COMMISSION
House Bill 5767
Sponsor: Rep. Keith Stallworth
Committee: Appropriations
Complete to 6-26-98
A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 5767 AS INTRODUCED 4-23-98
House Bill 5767 would create a new act, to be called the Commission on Inner-City Development Act. The act would establish a seven-member commission on inner-city development in the Michigan Jobs Commission. The purpose of the commission would be to create and make available to the public a directory of state services and tax advantages available to assist major employers in locating their businesses in urban areas of Michigan, and to provide to major employers technical assistance relating to Michigan statutes that may affect business activities in Michigan.
The bill specifies that of the commission's seven members, one member would be appointed by the Senate Majority Leader, and one by the Speaker of the House of Representatives. In addition, two members representing minority-owned businesses would be appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the Senate, and two additional members representing individuals with business development expertise also would be appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. The director of the Department of Consumer and Industry Services would serve as an ex officio, nonvoting member. Generally, the members would serve two year terms (and could be reappointed), although the governor's first appointees would serve staggered terms.
Under the bill, the commission would elect a chairperson (who would serve as the chief executive officer of the commission), vice-chairperson, and other necessary officers. The commission members would be reimbursed only for actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of the commission's business. The commission would be required to comply with the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act.
The bill also contains a reference to an executive director hired in accordance with civil services procedures who would serve as secretary to the commission, implement the policies and programs of the commission, and also would be responsible for staff assignments and the administration of the commission office, as well as performing additional duties assigned by the chairperson. (Note: This provision contains an incomplete sentence.)
The bill specifies that the commission could accept federal funds or private gifts or donations. However, the bill specifies that the acceptance and use of federal funds would not commit state funds and would not place any obligation upon the legislature to continue the purpose for which the funds were made available. Finally, the bill would direct all executive departments and agencies to cooperate fully with the commission in the performance of its duties.
Analyst: J. Hunault