Laurie Pohutsky

Political Party: Democratic

District: Michigan House District 17

Laurie Pohutsky was born on April 28, 1988, in Redford, Michigan. She grew up in Redford, where she learned about hard work and public service from her parents—her mother is a nurse and former president of her own healthcare company, and her father was a Teamster who later worked for the city of Dearborn Heights.

Pohutsky is an LGBTQ+ activist and long-time volunteer in her community. She has served as a crisis hotline volunteer at the Listening Ear Crisis Center and as a caregiver at Angela Hospice, where she continues to perform home visits with patients. She is a member of the Livonia Democratic Club, Livonia Rotary Club, and Michigan United. She resides in Livonia with her rescue pets.

Education

Pohutsky graduated from Divine Child High School in Dearborn in 2006. She then attended Michigan State University from 2006 to 2010, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in microbiology. While a student, she participated in community outreach activities and civic engagement events that deepened her interest in politics and the impact of government on individuals' lives.

Political Experience

Pohutsky has been serving in the Michigan House of Representatives since 2019 and is currently in her fourth term. She previously served as Speaker Pro Tempore from 2023 to 2025.

Her current committee roles include:
- Chair of the Natural Resources, Environmental, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Committee
- Majority Vice Chair of the Government Operations Committee
- Chair of the Progressive Women's Coalition
- Member of the Health Policy subcommittee on Behavioral Health
- Minority Vice Chair of the Oversight Weaponization of State Government Subcommittee

Pohutsky brings a scientific perspective to government, having worked in food safety, toxicology, health care, and water quality testing. She is known for her commitment to environmental causes and advocating for healthcare, civil rights, education, abortion access, and elder care.