Wednesday, January 28th, 2026:

I voted NO on SB 495 (Sen. Polehanki) would amend the Revised School Code to require schools to include a protocol for when and how students are permitted to use wireless communications devices during an emergency within their emergency operations plan.  

EXPLANATION: Schools are already required by the state to establish protocols for a myriad of emergency situations. More state mandates will not produce better outcomes. Local schools should set their own cell phone policies, including for emergency situations. 

PASSED: 100-3

I voted NO on HB 4361 (Rep. Green) would require service quality and reliability standards adopted by the MPSC to allow tree trimming and vegetation management around power lines.  

EXPLANATION: Utility companies already trim trees and maintain vegetation around power lines, though the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) regulates how they conduct these operations. It is reasonable for providers to maintain vegetation within a certain distance of a power line, but that distance must be narrowly defined to avoid potential property disputes. 

PASSED: 98-5