Lansing Update: “MCC Denounces Possible Abortion Petition Drive, Pledges to Promote Culture of Life” and more…

Posted January 14, 2022

In this update:

MCC Denounces Possible Abortion Petition Drive; Pledges to Promote Culture of Life

Last week, a group of pro-abortion rights organizations announced the formation of a ballot committee to consider a petition drive to enshrine a fundamental right to abortion and all matters of "reproductive freedom" in the state constitution.

The effort is seen as an attempt to invalidate the state's long-standing ban on abortion, which is poised to become effective again if or when the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade.

In response, Michigan Catholic Conference's (MCC) Policy Advocate Rebecca Mastee, J.D., offered the following comments on Friday, Jan. 7.

"More than anything, women considering an abortion deserve support, love, and compassion. For decades, abortion has been touted as the only option, harmless and easy, yet we know this is a lie. Abortion hurts women.

"Today's news that some are looking to enshrine abortion in the state constitution is a sad commentary on the outsized and harmful role the abortion industry plays in our politics and our society. We look forward to standing with women through a potential statewide ballot campaign to promote a culture of life and good health for both moms and unborn children."

January is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month

This month, MCC recognizes National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month by calling attention to this modern-day form of slavery that Pope Francis has called "an open wound on the body of contemporary society, a scourge upon the body of Christ."

It is a tragedy that people continue to be trafficked throughout the world, in our country, and even within our own state. Local incidents of trafficking are sometimes referred to as "hidden in plain sight." This "Look Again" video from the Michigan State Police is a reminder to carefully consider our everyday surroundings. If something does not look right, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-3737-888 or alert law enforcement in emergency situations.

MCC has worked to raise attention to this critical issue and continues to advocate for strengthening laws to fight against human trafficking. For more, refer to this edition of FOCUS published by MCC.

State Legislature Back in Session Through Spring Break

The state Legislature convened its first session day of 2022 this past Wednesday. Both the House and Senate are set to meet Tuesday through Thursday each week starting next week through March 24, after which both bodies will go on a two-week spring break.

State of the State to be Delivered Virtually

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is scheduled to give her annual State of the State address on Wednesday, Jan. 26. The speech will be available for remote viewing only, and is typically broadcast live by local TV news stations. More information will be made available in the coming weeks.