The Word from Lansing is a regular column written by Michigan Catholic Conference (MCC) staff for Catholic news outlets. Through these columns, MCC outlines current advocacy issues of importance to the Conference and discusses the Catholic position and role in the political process. This publication complements the more regular updates provided by Michigan Catholic Conference’s Catholic Advocacy Network.
For those receiving assistance through the Family Independence Program (FIP), Michigan law can disincentivize marriage, causing some to delay or forego it to retain assistance for their children. The Word from Lansing for February outlines the importance of marriage as an anti-poverty tool. The column also provides information on recently introduced legislation in Lansing that encourages family stability and promotes marriage.
Prescription medicines for pain, including opiates, have helped many facing difficult illnesses and conditions. Unfortunately, Michigan has seen greater abuse of these prescription medications in recent years, even among children. During the 2017–2018 legislative session, state lawmakers have been discussing policies that curb unnecessary or excessive opioid use, and many of these measures have become law.
