Well, it looks like members of the Legislature haven't taken our advice... yet. The battle over the 2008 budget continues, but word from Ken Bensen, Chair of the Living in Michigan campaign, gives us reason for hope:

"I am hopeful, every day that this budget debate rages on, that we are getting closer to funding. Senator Mark Jansen, the chair of the six person budget committee, is in contact with me almost daily. Today, the message from Senator Jansen is that the supporters of this fund need to reach out in big numbers and educate their legislators. That means you need to reach out today.

"This coalition has significant support in the right places within the legislature. What we are lacking is awareness in the entire legislature. Advocacy Day was many months ago and the issue of housing has been overshadowed by some other, more aggressive coalitions.

"One email from you will take five minutes. And if we all participate, we'll send thousands of emails. Thank you for your passion about affordable housing. This fund will help Michigan far beyond our lifetimes."

You can contact your State Representative here, and your State Senator here.