023. The past year stands out as one of the most productive periods in our state’s history, marked by the passage of significant bills that will directly improve the lives of the people we serve.

The fiscal 2023-24 state budget represents a noteworthy milestone, with record investments directed toward our schools.

And we’re supporting technical and vocational training to cultivate the workforce of tomorrow — our budget strengthens our current and future workforce by devoting $25 million for additional supports for vocational education and career and technical education equipment upgrades.

Ensuring access to quality education, coupled with free breakfast and lunch for all public school students, is an investment in the future of our children and the overall prosperity of our state. We also created funding dedicated to school bus transportation in rural districts, a significant win for families in the Upper Peninsula — and we didn’t stop there.

We secured funding for the Billerud paper mill in Escanaba, which will create local job opportunities and bolster economic development. To foster continued growth in the future of our workforce, we also allocated millions of dollars in federal funds to continue improving access to affordable child care.

And we expanded Michigan’s Reconnect program, changing the age limit from 25 to 21, creating new opportunities to build the career skills required to navigate an ever-evolving economy.

We rolled back the retirement tax, which will save half a million seniors an average of $1,000 a year by

repealing the unfair tax on retirement income. We’ve also expanded the working families tax credit, so those living paycheck to paycheck can retain more of their hard-earned money. In the central U.P., the larger EITC will give an estimated 5,200 workers and families an average boost of $600.

Both measures will put money in the pockets of thousands of families and retirees. In addition, I was proud to vote for bills that enhanced workers’ bargaining rights and restored Michigan’s prevailing wage law. Combined, our efforts in Lansing are building an economy with good, well-paying jobs to support our working families.

Health care is also critical to a good life. Last year, the Legislature took a significant step by repealing the archaic 1931 abortion ban. To ensure access to care, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed the Reproductive Health Act into law.

These actions will deliver the reproductive health rights guaranteed by Proposal 3 — which Michigan voters overwhelmingly supported in 2022 — and uphold the reproductive rights and personal autonomy of individuals, recognizing the need for modern, compassionate healthcare policies.

Finally, the Affordable Care Act is now enshrined in Michigan law, ensuring every Michigander retains their right to quality health care — regardless of preexisting conditions, without caps on coverage and free from discrimination.

As we reflect on the accomplishments of 2023, please know that this is merely the beginning. Stepping into 2024, I remain steadfast in my dedication to Yoopers, and will continue advocating for policies that will ensure our unique region will prosper and thrive.

State Rep. Jenn Hill represents the 109th House District.