Flags Lowered for Former State Sen. Shirley Johnson, ‘Good Friend to the Broadcasting Industry’

Shirley Johnson

Governor Gretchen Whitmer ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex to be lowered to half-staff on Tuesday and Wednesday to honor the life and service of former state Senator Shirley Johnson, who passed away earlier this month at the age of 83.

“Senator Shirley Johnson was a good friend to the broadcasting industry and was helpful in shaping legislation that was advantageous to broadcasters,” remembered MAB President/CEO Karole L. White. “She regularly attended our legislative receptions and had full respect for the job that broadcasters play serving the public.”

Johnson, served from 1999 to 2006 as the state senator in the 13th District and served in the House of Representatives from 1981 to 1998. In her final term in the Senate, she became the first woman to chair an Appropriations committee.

“My administration and the entire state of Michigan recognizes the service and legacy of former Senator Shirley Johnson,” Whitmer said. “As a fierce leader, Senator Shirley Johnson’s impact will live on through her accomplishments and work in the legislature to champion mental health reforms and women’s health care issues. My thoughts are with Senator Johnson’s family, friends and colleagues.”