MLA Connect Advocacy Hour: Protecting Library Funding in Michigan

Thursday, January 15, 2026
10:00 - 11:00 AM

Michigan’s Alternative Funding for Trial Courts Workgroup released a final concept paper in 2025 proposing that all revenue from penal fines and civil infractions be redirected to trial courts. Last month, MLA’s Interim Executive Director, Dillon Geshel, shared an overview of these recommended changes in Primary Source. If enacted, the proposal would have a disastrous impact on Michigan’s public libraries.

On Thursday, January 14, at 10:00 AM, join MLA on Zoom for our next Advocacy Hour as we take a closer look at the proposed changes to Michigan’s trial court funding model, their potential impact on public libraries, and how we can remain vigilant in defending this vital source of library funding.

This discussion will feature MLA lobbyist Samantha Zandee, Governmental Consultant Services, Inc. (GCSI), and will be facilitated by MLA’s Interim Executive Director, Dillon Geshel.

REGISTER 

Advocacy Hour conversations are always free to attend but registration is required. 

MLA Connect Advocacy Hours are an opportunity for the library community to learn more about MLA's advocacy and legislative priorities including funding, elections, property taxes, literacy, internet access, privacy, intellectual freedom, and more. Each month, we will address a new topic and share any pending legislation introduced in the House or Senate that could impact the Michigan library community. Open discussion and Q & A will follow the interview-style agenda.

Monthly sessions will take place generally on the third Thursday of the month at 10:00 AM. Advocacy Hours are free to attend to anyone interested in joining the conversation! A maximum of 500 attendees can join each live event. Registered attendees will receive information and a link to access the meetings on the Zoom platform. 

Please note recordings of all MLA Advocacy Hours are available to watch for free and on-demand at MLA Connect On-Demand.