Lunch + Legislation with Dan Centers, Chief of Staff to Michigan Senator Dayna Polehanki

The importance of a legislator’s staff can’t be overstated. As animal advocates, it’s important for us to develop a relationship with key staffers who have the ear of their bosses, are detail-oriented and aware of policy implications. Dan, who is … Continued

Lunch + Legislation: “Protect MI Pet”, with Ballot Initiative Advisor Tanya Hilgendorf

I don’t think people realize that often the animals are the only ones punished. Tanya Hilgendorf Earlier this year a ballot initiative campaign launched with a goal of amending the Michigan Constitution to “create a registry of convicted animal abusers … Continued

Lunch + Legislation with Representative and Speaker Pro Tempore Laurie Pohutsky

Today we welcomed Michigan Representative Laurie Pohutsky who is Speaker Pro Tempore of the House and Chair of its Natural Resources, Enviromental, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Committee. The Speaker Pro Tempore talked about her vision for the Committee as a … Continued

“The 102nd”: Following the Michigan Legislature 2023-2024, #2 — A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Governor’s State of the State Speech

It’s the Governor’s big night (and a speech required by the state constitution[1]) but that doesn’t mean the legislature has no role to play. The Governor speaks before a joint session of the legislature in the House Chamber of the … Continued

“The 102nd”: Following the Michigan Legislature 2023-2024, #1 — Committees Formed

Our goal is to provide up-to-date and practical information for animal advocates. Our resources are easily accessible and aren’t found elsewhere. With the beginning of the new Michigan Legislature, we begin The 102nd, a series of posts to give you … Continued

Lunch + Legislation with Lobbyists Kirk Profit and Samantha Zandee, Governmental Consultant Services, Inc.

January 2023 marks the beginning of a new Michigan Legislature session. Who better to review the last session and preview this brand new one than Kirk and Samantha with Lansing-based GCSI. This episode marks the first time we’ve had a … Continued

Lunch + Legislation with Molly Tamulevich: What Can Animal Advocates Expect from the New Michigan Legislature?

We know that a new legislative session always brings change. But the 102nd Michigan Legislative Session beginning early January 2023 will be change on steroids, as one party will control both the House and Senate, and the Governor’s office. You … Continued