Publications

For younger Michiganians in grades 2 to 4
(Revised May 2013)
An informative coloring book for kids, it gives interesting tidbits about Michigan's history, colorful folklore, and state symbols.

Revised May 2013. It is important in a democracy that citizens help keep their legislators informed. In order to be true representatives of the people, legislators need to know the thinking of their constituents on those issues upon which decisions will be made, and the facts on which such thinking and conclusions are based. As a citizen, you can help insure good legislation on state and national levels by communicating with your elected representatives at the proper time.

This booklet contains information for the 2012 tax year on Michigan property taxes, homestead property tax credits, farmland and open space tax relief, the home heating credit program, and individual income taxes. The information contained in this booklet may ease the burden of filling out state tax forms and may even save some taxpayers money.

For high school students and interested citizens
(Revised January 2013)
How do people legislate laws to govern themselves? How does an idea become a bill? What happens in the legislative process? In addition to lawmaking, what other responsibilities does the Legislature have? Answers to these and other questions are presented in this informative publication.

For mature adults
(Revised January 2013)
This booklet provides information about making a will and designating medical care preference in case of incapacity. This booklet contains forms for organ donation, the Michigan Statutory Will, and the Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care, as well as a personal records form to allow family to locate important legal and personal documents.

For Michigan veterans and their survivors and dependents
(Revised October 2012)
This booklet provides information about obtaining veterans benefits and services available through federal, state, and local agencies. Topics range from acquiring a home mortgage, education, employment and insurance to medical treatment and death benefits. Listings include U.S.D.V.A. medical facilities in Michigan and veterans service organizations.

For tenants and landlords
(Revised April 2012)
This booklet provides a basic explanation of what happens when a rental agreement is made and serves as a helpful and informative reference tool concerning the rights and responsibilities of the tenant and the landlord.

For the People... By the People... How State and Local Governments Operate
For all citizens
(Revised May 2012)
To help citizens understand the organization of state and local government, this booklet gives brief descriptions of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of state government, and describes the functions of county, city, township, and village entities of local government. Additional information is provided about local financing and taxation issues.

For parents and early elementary-age children
(Revised October 2011 )
The message of this coloring book is . . . Be smart and be safe . . . On your bicycle, in your home, and in public. This booklet makes a proactive effort to help children to be aware of potentially harmful situations and to avoid them.

The text of both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, including amendments.

For all Michiganians
(Revised April 2011)
Michigan's elegant Victorian-era capitol building is recognized as a national historic landmark for its architectural beauty and artistic importance. Photos, text and artwork highlight interesting views and give information about Michigan's capitol building and its history. Book is available in French, Spanish, and large print.

Of general interest to all consumers
Revised March 2011
Everything you need to know about consumer rights and Michigan law: how to protect yourself from consumer fraud and how to take legal action.

For parents and persons who provide child care
(Revised February 2011)
This booklet offers advice on selecting a day care provider and lists all Michigan Division of Child Day Care licensing offices. It also includes a chart for recording immunizations and important medical information. Additional topics include how to choose a car seat, how to report child abuse, and how one qualifies for federal child care tax credits.

For seniors and their families
(Revised January 2011)
To enhance senior living, this booklet describes state programs and services related to tax credits and additional taxation issues, Medicare and Medicaid, nursing homes and other long-term care options, consumer protection, housing, transportation, employment, and senior discount programs.

This booklet contains the text of the Constitution of the State of Michigan of 1963 with all amendments. A table of contents, descriptive section catchlines, section history notes, and an alphabetical subject index are included.

For divorced parents and others interested in child welfare
(Revised September 2010)
The Friend of the Court oversees the welfare of children whose support, custody, and parenting time are the subject of court order because the parents are separated or divorced or they never married. This handbook describes the procedures available for all FOC offices to enforce the court's orders to ensure protection of children's rights to economic and emotional support.

One of my priorities in the Senate has been making our economic environment once again ready for growth. During my time at the Capitol, I have worked extensively to eliminate wasteful spending and create a more efficient, responsive, and accountable state government; all of which stand to benefit our citizens, schools, communities and businesses.

For teachers and junior/senior high students
(Revised February 2009)
Miscellaneous Michigania is presented in an interesting and educational manner, with pictures and artwork, to inform about our state's agricultural products, natural resources, social culture, and early history. Topics presented include famous Michiganians, a timeline, and derivations of county names. The booklet is complete with maps, quizzes, and multiple-choice tests.

The Michigan Business Tax Impact Assessment Subcommittee, made up of Senators Mark C. Jansen (Chair), Jud Gilbert and Michael Prusi, held four meetings in May of 2008 and took testimony from dozens of business owners and organizations on the impact of the Michigan Business Tax on their businesses. The scope of businesses and organizations testifying ranged from the Michigan Manufacturers Association and large manufacturing firms such as Herman Miller to family-owned restaurants, a small electronics repair business and several, small certified public accountant firms. Testimony was taken in Grand Rapids, Rochester, Saginaw and Gaylord.

A legislative report on the issues in Lansing

Senator Mark Jansen's "Conservation Update 2007"

For young adults
(Revised August 2006)
This handbook contains information for young adults graduating from high school. It discusses important topics such as establishing credit, seeking a higher education, voting, renting, and job search and career planning.

For crime victims and adults who wish to prevent crime
(Revised March 2006)
A booklet that explains the fundamental rights of crime victims and lists services and local victim assistance advocates throughout the state. Contains the current text of the crime victims rights act and a section summary, as well as information to understand the processing of a criminal case. Also included are helpful tips on crime prevention.

For senior citizens and their families
(Revised October 2005)
In a question-and-answer format, this booklet highlights senior legal issues pertaining to disability and consent, age discrimination, tax benefits, pension rights, consumer protection, legal resources, and wills and estate planning. Additional detailed information encompasses medicare and medicaid eligibility, asset determination, funeral expenses, rights of nursing home residents, and what to look for when choosing a nursing home.

For elementary-age children
(Revised October 2004)
Learn how to keep Michigan beautiful with the three Rs: reduce, reuse and recycle.

For all ages
(Revised December 2001)
A parent and child guide with answers to commonly asked questions about peer pressure and drug or alcohol abuse. Explains criminal penalties in Michigan law and gives guidelines for parents and teens hosting or attending a party. (Not available in print - digital only)

For citizens of all ages
(Revised March 2001)
This publication was prepared to provide general information concerning management of Michigan's abundant land and water resources and the state's efforts to protect and preserve natural resources. (Not available in print - digital only)

For all citizens
(Revised January 2001)
The FOIA establishes procedures to ensure every citizen's right of access to government documents. The OMA protects a citizen's right to know what's going on in government by opening to full public view the processes by which elected and nonelected officials make decisions. This publication contains the text of both acts, general outlines and digests, opinions of the Attorney General, and court decisions. (Not available in print - digital only)

For young adults/mature adults
(Revised October 1998)
A comprehensive resource guide that defines these crimes, outlines relevant legislation, suggests preventative measures, and gives legal direction for reporting these crimes to the proper authorities. (Not available in print - digital only)