Michele Hoitenga

Yesterday (July 21, 2026), the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled unanimously 7-0 to reject the federal open fields doctrine under the state constitution. In a landmark case brought by the Institute for Justice on behalf of the Pitch Pine and Punxsutawney hunting clubs, the court held that state wildlife officers and government officials must obtain a warrant based on probable cause before entering private property that landowners have clearly posted, fenced, or gated to exclude intruders.

Michigan should follow Pennsylvania’s example. I introduced bills (SB 755 & SB 756 see below ⬇️) currently awaiting action in the Michigan Senate, aimed at establishing these common-sense due process protections.

It is being reported by 9&10 News that Northern Michigan currently ranks worst smoke on the planet. Year after year, voicing our concerns about toxic air to Canadian leaders has proven ineffective, and the situation has only gotten worse. It’s time for President Trump to step in and drive the necessary change.

FOR NOW, HERE ARE STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO KEEP YOU SAFE:

At Home: Keep windows and doors tightly shut. Run a HEPA air purifier in your primary living space. If you do not have access to an air purifier, below is a DIY air filter suggestion.

DIY Air Filter: You can make an affordable air purifier (a "Corsi-Rosenthal box") by strapping a MERV 13 or higher furnace filter to the front of a standard box fan.

Skip Polluting Activities: Do not burn candles, smoke, use wood fireplaces, or even vacuum with a non-HEPA unit, as this lowers indoor air quality.

In Your Vehicle: Press the recirculate button on your car's climate control so outside air isn't drawn in.

Outdoors & Health: You may choose to wear a mask.

Soothe Irritation: Inhaling smoke causes a scratchy throat. Drink plenty of water and suck on cough drops or hard candy. Use eye drops for eye irritation.

Michigan’s future Attorney General and Secretary of State ⬇️⬇️⬇️ . We are blessed to have candidates of this caliber—with both exceptional experience and heart. Michigan will thrive with their leadership when they are elected! Even if you’re working, I hope everyone takes some time out to enjoy this beautiful weekend!