STATE OF MICHIGAN
Journal of the Senate
102nd Legislature
REGULAR SESSION OF 2023
Senate Chamber, Lansing, Tuesday, April 11, 2023.
10:00 a.m.
The Senate was called to order by the President, Lieutenant Governor Garlin D. Gilchrist II.
The roll was called by the Secretary of the Senate, who announced that a quorum was present.
Albert—present Hauck—present Moss—present
Anthony—present Hertel—present Nesbitt—present
Bayer—present Hoitenga—present Outman—present
Bellino—present Huizenga—present Polehanki—present
Brinks—present Irwin—present Runestad—present
Bumstead—present Johnson—present Santana—present
Camilleri—present Klinefelt—present Shink—present
Cavanagh—present Lauwers—present Singh—present
Chang—present Lindsey—present Theis—present
Cherry—present McBroom—present Victory—present
Daley—present McCann—present Webber—present
Damoose—present McDonald Rivet—present Wojno—present
Geiss—present McMorrow—present
Senator Mary Cavanagh of the 6th District offered the following invocation:
Gathered here today, let us call upon the power within ourselves to be leaders and changemakers. May we strive to create a world that is inclusive, where everyone has a seat at the table and a voice that is heard. Let us be the catalyst for positive change, inspiring others to join us in our quest for a better tomorrow.
As we embark on this journey of leadership and change, let us remember that our strength lies in our ability to work together, to collaborate, and to listen to the perspectives of those around us. Let us strive to build bridges rather than walls to cultivate empathy and passion and compassion in all that we do. Let us be mindful of the barriers that exist in our society and work tireless to dismantle them, create a more just and equitable world for all.
Finally, let us remember that leadership and change are not easy tasks, but ones that require courage, perseverance, and dedication. May we always stay true to our values and convictions, even in the face of adversity and never lose sight of the impact that we can have on the world around us.
The President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist, led the members of the Senate in recital of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Motions and Communications
Senator Singh moved that Senator Geiss be temporarily excused from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
The following communications were received and read:
Office of the Senate Majority Leader
March 24, 2023
Pursuant to the provisions laid out in MCL 333.2612, I appoint Senator Kristen McDonald Rivet as the Michigan Senate’s representative on the Michigan Center for Rural Health’s Board of Directors.
April 10, 2023
Pursuant to Michigan Statute Section MCL 390.1532, I appoint Senator Sean McCann as the Michigan Senate’s representative on the Midwestern Higher Education Compact’s Governing Board.
Respectfully,
Winnie Brinks
Senate Majority Leader
29th District
The communications were referred to the Secretary for record.
The following communications were received and read:
Office of the Auditor General
March 20, 2023
Enclosed is a copy of the following report:
• Report on Internal Control, Compliance, and Other Matters of the Michigan Public School Employees’ Retirement System (MPSERS) (071-0152-23).
March 25, 2023
Enclosed is a copy of the following report:
• Single audit report for the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (000-0800-23).
March 31, 2023
Enclosed is a copy of the following report:
• Performance audit on the Selected Community Health-Related IT Systems, Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Technology, Management, and Budget (391-0593-22).
Sincerely,
Doug Ringler
Auditor General
The audit reports were referred to the
Committee on Oversight.
Senator Geiss entered the Senate Chamber.
The following communication was received:
State Budget Office
March 30, 2023
Attached you will find the report as required by PA 268. Per the statute:
(7) Not later than March 30 of each year that the contract is in effect, and not later than September 30 of each year that the contract is in effect, the integrity oversight monitor shall provide a detailed report to the governor, the department of technology, management, and budget, the secretary of the senate, the clerk of the house of representatives, and the chairpersons of the senate and house of representatives committees on appropriations. The report shall contain all of the following:
(a) Detail of the integrity oversight monitor’s services during the 6-month period.
(b) Detail of the integrity oversight monitor’s services over the duration of the contract.
(c) Details of findings of malfeasance or inefficiency.
(d) Recommendations for corrective actions by any governmental entities.
Please let us know if you need anything else.
Thank you,
State Budget Office
The communication was referred to the Secretary for record.
The following communication was received:
State Court Administrative Office
March 31, 2023
Pursuant to MCL 771A.7 and 2022 PA 166, Article 8, Section 312, please see the report of the annual review of the Swift and Sure Sanctions Probation Programs available at this link.
If you would like a printed copy, please contact me at 517-373-7351.
If you have any questions regarding the report, please contact Andrew Smith at 517-373-0954.
Carol A. Knudsen
Administrative Assistant
The communication was referred to the Secretary for record.
The following communication was received:
Department of State Police
April 3, 2023
The Michigan State Police (MSP) is notifying the Legislature that the FY 2022 Methamphetamine-Related Criminal Incidents Report has been posted to the MSP website.
Please direct any questions regarding this report to Ms. Amanda Baker, Director, Budget and Financial Services Division, at 517-599-5774.
Thank you,
Nichole Spicer
Senior Executive Management Assistant to:
Ms. Amanda Baker, Director
Budget and Financial Services
The communication was referred to the Secretary for record.
The following communication was received:
Civil Service Commission
April 6, 2023
Enclosed is the Fiscal Analysis Report for the Civil Service Commission for fiscal year 2022.
This report is provided in accordance with Article XI, Section 5 of the Constitution of the State of Michigan.
Sincerely,
John Gnodtke
State Personnel Director
The communication was referred to the
Secretary for record.
The following messages from the Governor were received:
Time: 9:30 a.m.
To the President of the Senate:
Sir—I have this day approved and signed
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 12 (Public Act No. 7), being
An act to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled “An act to provide a system of public instruction and elementary and secondary schools; to revise, consolidate, and clarify the laws relating to elementary and secondary education; to provide for the organization, regulation, and maintenance of schools, school districts, public school academies, intermediate school districts, and other public school entities; to prescribe rights, powers, duties, and privileges of schools, school districts, public school academies, intermediate school districts, and other public school entities; to provide for the regulation of school teachers and certain other school employees; to provide for school elections and to prescribe powers and duties with respect thereto; to provide for the levy and collection of taxes; to provide for the borrowing of money and issuance of bonds and other evidences of indebtedness; to establish a fund and provide for expenditures from that fund; to make appropriations for certain purposes; to provide for and prescribe the powers and duties of certain state departments, the state board of education, and certain other boards and officials; to provide for licensure of boarding schools; to prescribe penalties; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,” by amending section 1280f (MCL 380.1280f), as added by 2016 PA 306.
(Filed with the Secretary of State on March 24, 2023, at 1:00 p.m.)
Time: 9:32 a.m.
To the President of the Senate:
Sir—I have this day approved and signed
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 34 (Public Act No. 8), being
An act to amend 1939 PA 176, entitled “An act to create a commission relative to labor disputes, and to prescribe its powers and duties; to provide for the mediation and arbitration of labor disputes, and the holding of elections thereon; to regulate the conduct of parties to labor disputes and to require the parties to follow certain procedures; to regulate and limit the right to strike and picket; to protect the rights and privileges of employees, including the right to organize and engage in lawful concerted activities; to protect the rights and privileges of employers; to make certain acts unlawful; to make appropriations; and to prescribe means of enforcement and penalties for violations of this act,” by amending sections 1, 2, 14, and 17 (MCL 423.1, 423.2, 423.14, and 423.17), as amended by 2012 PA 348.
(Filed with the Secretary of State on March 24, 2023, at 1:02 p.m.)
Time: 11:28 a.m.
To the President of the Senate:
Sir—I have this day approved and signed
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 2 (Public Act No. 12), being
An act to amend 1931 PA 328, entitled “An act to revise, consolidate, codify, and add to the statutes relating to crimes; to define crimes and prescribe the penalties and remedies; to provide for restitution under certain circumstances; to provide for the competency of evidence at the trial of persons accused of crime; to provide immunity from prosecution for certain witnesses appearing at criminal trials; to provide for liability for damages; and to repeal certain acts and parts of acts inconsistent with or contravening any of the provisions of this act,” by repealing section 40 (MCL 750.40).
(Filed with the Secretary of State on April 5, 2023, at 2:02 p.m.)
Respectfully,
Gretchen Whitmer
Governor
The following messages from the Governor were received and read:
March 23, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 299 of 1980, MCL 339.303 and 339.2002:
Michigan Board of Architects
Ms. Jennifer R. Myers of 2770 Lenox Drive,
Troy, Michigan 48098, county of Oakland, is reappointed to represent
architects, for a term commencing April 1, 2023 and expiring March 31, 2027.
Mr. Deveron Q. Sanders of 5177 Squire Hill Drive, Flint, Michigan 48532, county of Genessee, is reappointed to represent the Board of Professional Engineers, for a term commencing April 1, 2023 and expiring March 31, 2027.
March 23, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 48 of 1963 (2nd Ex. Sess.), MCL 390.551:
Eastern Michigan University Board of Regents
Ms. Anupam C. Sidhu of 7048 Kennesaw Road, Canton, Michigan 48187, county of Wayne, succeeding Michelle Crumm whose term expired, is appointed for a term commencing March 23, 2023 and expiring December 31, 2030.
March 23, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Executive Order No. 2010-2, MCL 12.194:
Michigan Finance Authority Board of Directors
Mr. William Beekman of 6180 Whitehills Lake Drive, East Lansing, Michigan 48823, county of Ingham, is reappointed to represent residents of the state with experience in issues relating to hospitals or other health facilities or relating to public finance, for a term commencing March 23, 2023 and expiring September 30, 2025.
Ms. Wafa S. Dinaro of 15680 Huff Street, Livonia, Michigan 48226, county of Wayne, succeeding Travis Jones whose term expired, is appointed to represent residents of the state with experience in economic development issues or relating to public finance, for a term commencing March 23, 2023 and expiring September 30, 2025.
Mr. Timothy A. Hoffman of 173 St. Peters Drive, Douglas, Michigan 49950, county of Allegan, succeeding Anna Heaton whose term expired, is appointed to represent residents of the state, for a term commencing March 23, 2023 and expiring September 30, 2026.
Mr. Wesley D. Smith of 426 Village Green Boulevard, Unit 203, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48105, county of Washtenaw, succeeding Timothy Hoffman whose term expired, is appointed to represent residents of the state with experience in education issues, including but not limited to, issues related to public school districts, public community colleges, or public universities or relating to public finance, for a term commencing March 23, 2023 and expiring September 30, 2026.
Mr. Murray D. Wikol of 3890 Oakland Drive, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan 48301, county of Oakland, is reappointed to represent residents of the state with experience in housing and community development issues or relating to public finance, for a term commencing March 23, 2023 and expiring September 30, 2026.
March 23, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 299 of 1980, MCL 339.303 and 339.2002:
Board of Professional Engineers
Mrs. Jane Abadir of 2811 Quartz Drive, Troy, Michigan 48085, county of Oakland, succeeding Charles Hookham whose term has expired, is appointed to represent professional engineers, for a term commencing March 23, 2023 and expiring March 31, 2026.
Mr. Stanley Opal of 233 N. Pine Avenue, White Cloud, Michigan 49349, county of Newaygo, succeeding Dietta McKinney, is appointed to represent the general public, for a term commencing March 23, 2023 and expiring March 31, 2025.
Mr. Deveron Q. Sanders of 5177 Squire Hill Drive, Flint, Michigan 48532, county of Genesee, is reappointed to represent professional engineers, for a term commencing March 23, 2023 and expiring March 31, 2026.
March 23, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 186 of 1973, MCL 205.721 and 205.722:
Michigan Tax Tribunal
Mr. Mark Perry of 760 Eltham Court, Ann
Arbor, Michigan 48103, county of Washtenaw, succeeding Christine Schauer who
has resigned, is appointed to represent members-at-large, for a term commencing
April 3, 2023 and expiring June 30, 2023.
March 23, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 9 of 1946, MCL 35.603b:
Michigan Veterans’ Trust Fund Board of Trustees
Colonel James R. Dempsey of 11717 Island Lake Road, Dexter, Michigan 48130, county of Washtenaw, is reappointed to represent disabled American veterans, for a term commencing March 23, 2023 and expiring February 25, 2026.
Mrs. Carol L. Hebert of 808 Robinson Street, Roscommon, Michigan 48653, county of Roscommon, is reappointed to represent independent veterans, for a term commencing March 23, 2023 and expiring February 25, 2026.
Mr. Brian L. Love of 24957 N. Sylbert Drive, Redford, Michigan 48239, county of Wayne, succeeding Jill R. Matthews, is appointed to represent independent veterans, for a term commencing March 23, 2023 and expiring February 25, 2024.
Mr. Gregory A. Spight of 20281 Braile Street, Detroit, Michigan 48291, county of Wayne, succeeding Thomas M. Smith, is appointed to represent independent veterans, for a term commencing March 23, 2023 and expiring February 25, 2026.
April 6, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Executive Order No. 2017-8, MCL 445.2036 and Public Act 72 of 1937, MCL 408.205:
Board of Interpreters for the Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing
Ms. Linda Sykora of 739 E. Roosevelt, Battle Creek, Michigan 49017, county of Calhoun, succeeding Michael Depick whose term has expired, is appointed to represent individuals who are deaf, deafblind or hard of hearing, for a term commencing April 6, 2023 and expiring December 31, 2026.
Mr. Rowan O’Dougherty of 1339 Bemis Street, S.E., Grand Rapids, Michigan 49506, county of Kent, succeeding Jahan Farzam Behboodi whose term has expired, is appointed to represent individuals who are deaf, deafblind or hard of hearing, for a term commencing April 6, 2023 and expiring December 31, 2026.
Mr. James Cech of 16100 River Ridge Trail, Linden, Michigan 48451, county of Genesee, succeeding Barbara Hinson whose term has expired, is appointed to represent certified interpreters, for a term commencing April 6, 2023 and expiring December 31, 2026.
April 6, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 299 of 1980, MCL 339.303 and 339.2002:
State Board of Professional Surveyors
Mr. Shantaram Ekhande of 9105 Bradway Boulevard, Grand Blanc, Michigan 48439, county of Genesee, succeeding Sharmay Wood who has resigned, is appointed to represent the general public, for a term commencing April 6, 2023 and expiring March 31, 2025.
Mr. Moqeem Syed of 5173 Village Commons Drive, West Bloomfield, Michigan 48322, county of Oakland, succeeding Andrew Kurncz whose term has expired, is appointed to represent the general public, for a term commencing April 6, 2023 and expiring March 31, 2026.
Ms. Jennifer Myers of 2770 Lenox Drive, Troy, Michigan 48098, county of Oakland, is reappointed to represent professional architects, for a term commencing April 6, 2023 and expiring March 31, 2027.
Mr. James Hollandsworth of 13940 Berkshire, Riverview, Michigan 48193, county of Wayne, is reappointed to represent professional surveyors, for a term commencing April 6, 2023 and expiring March 31, 2027.
Respectfully,
Gretchen Whitmer
Governor
The appointments were referred to the Committee on Government Operations.
The following message from the Governor was received and read:
March 23, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following corrected appointment term date to office pursuant to Public Act 299 of 1980, MCL 339.303 and 339.2002:
Board of Professional Engineers
Mrs. Jane Abadir of 2811 Quartz Drive,
Troy, Michigan 48085, county of Oakland, succeeding Charles Hookham whose
term has expired, is appointed to represent professional engineers, for a term
commencing March 23, 2023 and expiring March 31, 2026.
Mr. Stanley Opal of 233 N. Pine Avenue, White Cloud, Michigan 49349, county of Newaygo, succeeding Dietta McKinney, is appointed to represent the general public, for a term commencing March 23, 2023 and expiring March 31, 2025.
Mr. Deveron Q. Sanders of 5177 Squire Hill Drive, Flint, Michigan 48532, county of Genesee, is reappointed to represent professional engineers, for a term commencing April 1, 2023 and expiring March 31, 2027.
Respectfully,
Gretchen Whitmer
Governor
The message was referred to the Committee on Government Operations.
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of
Introduction and Referral of Bills
Senators McCann, Wojno, Klinefelt, Chang, Bellino and Shink introduced
A bill to amend 1998 PA 58, entitled “Michigan liquor control code of 1998,” by amending section 531 (MCL 436.1531), as amended by 2014 PA 135.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Regulatory Affairs.
Senators Lauwers, Santana, McDonald Rivet, Wojno and Chang introduced
A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled “Revised judicature act of 1961,” by amending section 2163a (MCL 600.2163a), as amended by 2018 PA 343.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety.
Senators Hertel, McMorrow, Wojno, Polehanki, Huizenga, McBroom, McDonald Rivet, Bayer, Singh and Hoitenga introduced
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” by amending sections 20904, 20912, 20950, 20952, and 20954 (MCL 333.20904, 333.20912, 333.20950, 333.20952, and 333.20954), sections 20904, 20912, and 20954 as amended by 2000 PA 375, section 20950 as amended by 2021 PA 25, and section 20952 as added by 1990 PA 179.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Health Policy.
Senators Wojno, Irwin, Santana, Cavanagh, Damoose, Chang, Klinefelt, Bayer, Lauwers, Bellino, McBroom, Johnson, Victory and Outman introduced
A bill to amend 1980 PA 300, entitled “The public school employees retirement act of 1979,” by amending section 61 (MCL 38.1361), as amended by 2022 PA 184.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Education.
Senators Geiss and McBroom introduced
A bill to amend 1982 PA 432, entitled “Motor bus transportation act,” by amending section 15 (MCL 474.115), as amended by 2016 PA 349.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Senators Huizenga, Bellino, Outman, Wojno, Runestad, Johnson, Geiss, Klinefelt, Hauck and Victory introduced
A
bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “Michigan vehicle code,” by amending
section 79d (MCL 257.79d), as added by 2003 PA 315.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Senators Johnson, Irwin, Wojno, Polehanki, Chang, Cavanagh, Runestad and Bayer introduced
A bill to amend 1998 PA 386, entitled “Estates and protected individuals code,” by amending sections 5106, 5304, 5305, 5308, 5314, and 5418 (MCL 700.5106, 700.5304, 700.5305, 700.5308, 700.5314, and 700.5418), section 5106 as amended by 2017 PA 136, section 5305 as amended by 2017 PA 155, section 5308 as amended by 2005 PA 204, section 5314 as amended by 2018 PA 594, and section 5418 as amended by 2000 PA 312.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety.
Senators Wojno, Irwin, Polehanki, Chang, Cavanagh, Runestad and Bayer introduced
A bill to amend 1998 PA 386, entitled “Estates and protected individuals code,” by amending sections 5104, 5106, 5303, 5304, 5305, 5306, 5306a, 5310, 5312, 5313, 5314, 5406, 5409, 5414, 5415, 5416, 5417, and 5418 (MCL 700.5104, 700.5106, 700.5303, 700.5304, 700.5305, 700.5306, 700.5306a, 700.5310, 700.5312, 700.5313, 700.5314, 700.5406, 700.5409, 700.5414, 700.5415, 700.5416, 700.5417, and 700.5418), section 5106 as amended by 2017 PA 136, sections 5303 and 5305 as amended by 2017 PA 155, section 5306 as amended by 2019 PA 170, section 5306a as added by 2012 PA 173, sections 5310 and 5312 as amended by 2000 PA 54, section 5313 as amended by 2012 PA 545, section 5314 as amended by 2018 PA 594, section 5406 as amended by 2000 PA 464, section 5409 as amended by 2000 PA 463, and sections 5417 and 5418 as amended by 2000 PA 312, and by adding sections 5106a, 5312a, 5314a, 5314b, and 5314c.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety.
Senators Runestad, Irwin, Wojno, Polehanki, Chang, Cavanagh and Bayer introduced
A bill to amend 1998 PA 386, entitled “Estates and protected individuals code,” by amending sections 5106, 5310, 5313, and 5409 (MCL 700.5106, 700.5310, 700.5313, and 700.5409), section 5106 as amended by 2017 PA 136, section 5310 as amended by 2000 PA 54, section 5313 as amended by 2012 PA 545, and section 5409 as amended by 2000 PA 463.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety.
Senator Johnson introduced
A bill to amend 1998 PA 386, entitled “Estates and protected individuals code,” by amending section 5106 (MCL 700.5106), as amended by 2017 PA 136.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety.
Senators Runestad, Irwin, Polehanki, Chang, Cavanagh and Bayer introduced
A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled “Revised judicature act of 1961,” (MCL 600.101 to 600.9947) by adding section 1429.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety.
Senators Irwin, Wojno, Polehanki, Chang, Cavanagh, Runestad and Bayer introduced
A bill to amend 1998 PA 386, entitled “Estates and protected individuals code,” by amending sections 5104, 5106, 5303, 5304, 5305, 5306, 5306a, 5310, 5312, 5313, 5314, 5406, 5409, 5414, 5415, 5416, 5417, and 5418 (MCL 700.5104, 700.5106, 700.5303, 700.5304, 700.5305, 700.5306, 700.5306a, 700.5310, 700.5312, 700.5313, 700.5314, 700.5406, 700.5409, 700.5414, 700.5415, 700.5416, 700.5417, and 700.5418), section 5106 as amended by 2017 PA 136, sections 5303 and 5305 as amended by 2017 PA 155, section 5306 as amended by 2019 PA 170, section 5306a as added by 2012 PA 173, sections 5310 and 5312 as amended by 2000 PA 54, section 5313 as amended by 2012 PA 545, section 5314 as amended by 2018 PA 594, section 5406 as amended by 2000 PA 464, section 5409 as amended by 2000 PA 463, and sections 5417 and 5418 as amended by 2000 PA 312, and by adding sections 5106a, 5312a, 5314a, 5314b, and 5314c.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety.
Senator Wojno introduced
A bill to amend 1954 PA 116, entitled “Michigan election law,” by amending sections 759a and 764a (MCL 168.759a and 168.764a), section 759a as amended by 2022 PA 197 and section 764a as amended by 2020 PA 177.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Elections and Ethics.
Recess
Senator Singh moved that the Senate recess subject to the call of the Chair.
The motion prevailed, the time being 10:10 a.m.
The Senate was called to order by the President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist.
By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of
Resolutions
Senate Resolution No. 27.
A resolution to recognize April 2023 as Arab-American Heritage Month.
Whereas, Michigan is home to the highest concentration of Arab-Americans in the United States with at least 220,000 residents; and
Whereas, Arab-Americans are an integral part of this state since their migration to the United States in the early 1900s in order to find a destination that would better provide political, economic, and religious freedoms; and
Whereas, Since migrating to the United States, men and women of Arab descent have shared their rich culture and traditions with neighbors and friends, while also setting fine examples of model citizens and public servants; and
Whereas, The economic capabilities and political involvement in all levels of government are a testament to the power of the Arab-American community; and
Whereas, Arab migrants bring their resilient family values, strong work ethic, dedication to education, and diversity in faith and creed that add strength to our great democracy; and
Whereas, The vast contributions of the Arab-American community in academia, business, medicine, science, and social justice continue to make our state a better place to live; and
Whereas, The working class population of this community has played a pivotal role in the establishment of industrial force that our state is known for today; and
Whereas, Arab-Americans join all Americans in the desire for a peaceful and diverse society where every individual is treated equally and feels safe; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by Senate, That the members of this legislative body recognize April 2023 as Arab-American Heritage Month.
Senator Singh moved that the rule be suspended.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
Senators Brinks, Camilleri, Moss and Shink were named co-sponsors of the resolution.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Santana’s statement is as follows:
Today I rise to acknowledge our Arab American community here in Michigan. Just a couple of facts about Arab American Heritage Month: Nearly four million Americans live right here who can trace their heritage to the Arab country. Arab immigration to the United States began in the 1800s, primarily from the Ottoman Empire. The first official push for a national recognition of Arab American Heritage Month began right here in Michigan with Congresswoman Dingell and the Arab American Foundation. Michigan, Illinois, California and New York have the largest Arab American populations. The majority of Arab Americans are native born and nearly 82 percent in the U.S. are citizens, according to the Arab American Institute.
I am honored to represent the largest population of Arab Americans, right here in southeastern Michigan in the 2nd District. This community is one that definitely acknowledges that their community is first and foremost and primary to everything that they do, but that also extends to the broader community and neighborhoods. When you think about the Arab American experience, so many of them have provided businesses to our communities and work right here in our state and local governments, as well as have extended to the highest offices in Michigan as well.
It is an honor to represent so many great people, especially during this holy month of Ramadan where we’re acknowledging that we must take care of our poor and also acknowledge their struggles and be givers in our communities. I just want to thank them for allowing me to serve them here in the Michigan Senate and represent them and their interests as well. With that said, thank you all so much and I just want to acknowledge the community that I represent.
Senator Geiss offered the following resolution:
Senate Resolution No. 28.
A resolution to commemorate April 11-17, 2023, as Black Maternal Health Week.
Whereas, According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Black mothers in the United States die at two to three times the rate of white mothers; and
Whereas, The CDC data from 2021 for pregnancy-related deaths shows that maternal mortality rates are increasing rapidly, 26.6 deaths per 100,000 live births for white women, 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births for Black women, and 32.1 deaths per 100,000 live births for women of all races in the United States; and
Whereas, Black maternal death is one of the widest but not the only racial disparities in women’s health; and
Whereas, Black women are 22 percent more likely to die from heart disease than white women, 71 percent more likely to die from cervical cancer, and three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related or childbirth-related causes; and
Whereas, According to the National Institutes of Health, when compared with white women with the conditions of preeclampsia, eclampsia, abruptio placentae, placenta previa, and postpartum hemorrhage, which are common causes of maternal death and injury, Black women are three to four times more likely to die than white women who had the same condition; and
Whereas, According to the Michigan Maternal Mortality Surveillance Project, between 2015 to 2019, Black women in Michigan experienced a pregnancy-related mortality rate of 29.8 deaths per 100,000 live births compared to 10.7 deaths per 100,000 live births for white women in Michigan; and
Whereas, According to the Commonwealth Fund, the United States has the highest maternal death rate in high-income countries in which two-thirds of all recorded deaths are deemed to be preventable, and our state currently ranks 25th in the nation for maternal deaths; and
Whereas, These alarming statistics for Black maternal health cut across socio-economic status, maternal age, and education levels; and
Whereas, We recognize the necessity for
increased attention to the state for Black maternal healthcare as well as the
need to study and understand the root causes of the discrepancies in maternal
health outcomes; and
Whereas, We support community-driven programs, care solutions, the improvement of prenatal care and overall maternal healthcare, the improvement of breastfeeding rates and nutrition, and the amplification of the voices of Black mothers, women, families, and stakeholders, including Black women from across the diaspora and Afro-Latinx groups; and
Whereas, We also recognize the necessity to end maternal mortality statewide, nationally, and globally in order to strengthen the need for maternal health and maternal rights; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body commemorate April 11-17, 2023, as Black Maternal Health Week.
Senator Singh moved that the rule be suspended.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Geiss’ statement is as follows:
I rise to offer Senate Resolution No. 28 to recognize Black Maternal Health Week in the state of Michigan. I am proud to have offered this resolution every year since its creation in 2018. Created by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance, a national network of Black women-led organizations and multidisciplinary professionals who work to ensure that all Black mamas have the rights, respect, and resources to thrive before, during, and after pregnancy. At first, Black Maternal Health Week was primarily acknowledged in birth justice and reproductive justice circles, and now the observance of Black Maternal Health Week is recognized annually from April 11 through April 17, and grown to have a national presence. Especially as assaults on reproductive health and freedom have increased nationally this year, it is even more critical to recognize Black Maternal Health Week and its 2023 theme of, “Our Bodies Belong to Us: Restoring Black Autonomy and Joy.”
According to the CDC, Black mothers in the United States die at two to three times the rate of white mothers, and pregnancy-related deaths show that maternal mortality rates are increasing rapidly. Black maternal death is one of the widest but not the only racial disparities in women’s health, with Black women 22 percent more likely to die from heart disease than white women, 71 percent more likely to die from cervical cancer, three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related or childbirth-related causes; and when compared to white women with the conditions of preeclampsia, eclampsia, abruptio placentae, placenta previa, and postpartum hemorrhage, which are common causes of maternal death and injury, Black women are three to four times more likely to die than white women who had the same condition. And according to the most recent data available from the Michigan Maternal Mortality Surveillance Project, Black women in Michigan experienced a pregnancy-related mortality rate of 29.8 deaths per 100,000 live births compared to 10.7 deaths per 100,000 live births for their white counterparts.
These statistics for Black maternal health cut across socioeconomic status, maternal age, and education levels, and have been exacerbated by the pandemic, and amidst growing cases of clear neglect in care in hospital systems immediately after labor and delivery. Black mothers are also more likely to suffer from perinatal mood and anxiety disorders like postpartum depression in silence and without clinical help according to the recent peer-reviewed research. Unsupportive work policies including lack of parental leave, unsupportive hospital policies and practices, lack of lactation support including apathy from providers, issues with latching, lack of family support, and cultural norms are factors that contribute to breastfeeding disparities in Black women. Black women still disproportionately lack necessary reproductive health care, including contraception access and counseling, abortion, sexually-transmitted infection screenings, and reproductive screenings, leaving Black women vulnerable to many risk factors around pregnancy.
It is necessary, therefore, to not only recognize Black Maternal Health Week and the unassailable right of Black mamas to live freely, safely, and joyfully, but also continue to highlight and center culturally congruent practices and evidence-based practice and solutions that incorporate the true needs, wants, and desires of Black women and birthing people across the diaspora.
Michigan has already begun making strides toward improving Black maternal health, such as recognizing community-based models of care throughout the prenatal to postpartum spectrum and full scope of the lifetime of Black mamas. We must carry this momentum during Black Maternal Health Week and beyond, and we must recognize the intersections of economic justice and reproductive justice policies in order to restore Black bodily autonomy and joy.
Thank you, and I welcome your
co-sponsorship.
Announcements of Printing and Enrollment
The Secretary announced the enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor on Monday, April 3, for her approval the following bill:
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 2 at 1:24 p.m.
The Secretary announced the enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor on Monday, April 10, for her approval the following bills:
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 79 at 1:01 p.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 80 at 1:03 p.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 81 at 1:05 p.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 82 at 1:07 p.m.
House Bill Nos. 4327 4328 4329 4330 4331 4332 4333 4334 4335 4336 4337 4338 4339 4340 4341 4342 4343
The Secretary announced that the following bills were printed and filed on Friday, March 24, and are available on the Michigan Legislature website:
Senate Bill Nos. 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246
Committee Reports
The Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety reported
Senate Bill No. 56, entitled
A bill to amend 1931 PA 328, entitled “The Michigan penal code,” by amending section 335 (MCL 750.335), as amended by 2002 PA 672.
With the recommendation that the bill pass.
The committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Stephanie Chang
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Chang, Shink, Wojno, Santana and Johnson
Nays: Senator Runestad
The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety reported
Senate Bill No. 59, entitled
A bill to amend 1974 PA 258, entitled “Mental health code,” by amending section 100c (MCL 330.1100c), as amended by 2020 PA 285.
With the recommendation that the bill pass.
The committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Stephanie Chang
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Chang, Shink, Wojno, Irwin, Santana, Runestad and Johnson
Nays: None
The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety submitted the following:
Meeting held on Thursday, March 23, 2023, at 12:00 noon, Room 1200, Binsfeld Office Building
Present: Senators Chang (C), Shink, Wojno, Irwin, Santana, Runestad and
Johnson
The Committee on Energy and Environment submitted the following:
Meeting held on Thursday, March 23, 2023, at 8:30 a.m., Room 403, 4th Floor, Capitol Building
Present: Senators McCann (C), McDonald Rivet, Singh, Bayer, Shink, Hertel, Camilleri, Chang, Polehanki, Lauwers, Damoose, Outman, Hauck and Bellino
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Appropriations Subcommittee on Corrections and Judiciary submitted the following:
Meeting held on Thursday, March 23, 2023, at 1:30 p.m., Room 1300, Binsfeld Office Building
Present: Senators Shink (C), Santana, Irwin and Outman
Appropriations – Wednesday, April 12, 2:00 p.m., Harry T. Gast Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building (517) 373-5307
Subcommittee –
Capital Outlay, Joint – Wednesday, April 12, 4:00 p.m., or immediately following session, Room 352, House Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building (517) 373-2768
Civil Rights, Judiciary and Public Safety – Thursday, April 13, 12:00 noon, Room 1200, Binsfeld Office Building (517) 373-5312
Economic and Community Development – Thursday, April 13, 12:00 noon, Room 1100, Binsfeld Office Building (517) 373-1721
Education – Thursday, April 13, 4:00 p.m., Room 1100, Binsfeld Office Building (517) 373-5314
Elections and Ethics – Wednesday, April 12, 3:00 p.m., Room 1100, Binsfeld Office Building (517) 373‑1721
Health Policy – Wednesday, April 12, 12:30 p.m., Room 1100, Binsfeld Office Building (517) 373-5323
Labor – Thursday, April 13, 8:30 a.m., Room 1300, Binsfeld Office Building (517) 373-5314
State Drug Treatment Court Advisory – Thursday, April 20, 9:00 a.m., Legislative Council Conference Room, 3rd Floor, Boji Tower (517) 373-0212
Senator Singh moved that the Senate adjourn.
The motion prevailed, the time being 10:27 a.m.
The President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist, declared the Senate adjourned until Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at 10:00 a.m.
DANIEL OBERLIN
Secretary of the Senate