STATE OF MICHIGAN
Journal of the Senate
102nd Legislature
REGULAR SESSION OF 2024
Senate Chamber, Lansing, Wednesday, January 10, 2024.
12:00 noon.
In conformity with the requirements of the Constitution of the state of Michigan, the Senators of the 102nd Legislature of the state of Michigan assembled in the Senate Chamber in the Capitol at Lansing this day (being the second Wednesday of January 2024), at twelve o’clock noon, and were called to order by the President pro tempore, Senator Jeremy Moss.
The roll was called by the Secretary of the Senate, who announced that a quorum was present.
District Name District Name
1st Erika Geiss 20th Aric Nesbitt
2nd Sylvia Santana 21st Sarah E. Anthony
3rd Stephanie Chang 22nd Lana Theis
4th Darrin Camilleri 23rd Jim Runestad
5th Dayna Polehanki 24th Ruth A. Johnson
6th Mary Cavanagh 25th Dan Lauwers
7th Jeremy Moss 26th Kevin Daley
8th Mallory McMorrow 27th John Cherry
9th Michael Webber 28th Sam Singh
10th Paul Wojno 29th Winnie Brinks
11th Veronica Klinefelt 30th Mark Huizenga
12th Kevin Hertel 31st Roger Victory
13th Rosemary Bayer 32nd Jon Bumstead
14th Sue Shink 33rd Rick Outman
15th Jeff Irwin 34th Roger Hauck
16th Joseph N. Bellino, Jr. 35th Kristen McDonald Rivet
17th Jonathan Lindsey 36th Michele Hoitenga
18th Thomas Albert 37th John N. Damoose
19th Sean McCann 38th Edward W. McBroom—excused
Senator Thomas A. Albert of the 18th District offered the following invocation:
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Hail, Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The President pro tempore, Senator Moss, led the members of the Senate in recital of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Motions and Communications
Senator Lauwers moved that Senator McBroom be excused from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
The following communications were received and read:
Office of the Auditor General
November 17, 2023
Enclosed is a copy of the following report:
• Performance audit of Real Estate
Acquisition and Disposition, Department of Natural Resources
(751-0155-23).
November 28, 2023
Enclosed is a copy of the following report:
• Performance audit report on the Construction Contractor Claim Process, Michigan Department of Transportation (591-0422-23).
December 21, 2023
Enclosed is a copy of the following report:
• Office of the Auditor General 2023 Annual Report.
December 27, 2023
Enclosed is a copy of the following report:
• Performance audit on the Fraud and Investigation Activities, Unemployment Insurance Agency, Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (186-0320-22).
December 28, 2023
Enclosed is a copy of the following report:
• Performance audit on the Office of Aeronautics, Michigan Department of Transportation (591-0190-22).
Sincerely,
Doug Ringler
Auditor General
The audit reports were referred to the Committee on Oversight.
The following communications were received:
Department of State
Administrative Rules
Notices of Filing
November 6, 2023
In accordance with the requirements of
Section 46 of Act No. 306 of the Public Acts of 1969, being MCL 24.246,
and paragraph 16 of Executive Order 1995-6, this is to advise you that the
Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules filed Administrative Rule
#2021-075-NR (Secretary of State
Filing #23-11-01) on this date at 10:17 a.m. for the Department of Natural
Resources entitled,
“Commercial Forests.”
These rules become effective immediately
after filing with the Secretary of State unless adopted under section 33, 44,
or 45a(9) of the Administrative Procedures Act of 1969, 1969 PA 306, MCL
24.233, 24.244, or 24.245a. Rules adopted
under these sections become effective 7 days after filing with the Secretary of
State.
November 6, 2023
In accordance with the requirements of
Section 46 of Act No. 306 of the Public Acts of 1969, being MCL 24.246,
and paragraph 16 of Executive Order 1995-6, this is to advise you that the
Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules filed Administrative Rule
#2023-002-HS (Secretary of State
Filing #23-11-02) on this date at 11:52 a.m. for the Department of Health and
Human Services entitled,
“Statewide Stroke System.”
These rules become effective immediately upon filing with the Secretary of State unless adopted under section 33, 44, or 45a(9) of the Administrative Procedures Act of 1969, 1969 PA 306, MCL 24.233, 24.244, or 24.245a. Rules adopted under these sections become effective 7 days after filing with the Secretary of State.
November 9, 2023
In accordance with the requirements of
Section 46 of Act No. 306 of the Public Acts of 1969, being MCL 24.246,
and paragraph 16 of Executive Order 1995-6, this is to advise you that the
Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules filed Administrative Rule
#2022-061-HS (Secretary of State
Filing #23-11-03) on this date at 9:44 a.m. for the Department of Health and
Human Services entitled,
“Statewide ST – Evaluation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) System.”
These rules become effective immediately upon filing with the Secretary of State unless adopted under section 33, 44, or 45a(9) of the Administrative Procedures Act of 1969, 1969 PA 306, MCL 24.233, 24.244, or 24.245a. Rules adopted under these sections become effective 7 days after filing with the Secretary of State.
November 9, 2023
In accordance with the provisions of
Section 46(1) of Act 306, Public Acts of 1969, as amended, and Executive Order
1995-6, this is to advise you that the Michigan Department of Licensing and
Regulatory Affairs and the State Office of Regulatory Reinvention filed
Administrative Rule #2023-023-ST (Secretary of State Filing #23-11-04) on this
date at 11:38 a.m. for the Department of State, entitled
“Uniform Commercial Code Filing Office.”
These rules become effective 7 days after filing with the Secretary of State.
November 13, 2023
In accordance with the requirements of
Section 46 of Act No. 306 of the Public Acts of 1969, being MC 24.246, and
paragraph 16 of Executive Order 1995-6, this is to advise you that the Michigan
Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules filed Administrative Rule
#2022-055-LR (Secretary of State
Filing #23-11-05) on this date at 11:20 a.m. for the Department of Licensing
and Regulatory Affairs entitled,
“Construction Code – Part 9A. Mechanical Code.”
These rules become effective 120 days after filing with the Secretary of State.
November 13, 2023
In accordance with the requirements of
Section 46 of Act No. 306 of the Public Acts of 1969, being MCL 24.246,
and paragraph 16 of Executive Order 1995-6, this is to advise you that the
Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules filed Administrative Rule
#2022-056-LR (Secretary of State
Filing #23-11-06) on this date at 12:07 p.m. for the Department of Licensing
and Regulatory Affairs entitled, “Construction Code – Part 7. Plumbing Code.”
These rules become effective 120 days after filing with the Secretary of State.
November 13, 2023
In accordance with the requirements of
Section 46 of Act No. 306 of the Public Acts of 1969, being MCL 24.246,
and paragraph 16 of Executive Order 1995-6, this is to advise you that the
Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules filed Administrative Rule
#2022-059-LR (Secretary of State
Filing #23-11-07) on this date at 12:41 p.m. for the Department of Licensing
and Regulatory Affairs entitled, “Construction Code – Part 8. Electrical Code.”
These rules become effective 120 days after filing with the Secretary of State.
November 16, 2023
In accordance with the requirements of
Section 46 of Act No. 306 of the Public Acts of 1969, being MCL 24.246,
and paragraph 16 of Executive Order 1995-6, this is to advise you that the
Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules filed Administrative Rule
#2022-037-LR (Secretary of State
Filing #23-11-08) on this date at 10:49 a.m. for the Department of Licensing
and Regulatory Affairs entitled,
“Marriage and Family Therapy – General Rules.”
These rules become effective immediately after filing with the secretary of state unless adopted under section 33, 44, or 45a(9) of the administrative procedures act of 1969, 1969 PA 306, MCL 24.233, 24.244, or 24.245a. Rules adopted under these sections become effective 7 days after filing with the Secretary of State.
November 30, 2023
In accordance with the requirements of
Section 46 of Act No. 306 of the Public Acts of 1969, being MCL 24.246,
and paragraph 16 of Executive Order 1995-6, this is to advise you that the
Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules filed Administrative Rule
#2023-019-LR (Secretary of State
Filing #23-11-09) on this date at 10:08 a.m. for the Department of Licensing
and Regulatory Affairs entitled,
“Gas Safety.”
These rules become effective immediately after filing with the secretary of state unless adopted under section 33, 44, or 45a(9) of the administrative procedures act of 1969, 1969 PA 306, MCL 24.233, 24.244, or 24.245a. Rules adopted under these sections become effective 7 days after filing with the Secretary of State.
Sincerely,
Jocelyn Benson
Secretary of State
Lashana Threlkeld, Departmental Supervisor
Office of the Great Seal
The communications were referred to the Secretary for record.
The following communication was received:
Office of Senator Jeremy Moss
November 8, 2023
Please add my name as co-sponsor to Senate Bill 409.
Sincerely,
Jeremy Moss
President Pro Tempore
State Senator, Michigan’s 7th District
The communication was referred to the Secretary for record.
The following communications were received:
Office of Senator Edward W. McBroom
November 14, 2023
Please add my name as co-sponsor of Senate Bill Nos. 630 and 631.
November 28, 2023
Per Senate Rule 1.110(c), I am requesting that my name be added as a co-sponsor to Senate Bill 632 introduced on November 1 by Senator Sarah Anthony
Sincerely,
Ed McBroom
State Senator
38th District
The communications were referred to the Secretary for record.
The following communication was received:
Department of State Police
December 15, 2023
Please find attached an update to the June 30, 2023 report previously provided pursuant to Public Act 126 of 2021 and MCL 484.1401c(12), issued by the Department of Treasury and the State 9-1-1 Committee regarding the findings of their review of the emergency 9-1-1 fund.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Sgt. Kristina Lidak Droste
Government Relations Section
Office of the Director
The communication was referred to the
Secretary for record.
The following communication was received:
Office of Senator Kevin Daley
December 20, 2023
Please accept my formal request to partake as a co-sponsor of Senate Joint Resolution G proposed by Senator Webber. What SJR G would do is change Article 1 Section 9 of the Michigan Constitution to read as follows: “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude shall ever be tolerated in this state.” I would be grateful to take part in this resolution.
Please let me know if any questions arise.
Sincerely,
Kevin Daley
State Senator
26th District
The communication was referred to the Secretary for record.
The following communication was received:
Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
December 20, 2023
On February 15, 2023, the Board of Pharmacy voted to promulgate a rule to make the following changes in the scheduling of controlled substances:
• Gabapentin will be removed from Schedule 5 and descheduled.
• Pentazocine will remain on Schedule 4. Pentazocine is currently a Schedule 4 drug in Michigan as an exception to the federal schedule otherwise adopted in the rules. However, pentazocine is currently on federal Schedule 4. Controlled Substances – Alpha Order (usdoj.gov). Therefore, the proposed rule’s removal of the exception to the federal schedule for pentazocine will not alter pentazocine’s status as a controlled substance.
MCL 333.7231 of the Public Health Code requires the board to provide you with a notice of any change in scheduling or rescheduling of a controlled substance. The board expects that the attached rules will be submitted to the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) in the coming weeks for the final stage of promulgation. The rules must remain with JCAR for 15 joint session days.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact Jennifer Shaltry, JD, Departmental Specialist with the Boards and Committee Section of the Bureau of Professional Licensing, at either (517) 241-3085 or shaltryj1@michigan.gov.
Grace Sesi, PharmD
Chairperson
Michigan Board of Pharmacy
The communication was referred to the Secretary for record.
The following communication was received:
Department of State
December 28, 2023
Please find the required legislative report from the Michigan Department of State at the link below.
FY 23 MCL 257.810b ‑https://www.michigan.gov/sos/‑/media/Project/Websites/sos/Resources/Transparency-
and-Freedom-of-Information-Act/Transparency-financial-reports/FY24-MCL-257810b.pdf
Please direct any questions regarding these reports to my attention.
Sincerely,
Cindy Paradine
Financial Services Director
The communication was referred to the Secretary for record.
The following communication was received:
Department of State Police
January 1, 2024
Pursuant to Public Act 372 of 1927, as
amended, enclosed is a copy of the Concealed Pistol License (CPL) Annual
Report. This report details the CPL activity between October 1, 2022, and
September 30, 2023.
If you have any questions regarding the information in this report, please feel free to contact the Michigan State Police, Concealed Pistol License Unit at 517-284-3700.
Sincerely,
James F. Grady II
Director
The communication was referred to the Secretary for record.
Messages from the Governor
The following message from the Governor was received on January 5, 2024, and read:
EXECUTIVE ORDER
No. 2024-1
Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council
Department of Health & Human Services
To receive funding, federal law requires that each state establish and maintain a council to undertake advocacy, capacity building, and systemic change activities that contribute to a coordinated and comprehensive system of community services, individualized support, and other forms of assistance beneficial to individuals with developmental disabilities. Executive Order 2016-20 reconstituted the Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council (“the Council”) for that purpose: to ensure that resources were developed, implemented, and coordinated to achieve the maximum impact for the current and future needs of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
Today, the Council is a group of 21 individuals from across the state whose vision is that all people with disabilities are supported to live self-determined and self-directed lives in a diverse and inclusive community. In continued support of the Council’s mission and vision, and to maintain compliance with federal law, I am now acting to enlarge the Council’s membership to 25 to include additional voices and advance the Council’s important purpose.
Section 1 of article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 vests the executive power of the State of Michigan in the governor.
Section 2 of article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 empowers the governor to make changes in the organization of the executive branch of state government or in the assignment of functions among its units that are necessary for efficient administration.
Pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 15025, certain changes to the Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council are needed. These changes will ensure the efficient administration and effectiveness of government, as well as compliance with federal law.
Acting pursuant to the Michigan Constitution of 1963 and Michigan law, I order the following:
1. Council Enlargement
(a) The Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council (“the Council”) shall continue to serve as the state council on developmental disabilities as required under Section 125 of the Developmental Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C. § 15025.
(b) The Department of Health & Human Services shall continue to serve as the state agency designated to provide support to the Council on behalf of this state as provided under Sections 124 and 125(d) of the Developmental Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C. § 15024–15025.
(c) The requirements of Executive Order 2016-20 shall remain in force except as specifically amended by this Order.
(d) The Council’s membership shall be enlarged to include an additional four (4) members. Of those members:
(i) Two (2) shall be individuals with developmental disabilities, and
(ii) Two (2) shall be a parent or guardian of a child with developmental disabilities.
(e) The requirement of Section II.F of Executive Order 2016-20 shall remain in effect and shall apply to the members added in Section 1(d) of this Order.
(f) The newly appointed members shall be appointed
and serve as outlined in Executive Order 2016-20. Vacancies shall be filled as
specified in Section II.I of that Order. In addition, the newly appointed
members shall not be any of the types of employees described in Section II.G of
that Order.
(g) The members initially appointed in accordance with this Order as described in Section 1(d) shall be appointed to terms expiring September 30, 2026. After the expiration of the initial terms, members of the Council shall be appointed for terms of four years. The members initially appointed in accordance with Section 1(d) of this Order may serve no more than one full term. Successors may serve up to two full terms.
2. Enforceability. This Order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party.
3. Severability. The provisions of this Order are severable and if any provision, or portion thereof, is held unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, such unconstitutionality or invalidity does not affect the remaining provisions, which remain in force.
This Order is effective immediately.
Given under my hand and the Great Seal of the State of Michigan.
Date: January 5, 2024
Time: 8:30 a.m.
Gretchen Whitmer
[SEAL] Governor
By the Governor:
Jocelyn Benson
Secretary of State
The executive order was referred to the Committee on Government Operations.
The following messages from the Governor were received and read:
November 2, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 368 of 1978, MCL 333.22211:
Certificate of Need Commission
Debra Guido-Allen of 12887 Beechnut Drive, Sterling Heights, Michigan 48313, Macomb County, reappointed to represent nurses and Democrats, for a term commencing November 2, 2023, and expiring January 1, 2025.
Greg Salwin of 7252 Ardsley Lane, Clarkston, Michigan 48348, Oakland County, succeeding Melanie Lalonde, whose term has expired, appointed to represent companies that are self-insured for health coverage and Republicans, for a term commencing November 2, 2023, and expiring January 1, 2025.
James Falahee of 7463 Cottage Oaks, Portage, Michigan 49024, Kalamazoo County, reappointed to represent hospitals and Republicans, for a term commencing November 2, 2023, and expiring April 9, 2025.
Ashok Kondur of 4705 Wendrick Drive, West Bloomfield, Michigan 48322, Oakland County, succeeding Lorissa MacAllister, whose term has expired, appointed to represent companies that are not self-insured for health coverage and Democrats, for a term commencing November 2, 2023, and expiring January 1, 2026.
Amy Engelhardt-Kalbfleisch of 5095 Hilltop Estates Drive, Clarkston, Michigan 48348, Oakland County, reappointed to represent physicians licensed under part 175 to engage in the practice of osteopathic medicine and surgery and Democrats, for a term commencing November 2, 2023, and expiring April 9, 2026.
Archie Drake of 3670 Woodward Avenue, Apt. 306, Detroit, Michigan 48201, Wayne County, succeeding Ashok Kondur, whose term has expired, appointed to represent hospitals and Democrats, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring April 9, 2025.
November 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 232 of 1965, MCL 290.657:
Asparagus Marketing Program Advisory Board
Kevin Burmeister of 3320 South 60th Avenue, Shelby, Michigan 49455, Oceana County, reappointed to represent growers-at-large, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring November 13, 2026.
Scott Hassle of 79282 56th Street, Decatur, Michigan 49047, Van Buren County, reappointed to represent southern Michigan growers-at-large, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring November 13, 2026.
Nicholas Oomen of 1580 East Jackson Road, Hart, Michigan 49420, Oceana County, reappointed to represent growers-at-large, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring November 13, 2026.
William Schwass of 922 W. Kinney Road, Scottville, Michigan 49454, Mason County, reappointed to represent growers-at-large, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring November 13, 2026.
Steve Riley of 5340 West Taylor Road,
Mears, Michigan 49436, Oceana County, succeeding John Williams whose term
has expired, appointed to represent growers-at-large, for a term commencing
November 21, 2023, and expiring November 13, 2026.
November 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 114 of 1965, MCL 290.553 and 290.554:
Michigan Bean Commission
Ted Bauer of 220 North Block Road, Reese, Michigan 48757, Saginaw County, reappointed to represent district 2, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2026.
Stephen Ewald of 393 W. Dickerson Road, Unionville, Michigan 48767, Tuscola County, reappointed to represent growers-at-large, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2026.
November 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 232 of 1965, MCL 290.657:
Michigan Blueberry Commission
Becky Hotovy of 47156 62 1/2 Street, Hartford, Michigan 49057, Van Buren County, succeeding Dennis Vander Kooi whose term will expire December 31, 2023, appointed to represent district 1, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2026.
November 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 191 of 1968, MCL 123.1002:
State Boundary Commission
Linda Preston of 33171 Peavine Street, Dowagiac, Michigan 49047, Cass County, reappointed for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring November 14, 2026.
November 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 232 of 1965, MCL 290.657:
Michigan Dairy Market Program Committee
Jeremy Beebe of 6199 Miller Road, Whittemore, Michigan 48770, Iosco County, reappointed to represent the Michigan Milk Producers Association, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2026.
Benjamin Eisenga, Jr. of 10565 22 Mile Road, Tustin, Michigan 49688, Osceola County reappointed to represent the Dairy Farmers of America, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2026.
Bryan Hull of 10434 Vickeryville Road, Fenwick, Michigan 48834, Montcalm County, reappointed to represent the Dairy Farmers of America, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2026.
Carol Marz-Evans of 7720 W. Sterling Road, Litchfield, Michigan 49252, Hillsdale County, reappointed to represent the Michigan Milk Producers Association, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2026.
Brian Preston of 430 S. Ray Quincy Road, Quincy, Michigan 49082, Branch County, reappointed to represent the Michigan Milk Producers Association, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2026.
November 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 368 of 1978, MCL 333.17113:
Michigan Board of Licensed Midwifery
Hsin Wang of 5686 Cherry Lane, West Bloomfield, Michigan 48324, Oakland County, reappointed to represent board certified obstetrician-gynecologists, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
November 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 368 of 1978, MCL 333.16901:
Michigan Board of Marriage and Family Therapy
Emily Short of 9350
Meadowview Drive, Davison, Michigan 48423, Genesee County, reappointed to represent marriage and family
therapists, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring June 30,
2027.
November 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 316 of 1986, MCL 390.1430:
Michigan Education Trust Board of Directors
Andrew Meisner of 12786 Talbot Lane, Huntington Woods, Michigan 48070, Oakland County, succeeding Michael Flynn, whose term has expired, appointed as the nominee of the Senate majority leader, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2023.
Dr. Richard Pappas of 4850 Hillside Farms Estate Drive, N.E., Grand Rapids, Michigan 49525, Kent County, reappointed to represent private colleges, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2026.
Dr. Charles Lepper of 5254 Canyon River Drive, N.E., Ada, Michigan 49301, Kent County, succeeding Stacy Young, who has resigned, appointed to represent community colleges, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2024.
November 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 368 of 1978, MCL 333.17501:
Michigan Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery
Ayanna Neal of 2212 Rossiter Place, Lansing, Michigan 48911, Ingham County, reappointed to represent the general public, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
November 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 368 of 1978, MCL 333.18201:
Michigan Board of Psychology
Frances Brown of 32490 Sheridan Drive, Beverly Hills, Michigan 48025, Oakland County, reappointed to represent psychologists, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
Charmeka Newton of 1438 Silver Spring Court, Caledonia, Michigan 49316, Kent County, reappointed to represent psychologists, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
Courtenay Morsi of 4675 Nakoma Drive, Okemos, Michigan 48864, Ingham County, succeeding Byron Douglas, whose term has expired, appointed to represent psychologists, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
November 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 299 of 1980, MCL 339.302, 339.303 and 339.2502:
Michigan Board of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons
Benjamin Smith of 27896 Larson Lane, Farmington Hills, Michigan 48331, Oakland County, reappointed to represent real estate brokers and salespersons, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring June 30, 2027.
November 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 368 of 1978, MCL 333.16121 and 333.18705:
Michigan Board of Respiratory Care
Emily Pokora Zyla of 9761 Grange Avenue, N.E., Rockford, Michigan 49341, Kent County, reappointed to represent the respiratory therapists, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
November 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 368 of 1978, MCL 333.18505:
Michigan Board of Social Work
Danielle Hoover of 15 Division Street,
Milan, Michigan 48160, Monroe County, reappointed to represent individuals
engaged primarily in the practice of social work, for a term commencing January
1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
November 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 232 of 1965, MCL 290.657:
Michigan Soybean Committee
Nathan McCalla of 4100 Stone School Road, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108, Washtenaw County, succeeding Laurie Isley whose term has expired, appointed to represent District 3, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring September 23, 2026.
Sara Trattles of 33229 East M-86, Colon, Michigan 49040, St. Joseph County, succeeding Dan Rajzer whose term has expired, appointed to represent District 1, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring September 23, 2026.
November 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 51 of 1951, MCL 247.675.
Michigan Truck Safety Commission
Jeremy M. Burleson of 05160 County Road 687, South Haven, Michigan 49090, Van Buren County, reappointed to represent Michigan community colleges, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring August 4, 2025.
Samer Koujane of 6600 Alderley Way, West Bloomfield Township, Michigan 48322, Oakland County, succeeding Randy Coplin whose term has expired, appointed to represent the general public, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring August 4, 2025.
Carol Heinowski of 226 W. Scott Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837, Eaton County, reappointed to represent private motor carriers, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring August 4, 2025.
Matthew Brian Hitchcock of 3219 Zimmer Road, Webberville, Michigan 48895, Ingham County, reappointed to represent the Michigan Trucking Association, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring August 4, 2025
Jeffrey Lee of 826 Princess Drive, Canton, Michigan 48188, Wayne County, reappointed to represent organized labor, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring August 4, 2025.
Jeremy J. Worm of 82 School Street, Ahmeek, Michigan 49901, Keweenaw County, reappointed to represent 4-year colleges or universities, for a term commencing November 21, 2023, and expiring August 4, 2025.
November 30, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 299 of 1980, MCL 339.1102:
Michigan Board of Barber Examiners
De’Angelo Smith of 46544 Billaggio Court, Shelby Township, Michigan 48135, Macomb County, reappointed to represent barbers, for a term commencing November 30, 2023, and expiring September 30, 2027.
November 30, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Article V § 29 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963:
Michigan Civil Rights Commission
Portia Roberson of 2021 Hyde Park Road, Detroit, Michigan 48207, Wayne County, reappointed to represent Democrats, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
Zenna Elhasan of 374 River Lane, Dearborn, Michigan 48124, Wayne County, reappointed to represent Democrats, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
November 30, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 207 of 1941, MCL 29.3b:
State Fire Safety Board
Kenneth Herbart of 3027 Westchester Road, Lansing, Michigan 48911, Ingham County, reappointed to represent architects, for a term commencing November 30, 2023, and expiring July 15, 2027.
Andrew Marceau of 3599 South 3rd Avenue, Alpena, Michigan 49707, Alpena County, reappointed to represent organized fire departments in the Lower Peninsula, for a term commencing November 30, 2023, and expiring July 15, 2027.
Patrick Phelan of 418 South Belle River Avenue, Marine City, Michigan 48039, St. Clair County, reappointed to represent professional engineers, for a term commencing November 30, 2023, and expiring July 15, 2027.
Steven Densmore of 17469 Flint Street,
Melvindale, Michigan 48122, Wayne County, reappointed to represent organized
fire departments in the Lower Peninsula, for a term commencing November 30,
2023, and expiring July 15, 2027.
November 30, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 368 of 1978, MCL 333.17951:
Michigan Board of Massage Therapy
Jamel Randall of 12730 S. Third Avenue, Southgate, Michigan 48195, Wayne County, reappointed to represent massage therapists, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
Kristin Brooks of 2039 Tamarack Drive, Okemos, Michigan 48864, Ingham County, reappointed to represent the general public, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
November 30, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to MCL 333.17305:
Michigan Board of Nursing Home Administrators
Marie Patrick of 8803 South Crapo Road, Ashley, Michigan 48806, Gratiot County, reappointed to represent nursing home administrators, for a term commencing November 30, 2023, and expiring June 30, 2027.
December 14, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Executive Order No. 2014-9, MCL 400.1181:
Commission on Community Action and Economic Opportunity
Kerry Lenaghan-Baughman of 1205 South Union Street, Traverse City, Michigan 49684, Grand Traverse County, succeeding Ashley Slack who has resigned, appointed to represent community action agencies, for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring June 21, 2024.
December 14, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 316 of 1986, MCL 390.1430:
Michigan Education Trust Board of Directors
Andrew Meisner of 12786 Talbot Lane, Huntington Woods, Michigan 48070, Oakland County, reappointed as the nominee of the Senate majority leader, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2026.
December 14, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 451 of 1994, MCL 324.1905:
Natural Resources Trust Fund Board
Steven Hamp of 1520 Harding Road, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104, Washtenaw County, reappointed for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring October 1, 2027.
December 14, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 368 of 1978, MCL 333.18305:
Michigan Board of Occupational Therapists
Gregory Zimmerman of 19600 Golfview Drive, Big Rapids, Michigan 49307, Mecosta County, reappointed to represent the general public, for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2025.
Melissa Mafiah of 134 Country Club Lane, Canton, Michigan 48188, Wayne County, reappointed to represent a public member who is a physician licensed under part 170 or 175, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
December 14, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 407 of 2016, MCL 339.5303 and 339.6105:
State Plumbing Board
Joseph Alfonso of 11116 Ryans Way, Holland, Michigan 49423, Ottawa County, reappointed to represent the general public, for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring July 30, 2026.
December 14, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 368 of 1978, MCL 333.17605:
Michigan Board of Speech and Language Pathology
Patricia Roberts of 4037 Berkshire Drive,
Sterling Heights, Michigan 48314, Macomb County, reappointed to represent the
general public, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December
31, 2027.
December 14, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Article V § 28 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963, Public Act 286 of 1964, MCL 247.803:
Michigan State Transportation Commission – Chair Designation
Michael Hayes of 201 East Ellsworth Street, Apt. 300, Midland, Michigan 48640, Midland County, is designated for a term commencing December 22, 2023, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor.
Michigan State Transportation Commission
Michael Hayes of 201 East Ellsworth Street, Apt. 300, Midland, Michigan 48640, Midland County, reappointed to represent Independents, for a term commencing December 22, 2023, and expiring December 21, 2026.
Richard Turner of 430 Golfview Way, Monroe, Michigan 48162, Monroe County, reappointed to represent Democrats, for a term commencing December 22, 2023, and expiring December 21, 2026.
December 15, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 380 of 1965, MCL 16.279:
Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development
Kathrine Garthe of 9691 E. Seth Road, Northport, Michigan 49670, Leelanau County, succeeding Juliette King-McAvoy whose term has expired, is appointed to represent Independents, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
Monica Wyant of 934 Ogden Avenue, S.E., East Grand Rapids, Michigan 49506, Kent County, is reappointed to represent Democrats, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
December 15, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 203 of 1965, MCL 28.603 and Executive Reorganization Order No. 2020-2, MCL 28.620:
Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards
Reverend Tellis Chapman of 19635 Stratford Road, Detroit, Michigan 48221, Wayne County, is reappointed to represent residents of Michigan, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
Sergeant-at-Arms Linda Broden of 6614 Firwood Street, Detroit, Michigan 48210, Wayne County, is reappointed to represent a law enforcement agency employing more than 10% of the police officers in the state, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
Kenneth Grabowski of 18935 Mayfield Street, Livonia, Michigan 48152, Wayne County, is reappointed to represent an individual nominated by the Police Officers Association of Michigan, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
Trooper Nathan Johnson of 11162 Scipio Highway, Vermontville, Michigan 49096, Eaton County, is reappointed to represent the Michigan State Police Troopers Association, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
Sheriff Anthony Wickersham of 32447 Arlington Drive, New Haven, Michigan 48048, Macomb County, is reappointed to represent the Michigan Sheriff’s Association, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
December 15, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 368 of 1978, MCL 333.17951:
Michigan Board of Massage Therapy
Jessica York of 27737 Glenwood Street, Saint Clair Shores, Michigan 48220, Macomb County, succeeding Frances McCullough who has resigned, appointed to represent massage therapists, for a term commencing December 14, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2025.
Nicole Johnson of 1481 Tanforan Place, Okemos, Michigan 48864, Ingham County, succeeding Irene Savoyat whose term has expired, appointed to represent massage therapists, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
December 15, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 451 of 1994, MCL 324.78102:
Michigan Natural Resources Commission
Peter Eardley of 2737 Bonnell Avenue,
S.E., Grand Rapids, Michigan 49506, Kent County, reappointed to represent
Independents, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31,
2027.
Robin Clark of 1821 Oak Street, Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan 49783, Chippewa County, succeeding Carol Rose whose term will expire December 31, 2023, appointed to represent Democrats, for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
December 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 223 of 1976, MCL 18.352:
Crime Victim Services Commission
Dr. Tolulope Sonuyi of 3521 Seminole Street, Detroit, Michigan 48214, Wayne County, reappointed to represent Independents and medical professionals, for a term commencing December 21, 2023, and expiring September 27, 2026.
December 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 218 of 1956, MCL 500.2402:
Data Collection Agency Governing Board
Emily McDonough of 520 N. Putnam Street, Williamston, Michigan 48895, Ingham County, reappointed for a term commencing January 1, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2024.
December 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 368 of 1978, MCL 333.17021:
Michigan Board of Medicine
Iltefat Hamzavi of 49199 Parkshore Court, Northville, Michigan 48168, Wayne County, succeeding Venkat Rao who has passed away, appointed to represent physicians, for a term commencing December 21, 2023, and expiring December 31, 2025.
December 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 368 of 1978, MCL 333.16121 and 333.17221:
Michigan Board of Nursing
Kimberly Lindquist of 445 West Hurd Road, Monroe, Michigan 48162, Monroe County, succeeding Marcia Ditmyer who has resigned, appointed to represent registered professional nurses with a master’s degree from an accredited college with a major in nursing who are engaged in nursing education in a baccalaureate or higher program, for a term commencing December 21, 2023, and expiring June 30, 2027.
December 21, 2023
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointment to office pursuant to Public Act 560 of 2016, MCL 36.105:
Michigan Veterans’ Facility Authority Board of Directors
Leon Bauer of 4385 Clarke Drive, East China, Michigan 48054, St. Clair County, succeeding Larry Yachcik who has resigned, appointed to represent the interests of one or more congressionally chartered veterans’ organizations, and who has professional knowledge, skill, or experience in long-term care, health care licensure or finance, or medicine, for a term commencing December 21, 2023, and expiring April 15, 2025.
January 4, 2024
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Initiated Law 1 of 1996, MCL 432.204:
Michigan Gaming Control Board
Joni Davis of 1700 Lincolnshire Drive, Detroit, Michigan 48203, Wayne County, reappointed to represent Democrats, for a term commencing January 4, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
Andrew Palms of 10500 Scio Church Road, Chelsea, Michigan 48118, Washtenaw County, reappointed to represent Democrats, for a term commencing January 4, 2024, and expiring December 31, 2027.
January 4, 2024
I respectfully submit to the Senate the following appointments to office pursuant to Public Act 278 of 1965, MCL 390.712:
Saginaw Valley State University Board of Control
Heather Gallegos of 1447 North Jones Road,
Essexville, Michigan 48732, Bay County, succeeding Vicki Rupp, whose term
has expired, for a term commencing January 4, 2024, and expiring July 21, 2031.
Ron Bacon of 533 Avocet Drive, East Lansing, Michigan 48823, Clinton County, succeeding Bhushan Kulkarni, whose term has expired, appointed for a term commencing January 4, 2024, and expiring July 21, 2031.
Respectfully,
Gretchen Whitmer
Governor
The appointments were referred to the Committee on Government Operations.
The following message from the Governor was received and read:
December 27, 2023
In accordance with section 14 of article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963, I write to advise the Michigan Senate that I granted the following commutation during 2023:
Mr. Jody Paul Parker, whose sentence I commuted on November 20, 2023 based on the affirmative recommendation of the Michigan Parole Board.
The Parole Board has scheduled multiple public hearings to occur in early 2024 for the purpose of evaluating active commutation and pardon applications. I expect that several more public hearings will be scheduled in the near future.
Sincerely,
Gretchen Whitmer
Governor
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of
Resolutions
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 12
Senate Resolution No. 85
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
Senators Brinks and Nesbitt offered the following concurrent resolution:
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 12.
A concurrent resolution of tribute offered as a memorial for Doug Cruce, former member of the Michigan Senate and Michigan House of Representatives.
Whereas, It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of former Senator Doug Cruce. Mr. Cruce exemplified leadership and selflessness as he loyally served his constituents in the Sixteenth Senatorial District and the Seventy-first Representative District, both of which consisted of parts of Oakland County; and
Whereas, Mr. Cruce was born in Poplar Bluff, Missouri to the late Manual D. Cruce and T. Pearl Crank. A Warren High School graduate, Mr. Cruce earned his bachelor’s degree from Wayne State University and a master’s degree from Villanova University. He served his country as a marine guard in the United States Marine Corps in Moscow and Bonn from 1966 until 1969 and was a member of the American Legion, the Marine Corps League, and the Marine Embassy Guard Association. After his faithful service in the military, Mr. Cruce worked as a real estate broker with Douglas Management. Mr. Cruce was an active leader in his community who founded the Legislative Explorer Scouts, a group for high school students interested in state government, and served on numerous other boards, including the Board of Trustees for the Metro Detroit Chapter of Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the Board of Directors of the American Legislative Exchange Council, and the Boys and Girls Club of Troy Advisory Board. He also served as president of the Michigan Insurance Federation. A person of many talents and interests, Mr. Cruce played in the World Series of Poker. He is survived by his wife, Anne, after over 50 years of marriage; children, Jean, Laura, and Charles; seven grandchildren; and his brother, Thomas; and
Whereas, Doug Cruce was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1980. In 1982, Mr. Cruce was elected to the Michigan Senate, where he served until his resignation in 1991. During his tenure, he chaired the Labor Committee and the Appropriations Subcommittees on Mental Health and Transportation; was a vice chair for the Committee on City Government and the State Affairs, Veterans, and Transportation Committee; and served as a member on numerous committees, including the committees on Appropriations, Commerce, Government Operations, and Insurance as well as the Appropriations Subcommittees on Budget and Oversight, Regulatory, Retirement, and Transportation. In addition to his committee assignments, he also served one term as a member of the Legislative Council. His passion for policy and representing his constituents will serve as an example for those who follow in his footsteps; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), That we offer this expression of our highest tribute to honor the memory of Doug Cruce, a loyal servant of Michigan’s Legislature from 1981 to 1991; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the family of Doug Cruce as a sign of our deepest condolences.
The question being on the adoption of the concurrent resolution,
The concurrent resolution was adopted by a unanimous standing vote of the Senate.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Webber’s statement is as follows:
I rise to offer my respects as we honor the memory of former State Senator Doug Cruce with today’s memorial resolution. Senator Cruce was one of my predecessors representing the city of Troy in this distinguished chamber and one of many in a continued tradition of passionate legislators to have come to Lansing from Oakland and Macomb counties. While I never personally had the pleasure of working with Doug Cruce, like many of you I have encountered his name and legacy more times than I can count. His impact on the state of Michigan is undeniable.
It is said that Doug Cruce’s fellow lawmakers often described him as tenacious, a trait he was said to have displayed even through childhood. Like many of their metro Detroit neighbors, Cruce’s parents came to Michigan seeking work in the auto industry. His dad was said to be a jack-of-all-trades, finding jobs in welding, in the factories, and as a taxi driver. His mother worked in a restaurant.
He took that work ethic and can-do spirit with him when he graduated from Warren High School, served overseas in the U.S. Marine Corps, and earned degrees from Wayne State University and Villanova University. His path eventually led to the State Capitol where he served first in the House and later in the Senate from 1981 to 1992.
Of course, Senator Cruce is best known as the bill sponsor and a driving force behind Michigan’s then-controversial 1985 seat belt law. In true bipartisan fashion, that bill passed this chamber 25 to 9 with “yes” and “no” votes coming from both sides of the aisle. Not one Senator, Cruce told the media, could argue that seat belts do not work and do not save lives. The benefits far outweigh any possible negatives, he said. Indeed, wearing seat belts has since become the universal standard of automotive laws and culture.
During his time in the Legislature, Senator Cruce also made substantial efforts into workers’ disability compensation and unemployment benefit reforms, and sponsored a series of tough-on-crime bills. He also sponsored legislation to allow an income tax deduction for payments made on behalf of developmentally disabled dependents. But it is truly his impact on public safety and contributions to the insurance industry that are his legacy. He helped to enhance the quality of life for all Michiganders and left a legacy his wife Anne, their children and grandchildren can be proud of.
I am proud to support this resolution to honor the memory of Senator Cruce on behalf of the people of Oakland and Macomb counties whom I serve, and I invite my colleagues to join me so that the whole state may celebrate his life and service.
Senator Brinks’ statement is as follows:
I rise to honor the memory of Senator Doug Cruce. Doug Cruce served ten years in this building, as both a Representative and a Senator. He was first elected to the House in 1980. He made his way over to our side of the Capitol after the 1982 election, and he served in this body until 1991. His committee list, as you heard the Secretary read, was about a mile long.
I never had the pleasure of meeting Mr.
Cruce, but from reading about his life and meeting some of his loved ones, you
can tell what a kind of leader he was. When someone asked, Who can help?
Senator Cruce raised his hand.
He was a marine who served our country overseas; a trustee for the Metro Detroit Cystic Fibrosis Foundation; a member of the Board of Directors for the American Legislative Exchange Council; an advisory board member of the Boys and Girls Club of Troy; founder of the Legislative Explorers Scouts; a loving husband, father, and grandfather; and so much more.
The day that we are sworn in as members of the Michigan Senate, we become lifetime members of a fellowship. A fellowship committed to making our state the best it can be for as many people as we can. Today, we recognize one of our own who is no longer with us and we express our gratitude for the service that he gave to his constituents, his state, and his nation.
Recess
Senator Singh moved that the Senate recess subject to the call of the Chair.
The motion prevailed, the time being 12:24 p.m.
The Senate was called to order by the President pro tempore, Senator Moss.
Senator Bumstead offered the following resolution:
Senate Resolution No. 85.
A resolution to designate January 28-February 3, 2024, as Wetland Conservation Week and to recognize Ducks Unlimited, Inc. on their achievements in habitat conservation.
Whereas, In 1937, Ducks Unlimited, Inc. was founded when the drought-plagued waterfowl populations of North America plunged to unprecedented lows; and
Whereas, After decades of commitment to conserving waterfowl habitats, Ducks Unlimited, Inc. has become the largest private organization for waterfowl and wetlands conservation worldwide and one of the most effective private organizations dedicated to that cause; and
Whereas, Since the founding of Ducks Unlimited, Inc., the organization has conserved and protected more than 90,000 acres of waterfowl habitat in Michigan; and
Whereas, Ducks Unlimited, Inc. has nearly 30,000 passionate members across Michigan; and
Whereas, Since the founding of Ducks Unlimited, Inc., the organization has invested over $55 million on nearly 500 individual projects throughout the state, benefitting wildlife, enhancing recreational opportunity, and supporting Michigan’s robust outdoor economy; and
Whereas, Their wetland projects benefit communities by providing lifesaving flood storage capabilities, groundwater recharge, and water quality improvements associated with the natural water filtration that wetlands provide; and
Whereas, Ducks Unlimited, Inc. maintains the vital mission of conserving, restoring, and managing wetlands and associated habitats for the waterfowl of North America, a mission that also benefits all wildlife and people; and
Whereas, The ecosystem services provided by the wetland conservation work done by Ducks Unlimited, Inc. are critical to sustaining and improving quality of life in Michigan; and
Whereas, We support collaborative wetland conservation efforts on public and private lands that promote hunting and fishing as well as a wide array of recreational pursuits; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body designate January 28-February 3, 2024, as Wetland Conservation Week and to recognize Ducks Unlimited, Inc. on their achievements in habitat conservation; and be it further
Resolved, That we recognize the important contributions of Ducks Unlimited, Inc. and its members across Michigan to the conservation of wetlands and associated habitats, and to the waterfowl of North America.
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
Senators Bellino, Cherry, Damoose and Wojno were named co-sponsors of the resolution.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Bumstead’s statement, in which Senators Bellino and Damoose concurred, is as follows:
Today I rise in support of my resolution to designate January 28 through February 3 as Wetland Conservation Week and to commemorate Ducks Unlimited and the vital and historic work they have done and continue to do for our state. Ducks Unlimited and more than 26,000 members in Michigan are dedicated to reclaim, conserve, and protect our state’s 33 distinct wetlands communities through cooperatives, education, funding, and donations. Since the foundation and work in Michigan, Ducks Unlimited are on track to soon reach 100,000 acres of land conserved in Michigan alone. I ask that you help me bring support and awareness to the conservation of Michigan’s wetlands and to commemorate Ducks Unlimited for the work they have done and will continue to do for our great state of Michigan.
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of
Statements
The motion prevailed.
Senator Albert’s statement is as follows:
If only the Brothers Grimm were alive today and covering Michigan politics. They’d find some fairy-tale material with Michigan’s Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission. I’m thinking of the darker fairy tales like Hansel and Gretel, where brother and sister are expecting a good meal and a nice place to rest but wind up trapped inside a house with somebody who wants to eat them. Or Little Red Riding Hood, where she is anticipating a benevolent grandmother but winds up with the Big Bad Wolf. I realize the ballot proposal that created this redistricting commission was approved by Michigan voters, but I do think the more than five-to-one fundraising advantage may have been a bit one-sided. It’s time to acknowledge the slick-sounding rhetoric that was sold to our state does not match up with the reality we are finding ourselves in today.
The redistricting commission is a failure. The proposal was advertised as a grassroots effort from within Michigan. There were some elements of that, certainly, but the reality is that the campaign was overwhelmingly supported by millions of dollars from out-of-state liberal groups, financed mostly by undisclosed donors, bent on advancing their own nationwide agenda. As usual with proposals like this, we hear promises to take a problem and innovate with something entirely new; instead, new problems are created and we are often left with the system worse than what we had before. It is an exercise in showing the wisdom of experience and the prudence of reform over innovation. This proposal included a string of expectations that could never be met. The commission was billed as a way to create district maps with more logical and neatly arranged districts, but the maps we have today contained oddly-shaped districts, just as the old ones did. As far as district shapes go, we have made no improvement. The commission was supposed to help take politics and bias out of the process. Yet, there are allegations from two commissioners that another commissioner advocated for district boundaries that favored certain candidates. Even if the allegations prove false, it displays a glaring weakness in the commission.
Perhaps the new system’s flaws are best reflected in the decision of a panel of three federal judges. They declared that 13 of the maps in the metro Detroit area are in violation of the U.S. Constitution. While the repercussions of this ruling are not sorted out, potential candidates and constituents are left in limbo for a filing deadline that is only months away. That makes this failed innovation even more expensive to taxpayers and even more clunky to facilitate. This commission is like an unaccountable fourth branch of government that gets to make up its own rules as it goes along. Commissioners have moved out of state and not resigned until after public outcry, important meetings have been called with questionable and unfairly-short public notice, and there have been budget problems at taxpayer expense. There was even a recent request that’s still pending, to my understanding, from a commissioner seeking a pay raise for the panel. The stated rationale is that they have more work to do now, but it could be easily argued that the work exists because it was improperly done in the first place. If anything, taxpayers should be getting their money back, not asked to pay more.
I’m not going to pretend the process used in Michigan to redraw legislative maps prior to the redistricting commission was perfect; it obviously was not. Like any other government institution, the old system was subject to the failings of our human nature. That is why it was subject to rigorous standards which developed from experience. I am merely pointing out the fallacy of the progressive innovators. We would have been better off working toward improvements within the old system rather than abandoning it for a pie-in-the-sky fairy tale. Like any other fairy tale, there is a moral to the story. The moral here is to be cautious of progressive idealists who are quick to replace any status quo with dreamed-up fantasies not grounded in reality.
Senator Irwin’s statement, in which Senator Shink concurred, is as follows:
I am joined by my colleague who shares in
representing Ann Arbor with me, Senator Shink from the 14th District. Mr.
President and colleagues, I rise to recognize and celebrate the great
achievement of the University of Michigan Wolverines. As I’m sure you all know,
this Monday our Michigan Wolverines won the Division I National Football
Championship. This is a big deal for our University of Michigan Wolverines, the
team, the program, the whole university, and the whole state of Michigan. It
caps off a season of—a
15-0 season where the University of Michigan Wolverines not only proved that
they are the undisputed, undefeated national champions, they also proved that
the running game is still important, they also proved that defense wins
championships, and they also proved that the Big Ten owns Division I football.
So thank you, Mr. President, for giving me this opportunity to remark briefly and to celebrate the great achievement of our Michigan Wolverines. I want to say thank you to the entire University of Michigan program and especially to the players who poured it all out on the field, who fought through adversity throughout the season, and who worked really hard to deliver a national championship for the state of Michigan.
Senator Cherry’s statement is as follows:
I wanted to take a moment to express some gratitude. This morning in Genesee County, we hosted the Governor for the launch of a new program—Rx Kids—which is a multi-stakeholder partnership with philanthropic partners, the city, the state, MSU and U of M together—when you can get them fighting on the same team, it’s great. This is ultimately a pilot program to address infant poverty and address disparities amongst children in the city of Flint. If the pilot goes well, it could serve as a model for the entire state to address infant poverty. I wanted to express gratitude to my colleagues who voted for the budget that helped fund this program and especially to the Appropriations Chair. This is going to make a difference in the lives of thousands of newborn babies within Genesee County and it ultimately is going to make a huge impact on the community as a whole. Thank you, colleagues, for your support in addressing infant poverty.
Senator Santana’s statement is as follows:
I would like to just take a moment to acknowledge my condolences for Monsignor James Moloney. He passed away January 3, 2024, at the age of 93.
Monsignor Moloney was born on June 18, 1930, and ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Detroit on June 2, 1956. At the time of his death, Monsignor Moloney was serving as a member of the In Solidum team of priests who pastor Divine Child Parish, Dearborn; Sacred Heart Parish, Dearborn; St. Anselm Parish, Dearborn Heights; St. Linus Parish, Dearborn Heights; and St. Sabina Parish, Dearborn Heights, that form the Hope Renewed Family of Parishes. Pursuant to the Priest Covenant, Monsignor had principal care for St. Anselm Parish, which he pastored since 1978. Monsignor previously served for many decades as Director of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith and as Parochial Vicar of St. Joan of Arc Parish, St. Clair Shores.
Condolences to his family and he will truly be missed.
Senator Brinks’ statement is as follows:
I just want to take a moment to welcome everyone back. I hope you had a wonderful holiday season with your family, your friends, and your loved ones. I hope you made good use of your extra in-district time with your constituents, and that you are returning to this chamber rejuvenated and motivated. This time last year, I stood here and shared with you my prediction that the challenges ahead of us would not be small in number or in scope, and that was true. But I also predicted that, together, we could be a body that faces those challenges instead of running from them, and that also turned out to be true. And I am really proud of the way that we made history in so many ways that benefit the lives of our constituents. So I am looking forward to another productive and collaborative year working with each of you in the spirit of good-faith problem solving and public service. Mr. President, I ask that my remarks be printed in the Journal, and Go Blue.
By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of
Messages from the House
The following message was received and read:
January 10, 2024
By direction of the House of Representatives, I hereby notify you that a quorum of the House of Representatives has convened pursuant to the requirements of the Constitution and is ready to proceed with the business of the session.
Very respectfully,
Richard J. Brown
Clerk of the House of Representatives
Senator Singh moved that the Senate adjourn.
The motion prevailed, the time being 1:08
p.m.
The President pro tempore, Senator Moss, declared the Senate adjourned until Thursday, January 11, 2024, at 10:00 a.m.
DANIEL OBERLIN
Secretary of the Senate