A resolution to commemorate February 2025 as Michigan 2-1-1 Month.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rosemary Bayer and 2 co-sponsors

Commemorates February 2025 as Michigan 2-1-1 Month to raise awareness of the 2-1-1 helpline that connects residents to health, housing, utilities, food, and disaster resources.

ADOPTED

Purpose / Intent

SR 11 is a ceremonial Senate resolution that proclaims February 2025 as “Michigan 2-1-1 Month.” Its intent is to recognize and raise public awareness about Michigan 2-1-1, a free statewide information and referral service that connects residents to health and human services and emergency resources.

Key provisions and findings

Recognizes that Michigan 2-1-1 was launched in 2002 and is provided at no cost to residents.

Notes that the 2-1-1 helpline operates 24/7/365 and is accessible by phone, email, live chat, and online databases.

Highlights the role of Michigan 2-1-1 in supporting the state during natural disasters (tornadoes, flooding, cold snaps).

Cites recent usage statistics: about 406,000 Michigan residents contacted 2-1-1 in the previous year seeking assistance with housing, utility assistance, food, job training, and other resources.

Acknowledges the work of community care advocates who staff the service and provide referrals and support.

Points out the symbolic timing: the month coincides with February 11 (2-11), making February an appropriate month for recognition.

Resolves that the Senate commemorates February 2025 as Michigan 2-1-1 Month and expresses an aim to increase public awareness of the service.

Who is affected

Michigan residents who may need information or referrals to health, human services, emergency assistance, or disaster-related resources.

Michigan 2-1-1 network and its community care advocates (recognized and highlighted by the resolution).

State and local agencies, nonprofits, and service providers that partner with or are listed in 2-1-1 referral databases (benefit from increased visibility).

Status and timeline

Introduced in the Michigan Senate (Senator Rick Outman identified in legislative records as the introducer).

Adopted by the Michigan Senate on February 20, 2025 (Senate Adopted Resolution: SR-11, As Adopted by Senate, February 20, 2025).

The resolution is a non-binding, commemorative action (a formal expression of recognition by the legislative body), not a law changing policy or funding.

Impact and limitations

Impact: Symbolic recognition that can increase public awareness and encourage use of the 2-1-1 service; highlights the service’s role in disaster response and everyday social-service navigation.

Limitations: As a Senate resolution, SR 11 does not allocate funding, create new programs, or impose legal requirements. Any operational or funding changes to Michigan 2-1-1 would require separate legislation or budgetary action.

Sponsors / Attribution

Introduced/Offered by Senator Rick Outman (documented); the enrolled/adopted resolution lists Senators Outman, Bayer, and Theis as offering the resolution. Adopted by the Senate February 20, 2025; copies to be maintained by the Secretary of the Senate.

For residents seeking assistance, Michigan 2-1-1 remains reachable year‑round via phone, email, live chat, and online search tools.

Bill