Who Is Kathy Schmaltz? A Voter's Guide to the Jackson-Area State Rep
First elected in 2022, Schmaltz represents Michigan's 46th House District and is running for re-election on a platform of affordability, education, and infrastructure.
JACKSON, Mich. — State Representative Kathy Schmaltz has represented Michigan's 46th House District since first being elected in 2022. Her district covers communities in Jackson and Washtenaw counties, and she is currently seeking re-election. She chairs the House Families and Veterans Committee.
Schmaltz has made affordability the centerpiece of her legislative record. She has supported and voted for legislation to eliminate the state income tax on tips, overtime pay, and Social Security benefits — positions she describes as directly benefiting working families and seniors in her district. She says she is also working on cutting property taxes and income taxes more broadly.
On education, Schmaltz has backed increases in per-pupil funding and expansion of career and technical education programs. She has introduced legislation to require that the science of reading be taught in Michigan schools, and to establish reading programs for children with dyslexia. She has also pushed for more local control over school budgets and curriculum decisions.
Infrastructure is another area where Schmaltz points to a concrete legislative accomplishment. She helped pass a bipartisan plan that dedicates $2 billion annually to repair and rebuild Michigan roads. Her campaign describes this as one of the most significant long-term road funding commitments in recent state history.
On public safety, Schmaltz is a member of the House Law Enforcement Caucus. She supported the Public Safety Trust Fund, which her campaign says delivered more than $100 million in dedicated funding for police, fire, and emergency responders across Michigan.
Schmaltz is a Michigan State University graduate. She and her husband Patrick have lived in the Jackson area for more than 30 years. Her campaign office is located at 2300 Foote Manor Dr., Jackson, MI 49203.
Greater Jackson United will continue to cover the 46th District race as the November election approaches. Voters can learn more about Schmaltz's platform at kathyschmaltz.com.