State Rep. Padma Kuppa

08/21/2021

Here at Troy High Soccer annual car wash after dropping off the #SBOTM recognition at Trevarrow Ace Hardware!

08/20/2021

My Thoughts on Tampon Tax, Period Poverty and Bollywood Film ‘Pad Man’ - American Kahani

My op-ed for this month’s American Kahani is on something very close to my heart as a legislator: eliminating the “tampon tax.”

This legislative term, State Representative Tenisha Yancey and I introduced HB 4270 and HB 4271 to address “period poverty” by eliminating the use and sales tax on menstrual hygiene products such as pads, tampons, etc. to make them more affordable. State Senator Winnie Brinks and State Senator Mallory McMorrow introduced this legislation in the Senate as well.

Since then, my team and I have met with several student groups and organizations who are passionate about the legislation — which was included in Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s budget recommendations. We’ve heard stories of menstruators (often students) who far too frequently miss school, work, etc. due to lack of access to these products. That is why my team and I will continue working to make Michigan the latest state to address #periodpoverty by repealing the #tampontax.

My full op-ed: https://americankahani.com/perspectives/my-thoughts-on-tampon-tax-period-poverty-and-bollywood-film-pad-man/

My Thoughts on Tampon Tax, Period Poverty and Bollywood Film Pad Man

08/19/2021

Over the hump day! (Beware the long post…)
Monday started with my first meeting as Advisory Board member of Troy Community Coalition! I got to swear in new members of this awesome org that works to prevent drug and alcohol abuse. The days work included efforts for noise abatement because of I-75 expansion and finishing the day with Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi at the Indian Independence Day event at India in USA (Consulate General of India, Chicago) with friends from MI.
Tuesday was session day so I headed to Lansing - members of our #youthadvisorycouncil came from the district and watched from the gallery as we voted on bills and gave speeches on the House Floor.
Today, I worked on a number of policy issues including legislation to eliminate the #tampontax, HB 4270-4271 with Rep. Tenisha Yancey; #DriveSafe bills with Rep. Rachel Hood and the Drive Michigan Forward coalition and the Sierra Club on advancing efforts for #cleanfuel vehicles. But the best part of the day is always hearing from and helping constituents. I had lunch with friends at the Rotary Club Of Troy Michigan - where I learned about issues faced by our seniors and small businesses. #LetsGetToWork

08/17/2021

Rep. Kuppa on Passage of Election Legislation

Glad I had the chance to connect with our local clerks before voting on today's election bills. Their perspective was valuable and allowed me to vote based on the needs of our district and its residents.

My full statement on the passage of these bills in the House: https://housedems.com/rep-kuppa-on-passage-of-election-legislation/

LANSING, Mich., Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2021 — State Rep. Padma Kuppa (D-Troy) issued the following statement after today’s passage of legislation based on unfounded claims of election irregularities or fraud: “I am disappointed that the reason we were called back to Lansing today was to further pro...

08/15/2021

To celebrate India’s Independence Day (Aug. 15), Indian Americans around metro Detroit celebrated with food, festivities and gatherings - on Friday, I was honored at the India League of America - Michigan #aql #IndiaDay sponsors’ banquet - hung out with former Dem House leader Sam Singh’s parents and the hubby; yesterday, I went to my friend and colleague State Representative Kelly Breen’s district for a subdued annual India Day event and even did some shopping… Most importantly, I connected with constituents - one is a mechanical engineer from NIT,Warangal Class of 2013 (15 years after me)!
#formerbritishcolonies #smallworld #celebratingfreedom #democracy

08/14/2021

Thank you for coming out! Lots of great conversations with constituents today despite it being #FridayThe13th. 😉

Protecting Michigan’s water, air, wildlife, and natural landscapes is something we can all get behind, and I’m grateful to MLCV for all the work they do for our state!

We're out knocking doors today to hear from State Rep. Padma Kuppa's constituents about the issues they care about!

08/10/2021

Who is a Black Historical Figure You Admire? With Representative Padma Kuppa

Who is a Black Historical Figure You Admire? With Representative Padma Kuppa

08/09/2021

Rep. Kuppa's Small Business Nomination

Who would you like to see as my next Small Business of the Month? 🏙

To nominate a Troy or Clawson business for Small Business of the Month, fill out the nomination form here! ⬇️

https://housedems.com/padma-kuppa/small-business-nomination/

Small businesses drive our local economies, keeping money close to home and supporting neighborhoods and communities. Use this form to nominate a deserving small business in House District 41 for legislative recognition. Small businesses drive our local economies, keeping money close to home and sup...

08/07/2021

With Wayne State University Prof. Li - he loves math too, and invited me to a Megrez Education program to explain what I do as a legislator! Love the opportunity to make what I do accessible to students and parents alike! #lovemath #solveproblems #STEMeducation

With Wayne State University Prof. Li - he loves math too, and invited me to a Megrez Education program to explain what I do as a legislator! Love the opportunity to make what I do accessible to students and parents alike! #lovemath #solveproblems #STEMeducation

08/05/2021

Couldn’t agree more, Senator Gary Peters! Investing in electric vehicles (EVs) will benefit both our environment and economy.

That’s why I proudly joined a group of bipartisan colleagues in introducing a bill package aimed at expanding EV infrastructure opportunities in Michigan. My bill in the package was recently voted out of the House Energy Committee, and hope to see it hit the floor soon!

08/05/2021

Timeline Photos

The CDC extended the eviction moratorium through Oct. 3 for counties with substantial levels of community transmission of COVID-19. The current extension protects tenants from eviction for nonpayment of rent only. Apply for rental assistance here: http://michigan.gov/CERA

08/05/2021

Warning: Seriously long post about an absolutely fun and important day. Pls read as it will give you insight into what my job as a legislator is like.
The day starts with me and James - Director of Constituent Services for HD41 - giving a legislative update at the Building & Trades Breakfast (I’m late because I forgot about the construction on John R) - and meet my colleague State Representative Samantha Steckloff’s husband (finally!).
After, James and I head to Kahve House in Clawson for some coffee & a mamoul - and review a few things & prep for midday legislative door knocking with our #YouthAdvisoryCouncil members and interns.
We meet up at the #troycommunitycenter and as we’re waiting for everyone to join us, I get to catch up w/some friends walking out. We all head out to knock doors - and I take a break for a working lunch at NeeHee's - and realize that the young lady who takes my order is someone who I’ve known for most of her life… and run into my former Chrysler boss. He tells me what a great job I’m doing in this new one. 💪🏽
Catch up on policy stuff (bills I’m introducing, research on issues that constituents have raised concerns about, and bills that might be coming up for a vote when we are back in session) and plan for town halls with my Legislative Director.
And then the reminder of why I am honored to be a representative: I’m humbled by the things that neighbors share with me at the doors.
Mr. Nathan who’s from Iraq, whose father migrated from India when he was with the British army - before India got independence 75 years ago.
A woman from my neighborhood weeding her dad’s garden, and asked me not to knock as he has Alzheimer’s (reminds me why I need to work harder with my colleague Rep. Helena Scott on long term care infrastructure.
A parent concerned about making sure there’s a mask mandate (she needs to call the district).
Darlene, who’s going to watch the virtual town hall hosted by Asian Pacific Islander American Vote Michigan last week, with me and my colleague Tenisha Yancey on strengthening our Democracy and voting rights.
A couple worried about their autistic son aging out of care services and the poor wages that care workers are paid, thank me for working on this issue - and I share who in Republican leadership they can reach out to, to advocate on the issue.
A mom who’s been saving for her two kids’ college education but FAFSA changes will negatively impact them - an issue I promised to pass on to our Congresswoman Haley Stevens.
An animal advocate who loves the bill I introduced to make the Shelter Pet the State Pet.
I could go on. All these stories fill my cup and help focus our policy work.

Note: sometimes we forget to take pictures.

08/02/2021

Starting the week strong after a weekend surrounded by community! #TTJ2021, Anand Bazaar, a legislative meeting with veterans at American Legion Hall, and so much more. #gratitude

08/01/2021

At Bharatiya Temple for annual #AnandBazaaar - skipped last year but they haven’t skipped a beat! Great food, vendors and community sponsors!

08/01/2021

At Columbia Center on Big Beaver for the Troy Historic Village’s #TroyTrafficJam! Come join us for this wonderful antique and classic car show - it’s free!

07/31/2021

Another great day of #BuyMichiganWeek at Doc Sweets' Candy Company, our Clawson Small Business of the Month! Congrats to their amazing team. 😊

To nominate a business for this recognition, visit: https://housedems.com/padma-kuppa/small-business-nomination/

Another great day of #BuyMichiganWeek at Doc Sweets' Candy Company, our Clawson Small Business of the Month! Congrats to their amazing team. 😊

To nominate a business for this recognition, visit: https://housedems.com/padma-kuppa/small-business-nomination/

07/30/2021

07/30/2021

This week, I visited Fox and Hounds Pastry Den, our Troy Small Business of the Month! What a great way to celebrate #BuyMichiganWeek, as proclaimed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

To nominate a business for this recognition, visit: https://housedems.com/padma-kuppa/small-business-nomination/

07/29/2021

Make sure to join Asian Pacific Islander American Vote Michigan i for a discussion on the importance of the freedom to vote and the anti-voter bills introduced in the Michigan state legislature.

Register at: bit.ly/Freedom2Vote!

07/29/2021

Join myself and Representative Kuppa as we partner with @michiganunitedinst @miroundtable and @apiavotemi for a discussion on voter suppression this Thursday, July 29th at 6:30p.m.

bit.ly/Freedom2vote

07/29/2021

Our right to vote is under attack. Join our partners and us TONIGHT, on July 29, 2021, at 6:30 pm to discuss the Michigan voter suppression legislation introduced in the Michigan State Senate. Click below to attend.
https://bit.ly/Freedom2vote

#VoterSuppression #RightToVote

07/27/2021

Congrats to Director Johnson on this new role! He was an incredible asset to our work on the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus and I’m excited to see him combat discrimination and promote compliance with civil rights laws as the new Director of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights!

On Monday, July 26, 2021 the Michigan Civil Rights Commission voted unanimously to appoint John E. Johnson, Jr. Executive Director of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights. Read more: https://tinyurl.com/xupy63ak

07/27/2021

Here at Fort Michilmackinac state park for the Lummi Nation Totem Pole stop in Michigan, on the #redroadtodc. Visit redroadtodc.org for more info.

07/26/2021

Exciting sights and sounds at Pipefitters Local 636 Detroit in Troy - the smells are evocative of my college days on the shop floor at NIT,Warangal!

07/21/2021

THS Teacher Ryan Werenka Named Michigan History Teacher of 2021

Congratulations to Troy School District’s Ryan Werenka on being named Michigan History Teacher of the Year!

Teachers often don’t get the recognition they deserve, but thankfully that’s not the case here. Thank you, Mr. Werenka, for all the work you do to make a difference in your students' lives. Troy High School is lucky to have you!

One of your neighbors posted in Schools. Click through to read what they have to say. (The views expressed in this post are the author’s own.)

07/21/2021

Today when I was out knocking doors, I got to wish a neighbor Eid Mubarak in person! To all who celebrate Eid al Adha, Eid Mubarak!

Today when I was out knocking doors, I got to wish a neighbor Eid Mubarak in person! To all who celebrate Eid al Adha, Eid Mubarak!

07/20/2021

Thank you, Representative Haley Stevens, for securing $1.5 million in federal funds for the city of Troy!

This money has been earmarked to establish the Troy Community Pavilion. The pandemic has highlighted the city’s need for a large outdoor public gathering space to safely host events and remain economically competitive. The proposed pavilion will host events such as farmers markets, concerts, art showcases, ice skating, and other incredible economic opportunities for the city!

Thrilled to have secured nearly 18 million dollars of federal funding for ten community projects across Michigan’s 11th District! We have already highlighted some projects and will continue to do so throughout the upcoming week. You can read more about them here: https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stevens-secures-17807600-federal-funding-michigan-s-11th-congressional

07/19/2021

The Child Tax Credit | The White House

Raising kids can be expensive, and the #ChildTaxCredit is here to help. To support families with children, President Biden’s American Rescue Plan increased the amount of the 2021 Child Tax Credit full benefit to $300 per month per child under age 6 and $250 for each child age 6 to 17.

If you filed your 2020 taxes this year or filed your 2019 taxes last year, or used the IRS “Non-Filer Portal” to get a stimulus check last year, you don’t need to do anything. The IRS will automatically send you a monthly payment by direct deposit or check.

If you didn’t file taxes in the last 2 years, you just need to fill out a simple form available at www.childtaxcredit.gov.

The Child Tax Credit in the American Rescue Plan provides the largest Child Tax Credit ever and historic relief to the most working families ever – and as of July 15th, most families are automatically receiving monthly payments of $250 or $300 per child without having to take any action. The Child...

07/18/2021

Chicago just held an auto show. Detroit nixed its show. Here's why that's good

For all my fellow car lovers:
DADA will host two events in lieu of a 2021 North American International Auto Show:

Motor City Car Crawl, spanning six downtown parks, is Aug. 5-8.

Motor Bella, at the M1 Concourse private track and luxury garage development in Pontiac, is Sept. 21-26.

The fun starts for me on Sunday, Aug 1 when I volunteer at the #troytrafficjam - a classic car show. (More at www.troyhistoricvillage.org/troy-traffic-jam-registration/) and of course the Dream Cruise on Aug. 21!

Car lovers and shoppers are eager to see new innovative vehicles like the Ford Maverick, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, Toyota Corolla Cross and VW Golf GTI.

07/17/2021

Great time at Jaycee Park with Bharatiya Temple friends and fellow volunteers - the best part: meeting the kids, who were excited to meet their state Rep., and answering their questions. Being accessible to my youngest constituents is so rewarding!

Great time at Jaycee Park with Bharatiya Temple friends and fellow volunteers - the best part: meeting the kids, who were excited to meet their state Rep., and answering their questions. Being accessible to my youngest constituents is so rewarding!

07/16/2021

07/15/2021

Kuppa on Whitmer Signing School Aid Budget

Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a budget for preK-12 schools that makes historic investments and closes the funding gap between districts.

My statement: https://housedems.com/kuppa-on-whitmer-signing-school-aid-budget/

LANSING, Mich., July 14, 2021 — State Rep. Padma Kuppa (D-Troy) issued the following statement after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed a budget for preK-12 schools that makes historic investments and closes the funding gap between districts: “This budget is a sign of what we can accomplish when we pu...