The 16th district was created by the 1850 Michigan Constitution, as the 1835 constitution only permitted a maximum of eight senate districts.

[2][3] It has been represented by Republican Joe Bellino since 2023, succeeding fellow Republican Mike Shirkey.

[4][5] District 16 encompasses parts of Hillsdale, Lenawee, and Monroe counties.

[6] District 16, as dictated by the 2011 Apportionment Plan, covered Branch, Hillsdale, and Jackson Counties, including the communities of Jackson, Michigan Center, Vandercook Lake, Hillsdale, Jonesville, Coldwater, Bronson, Summit Township, Blackman Township, and Leoni Township.

[8] It bordered the states of Indiana and Ohio.