Beyond the Bill: Sen. Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit)

Beyond the Bill is a new segment that features a Michigan Legislator for Detroit Regional Chamber members to get to know on a more personal level and highlight their legislative priorities.  

This week, the Chamber is spotlighting Sen. Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit). As the first Asian American woman elected to the Michigan Legislature, she brings a unique perspective shaped by nearly a decade of community organizing in Detroit. Before joining the Senate, Chang served two terms in the Michigan House of Representatives and later became the Senate Democratic Floor Leader during her first term. Now in her second term, she serves as the Senate Democratic Policy and Steering Chair, continuing her commitment to advancing policies that strengthen communities and promote fairness across Michigan. Currently, she is active on a number of committees, including serving as the Majority Chair of the Senate Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety Committee.  

Chang is most passionate about the policy issue of water affordability, a cause she has championed for more than a decade.

“More and more Michigan families are struggling to afford their rising water bills, and we have bipartisan, long-term sustainable solutions that would help lower-income residents get bills they can afford, which would help water providers and improve public health,” she said.

Chang demonstrates her dedication to the issue through her contribution to the bipartisan legislation passed in 2022 to create a program supporting Michigan’s maritime industry and sustainability.

“Our state is blessed with many waterways that are great options for transporting goods in an efficient, safe way,” she said. “We crafted bills to increase maritime activity, create jobs, and make sure we do it in a way that protects our environment.”

According to Chang, eviction prevention deserves more statewide attention, especially in District 3. Seeing Detroit’s approach as a practical blueprint, Chang believes the state could scale to reduce displacement and strengthen family and community outcomes.  

“Detroit has been a leader in helping tenants facing eviction,” she said. “Under Mayor Mary Sheffield’s leadership, the city has provided lawyers who have been able to explain legal rights and keep more tenants in their homes. With more people facing financial difficulty, putting in place legal resources across other Michigan cities would help our neighborhoods.” 

At the same time, District 3’s strengths are visible in the small businesses and gathering places that knit the community together. Chang’s favorite is a hidden gem in Detroit: Parker Avenue Knits.  

“I recently purchased some knitting supplies from Parker Avenue Knits,” she said. “It’s a beautiful shop with amazing yarn and a welcoming, positive vibe! I’ll be back for sure.” 

These neighborhood establishments demonstrate the district’s ongoing investment in community‑serving spaces.