No. 31
STATE OF MICHIGAN
Journal of the Senate
92nd Legislature
REGULAR SESSION OF 2004
Senate Chamber, Lansing, Wednesday, March 24, 2004.
10:00 a.m.
The Senate was called to order by the President, Lieutenant Governor John D. Cherry, Jr.
The roll was called by the Secretary of the Senate, who announced that a quorum was present.
| Allen--present | Emerson--present | Olshove--present |
| Barcia--present | Garcia--excused | Patterson--present |
| Basham--present | George--present | Prusi--present |
| Bernero--present | Gilbert--present | Sanborn--present |
| Birkholz--present | Goschka--present | Schauer--present |
| Bishop--present | Hammerstrom--present | Scott--present |
| Brater--present | Hardiman--present | Sikkema--present |
| Brown--present | Jacobs--present | Stamas--present |
| Cassis--present | Jelinek--present | Switalski--present |
| Cherry--present | Johnson--present | Thomas--present |
| Clark-Coleman--present | Kuipers--present | Toy--present |
| Clarke--present | Leland--present | Van Woerkom--present |
Cropsey--present McManus--present
Pastor Mark Dickerson of Calvary Baptist Church of Midland offered the following invocation:
Mighty God, we come before You this morning with thanks in our hearts for all that You have done for us. We thank You for the fact that You are a God who loves us. We thank You for the fact that You are a God who blesses us. We look at our nation in comparison to the nations of the world today. We cannot help but be thankful for the many blessings, the many gratuitous things You have given to us.
Lord, we pray that You would help us today as a nation, that we would seek to live in a way that honors and pleases You. Lord, we pray that You would help us today, even here in Michigan, to live in a way that pleases and honors You.
We thank You that You are concerned about nations. Lord, Your holy scriptures have told us that You pay very close attention to what goes on in our world. Lord, we thank You that You are concerned about nations, but Lord, we also thank You that you are concerned about individuals. Lord, the scriptures tell us that even the very hairs of our head are numbered. Lord, if You number the hairs of our heads, how much more are You concerned about our personal relationship with You? We thank You that You are a God who not only pays attention to us, but a God who loves us and gives us opportunity to love and to know You in return.
Lord, we ask that You would give wisdom today, here in this room, for each thing that is voted on, for the discussions that take place. Lord, we thank You that you have given us the opportunity to live in this society which we have today, a society in which the people can share their voices.
Lord, we ask that You would give wisdom to each of our leaders. You have told us that You are concerned about them. You have asked those who have opportunity to come to You and bring up our leaders in prayer before You, and Lord, we do that today. We ask for Your blessing upon this day and upon each thing that takes place here.
In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.
The President, Lieutenant Governor Cherry, led the members of the Senate in recital of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Motions and Communications
Senators Thomas and Clarke entered the Senate Chamber.
Senator Hammerstrom moved that Senator Toy be temporarily excused from today's session.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Hammerstrom moved that Senator Garcia be excused from today's and tomorrow's sessions.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Hammerstrom moved that the rules be suspended and that the following resolutions, now on Committee Reports, be placed on the Resolutions calendar for consideration today:
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 10
Senate Resolution No. 22
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The following communication was received:
Department of Natural Resources
March 17, 2004
I am writing to inform you of six grant awards to be made under the 2004 Forest Stewardship Outreach and Education program.
The Department of Natural Resources' (DNR) Outreach and Education program provides assistance for individuals, public agencies and non-profit private entities [501(c)]. The purpose of the grant program is to increase understanding of the benefits of actively managing forest ecosystems through forest stewardship. All projects must include an outreach and education component targeting non-industrial private forest landowners. These grants are funded in cooperation with the USDA Forest Service, State and Private Forestry Program.
Activities that are considered for funding include management planning for school and municipal forests, outreach and education projects, demonstration areas and ecosystem projects for forest sustainability and health.
Under this grant program, 23 applications were received and six projects totaling $18,568 were approved.
The list of projects approved for funding is attached.
If you have questions regarding the Forest Stewardship Outreach and Education program, or the projects that were approved for funding, you may contact Ms. Debra Huff, Forest Stewardship Coordinator, at 517-335-3355.
Sincerely,
K.L. Cool
Director
The communication was referred to the Secretary for record.
The following communication was received:
Office of the Auditor General
March 22, 2004
Enclosed for your records is a copy of the executed engagement contract for the financial audit of the Michigan Legislature for the fiscal years ending September 30, 2003 and September 30, 2004.
If you have questions about your contract, please contact me.
Sincerely,
Thomas H. McTavish, C.P.A.
Auditor General
The communication was referred to the Secretary for record.
The Secretary announced that the following House bills were received in the Senate and filed on Tuesday, March 23:
House Bill Nos. 5026 5093 5581 5582
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of
Messages from the House
Senator Hammerstrom moved that consideration of the following bills be postponed for today:
Senate Bill No. 806
Senate Bill No. 824
Senate Bill No. 350
Senate Bill No. 432
Senate Bill No. 206
The motion prevailed.
Senator Toy entered the Senate Chamber.
House Bill No. 4720, entitled
A bill to amend 1984 PA 431, entitled "An act to prescribe the powers and duties of the department of management and budget; to define the authority and functions of its director and its organizational entities; to authorize the department to issue directives; to provide for the capital outlay program; to provide for the leasing, planning, constructing, maintaining, altering, renovating, demolishing, conveying of lands and facilities; to provide for centralized administrative services such as purchasing, payroll, record retention, data processing, and publishing and for access to certain services; to provide for a system of internal accounting and administrative control for certain principal departments; to provide for an internal auditor in certain principal departments; to provide for certain powers and duties of certain state officers and agencies; to codify, revise, consolidate, classify, and add to the powers, duties, and laws relative to budgeting, accounting, and the regulating of appropriations; to provide for the implementation of certain constitutional provisions; to create funds and accounts; to make appropriations; to prescribe remedies and penalties; to rescind certain executive reorganization orders; to prescribe penalties; and to repeal certain acts and parts of acts," by amending section 263 (MCL 18.1263).
The House of Representatives has amended the Senate substitute (S-1) as follows:
1. Amend page 2, line 11, after "shall" by striking out "not exceed" and inserting "cover".
2. Amend page 2, line 12, after the second "and" by striking out "reasonable".
3. Amend page 2, line 13, after "expenses" by inserting a comma and "all of which shall be prorated between the bulk purchasing program participants".
The House of Representatives has concurred in the Senate substitute (S-1) as amended and agreed to the full title.
Pursuant to rule 3.202, the bill was laid over one day.
Senate Bill No. 189, entitled
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled "An act to protect and promote the public health; to codify, revise, consolidate, classify, and add to the laws relating to public health; to provide for the prevention and control of diseases and disabilities; to provide for the classification, administration, regulation, financing, and maintenance of personal, environmental, and other health services and activities; to create or continue, and prescribe the powers and duties of, departments, boards, commissions, councils, committees, task forces, and other agencies; to prescribe the powers and duties of governmental entities and officials; to regulate occupations, facilities, and agencies affecting the public health; to regulate health maintenance organizations and certain third party administrators and insurers; to provide for the imposition of a regulatory fee; to provide for the levy of taxes against certain health facilities or agencies; to promote the efficient and economical delivery of health care services, to provide for the appropriate utilization of health care facilities and services, and to provide for the closure of hospitals or consolidation of hospitals or services; to provide for the collection and use of data and information; to provide for the transfer of property; to provide certain immunity from liability; to regulate and prohibit the sale and offering for sale of drug paraphernalia under certain circumstances; to provide for the implementation of federal law; to provide for penalties and remedies; to provide for sanctions for violations of this act and local ordinances; to provide for an appropriation and supplements; to repeal certain acts and parts of acts; to repeal certain parts of this act; and to repeal certain parts of this act on specific dates," by amending sections 16263, 16348, 18501, 18503, 18505, 18507, 18509, 18511, 18513, and 18515 (MCL 333.16263, 333.16348, 333.18501, 333.18503, 333.18505, 333.18507, 333.18509, 333.18511, 333.18513, and 333.18515), section 16263 as amended by 2004 PA 3 and sections 16348, 18501, 18503, 18505, 18507, 18509, 18511, 18513, and 18515 as added by 2000 PA 11, and by adding sections 18504, 18506, 18506a, 18516, 18517, and 18518.
Substitute (H-5).
The question being on concurring in the substitute made to the bill by the House,
The substitute was concurred in, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 141 Yeas--37
| Allen | Clark-Coleman | Jacobs | Sanborn |
| Barcia | Clarke | Jelinek | Schauer |
| Basham | Cropsey | Johnson | Scott |
| Bernero | Emerson | Kuipers | Sikkema |
| Birkholz | George | Leland | Stamas |
| Bishop | Gilbert | McManus | Switalski |
| Brater | Goschka | Olshove | Thomas |
| Brown | Hammerstrom | Patterson | Toy |
| Cassis | Hardiman | Prusi | Van Woerkom |
Cherry
Nays--0
Excused--1
Garcia
Not Voting--0
In The Chair: President
The question being on concurring in the committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of the members serving voting therefor.
The Senate agreed to the title as amended.
The bill was referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor.
Senate Bill No. 829, entitled
A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled "Revised judicature act of 1961," by amending section 517 (MCL 600.517), as amended by 2002 PA 715.
Substitute (H-1).
The question being on concurring in the substitute made to the bill by the House,
The substitute was concurred in, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 142 Yeas--29
| Allen | Cherry | Hardiman | Prusi |
| Barcia | Cropsey | Jacobs | Sanborn |
| Bernero | Emerson | Jelinek | Schauer |
| Birkholz | George | Johnson | Sikkema |
| Bishop | Gilbert | Kuipers | Stamas |
| Brater | Goschka | McManus | Switalski |
| Brown | Hammerstrom | Olshove | Van Woerkom |
Cassis
Nays--8
| Basham | Clarke | Patterson | Thomas |
| Clark-Coleman | Leland | Scott | Toy |
Excused--1
Garcia
Not Voting--0
In The Chair: President
The question being on concurring in the committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of the members serving voting therefor.
The Senate agreed to the full title.
The bill was referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor.
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of
General Orders
Senator Hammerstrom moved that the Senate resolve itself into the Committee of the Whole for consideration of the General Orders calendar.
The motion prevailed, and the President, Lieutenant Governor Cherry, designated Senator Leland as Chairperson.
After some time spent therein, the Committee arose; and, the President, Lieutenant Governor Cherry, having resumed the Chair, the Committee reported back to the Senate, favorably and without amendment, the following bills:
House Bill No. 5480, entitled
A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled "Revised judicature act of 1961," by amending section 549g (MCL 600.549g), as added by 1981 PA 182.
House Bill No. 5119, entitled
A bill to amend 1939 PA 280, entitled "The social welfare act," (MCL 400.1 to 400.119b) by adding section 111k.
House Bill No. 5117, entitled
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled "Public health code," (MCL 333.1101 to 333.25211) by adding section 20531.
The bills were placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.
The Committee of the Whole reported back to the Senate, favorably and with a substitute therefor, the following bill:
House Bill No. 5479, entitled
A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled "Revised judicature act of 1961," by amending section 8142 (MCL 600.8142).
Substitute (S-1).
The Senate agreed to the substitute recommended by the Committee of the Whole, and the bill as substituted was placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.
The Committee of the Whole reported back to the Senate, favorably and with a substitute therefor, the following bill:
Senate Bill No. 1093, entitled
A bill to amend 1975 PA 228, entitled "Single business tax act," (MCL 208.1 to 208.145) by adding section 37f.
Substitute (S-2).
The Senate agreed to the substitute recommended by the Committee of the Whole, and the bill as substituted was placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.
The Committee of the Whole reported back to the Senate, favorably and with a substitute therefor, the following bill:
Senate Bill No. 1026, entitled
A bill to designate the third Friday in September as Michigan manufacturing day in the state of Michigan.
Substitute (S-2).
The Senate agreed to the substitute recommended by the Committee of the Whole, and the bill as substituted was placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.
By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of
Third Reading of Bills
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 5280, entitled
A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled "The revised school code," (MCL 380.1 to 380.1852) by adding section 1305.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 143 Yeas--37
| Allen | Clark-Coleman | Jacobs | Sanborn |
| Barcia | Clarke | Jelinek | Schauer |
| Basham | Cropsey | Johnson | Scott |
| Bernero | Emerson | Kuipers | Sikkema |
| Birkholz | George | Leland | Stamas |
| Bishop | Gilbert | McManus | Switalski |
| Brater | Goschka | Olshove | Thomas |
| Brown | Hammerstrom | Patterson | Toy |
| Cassis | Hardiman | Prusi | Van Woerkom |
Cherry
Nays--0
Excused--1
Garcia
Not Voting--0
In The Chair: President
The question being on concurring in the committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of the members serving voting therefor.
Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:
"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 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,".
The Senate agreed to the full title.
Senator Hammerstrom moved that the following bills be placed at the head of the Third Reading of Bills calendar:
House Bill No. 5104
Senate Bill No. 1032
House Bill No. 4179
House Bill No. 5184
The motion prevailed.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 5104, entitled
A bill to amend 1931 PA 328, entitled "The Michigan penal code," by amending section 316 (MCL 750.316), as amended by 1999 PA 189.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 144 Yeas--36
| Allen | Cherry | Jacobs | Sanborn |
| Barcia | Clark-Coleman | Jelinek | Schauer |
| Basham | Clarke | Johnson | Scott |
| Bernero | Cropsey | Kuipers | Sikkema |
| Birkholz | George | Leland | Stamas |
| Bishop | Gilbert | McManus | Switalski |
| Brater | Goschka | Olshove | Thomas |
| Brown | Hammerstrom | Patterson | Toy |
| Cassis | Hardiman | Prusi | Van Woerkom |
Nays--1
Emerson
Excused--1
Garcia
Not Voting--0
In The Chair: President
The question being on concurring in the committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of the members serving voting therefor.
Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:
"An act to revise, consolidate, codify and add to the statutes relating to crimes; to define crimes and prescribe the penalties therefor; 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 such trials; and to repeal certain acts and parts of acts inconsistent with or contravening any of the provisions of this act,".
The Senate agreed to the full title.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 1032, entitled
A bill to amend 1994 PA 55, entitled "Confidential research information act," by amending the title and sections 1 and 2 (MCL 390.1551 and 390.1552) and by adding section 4a.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 145 Yeas--33
| Allen | Clarke | Jacobs | Prusi |
| Barcia | Cropsey | Jelinek | Sanborn |
| Bernero | Emerson | Johnson | Schauer |
| Birkholz | George | Kuipers | Sikkema |
| Bishop | Gilbert | Leland | Stamas |
| Brater | Goschka | McManus | Switalski |
| Brown | Hammerstrom | Olshove | Toy |
| Cassis | Hardiman | Patterson | Van Woerkom |
Cherry
Nays--4
Basham Clark-Coleman Scott Thomas
Excused--1
Garcia
Not Voting--0
In The Chair: President
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4179, entitled
A bill to amend 2000 PA 499, entitled "Elder prescription insurance coverage act," by amending section 3 (MCL 550.2003).
The question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 146 Yeas--37
| Allen | Clark-Coleman | Jacobs | Sanborn |
| Barcia | Clarke | Jelinek | Schauer |
| Basham | Cropsey | Johnson | Scott |
| Bernero | Emerson | Kuipers | Sikkema |
| Birkholz | George | Leland | Stamas |
| Bishop | Gilbert | McManus | Switalski |
| Brater | Goschka | Olshove | Thomas |
| Brown | Hammerstrom | Patterson | Toy |
| Cassis | Hardiman | Prusi | Van Woerkom |
Cherry
Nays--0
Excused--1
Garcia
Not Voting--0
In The Chair: President
The question being on concurring in the committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of the members serving voting therefor.
Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:
"An act to create certain prescription programs relating to the elderly; to enhance access to prescription drugs to certain elderly residents of the state; to prescribe the powers and duties of certain state departments and agencies; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,".
The Senate agreed to the full title.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 5184, entitled
A bill to amend 1979 PA 218, entitled "Adult foster care facility licensing act," by amending sections 13, 22, and 36 (MCL 400.713, 400.722, and 400.736), sections 13 and 22 as amended by 1994 PA 150 and section 36 as added by 1984 PA 140, and by adding section 34a.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
Senator Hammerstrom offered the following amendment:
1. Amend page 17, following line 7, by inserting:
"Enacting section 1. This amendatory act takes effect August 1, 2004.".
The amendment was adopted, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
Senator Hammerstrom offered the following amendment:
1. Amend page 3, line 8, after "department" by striking out the balance of the line through "services" on line 9.
The amendment was adopted, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 147 Yeas--37
| Allen | Clark-Coleman | Jacobs | Sanborn |
| Barcia | Clarke | Jelinek | Schauer |
| Basham | Cropsey | Johnson | Scott |
| Bernero | Emerson | Kuipers | Sikkema |
| Birkholz | George | Leland | Stamas |
| Bishop | Gilbert | McManus | Switalski |
| Brater | Goschka | Olshove | Thomas |
| Brown | Hammerstrom | Patterson | Toy |
| Cassis | Hardiman | Prusi | Van Woerkom |
Cherry
Nays--0
Excused--1
Garcia
Not Voting--0
In The Chair: President
The question being on concurring in the committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of the members serving voting therefor.
Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:
"An act to provide for the licensing and regulation of adult foster care facilities; to provide for the establishment of standards of care for adult foster care facilities; to prescribe powers and duties of the department of social services and other departments; to prescribe certain fees; to prescribe penalties; and to repeal certain acts and parts of acts,".
The Senate agreed to the full title.
Resolutions
Senator Hammerstrom moved that consideration of the following resolutions be postponed for today:
Senate Resolution No. 175
Senate Resolution No. 139
Senate Resolution No. 224
The motion prevailed.
The question was placed on the adoption of the following resolution consent calendar:
Senate Resolution No. 231
The resolution consent calendar was adopted.
Senator Basham offered the following resolution:
Senate Resolution No. 231.
A resolution recognizing April 7, 2004, as World Health Day.
Whereas, The World Health Organization has designated April 7, 2004, as World Health Day; and
Whereas, The theme of World Health Day is "Road Safety"; and
Whereas, Over 42,000 Americans die in motor vehicle crashes every year; and
Whereas, Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for people ages 1 to 34 in the United States; and
Whereas, Death and injury from motor vehicle crashes may be significantly reduced by greater public awareness, enforcement, and strengthening of existing laws; and
Whereas, Research indicates that between 1979 and 1999 safety belts have been effective in saving approximately 123,000 lives in the United States; and
Whereas, AAA and other safety groups across the country will be emphasizing the importance of safety belt use in 2004; and
Whereas, Minor steps like wearing safety belts, obeying traffic laws, avoiding distracted driving, and knowing your personal driving limits will reduce traffic crashes and injuries; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, That April 7, 2004 be hereby recognized as World Health Day; and be it further
Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to AAA Michigan in recognition of their continuing efforts to promote road safety.
Senate Resolution No. 214.
A resolution to urge the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and the Office of the Great Lakes to work with the EPA Great Lakes National Program Office to develop a pilot project to provide real-time monitoring of water quality for Lake St. Clair and the St. Clair River.
The question being on the adoption of the following committee substitute:
Substitute (S-1).
The substitute was adopted.
The resolution, as substituted, was adopted.
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 10.
A concurrent resolution to urge the United States Supreme Court to reverse the decision of the Ninth United States Circuit Court of Appeals regarding the constitutionality of the Pledge of Allegiance with the phrase "under God."
The question being on the adoption of the concurrent resolution,
Senator Hammerstrom requested the yeas and nays.
The yeas and nays were ordered, 1/5 of the members present voting therefor.
The concurrent resolution was adopted, a majority of the members voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 148 Yeas--32
| Allen | Cherry | Jelinek | Schauer |
| Barcia | Clark-Coleman | Kuipers | Scott |
| Basham | Cropsey | Leland | Sikkema |
| Bernero | George | McManus | Stamas |
| Birkholz | Gilbert | Olshove | Switalski |
| Bishop | Goschka | Patterson | Thomas |
| Brown | Hammerstrom | Prusi | Toy |
| Cassis | Hardiman | Sanborn | Van Woerkom |
Nays--2
Brater Jacobs
Excused--1
Garcia
Not Voting--3
Clarke Emerson Johnson
In The Chair: President
Senators Birkholz, Goschka, Brater and Brown asked and were granted unanimous consent to make statements and moved that the statements be printed in the Journal.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Birkholz's statement is as follows:
This resolution before us today, colleagues, urges reconsideration by the United States Supreme Court of the recent decision made by the 9th District U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals dealing with the constitutionality of the phrase "under God" in the pledge to our flag.
The U.S. Supreme Court is beginning today to deliberate this issue. We urge your adoption of this resolution. The 9th Circuit Court either chose to ignore or dismiss a very important fact in the founding of this country. References to God are part of our way of life. References to God are part of the founding of this nation and our important heritage. Our Constitution references God. Our Declaration of Independence references God. Our national anthem references God. The motto of this country references God. Even our currency, our Great Lakes quarter, references God.
Our pledge is not a religious invocation by keeping "under God" in the pledge to the flag. It is a single reference to divinity as it occurs in the key documents of the founding of this nation. There are many civic and community organizations that also support us in keeping the reference to God in the pledge to the flag: International Association of Firefighters, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and many other veterans groups. Just recently a few months ago, one of our radio stations of this state, WJR, held a survey throughout their listening area. Ninety-two percent of the respondents said keep God in the pledge--92 percent. Only 8 percent said get rid of God; kick God out the pledge to our flag.
So I urge your adoption of this Senate concurrent resolution today to keep our reference to God in the pledge to our flag, the flag of our country, the United States of America.
Senator Goschka's statement is as follows:
I rise in support of this resolution. I am very thankful that our country was founded as a Christian nation. That isn't to say that everybody was Christian. Indeed, even now as we allow various individuals into our country as they come here, we don't ask them what church they go to or if they go or what their faith is because we are a melting pot, and people do bring their huddled masses. We welcome them. But that doesn't suggest for a moment that we have lost our identity, nor should we lose our identity, the very beginning of our roots as a country as a Christian nation. I am thankful that over the centuries we have had leaders from all of the states and in our Congress, in the presidency, serving in many areas of leadership who have humbly recognized their need for God. They have humbly recognized and honored the fact that He does indeed exist.
Our Constitution guarantees us the freedom of religion, not from religion, but the freedom of religion. There is a distinction and it is important. As we vote on this, I hope that all across our nation and our land that we as a people will take stock in the history of our country and the fact that it is indeed God himself, whether we recognize it or not, who has blessed us mightily from His very hand. Even now, it would be a wonderful thing if we as individuals, in our own private lives, and as a country would take stock in the truth that we find in the word of God, the Bible. That is part of our history. I don't ever want to hide from it. The Mayflower Compact is part of our history. We read so many references to the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. That is something that regardless of who we are and what we are about, if we truly are going to be a Christian nation and hold true to our roots, we certainly respect those who do not agree. But I don't believe in any way we should shirk back from who we know God to be, as revealed in the scriptures.
So I do support this resolution, but more than that, I truly hope that as a people that we as a nation, even now, will humble ourselves before almighty God, repent for our sins as a nation, be humble before Him, step inside that circle of revival, and let it begin in you and in me. And may God bless us as we stand for His truth. Whether we recognize Him or not, regardless of what some court might rule, He still does exist and He is real. And we are under God.
Some have said about the truth in the Bible, "God says it, I believe it, and that settles it." That's not entirely true. God says it and that settles it. Whether we acknowledge Him or not, that is beside the point. He still is.
Senator Brater's statement is as follows:
I stand here asking my colleagues to consider that we live in a diverse society, a diverse state made up of people of many religions. We are a nation of immigrants, people who have come from all over the world, people who even with a Christian faith have many ways of worshiping God, many different translations of the Bible. I, for one, and I think many of you--almost all of you probably--if you check your recent census figures, represent people who are of many, many faiths, including Christians, Muslims, Jews, Hindus, Buddhists, and perhaps some people who are not believers or not members of a faith community.
This I think is a very personal matter that is very unfortunate for us to try to legislate faith. The United States of America was founded on the premise that we have freedom of religion and that we have separation of church and state. I, for one, object to the comments that were made on this floor that this is a nation that belongs to only one religion. The idea of God is a meaningful one to many people. It obviously has many understandings for many different people. So I think it is a mistake to try to put one construction on that one point of view. I would ask my colleagues to look deep into their hearts, think about the rhetoric when they run for office, talking about inclusiveness, talking about diversity, and try to bring that to your work in the Legislature.
Senator Brown's statement is as follows:
I rise to support the resolution. I realize, as we all do, that the reference to "under God" hangs in the balance in terms of its historic and placement in the Pledge of Allegiance. It hangs in the balance at this very moment as the national court deliberates on whether or not it is a constitutionality, but I don't believe it violates the establishment clause.
The resolution that is before us in referencing "under God" is not creed-specific. It is as generic as its original introduction into the history and historic moorings of this nation. The reference "under God" has very deep and profound historic moorings. It goes back to Lincoln in the Gettysburg Address. Lincoln got it from George Washington in a very poignant statement that the first President made actually prior to his presidency when he served on the battlefield to protect our liberties. I think it is very appropriate that this body at this time support this very simple, not creed-specific resolution.
Senate Resolution No. 22.
A resolution to urge the United States Supreme Court to reverse the decision of the Ninth United States Circuit Court of Appeals regarding the constitutionality of the Pledge of Allegiance with the phrase "under God."
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
Senator Hammerstrom requested the yeas and nays.
The yeas and nays were ordered, 1/5 of the members present voting therefor.
The resolution was adopted, a majority of the members voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 149 Yeas--32
| Allen | Cherry | Jelinek | Schauer |
| Barcia | Clark-Coleman | Kuipers | Scott |
| Basham | Cropsey | Leland | Sikkema |
| Bernero | George | McManus | Stamas |
| Birkholz | Gilbert | Olshove | Switalski |
| Bishop | Goschka | Patterson | Thomas |
| Brown | Hammerstrom | Prusi | Toy |
| Cassis | Hardiman | Sanborn | Van Woerkom |
Nays--2
Brater Jacobs
Excused--1
Garcia
Not Voting--3
Clarke Emerson Johnson
In The Chair: President
Senators Hardiman, Jacobs, Leland, Goschka, Brown, Cropsey and George asked and were granted unanimous consent to make statements and moved that the statements be printed in the Journal.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Hardiman's statement is as follows:
I rise today to speak in favor of Senate Resolution No. 22. This resolution would be an expression of the Senate that the words "under God" be retained as part of the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. The United States Supreme Court is hearing arguments today on a case from California which seeks to strike those words from the pledge. I support the words "under God" in our pledge, and I urge members to support Senate Resolution No. 22.
I understand the concerns that people have about establishing a state religion or compelling people to recite words they do not believe. However, our country was founded with an acknowledgement of a higher spiritual authority. We can argue about what the Founding Fathers may have specifically believed, but any review of the documents which establish the law and traditions of the United States clearly reveal the sincere and meaningful recognition of God or spiritual truths by our founders. The pledge does not establish a state religion, and that is important. It does remind us that throughout history, men and women of our land have turned to God in times of need and testing. We are in such a time now. At this hour in our history, I think we need to maintain these words in our pledge and draw renewed comfort from them. Supporting Senate Resolution No. 22 will be one way we can do it, so I ask for the members' support.
Senator Jacobs' statement is as follows:
I rise in opposition to this resolution and not that I do not believe in God; it has nothing to do with it. I do believe in God, but I really think if we listen to the invocations often that are offered here on this floor, we really realize that so many folks who come before us really don't reflect the true diversity and fabric of Michigan and each of our districts. I'm often very troubled listening to our own invocations because they are really not reflective of the folks whom I represent. I guess my concern is as we vote on this resolution that we are trying to use our influence here to influence the decisions of the Supreme Court. I think the Supreme Court does not need to hear from the state of Michigan. They should be making their own decisions. They have been appointed for life. They don't have to worry about whether they are going to be voted for for re-election. I don't think it is really our job to be sending our message on to them. Their job is to make their own decision.
Senator Leland's statement is as follows:
I voted for the last resolution, and I am going to be voting for this resolution. I have no problem in supporting something that makes a reference to God. As the Senator from Huntington Woods mentioned, she believes in God, and I believe in God. We conduct our lives daily because we have certain beliefs in God. God is all things to all people, so there is no issue with me in terms of making reference to that in the pledge.
I just want to say that as a member of the Jewish persuasion, with two of my other colleagues here in the Senate, I would also appreciate that when we do the invocation in the morning before session that we would be a little bit more sensitive to folks in this chamber who aren't of the Christian belief. This has been an issue with some of us for years and continues to be. I just wish that we would celebrate diversity and you would be more sensitive to that.
Senator Goschka's statement is as follows:
I rise in support of this resolution. I am very thankful that our country was founded as a Christian nation. That isn't to say that everybody was Christian. Indeed, even now as we allow various individuals into our country as they come here, we don't ask them what church they go to or if they go or what their faith is because we are a melting pot, and people do bring their huddled masses. We welcome them. But that doesn't suggest for a moment that we have lost our identity, nor should we lose our identity, the very beginning of our roots as a country as a Christian nation. I am thankful that over the centuries we have had leaders from all of the states and in our Congress, in the presidency, serving in many areas of leadership who have humbly recognized their need for God. They have humbly recognized and honored the fact that He does indeed exist.
Our Constitution guarantees us the freedom of religion, not from religion, but the freedom of religion. There is a distinction and it is important. As we vote on this, I hope that all across our nation and our land that we as a people will take stock in the history of our country and the fact that it is indeed God himself, whether we recognize it or not, who has blessed us mightily from His very hand. Even now, it would be a wonderful thing if we as individuals, in our own private lives, and as a country would take stock in the truth that we find in the word of God, the Bible. That is part of our history. I don't ever want to hide from it. The Mayflower Compact is part of our history. We read so many references to the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. That is something that regardless of who we are and what we are about, if we truly are going to be a Christian nation and hold true to our roots, we certainly respect those who do not agree. But I don't believe in any way we should shirk back from who we know God to be, as revealed in the scriptures.
So I do support this resolution, but more than that, I truly hope that as a people that we as a nation, even now, will humble ourselves before almighty God, repent for our sins as a nation, be humble before Him, step inside that circle of revival, and let it begin in you and in me. And may God bless us as we stand for His truth. Whether we recognize Him or not, regardless of what some court might rule, He still does exist and He is real. And we are under God.
Some have said about the truth in the Bible, "God says it, I believe it, and that settles it." That's not entirely true. God says it and that settles it. Whether we acknowledge Him or not, that is beside the point. He still is.
Senator Brown's statement is as follows:
I rise to support the resolution to retain the phraseology "under God." I will say why. Very simply, it sends a message of clarity, and it sends a message especially to our young people that we want to keep on the historic path of Lincoln and Washington in which the highest--the highest--expression of our national purpose was given voice and inspiration. Furthermore, Mr. President, it is my firm belief that if we fail to acknowledge the sovereignty of God, we do so at the risk of our own peril.
Senator Cropsey's statement is as follows:
A couple of observations. First of all, every legislator who is here sooner or later has the opportunity to offer the invocation or having someone come in from a faith community in your district, elsewhere in the state, or from outside of the state to give the invocation. So I think that the opportunity to do that, having many different faiths coming in and giving the invocation, shows a tremendous amount of diversity that is here in this state.
The major concern that I have when it comes to the "under God" phrase in our national Pledge of Allegiance is that if it is taken away, then what are you really left with? Let me give you an example. We take a look at the Preamble of our own Michigan Constitution, and I want to read the very first sentence. The Preamble of our Constitution of the state of Michigan says, "We the people, the State of Michigan, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of freedom, and earnestly desiring to secure these blessings undiminished to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this constitution."
The key thing to remember in the basic foundation of this state constitution and the basic foundation of our national government and the Declaration of Independence is there has always been the appeal made to God; to deity because it's not from each other that we get our rights; it's not from a democracy that we get our rights. The fact is, when you go back and you look at the historical arguments setting up the United States, the founders were very concerned that it not be a democracy in the pure sense of the form because in a democracy people can vote one way, and then they can vote another way, and they can take away the rights of an individual. But when you have an appeal to God, and saying that God created and God gave each one of us as entities that are created in His image, we have certain rights and we have certain responsibilities that no government can take away or should take away. The government is there to protect those rights and responsibilities that we have as His creation. Then all of a sudden, you begin to realize that the whole function and foundation of our government is when it is based upon that, you do have a respect for diversity for the individual rights of other people that you cannot legislate away because those are unalienable rights that government cannot take away, but government is set there to protect. That is a tremendous chain, if you will, that's put upon one group opposing another group and seeking to do away with that other group because they don't like their skin color, they don't like their religious belief, or anything else. When people stop and reflect there is a God I have to answer to someday, in our system of government, the government is set up to protect those Godgiven freedoms. That's why the phrase "under God" is so important. That's why the appeal to God in our own Preamble is so important. That's why the appeal to the Creator of the universe is so important in our Declaration of Independence.
I would hope that our United States Supreme Court would realize that the basic foundation, principal of our liberty comes from God, and nobody can take that away, but government is set there to protect that basic liberty that we all have.
Senator George's statement is as follows:
I wanted to add an observation to this debate. The phrase "under God" was added to the Pledge of Allegiance by a resolution introduced in Congress by a Michigan Congressman. He was a Democrat from the Detroit area, Congressmen George Dondaro. I wouldn't know what he would say today to this, but I do know that often we in the Legislature are frustrated when the judicial system changes or interprets laws that we pass in a way that we don't intend. I would like to think that if Congressmen Dondaro was here that he would ask us to support this resolution in retaining the phrase that he worked so hard to get into the pledge--"under God."
Introduction and Referral of Bills
Senator McManus introduced
Senate Bill No. 1122, entitled
A bill to amend 1851 PA 156, entitled "An act to define the powers and duties of the county boards of commissioners of the several counties, and to confer upon them certain local, administrative and legislative powers; and to prescribe penalties for the violation of the provisions of this act," by amending section 17 (MCL 46.17); and to repeal acts and parts of acts.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Local, Urban and State Affairs.
House Bill No. 5026, entitled
A bill to amend 1931 PA 328, entitled "The Michigan penal code," by amending section 411a (MCL 750.411a), as amended by 2002 PA 672.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
House Bill No. 5093, entitled
A bill to amend 1943 PA 240, entitled "State employees' retirement act," by amending sections 17g, 23, 27, 33, and 67a (MCL 38.17g, 38.23, 38.27, 38.33, and 38.67a), sections 17g, 23, and 27 as amended by 1987 PA 241, section 33 as amended by 2002 PA 93, and section 67a as added by 1996 PA 487, and by adding section 27a.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Local, Urban and State Affairs.
House Bill No. 5581, entitled
A bill to amend 2000 PA 258, entitled "Career and technical preparation act," by amending section 3 (MCL 388.1903).
The House of Representatives has passed the bill and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Education.
House Bill No. 5582, entitled
A bill to amend 1996 PA 160, entitled "Postsecondary enrollment options act," by amending section 3 (MCL 388.513), as amended by 1997 PA 178.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Education.
Statements
Senators Jacobs, Scott and Cassis asked and were granted unanimous consent to make statements and moved that the statements be printed in the Journal.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Jacobs' statement is as follows:
I rise this morning, having reflected at length on the debate that occurred on this floor at the end of yesterday's session, to make a couple of observations.
Yesterday's debate generated a good deal of emotion, and it should have. Job losses, continuing job losses, should make every one of us emotional. The plight of our constituents who have just lost jobs or who are struggling to find jobs should make all of us angry and frustrated and determined. Clearly, every member of this body shares those emotions.
In my statement that kicked off this whole debate, I was merely commending the Governor for expressing those same emotions, for sharing our determination, and for asking our President and Congress to do the same.
Contrary to what was argued with some of yesterday's speakers, this is not just Michigan's problem. Michigan is not the only state continuing to see jobs leave and continuing to fight plant closures. It's a problem in Ohio, a state that has lost 265,000 jobs over the last three years. It's a problem in Pennsylvania, a state that has lost manufacturing jobs for 43 straight months. It's a problem in New York, down 286,000 jobs since 2001. Too many states are struggling like we are here in Michigan.
As elected leaders, we are right to do everything in our power to help Michigan businesses. We don't always agree on the best approach, but we're all fighting for the same goal. As elected leaders, we're also right to expect our President and our Congress to do the same. They have the ability to do things that we cannot do on the state level. They negotiate our trade deals with other nations, and they must enforce them. They control federal tax policy and job training money. They have the ability to extend unemployment benefits for families who continue to struggle. It's their responsibility to balance the federal budget, which continues to spiral out of control.
That was the point of yesterday's discussion--a point I fear was lost in all the emotion. This is not about who has or hasn't done what. This is about what we all should be doing together because to overcome the challenges we face, it will take governors like Jennifer Granholm and legislators like all of us in states across the country working together with the President, whether he be a Democrat or a Republican, who is truly committed to finding solutions. I think that is a strategy we can all agree on.
Senator Scott's statement is as follows:
We're here to give all citizens of this state the same rights. As you know, last week we debated insurance, a portion of it. So we only dealt with one part of it. I continue to stand before you asking you to deal with the whole problem. I gave you yesterday some analogies on different areas of this state and the cost of insurance. Well, even this morning, I was talking to one of my colleagues, and he said that he pays $4,300 a year for insurance, that same insurance that in some other areas people pay $500-$600 or even less. Now, I don't think it should take forever for us to correct these inequities between the different people in this state. You know, it's not about where we live. We're all here to represent a certain population of this state, but we have one vote for this whole state. So again today I want to talk about--and I touched on it yesterday a little bit--credit scoring.
I talked about a gentleman yesterday who fell on some hard times. You know, if we continue to live in this world, we are all going to fall on some hard times or our family members or our constituents for one time or another. We sit up here and we debate about what's going on in the Bible. Let me tell you, God wants all of us treated the same. We sit up here and we debate and we debate and we debate, but the real thing is how we treat one another. He wants us all treated the same.
Today I come to you about the credit scoring. This issue even worsens the availability and affordability of insurance products in the state. It's merely another form of illegal redlining. I know folks don't like to hear you say that. It's just affordable is what they say--a redlining, credit-based insurance scoring. It's the use of credit scores by insurance companies to determine auto and homeowners insurance premiums. It's a growing practice across the state of Michigan. It's a practice many insurance companies employ, whereby, they use an individual's credit rating as a factor in determining insurance rates. I and other members of the Senate Democratic Caucus have heard from many constituents regarding their concerns about the use of credit scores for determining insurance rate. Let me remind you, it's not just Detroit; it's all over this state, but it's in certain areas of each city. That is troubling with all of these insurance credit scoring and our ratings. Many of them question whether there is any connection between an individual's financial behavior and the likelihood that he or she will submit an insurance claim. The problem is further exacerbated by the lack of information insurance companies provide to policyholders regarding their credit scores. Furthermore, the use of credit scores unfairly penalizes individuals for certain life factors that can negatively impact an individual's credit history, through no fault of their own.
For this reason, I urge the chairman of the Banking and Financial Institutions Committee to hold hearings on legislation currently before his committee, which has been introduced by members of the Democratic Caucus to prohibit the use of credit scores for determining insurance rates. I have and will continue to call attention to the needs to address the rising insurance costs that are threatening the economic security of Michigan residents. Yes, in particular, it is the city of Detroit, but it is basically all over. So again, I urge you.
Senator Cropsey stated that had he been present on March 16 when the votes were taken on the passage of the following bills, he would have voted "yea":
House Bill No. 5476
House Bill No. 4707
Senate Bill No. 1074
House Bill No. 4308
Senator Cropsey stated that had he been present on March 17 when the votes were taken on the passage of the following bills, he would have voted "yea":
Senate Bill No. 783
Senate Bill No. 784
Senate Bill No. 990
Senator Cropsey stated that had he been present on March 18 when the votes were taken on the passage of the following bills, he would have voted "yea":
Senate Bill No. 647
Senate Bill No. 847
House Bill No. 5386
House Bill No. 5190
Senator Cassis' statement is as follows:
We are all familiar with the phrase "Jobs Are Job 1." This has been borrowed from a famous Michigan auto manufacturer. We all believe and think the Governor's heart is in the right place to focus on jobs in our state. In fact, we are all committed to jobs as Jobs No. 1, however, words without action are empty promises. Words that reiterate current laws do not accomplish the goal of doing something to re-employ the unemployed and to create new jobs.
So let's put our energies toward positive work, toward working together; let's join arms across the divides of the aisle; let's join arms that separate us by party, and act on real bills that will invest in Michigan jobs and support the small businesses who hire the workers. Let us remove disincentives--break down barriers and anti-business regulations and restrictions. We can do it.
Committee Reports
The Committee on Education reported
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 10.
A concurrent resolution to urge the United States Supreme Court to reverse the decision of the Ninth United States Circuit Court of Appeals regarding the constitutionality of the Pledge of Allegiance with the phrase "under God."
(For text of resolution, see Senate Journal No. 21, p. 223.)
With the recommendation that the concurrent resolution be adopted.
Wayne Kuipers
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Kuipers, Cassis, Van Woerkom, Clark-Coleman and Leland
Nays: None
The concurrent resolution was placed on the order of Resolutions.
The Committee on Education reported
Senate Resolution No. 22.
A resolution to urge the United States Supreme Court to reverse the decision of the Ninth United States Circuit Court of Appeals regarding the constitutionality of the Pledge of Allegiance with the phrase "under God."
(For text of resolution, see Senate Journal No. 21, p. 222.)
With the recommendation that the resolution be adopted.
Wayne Kuipers
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Kuipers, Cassis, Van Woerkom, Clark-Coleman and Leland
Nays: None
The resolution was placed on the order of Resolutions.
The Committee on Education reported
Senate Bill No. 222, entitled
A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled "The revised school code," (MCL 380.1 to 380.1852) by adding section 1163.
With the recommendation that the substitute (S-4) be adopted and that the bill then pass.
The committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Wayne Kuipers
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Kuipers, Cassis, Van Woerkom, Clark-Coleman and Leland
Nays: None
The bill and the substitute recommended by the committee were referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Education reported
Senate Bill No. 1073, entitled
A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled "The revised school code," by amending section 1246 (MCL 380.1246), as amended by 1995 PA 289.
With the recommendation that the bill pass.
The committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Wayne Kuipers
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Kuipers, Cassis, Van Woerkom, Clark-Coleman and Leland
Nays: None
The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Education submitted the following:
Meeting held on Thursday, March 18, 2004, at 2:00 p.m., Room 210, Farnum Building
Present: Senators Kuipers (C), Cassis, Van Woerkom, Clark-Coleman and Leland
The Committee on Transportation reported
House Bill No. 4600, entitled
A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled "Michigan vehicle code," by amending section 310e (MCL 257.310e), as amended by 2003 PA 61.
With the recommendation that the substitute (S-2) be adopted and that the bill then pass.
The committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Judson S. Gilbert II
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Gilbert, Kuipers and Basham
Nays: Senator Leland
The bill and the substitute recommended by the committee were referred to the Committee of the Whole.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Transportation submitted the following:
Meeting held on Tuesday, March 23, 2004, at 1:05 p.m., Room 100, Farnum Building
Present: Senators Gilbert (C), Kuipers, Goschka, Leland and Basham
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Subcommittee on Judiciary and Corrections submitted the following:
Meeting held on Tuesday, March 23, 2004, at 1:30 p.m., Room 405, Capitol Building
Present: Senators Cropsey (C), Brown, Garcia, Switalski and Prusi
Scheduled Meetings
Agriculture, Forestry and Tourism - Thursday, March 25, 9:00 a.m., Room 110, Farnum Building (373-1635)
Appropriations - Thursday, March 25, 2:00 p.m., Senate Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building (373-2523)
Subcommittees -
Family Independence Agency - Thursdays, March 25 and April 1, 8:30 a.m., Room 210, Farnum Building (373-1801)
General Government - Tuesdays, April 27, May 4, May 11 and May 18, 2:00 p.m., Senate Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building (373-2420)
State Police and Military Affairs - Tuesdays, April 20, April 27, May 4 and May 11, 1:00 p.m., Room 405, Capitol Building (373-5932)
State Police and Military Affairs and House State Police/Military and Veterans Affairs - Thursdays, April 22 and April 29, 8:30 a.m., Senate Hearing Room, Ground Floor, Boji Tower (373-5932)
Conference Committee -
Groundwater Discharge Fees (SB 560) - Thursday, March 25, 11:30 a.m. or later immediately following session, Senate Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building (373-1725)
Education - Thursday, March 25, 2:00 p.m., Room 210, Farnum Building (373-6920)
Local, Urban and State Affairs - Thursday, March 25, 1:00 p.m., Room 110, Farnum Building (373-1707)
Senator Hammerstrom moved that the Senate adjourn.
The motion prevailed, the time being 11:38 a.m.
The President, Lieutenant Governor Cherry, declared the Senate adjourned until Thursday, March 25, 2004, at 10:00 a.m.
CAROL MOREY VIVENTI
Secretary of the Senate