Vision e-Newsletter: Insurance Resources, Election News, VANGUARD
Member Benefits: Virtual Insurance Update on Dec. 10!
Did you miss the meeting in November? Join the LIVE webinar on December 10 to learn about 2025 updates to your coverage. Representatives from BCBS, Priority Health, EyeMed, Delta Dental, and Health Alliance Plan (NEW) will present the latest information on your benefits and answer questions as time allows.
Legislative Update: Election Results, Lame Duck, and What’s Ahead
National Election
Election Day brought significant changes to federal and Michigan state leadership. Former President Trump is headed back to the White House, Republicans have secured control of the U.S. Senate, and former State Sen. Tom Barrett (R-Charlotte) will join Congress, marking a gain for U.S. House Republicans. Republicans have also retained control of the U.S. House.
Michigan Election
In Michigan, Republicans have regained control of the Michigan House of Representatives, ending full Democratic control of state government starting in January. Four incumbent Democrats lost their re-election bids, shifting the current 56-54 Democratic majority to a 58-52 Republican majority effective January 1, 2025. Speaker-Elect Matt Hall (R-Richland Twp.) will lead the House Republicans, while Rep. Ranjeev Puri (D-Canton) will serve as the Democratic leader.
With divided government returning in Michigan, bipartisan support will be necessary to advance legislation in the 2025-2026 legislative session. During the 2023-2024 session, Democrats held control of the House, Senate, and Governor’s office, allowing them to accomplish a range of legislative goals. Moving forward, both parties will need to collaborate to shape the legislative agenda.
At the federal level, U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Holly) won a close race for the U.S. Senate, filling the seat of retiring Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-Lansing). State Sen. Kristen McDonald-Rivet (D-Bay City) also secured a win to succeed retiring U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee (D-Flint). In addition, Democratic nominees Justice Kyra Bolden of Southfield and Justice-elect Kimberly Ann Thomas of Washtenaw County won seats on the Michigan Supreme Court, which increases the Democratic majority on the technically nonpartisan court.
Lame Duck Session
With Election Day behind us, we turn to the “lame duck” session of the 2023-2024 Michigan Legislature. Everyone in Lansing is waiting to find out how much policy Democrats can enact in the waning weeks of the year while they still control all levers of power.
Staying Connected & Engaged with MARSP
While turnover in the House was less dramatic than in years past, if you have a new legislator taking office in January, now is a good time to connect with them.
MARSP is ready to show policymakers the strength and unity of Michigan’s public school retirees in the coming session. Thank you for working with us to ensure your needs and concerns remain front and center in Lansing.
Traveler Spotlight: Bill Richardson
Meet Bill Richardson, an 84-year-old retired English teacher, photographer, and world traveler reigniting his passion for exploration with MARSP. In this profile, Bill offers insights on traveling with an open mind, finding beauty in the unexpected, and capturing memories that truly matter.
Member Impact: Retirees Support Local Classrooms Through DonorsChoose Fund
Just because we’re retired doesn’t mean our work to help students succeed is done! With MARSP, retired school employees come together to support local learning in tangible ways.
Pictured: Patty Hawkins and Janet Gaffke (Crawford-Oscoda Chapter) visit a classroom impacted by the chapter’s DonorsChoose donation. Ms. Hutek of the COOR Intermediate School District thanked the chapter saying, “This contribution of hands-on STEM materials has allowed me to give my students an opportunity to explore, use their imagination, and enjoy the feeling of accomplishment.”
Fall VANGUARD: Now Available Online
Members must be logged in to view VANGUARD, MARSP’s quarterly member magazine.
Introduction by Sue Jakubiak, MARSP President
Dear Member,
Each year, MARSP’s loyal members look forward to the fall issue of VANGUARD, which covers updates to MPSERS health insurance plans for the coming year. You’ll find a breakdown of these changes (effective January 1, 2025) on p. 14. To learn about the changes directly from MPSERS insurance representatives, I invite you to attend MARSP’s virtual Member Insurance Update on December 10, 2024 (more info on p. 7). Understanding your coverage is key to making the most of your benefits—and it helps shape MARSP’s advocacy efforts to better serve you!
Also on p. 7, you’ll find a powerful story from our Treasurer, Hess Bates, about the important role MARSP members play in securing affordable health insurance for ALL public school retirees.
On p. 18, we celebrate those who joined or renewed between July and September 2024 (46 total!!). I want to echo Membership Committee Chair, Les Nixon, in asking you to help us continue growing MARSP’s membership in 2025. Share MARSP’s impact, opportunities, and resources with your active and retired public school network. Enroll your MPSERS beneficiary as a member!
As we enter a season of giving and reflection, please also consider donating to one of MARSP or the Foundation’s funds in honor of a fellow public school employee or retiree who inspires you.
Until next year, thank you for being part of the MARSP community and supporting dignity in retirement for public school employees!
Sincerely,
Sue Jakubiak
MARSP President
