No. 48
State of Michigan
JOURNAL
OF THE
House of Representatives
94th Legislature
REGULAR SESSION OF 2008
House Chamber, Lansing, Tuesday, May 20, 2008.
1:30 p.m.
The House was called to order by the Speaker Pro Tempore.
The roll was called by the Clerk of the House of Representatives, who announced that a quorum was present.
Accavitti—present Dillon—present Lahti—present Pearce—excused
Acciavatti—present Donigan—present LaJoy—present Polidori—present
Agema—present Ebli—present Law, David—present Proos—present
Amos—present Elsenheimer—present Law, Kathleen—present Robertson—present
Angerer—present Emmons—present LeBlanc—present Rocca—present
Ball—present Espinoza—present Leland—present Sak—present
Bauer—present Farrah—present Lemmons—present Schuitmaker—present
Bennett—present Gaffney—present Lindberg—present Scott—present
Bieda—present Garfield—excused Marleau—present Shaffer—present
Booher—present Gillard—present Mayes—present Sheen—present
Brandenburg—present Gonzales—excused McDowell—present Sheltrown—present
Brown—present Green—present Meadows—present Simpson—present
Byrnes—present Griffin—present Meekhof—present Smith, Alma—present
Byrum—present Hammel—present Meisner—present Smith, Virgil—present
Calley—present Hammon—present Melton—present Spade—present
Casperson—excused Hansen—present Meltzer—present Stahl—present
Caswell—present Hildenbrand—present Miller—present Stakoe—present
Caul—present Hood—present Moolenaar—present Steil—present
Cheeks—present Hoogendyk—present Moore—present Tobocman—present
Clack—present Hopgood—present Moss—present Vagnozzi—present
Clemente—present Horn—present Nitz—present Valentine—present
Condino—present Huizenga—excused Nofs—present Walker—present
Constan—present Hune—present Opsommer—present Ward—present
Corriveau—present Jackson—present Palmer—present Warren—present
Coulouris—present Johnson—present Palsrok—present Wenke—present
Cushingberry—present Jones, Rick—present Pastor—present Wojno—present
Dean—present Jones, Robert—present Pavlov—present Young—present
DeRoche—present Knollenberg—present
e/d/s = entered during session
Rep. Dave Hildenbrand, from the 86th District, offered the following invocation:
“Dear Father in Heaven:
We pause before You today to ask for Your guidance and direction as we do Your will in this historic chamber. Where there are differences, we ask for compromise. And where there is tension, we ask for peace.
Amidst the hustle and pressures of the day, we pause also to thank You for the countless blessings in our everyday lives. Continue to watch over us and guide us as we do Your work for this great state.
In Your name we pray. AMEN.”
______
Rep. Booher moved that Reps. Casperson, Garfield, Huizenga and Pearce be excused from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
Rep. Tobocman moved that Rep. Gonzales be excused from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
Reports of Standing Committees
The Speaker laid before the House
House Resolution No. 268.
A resolution to memorialize the United States Congress to enact legislation to reform the No Child Left Behind Act.
(For text of resolution, see House Journal No. 11, p. 133.)
(The resolution was reported by the Committee on Education on April 29, consideration of which, under the rules, was postponed until April 30.)
Rep. Moolenaar moved to substitute (H-2) the resolution as follows:
Substitute for House Resolution No. 268.
A resolution of support for the right of Michigan parents to educate their children at home and oppose efforts to erode this right.
Whereas, The modern homeschool movement in the United States demonstrates that homeschooled children are a vital component of the American education system; and
Whereas, Homeschooling families contribute significantly to the cultural diversity important to a healthy society; and
Whereas, Private homeschooling has a long and rich history in the state of Michigan and is currently estimated as involving approximately 100,000 pupils in the state and 2,000,000 pupils nationwide; and
Whereas, Homeschool graduates occupy responsible positions as students in colleges and universities, in the workplace, as parents, and as citizens in society at large; and
Whereas, Many studies confirm that children who are educated at home score considerably above the national average on nationally normed achievement tests and above the average on both the SAT and ACT college entrance exams; and
Whereas, Homeschooled children are receiving national recognition for their victories in national competitions, national spelling and geography bees, and are highly sought after by nationally recognized colleges and universities; and
Whereas, Article VIII of the 1963 State Constitution asserts that the state has an affirmative responsibility to educate children for the common good. It does not restrict the rights of parents and guardians to choose how their children will be educated, or to choose among public, private, or homeschool options; and
Whereas, Section 1561 of “The Revised School Code” (MCL 380.1561) provides the right for a child to be “educated at the child’s home by his or her parent or legal guardian in an organized educational program in the subject areas of reading, spelling, mathematics, science, history, civics, literature, writing, and English grammar”; and
Whereas, The United States Supreme Court has ruled that parents have a fundamental and constitutional right to direct the upbringing and education of their children (Pierce v. Society of Sisters, 268 U.S. 510 (1925), Meyer v. Nebraska, 262 U.S. 390 (1923), and Wisconsin v. Yoder, 406 U.S. 205 (1972)); and
Whereas, The fair opportunity of Michigan families to educate their children should not be undermined, and no government action should interfere with parents’ fundamental and constitutional right to direct the upbringing and education on their own children; and
Whereas, Recent legislation has been introduced in California and certain other states, which would erode these rights and opportunities by imposing requirements such as the registration of homeschooled students, certification of parents, and mandatory testing; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we support the right of Michigan parents to educate their children at home, and oppose any government action which would burden, abridge, hinder or undermine this natural, fundamental and constitutional right; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor, the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, and members of the State Board of Education.
The motion did not prevail and the substitute (H-2) was not adopted, a majority of the members present not voting therefor.
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
The resolution was adopted.
______
Rep. Dean moved that Rep. Cushingberry be excused temporarily from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
Third Reading of Bills
House Bill No. 5780, entitled
A bill to amend 1984 PA 270, entitled “Michigan strategic fund act,” by amending section 11 (MCL 125.2011), as amended by 1987 PA 278.
Was read a third time and passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, by yeas and nays, as follows:
Roll Call No. 406 Yeas—61
Accavitti Dillon Jones, Robert Polidori
Angerer Donigan Lahti Rocca
Bauer Ebli Law, Kathleen Sak
Bennett Espinoza LeBlanc Scott
Bieda Farrah Leland Sheltrown
Brown Gaffney Lemmons Simpson
Byrnes Gillard Lindberg Smith, Alma
Byrum Griffin Mayes Smith, Virgil
Cheeks Hammel McDowell Spade
Clack Hammon Meadows Tobocman
Clemente Hood Meisner Vagnozzi
Condino Hopgood Melton Valentine
Constan Horn Meltzer Warren
Corriveau Jackson Miller Wojno
Coulouris Johnson Moore Young
Dean
Nays—43
Acciavatti Emmons Meekhof Robertson
Agema Green Moolenaar Schuitmaker
Amos Hansen Moss Shaffer
Ball Hildenbrand Nitz Sheen
Booher Hoogendyk Nofs Stahl
Brandenburg Hune Opsommer Stakoe
Calley Jones, Rick Palmer Steil
Caswell Knollenberg Palsrok Walker
Caul LaJoy Pastor Ward
DeRoche Law, David Pavlov Wenke
Elsenheimer Marleau Proos
In The Chair: Sak
The House agreed to the title of the bill.
______
Rep. Caswell, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
This bill and the rest of this package will force even more businesses across the border. It is a job killer.”
Rep. Calley, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
This bill does not make provision for businesses in border counties.”
Rep. Robertson, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
I have voted NO on HB 5780 and all associated bills in this package. These bills are purely political in nature and will accomplish nothing toward the goal of employing more Michigan residents. The passage of these bills will harm the economic climate of Michigan generally, and specifically commerce and job creation in areas of Michigan bordering other states. During floor action the majority party in this House routinely used procedural moves to squash amendments and democratic debate on this legislation. As the proud son of legal immigrants to this country I support legal immigration and greatly value the contribution of immigrants in American history. Throughout this session the House majority have thwarted every attempt to legitimately address issues regarding illegal immigration and its costs to Michigan taxpayers. They have continuously, in undemocratic fashion, used every procedural device to support the misuse of tax dollars on behalf of illegal immigrants squash our reform efforts. My efforts to protect tuition dollars from being used by illegals have been continuously thwarted. This legislation is a cynical, yet transparent attempt by the Democratic majority to provide political cover for themselves on the issue of illegal immigrants in Michigan. I am confident Michigan residents will see through the camouflage.”
Rep. Sheen, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
No Vote on Hire MI HBs 5780-5791
I am addressing all theses bills as a package, my comments relate specifically to some bills and generally to others. These bills are a direct affront to MI job providers to hire whom ever they choose. These bills are designed to support union workers to the detriment of non-union. It even makes provision for union employers not to be penalized for hiring non-state residents who are union members, while non-union employers use of non-state residents will be penalized. These bills will deny credits, deductions, as well as other benefits to one job provider based on who they hire and whether or not they pay prevailing wages. Government should be picking winners and losers. It has no business deciding between one industry and another industry, as well as between union and non-union employers.
Prevailing wage in both its definition and its results drive up the cost of doing business in Michigan. The cost to build and maintain every school, every government facility and project is driven up dramatically, because of the requirement to pay prevailing wages, which means union wage. These bills are purely political and bad policy, they purport to provide jobs for MI citizens, but they pick and choose as to which MI citizen will be able to benefit and take advantage of them. It is always bad legislation to spend more tax dollars than is necessary and pick which job providers and citizens are worthy and which are not.”
Rep. Angerer moved that the bill be given immediate effect.
The question being on the motion made by Rep. Angerer,
Rep. Schuitmaker demanded the yeas and nays.
The demand was supported.
The question being on the motion made by Rep. Angerer,
The motion did not prevail, 2/3 of the members serving not voting therefor, by yeas and nays, as follows:
Roll Call No. 407 Yeas—60
Accavitti Dean Jones, Robert Polidori
Angerer Dillon Lahti Rocca
Bauer Donigan Law, Kathleen Sak
Bennett Ebli LeBlanc Scott
Bieda Espinoza Leland Sheltrown
Brown Farrah Lemmons Simpson
Byrnes Gaffney Lindberg Smith, Alma
Byrum Gillard Mayes Smith, Virgil
Cheeks Griffin McDowell Spade
Clack Hammel Meadows Tobocman
Clemente Hammon Meisner Vagnozzi
Condino Hood Melton Valentine
Constan Hopgood Meltzer Warren
Corriveau Jackson Miller Wojno
Coulouris Johnson Moore Young
Nays—44
Acciavatti Emmons Marleau Proos
Agema Green Meekhof Robertson
Amos Hansen Moolenaar Schuitmaker
Ball Hildenbrand Moss Shaffer
Booher Hoogendyk Nitz Sheen
Brandenburg Horn Nofs Stahl
Calley Hune Opsommer Stakoe
Caswell Jones, Rick Palmer Steil
Caul Knollenberg Palsrok Walker
DeRoche LaJoy Pastor Ward
Elsenheimer Law, David Pavlov Wenke
In The Chair: Sak
House Bill No. 5781, entitled
A bill to amend 1996 PA 381, entitled “Brownfield redevelopment financing act,” by amending section 15 (MCL 125.2665), as amended by 2007 PA 201
Was read a third time and passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, by yeas and nays, as follows:
Roll Call No. 408 Yeas—68
Accavitti Cushingberry Johnson Moore
Angerer Dean Jones, Robert Polidori
Ball Dillon Lahti Proos
Bauer Donigan LaJoy Rocca
Bennett Ebli Law, David Sak
Bieda Emmons Law, Kathleen Scott
Brown Espinoza LeBlanc Sheltrown
Byrnes Farrah Leland Simpson
Byrum Gaffney Lemmons Smith, Alma
Calley Gillard Lindberg Smith, Virgil
Cheeks Griffin Mayes Spade
Clack Hammel McDowell Tobocman
Clemente Hammon Meadows Vagnozzi
Condino Hood Meisner Valentine
Constan Hopgood Melton Warren
Corriveau Horn Meltzer Wojno
Coulouris Jackson Miller Young
Nays—37
Acciavatti Hansen Moss Schuitmaker
Agema Hildenbrand Nitz Shaffer
Amos Hoogendyk Nofs Sheen
Booher Hune Opsommer Stahl
Brandenburg Jones, Rick Palmer Stakoe
Caswell Knollenberg Palsrok Steil
Caul Marleau Pastor Walker
DeRoche Meekhof Pavlov Ward
Elsenheimer Moolenaar Robertson Wenke
Green
In The Chair: Sak
The House agreed to the title of the bill.
______
Rep. Caswell, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
This bill can be better and I will wait for it to come back from the Senate.”
Rep. Sheen, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
No Vote on Hire MI HBs 5780-5791
I am addressing all theses bills as a package, my comments relate specifically to some bills and generally to others. These bills are a direct affront to MI job providers to hire whom ever they choose. These bills are designed to support union workers to the detriment of non-union. It even makes provision for union employers not to be penalized for hiring non-state residents who are union members, while non-union employers use of non-state residents will be penalized. These bills will deny credits, deductions, as well as other benefits to one job provider based on who they hire and whether or not they pay prevailing wages. Government should be picking winners and losers. It has no business deciding between one industry and another industry, as well as between union and non-union employers.
Prevailing wage in both its definition and its results drive up the cost of doing business in Michigan. The cost to build and maintain every school, every government facility and project is driven up dramatically, because of the requirement to pay prevailing wages, which means union wage. These bills are purely political and bad policy, they purport to provide jobs for MI citizens, but they pick and choose as to which MI citizen will be able to benefit and take advantage of them. It is always bad legislation to spend more tax dollars than is necessary and pick which job providers and citizens are worthy and which are not.”
House Bill No. 5782, entitled
A bill to amend 1984 PA 431, entitled “The management and budget act,” by amending section 241a (MCL 18.1241a), as added by 1988 PA 504.
Was read a third time and passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, by yeas and nays, as follows:
Roll Call No. 409 Yeas—62
Accavitti Dean Jones, Robert Polidori
Angerer Dillon Lahti Rocca
Bauer Donigan Law, Kathleen Sak
Bennett Ebli LeBlanc Scott
Bieda Espinoza Leland Sheltrown
Brown Farrah Lemmons Simpson
Byrnes Gaffney Lindberg Smith, Alma
Byrum Gillard Mayes Smith, Virgil
Cheeks Griffin McDowell Spade
Clack Hammel Meadows Tobocman
Clemente Hammon Meisner Vagnozzi
Condino Hood Melton Valentine
Constan Hopgood Meltzer Warren
Corriveau Horn Miller Wojno
Coulouris Jackson Moore Young
Cushingberry Johnson
Nays—43
Acciavatti Emmons Meekhof Robertson
Agema Green Moolenaar Schuitmaker
Amos Hansen Moss Shaffer
Ball Hildenbrand Nitz Sheen
Booher Hoogendyk Nofs Stahl
Brandenburg Hune Opsommer Stakoe
Calley Jones, Rick Palmer Steil
Caswell Knollenberg Palsrok Walker
Caul LaJoy Pastor Ward
DeRoche Law, David Pavlov Wenke
Elsenheimer Marleau Proos
In The Chair: Sak
The House agreed to the title of the bill.
______
Rep. Caswell, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
This bill will seriously hurt business in the border counties. My amendment to exempt border counties was not even debated. What does the majority fear?”
Rep. Sheen, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
No Vote on Hire MI HBs 5780-5791
I am addressing all theses bills as a package, my comments relate specifically to some bills and generally to others. These bills are a direct affront to MI job providers to hire whom ever they choose. These bills are designed to support union workers to the detriment of non-union. It even makes provision for union employers not to be penalized for hiring non-state residents who are union members, while non-union employers use of non-state residents will be penalized. These bills will deny credits, deductions, as well as other benefits to one job provider based on who they hire and whether or not they pay prevailing wages. Government should be picking winners and losers. It has no business deciding between one industry and another industry, as well as between union and non-union employers.
Prevailing wage in both its definition and its results drive up the cost of doing business in Michigan. The cost to build and maintain every school, every government facility and project is driven up dramatically, because of the requirement to pay prevailing wages, which means union wage. These bills are purely political and bad policy, they purport to provide jobs for MI citizens, but they pick and choose as to which MI citizen will be able to benefit and take advantage of them. It is always bad legislation to spend more tax dollars than is necessary and pick which job providers and citizens are worthy and which are not.”
House Bill No. 5783, entitled
A bill to amend 1984 PA 431, entitled “The management and budget act,” by amending section 264 (MCL 18.1264), as added by 1988 PA 504, and by adding section 264a.
Was read a third time and passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, by yeas and nays, as follows:
Roll Call No. 410 Yeas—64
Accavitti Coulouris Jackson Moore
Amos Cushingberry Johnson Polidori
Angerer Dean Jones, Robert Rocca
Bauer Dillon Lahti Sak
Bennett Donigan Law, Kathleen Scott
Bieda Ebli LeBlanc Sheltrown
Brown Emmons Leland Simpson
Byrnes Espinoza Lemmons Smith, Alma
Byrum Farrah Lindberg Smith, Virgil
Calley Gaffney Mayes Spade
Cheeks Gillard McDowell Tobocman
Clack Griffin Meadows Vagnozzi
Clemente Hammel Meisner Valentine
Condino Hammon Melton Warren
Constan Hood Meltzer Wojno
Corriveau Hopgood Miller Young
Nays—41
Acciavatti Hildenbrand Moolenaar Robertson
Agema Hoogendyk Moss Schuitmaker
Ball Horn Nitz Shaffer
Booher Hune Nofs Sheen
Brandenburg Jones, Rick Opsommer Stahl
Caswell Knollenberg Palmer Stakoe
Caul LaJoy Palsrok Steil
DeRoche Law, David Pastor Walker
Elsenheimer Marleau Pavlov Ward
Green Meekhof Proos Wenke
Hansen
In The Chair: Sak
The House agreed to the title of the bill.
______
Rep. Sheen, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
No Vote on Hire MI HBs 5780-5791
I am addressing all theses bills as a package, my comments relate specifically to some bills and generally to others. These bills are a direct affront to MI job providers to hire whom ever they choose. These bills are designed to support union workers to the detriment of non-union. It even makes provision for union employers not to be penalized for hiring non-state residents who are union members, while non-union employers use of non-state residents will be penalized. These bills will deny credits, deductions, as well as other benefits to one job provider based on who they hire and whether or not they pay prevailing wages. Government should be picking winners and losers. It has no business deciding between one industry and another industry, as well as between union and non-union employers.
Prevailing wage in both its definition and its results drive up the cost of doing business in Michigan. The cost to build and maintain every school, every government facility and project is driven up dramatically, because of the requirement to pay prevailing wages, which means union wage. These bills are purely political and bad policy, they purport to provide jobs for MI citizens, but they pick and choose as to which MI citizen will be able to benefit and take advantage of them. It is always bad legislation to spend more tax dollars than is necessary and pick which job providers and citizens are worthy and which are not.”
House Bill No. 5784, entitled
A bill to amend 1984 PA 431, entitled “The management and budget act,” (MCL 18.1101 to 18.1594) by adding section 241c.
Was read a third time and passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, by yeas and nays, as follows:
Roll Call No. 411 Yeas—71
Accavitti Cushingberry Johnson Nofs
Angerer Dean Jones, Robert Polidori
Ball Dillon Lahti Proos
Bauer Donigan LaJoy Rocca
Bennett Ebli Law, David Sak
Bieda Emmons Law, Kathleen Scott
Brown Espinoza LeBlanc Sheltrown
Byrnes Farrah Leland Simpson
Byrum Gaffney Lemmons Smith, Alma
Calley Gillard Lindberg Smith, Virgil
Caul Griffin Mayes Spade
Cheeks Hammel McDowell Tobocman
Clack Hammon Meadows Vagnozzi
Clemente Hansen Meisner Valentine
Condino Hood Melton Warren
Constan Hopgood Meltzer Wojno
Corriveau Horn Miller Young
Coulouris Jackson Moore
Nays—34
Acciavatti Hildenbrand Nitz Shaffer
Agema Hoogendyk Opsommer Sheen
Amos Hune Palmer Stahl
Booher Jones, Rick Palsrok Stakoe
Brandenburg Knollenberg Pastor Steil
Caswell Marleau Pavlov Walker
DeRoche Meekhof Robertson Ward
Elsenheimer Moolenaar Schuitmaker Wenke
Green Moss
In The Chair: Sak
The House agreed to the title of the bill.
______
Rep. Sheen, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
No Vote on Hire MI HBs 5780-5791
I am addressing all theses bills as a package, my comments relate specifically to some bills and generally to others. These bills are a direct affront to MI job providers to hire whom ever they choose. These bills are designed to support union workers to the detriment of non-union. It even makes provision for union employers not to be penalized for hiring non-state residents who are union members, while non-union employers use of non-state residents will be penalized. These bills will deny credits, deductions, as well as other benefits to one job provider based on who they hire and whether or not they pay prevailing wages. Government should be picking winners and losers. It has no business deciding between one industry and another industry, as well as between union and non-union employers.
Prevailing wage in both its definition and its results drive up the cost of doing business in Michigan. The cost to build and maintain every school, every government facility and project is driven up dramatically, because of the requirement to pay prevailing wages, which means union wage. These bills are purely political and bad policy, they purport to provide jobs for MI citizens, but they pick and choose as to which MI citizen will be able to benefit and take advantage of them. It is always bad legislation to spend more tax dollars than is necessary and pick which job providers and citizens are worthy and which are not.”
House Bill No. 5785, entitled
A bill to amend 1996 PA 376, entitled “Michigan renaissance zone act,” by amending sections 15 and 16 (MCL 125.2695 and 125.2696) and by adding sections 8g and 8h.
Was read a third time and passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, by yeas and nays, as follows:
Roll Call No. 412 Yeas—69
Accavitti Cushingberry Johnson Moore
Angerer Dean Jones, Robert Nofs
Ball Dillon Lahti Polidori
Bauer Donigan LaJoy Rocca
Bennett Ebli Law, David Sak
Bieda Emmons Law, Kathleen Scott
Brown Espinoza LeBlanc Sheltrown
Byrnes Farrah Leland Simpson
Byrum Gaffney Lemmons Smith, Alma
Calley Gillard Lindberg Smith, Virgil
Caswell Griffin Mayes Spade
Cheeks Hammel McDowell Tobocman
Clack Hammon Meadows Vagnozzi
Clemente Hood Meisner Valentine
Condino Hopgood Melton Warren
Constan Horn Meltzer Wojno
Corriveau Jackson Miller Young
Coulouris
Nays—36
Acciavatti Hansen Moss Schuitmaker
Agema Hildenbrand Nitz Shaffer
Amos Hoogendyk Opsommer Sheen
Booher Hune Palmer Stahl
Brandenburg Jones, Rick Palsrok Stakoe
Caul Knollenberg Pastor Steil
DeRoche Marleau Pavlov Walker
Elsenheimer Meekhof Proos Ward
Green Moolenaar Robertson Wenke
In The Chair: Sak
The House agreed to the title of the bill.
______
Rep. Sheen, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
No Vote on Hire MI HBs 5780-5791
I am addressing all theses bills as a package, my comments relate specifically to some bills and generally to others. These bills are a direct affront to MI job providers to hire whom ever they choose. These bills are designed to support union workers to the detriment of non-union. It even makes provision for union employers not to be penalized for hiring non-state residents who are union members, while non-union employers use of non-state residents will be penalized. These bills will deny credits, deductions, as well as other benefits to one job provider based on who they hire and whether or not they pay prevailing wages. Government should be picking winners and losers. It has no business deciding between one industry and another industry, as well as between union and non-union employers.
Prevailing wage in both its definition and its results drive up the cost of doing business in Michigan. The cost to build and maintain every school, every government facility and project is driven up dramatically, because of the requirement to pay prevailing wages, which means union wage. These bills are purely political and bad policy, they purport to provide jobs for MI citizens, but they pick and choose as to which MI citizen will be able to benefit and take advantage of them. It is always bad legislation to spend more tax dollars than is necessary and pick which job providers and citizens are worthy and which are not.”
______
Rep. Meekhof moved that Rep. Wenke be excused temporarily from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
House Bill No. 5786, entitled
A bill to amend 1995 PA 24, entitled “Michigan economic growth authority act,” by amending sections 8 and 10 (MCL 207.808 and 207.810), section 8 as amended by 2007 PA 62 and section 10 as amended by 2006 PA 283.
The bill was read a third time.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
Rep. Brown moved to substitute (H-2) the bill.
The motion was seconded and the substitute (H-2) was adopted, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was then passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, by yeas and nays, as follows:
Roll Call No. 413 Yeas—70
Accavitti Cushingberry Johnson Moore
Angerer Dean Jones, Robert Nofs
Ball Dillon Lahti Polidori
Bauer Donigan LaJoy Rocca
Bennett Ebli Law, David Sak
Bieda Emmons Law, Kathleen Scott
Brown Espinoza LeBlanc Sheltrown
Byrnes Farrah Leland Simpson
Byrum Gaffney Lemmons Smith, Alma
Calley Gillard Lindberg Smith, Virgil
Caswell Griffin Mayes Spade
Cheeks Hammel McDowell Tobocman
Clack Hammon Meadows Vagnozzi
Clemente Hansen Meisner Valentine
Condino Hood Melton Warren
Constan Hopgood Meltzer Wojno
Corriveau Horn Miller Young
Coulouris Jackson
Nays—34
Acciavatti Hildenbrand Nitz Schuitmaker
Agema Hoogendyk Opsommer Shaffer
Amos Hune Palmer Sheen
Booher Jones, Rick Palsrok Stahl
Brandenburg Knollenberg Pastor Stakoe
Caul Marleau Pavlov Steil
DeRoche Meekhof Proos Walker
Elsenheimer Moolenaar Robertson Ward
Green Moss
In The Chair: Sak
The question being on agreeing to the title of the bill,
Rep. Angerer moved to amend the title to read as follows:
A bill to amend 1995 PA 24, entitled “Michigan economic growth authority act,” by amending sections 8 and 10 (MCL 207.808 and 207.810), section 8 as amended by 2008 PA 110 and section 10 as amended by 2006 PA 283.
The motion prevailed.
The House agreed to the title as amended.
Rep. Sheen, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
No Vote on Hire MI HBs 5780-5791
I am addressing all theses bills as a package, my comments relate specifically to some bills and generally to others. These bills are a direct affront to MI job providers to hire whom ever they choose. These bills are designed to support union workers to the detriment of non-union. It even makes provision for union employers not to be penalized for hiring non-state residents who are union members, while non-union employers use of non-state residents will be penalized. These bills will deny credits, deductions, as well as other benefits to one job provider based on who they hire and whether or not they pay prevailing wages. Government should be picking winners and losers. It has no business deciding between one industry and another industry, as well as between union and non-union employers.
Prevailing wage in both its definition and its results drive up the cost of doing business in Michigan. The cost to build and maintain every school, every government facility and project is driven up dramatically, because of the requirement to pay prevailing wages, which means union wage. These bills are purely political and bad policy, they purport to provide jobs for MI citizens, but they pick and choose as to which MI citizen will be able to benefit and take advantage of them. It is always bad legislation to spend more tax dollars than is necessary and pick which job providers and citizens are worthy and which are not.”
House Bill No. 5787, entitled
A bill to amend 2007 PA 36, entitled “Michigan business tax act,” by amending section 435 (MCL 208.1435), as amended by 2007 PA 216.
Was read a third time and passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, by yeas and nays, as follows:
Roll Call No. 414 Yeas—72
Accavitti Coulouris Jackson Moore
Agema Cushingberry Johnson Nofs
Angerer Dean Jones, Robert Opsommer
Ball DeRoche Lahti Polidori
Bauer Dillon LaJoy Rocca
Bennett Donigan Law, David Sak
Bieda Ebli Law, Kathleen Scott
Brown Espinoza LeBlanc Sheltrown
Byrnes Farrah Leland Simpson
Byrum Gaffney Lemmons Smith, Alma
Calley Gillard Lindberg Smith, Virgil
Caswell Griffin Mayes Spade
Cheeks Hammel McDowell Tobocman
Clack Hammon Meadows Vagnozzi
Clemente Hansen Meisner Valentine
Condino Hood Melton Warren
Constan Hopgood Meltzer Wojno
Corriveau Horn Miller Young
Nays—33
Acciavatti Hoogendyk Nitz Shaffer
Amos Hune Palmer Sheen
Booher Jones, Rick Palsrok Stahl
Brandenburg Knollenberg Pastor Stakoe
Caul Marleau Pavlov Steil
Elsenheimer Meekhof Proos Walker
Emmons Moolenaar Robertson Ward
Green Moss Schuitmaker Wenke
Hildenbrand
In The Chair: Sak
The House agreed to the title of the bill.
______
Rep. Sheen, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
No Vote on Hire MI HBs 5780-5791
I am addressing all theses bills as a package, my comments relate specifically to some bills and generally to others. These bills are a direct affront to MI job providers to hire whom ever they choose. These bills are designed to support union workers to the detriment of non-union. It even makes provision for union employers not to be penalized for hiring non-state residents who are union members, while non-union employers use of non-state residents will be penalized. These bills will deny credits, deductions, as well as other benefits to one job provider based on who they hire and whether or not they pay prevailing wages. Government should be picking winners and losers. It has no business deciding between one industry and another industry, as well as between union and non-union employers.
Prevailing wage in both its definition and its results drive up the cost of doing business in Michigan. The cost to build and maintain every school, every government facility and project is driven up dramatically, because of the requirement to pay prevailing wages, which means union wage. These bills are purely political and bad policy, they purport to provide jobs for MI citizens, but they pick and choose as to which MI citizen will be able to benefit and take advantage of them. It is always bad legislation to spend more tax dollars than is necessary and pick which job providers and citizens are worthy and which are not.”
House Bill No. 5788, entitled
A bill to amend 2000 PA 146, entitled “Obsolete property rehabilitation act,” by amending section 8 (MCL 125.2788), as amended by 2006 PA 667.
Was read a third time and passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, by yeas and nays, as follows:
Roll Call No. 415 Yeas—68
Accavitti Cushingberry Johnson Moore
Angerer Dean Jones, Robert Nofs
Ball Dillon Lahti Polidori
Bauer Donigan LaJoy Rocca
Bennett Ebli Law, David Sak
Bieda Espinoza Law, Kathleen Scott
Brown Farrah LeBlanc Sheltrown
Byrnes Gaffney Leland Simpson
Byrum Gillard Lemmons Smith, Alma
Caswell Griffin Lindberg Smith, Virgil
Cheeks Hammel Mayes Spade
Clack Hammon McDowell Tobocman
Clemente Hansen Meadows Vagnozzi
Condino Hood Meisner Valentine
Constan Hopgood Melton Warren
Corriveau Horn Meltzer Wojno
Coulouris Jackson Miller Young
Nays—37
Acciavatti Green Moss Schuitmaker
Agema Hildenbrand Nitz Shaffer
Amos Hoogendyk Opsommer Sheen
Booher Hune Palmer Stahl
Brandenburg Jones, Rick Palsrok Stakoe
Calley Knollenberg Pastor Steil
Caul Marleau Pavlov Walker
DeRoche Meekhof Proos Ward
Elsenheimer Moolenaar Robertson Wenke
Emmons
In The Chair: Sak
The House agreed to the title of the bill.
______
Rep. Sheen, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
No Vote on Hire MI HBs 5780-5791
I am addressing all theses bills as a package, my comments relate specifically to some bills and generally to others. These bills are a direct affront to MI job providers to hire whom ever they choose. These bills are designed to support union workers to the detriment of non-union. It even makes provision for union employers not to be penalized for hiring non-state residents who are union members, while non-union employers use of non-state residents will be penalized. These bills will deny credits, deductions, as well as other benefits to one job provider based on who they hire and whether or not they pay prevailing wages. Government should be picking winners and losers. It has no business deciding between one industry and another industry, as well as between union and non-union employers.
Prevailing wage in both its definition and its results drive up the cost of doing business in Michigan. The cost to build and maintain every school, every government facility and project is driven up dramatically, because of the requirement to pay prevailing wages, which means union wage. These bills are purely political and bad policy, they purport to provide jobs for MI citizens, but they pick and choose as to which MI citizen will be able to benefit and take advantage of them. It is always bad legislation to spend more tax dollars than is necessary and pick which job providers and citizens are worthy and which are not.”
House Bill No. 5789, entitled
A bill to amend 1963 PA 62, entitled “Industrial development revenue bond act of 1963,” (MCL 125.1251 to 125.1267) by adding section 5a.
Was read a third time and passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, by yeas and nays, as follows:
Roll Call No. 416 Yeas—70
Accavitti Coulouris Johnson Moore
Agema Cushingberry Jones, Robert Nofs
Angerer Dean Lahti Polidori
Ball DeRoche LaJoy Rocca
Bauer Dillon Law, David Sak
Bennett Donigan Law, Kathleen Scott
Bieda Ebli LeBlanc Sheltrown
Brown Espinoza Leland Simpson
Byrnes Farrah Lemmons Smith, Alma
Byrum Gaffney Lindberg Smith, Virgil
Calley Gillard Mayes Spade
Caswell Griffin McDowell Tobocman
Cheeks Hammel Meadows Vagnozzi
Clack Hammon Meisner Valentine
Clemente Hood Melton Warren
Condino Hopgood Meltzer Wojno
Constan Horn Miller Young
Corriveau Jackson
Nays—35
Acciavatti Hildenbrand Nitz Shaffer
Amos Hoogendyk Opsommer Sheen
Booher Hune Palmer Stahl
Brandenburg Jones, Rick Palsrok Stakoe
Caul Knollenberg Pastor Steil
Elsenheimer Marleau Pavlov Walker
Emmons Meekhof Proos Ward
Green Moolenaar Robertson Wenke
Hansen Moss Schuitmaker
In The Chair: Sak
The House agreed to the title of the bill.
______
Rep. Sheen, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
No Vote on Hire MI HBs 5780-5791
I am addressing all theses bills as a package, my comments relate specifically to some bills and generally to others. These bills are a direct affront to MI job providers to hire whom ever they choose. These bills are designed to support union workers to the detriment of non-union. It even makes provision for union employers not to be penalized for hiring non-state residents who are union members, while non-union employers use of non-state residents will be penalized. These bills will deny credits, deductions, as well as other benefits to one job provider based on who they hire and whether or not they pay prevailing wages. Government should be picking winners and losers. It has no business deciding between one industry and another industry, as well as between union and non-union employers.
Prevailing wage in both its definition and its results drive up the cost of doing business in Michigan. The cost to build and maintain every school, every government facility and project is driven up dramatically, because of the requirement to pay prevailing wages, which means union wage. These bills are purely political and bad policy, they purport to provide jobs for MI citizens, but they pick and choose as to which MI citizen will be able to benefit and take advantage of them. It is always bad legislation to spend more tax dollars than is necessary and pick which job providers and citizens are worthy and which are not.”
House Bill No. 5790, entitled
A bill to amend 1974 PA 198, entitled “An act to provide for the establishment of plant rehabilitation districts and industrial development districts in local governmental units; to provide for the exemption from certain taxes; to levy and collect a specific tax upon the owners of certain facilities; to impose and provide for the disposition of an administrative fee; to provide for the disposition of the tax; to provide for the obtaining and transferring of an exemption certificate and to prescribe the contents of those certificates; to prescribe the powers and duties of the state tax commission and certain officers of local governmental units; and to provide penalties,” by amending section 4 (MCL 207.554), as amended by 2004 PA 437.
Was read a third time and passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, by yeas and nays, as follows:
Roll Call No. 417 Yeas—70
Accavitti Cushingberry Lahti Polidori
Angerer Dean LaJoy Proos
Ball Dillon Law, David Rocca
Bauer Donigan Law, Kathleen Sak
Bennett Ebli LeBlanc Scott
Bieda Espinoza Leland Shaffer
Brown Farrah Lemmons Sheltrown
Byrnes Gaffney Lindberg Simpson
Byrum Gillard Mayes Smith, Alma
Calley Griffin McDowell Smith, Virgil
Caswell Hammel Meadows Spade
Cheeks Hammon Meisner Tobocman
Clack Hood Melton Vagnozzi
Clemente Hopgood Meltzer Valentine
Condino Horn Miller Warren
Constan Jackson Moore Wojno
Corriveau Johnson Nofs Young
Coulouris Jones, Robert
Nays—35
Acciavatti Green Moolenaar Schuitmaker
Agema Hansen Moss Sheen
Amos Hildenbrand Nitz Stahl
Booher Hoogendyk Opsommer Stakoe
Brandenburg Hune Palmer Steil
Caul Jones, Rick Palsrok Walker
DeRoche Knollenberg Pastor Ward
Elsenheimer Marleau Pavlov Wenke
Emmons Meekhof Robertson
In The Chair: Sak
The House agreed to the title of the bill.
______
Rep. Sheen, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
No Vote on Hire MI HBs 5780-5791
I am addressing all theses bills as a package, my comments relate specifically to some bills and generally to others. These bills are a direct affront to MI job providers to hire whom ever they choose. These bills are designed to support union workers to the detriment of non-union. It even makes provision for union employers not to be penalized for hiring non-state residents who are union members, while non-union employers use of non-state residents will be penalized. These bills will deny credits, deductions, as well as other benefits to one job provider based on who they hire and whether or not they pay prevailing wages. Government should be picking winners and losers. It has no business deciding between one industry and another industry, as well as between union and non-union employers.
Prevailing wage in both its definition and its results drive up the cost of doing business in Michigan. The cost to build and maintain every school, every government facility and project is driven up dramatically, because of the requirement to pay prevailing wages, which means union wage. These bills are purely political and bad policy, they purport to provide jobs for MI citizens, but they pick and choose as to which MI citizen will be able to benefit and take advantage of them. It is always bad legislation to spend more tax dollars than is necessary and pick which job providers and citizens are worthy and which are not.”
House Bill No. 5791, entitled
A bill to amend 1987 PA 231, entitled “An act to create a transportation economic development fund in the state treasury; to prescribe the uses of and distributions from this fund; to create the office of economic development and to prescribe its powers and duties; to prescribe the powers and duties of the state transportation department, state transportation commission, and certain other bodies; and to permit the issuance of certain bonds,” by amending section 13 (MCL 247.913) and by adding section 9a.
The bill was read a third time.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
Rep. Miller moved to amend the bill as follows:
1. Amend page 2, line 13, after “RESIDENTS” by striking out “AT THE FACILITY” and inserting “ON THE PROJECT”.
2. Amend page 2, line 15, after “REHABILITATE,” by striking out the balance of the line through “FACILITY.” on line 16 and inserting “AND DEVELOP THE PROJECT.”.
3. Amend page 2, line 23, after “FINANCING” by striking out “UNDER THIS ACT” and inserting “FOR PROJECTS DESCRIBED IN SECTION 9(1)(A)”.
The motion was seconded and the amendments were adopted, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was then passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, by yeas and nays, as follows:
Roll Call No. 418 Yeas—70
Accavitti Coulouris Jones, Robert Nofs
Agema Cushingberry Lahti Polidori
Angerer Dean LaJoy Rocca
Ball Dillon Law, David Sak
Bauer Donigan Law, Kathleen Scott
Bennett Ebli LeBlanc Shaffer
Bieda Espinoza Leland Sheltrown
Brown Farrah Lemmons Simpson
Byrnes Gaffney Lindberg Smith, Alma
Byrum Gillard Mayes Smith, Virgil
Calley Griffin McDowell Spade
Caswell Hammel Meadows Tobocman
Cheeks Hammon Meisner Vagnozzi
Clack Hood Melton Valentine
Clemente Hopgood Meltzer Warren
Condino Horn Miller Wojno
Constan Jackson Moore Young
Corriveau Johnson
Nays—35
Acciavatti Hansen Moss Schuitmaker
Amos Hildenbrand Nitz Sheen
Booher Hoogendyk Opsommer Stahl
Brandenburg Hune Palmer Stakoe
Caul Jones, Rick Palsrok Steil
DeRoche Knollenberg Pastor Walker
Elsenheimer Marleau Pavlov Ward
Emmons Meekhof Proos Wenke
Green Moolenaar Robertson
In The Chair: Sak
The House agreed to the title of the bill.
______
Rep. Sheen, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement:
“Mr. Speaker and members of the House:
No Vote on Hire MI HBs 5780-5791
I am addressing all theses bills as a package, my comments relate specifically to some bills and generally to others. These bills are a direct affront to MI job providers to hire whom ever they choose. These bills are designed to support union workers to the detriment of non-union. It even makes provision for union employers not to be penalized for hiring non-state residents who are union members, while non-union employers use of non-state residents will be penalized. These bills will deny credits, deductions, as well as other benefits to one job provider based on who they hire and whether or not they pay prevailing wages. Government should be picking winners and losers. It has no business deciding between one industry and another industry, as well as between union and non-union employers.
Prevailing wage in both its definition and its results drive up the cost of doing business in Michigan. The cost to build and maintain every school, every government facility and project is driven up dramatically, because of the requirement to pay prevailing wages, which means union wage. These bills are purely political and bad policy, they purport to provide jobs for MI citizens, but they pick and choose as to which MI citizen will be able to benefit and take advantage of them. It is always bad legislation to spend more tax dollars than is necessary and pick which job providers and citizens are worthy and which are not.”
By unanimous consent the House returned to the order of
Motions and Resolutions
Rep. Agema moved that the Committee on Appropriations be discharged from further consideration of House Bill No. 4666.
(For first notice see House Journal No. 47, p. 1089.)
The question being on the motion made by Rep. Agema,
Rep. Agema demanded the yeas and nays.
The demand was supported.
The question being on the motion made by Rep. Agema,
Rep. Angerer moved that consideration of the motion be postponed for the day.
The motion prevailed.
Reps. Miller, Accavitti, Clack, Condino, Constan, Dean, Hammon, Hopgood, Kathleen Law, LeBlanc, Leland, Lemmons, Mayes, Meadows, Polidori, Sak, Sheltrown, Simpson, Alma Smith, Spade, Vagnozzi and Valentine offered the following resolution:
House Resolution No. 370.
A resolution to memorialize the Congress of the United States to reject the Colombia Free Trade Agreement.
Whereas, The administration has transmitted to the Congress a trade agreement with Colombia. This measure is being touted for its impact on security in South and Central America every bit as much as its economic effects. In both regards, however, the Colombia Free Trade Agreement falls short; and
Whereas, The proposed trade agreement comes at a difficult time for working men and women in our country. Rising unemployment, skyrocketing prices, and wage levels that have long lagged behind costs have combined with the widespread housing finance crisis to jeopardize the security of working class families across America. Against that backdrop, the prospect of a trade agreement that would contribute to more lost jobs, shrinking paychecks, and our nation’s ever-increasing trade deficit is most unwelcome; and
Whereas, The ramped-up outsourcing of American jobs that has followed various trade agreements has contributed to the virtual disappearance of much of the manufacturing in our country. Any trade agreement that ignores this track record and fails to implement more appropriate policies is unacceptable. We must take a stand to safeguard jobs that built much of our middle class; and
Whereas, In addition to concerns many have expressed about the agreement’s harm to American workers, Colombia’s treatment of its own citizens, including trade unionists, should give us pause. There are also some observers who feel that the trend to larger scale farming and the displacement of small farms that would likely take place because of the Colombia Free Trade Agreement could add to instability in this dangerous part of the world; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we memorialize the Congress of the United States to reject the Colombia Free Trade Agreement; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.
The resolution was referred to the Committee on Government Operations.
Reps. LeBlanc, Accavitti, Bieda, Booher, Brown, Clack, Condino, Constan, Cushingberry, Dean, Hammon, Hopgood, Kathleen Law, Leland, Lemmons, Mayes, Meadows, Miller, Polidori, Proos, Sak, Shaffer, Sheltrown, Simpson, Alma Smith, Spade, Vagnozzi and Valentine offered the following resolution:
House Resolution No. 371.
A resolution declaring July 12, 2008, as Cruisin’ Michigan Day in the state of Michigan.
Whereas, The Michigan Avenue corridor through Wayne County has a tremendous automotive endowment and heritage that has produced significant wealth and economic investment for the state and its residents; and
Whereas, Michigan Avenue is where the world headquarters of the Ford Motor Company is located, as well many other automotive facilities, factories and museums; and
Whereas, To celebrate and observe Michigan Avenue’s contributions to the automotive industry and love affair with the automobile, five Wayne County communities – Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Inkster, Westland and Wayne – are teaming up with automotive enthusiast Don Nicholson, local car clubs, chambers of commerce and corporate sponsors to host the first annual Cruisin’ Michigan cruise and car show on Saturday, July 12, 2008; and
Whereas, This inaugural event will provide significant economic benefits for the businesses located along Michigan Avenue, as well as for local service organizations such as the Kiwanis, Rotary and other clubs that will be able to sell merchandise to support their missions; and
Whereas, Cruisin’ Michigan will promote Michigan and recognize the contributions it has made to the automotive industry; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body designate July 12, 2008, as Cruisin’ Michigan Day.
Pending the reference of the resolution to a committee,
Rep. Angerer moved that Rule 71 be suspended and the resolution be considered at this time.
The motion prevailed, 3/5 of the members present voting therefor.
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
The resolution was adopted.
Reps. Brown, Accavitti, Bauer, Bieda, Booher, Brandenburg, Clack, Clemente, Condino, Constan, Cushingberry, Dean, Hammon, Hopgood, Lahti, Kathleen Law, LeBlanc, Leland, Lemmons, Mayes, Meadows, Miller, Polidori, Rocca, Sak, Sheltrown, Simpson, Alma Smith, Spade, Tobocman, Vagnozzi and Valentine offered the following resolution:
House Resolution No. 372.
A resolution to memorialize the Congress of the United States to pass, and President Bush to sign, the Post 9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act.
Whereas, In 1944, the Congress of the United States passed, and President Roosevelt signed, the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act, known to most people as the GI Bill of Rights. Since its establishment, the GI Bill has created educational opportunities for millions of veterans; and
Whereas, Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, members of the United States military have been asked to perform heroic tasks in the name of freedom. These selfless volunteers have performed with remarkable valor, and it is incumbent on citizens of the United States to honor their service in any way possible; and
Whereas, The cost of attending college has increased greatly in recent years, and as a result the benefits provided by the GI Bill are no longer sufficient to cover the average cost of tuition; and
Whereas, Since 1944, Congress has periodically updated the GI Bill to reflect the changing needs of our soldiers and the military as a whole. However, despite the changes of the past decades, it has been 24 years since the law was significantly reformed; and
Whereas, Improving and updating the GI bill would create an additional incentive for individuals considering enlistment, which is vital given the all-volunteer nature of our military; and
Whereas, Two pieces of legislation currently before Congress, S. 22 and H. R. 2702, would update the GI Bill to reflect the current realities facing our servicemembers. These bills, known as the Post 9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act, would increase the amount of aid available to these students, and would otherwise remove obstacles to obtaining a college education. While not perfect, these bills represent a significant improvement over the current system; and
Whereas, Those who would complain about the costs of such a program seem to forget the staggering price we ask of these men and women. Likewise, those who complain that these bills would create an incentive to leave the military underestimate the dedication and devotion of our troops; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we memorialize the Congress of the United States to enact, and the President of the United States to sign, S. 22 and H. R. 2702; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States, the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.
The resolution was referred to the Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security.
Reps. Brown, Accavitti, Bieda, Booher, Brandenburg, Clack, Condino, Constan, Cushingberry, Dean, Hammon, Hopgood, Lahti, Kathleen Law, LeBlanc, Leland, Lemmons, Mayes, Meadows, Miller, Polidori, Proos, Sak, Shaffer, Sheltrown, Simpson, Alma Smith, Spade, Tobocman, Vagnozzi and Valentine offered the following resolution:
House Resolution No. 373.
A resolution commemorating May 2008 as Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month in the state of Michigan.
Whereas, Asthma has reached epidemic proportions in the United States, affecting about 20 million people; and
Whereas, Seasonal allergies affect 35 million Americans; and
Whereas, Food allergies affect 12 million Americans; and
Whereas, Asthma is the leading cause of childhood hospitalizations, long-term illness, and school absenteeism, accounting for more than 14 million missed school days each year; and
Whereas, Each year 2 million people are rushed to the emergency room, 5,000 people die from asthma and 150 die from food allergy reactions; and
Whereas, Asthma and allergic diseases cost the U.S. economy over $25 billion annually; and
Whereas, Asthma is a long-term, inflammatory disease in which the airways of the lungs constrict, causing wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing; and
Whereas, Exposure to allergens and irritants such as dust mites, mold, cockroaches, pet dander, and secondhand smoke can bring on an asthma episode; and
Whereas, There are simple steps people can take to reduce their exposure to environmental asthma triggers; and
Whereas, Healthcare professionals are encouraged to adhere to current treatment guidelines, as established by the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, in their treatment regiments; and
Whereas, The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) is the leading non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with asthma and allergies through education, advocacy and research; and
Whereas, A national month dedicated to educating all Americans about comprehensive asthma management and to increase public understanding of asthma and allergies, as well as how to manage them; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body commemorate May 2008 as Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month in the state of Michigan; and be it further
Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America - Michigan Chapter and Shering-Plough, State Government Affairs in an effort to raise awareness and promote education and training programs in Michigan.
Pending the reference of the resolution to a committee,
Rep. Angerer moved that Rule 71 be suspended and the resolution be considered at this time.
The motion prevailed, 3/5 of the members present voting therefor.
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
The resolution was adopted.
Reps. Valentine, Accavitti, Bauer, Bieda, Brandenburg, Brown, Clack, Clemente, Condino, Constan, Cushingberry, Dean, Hammon, Hopgood, Lahti, Kathleen Law, LeBlanc, Leland, Lemmons, Mayes, Meadows, Miller, Polidori, Rocca, Sak, Sheltrown, Simpson, Alma Smith, Spade, Tobocman and Vagnozzi offered the following concurrent resolution:
House Concurrent Resolution No. 84.
A concurrent resolution to memorialize the Congress of the United States to pass, and President Bush to sign, the Post 9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act.
Whereas, In 1944, the Congress of the United States passed, and President Roosevelt signed, the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act, known to most people as the GI Bill of Rights. Since its establishment, the GI Bill has created educational opportunities for millions of veterans; and
Whereas, Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, members of the United States military have been asked to perform heroic tasks in the name of freedom. These selfless volunteers have performed with remarkable valor, and it is incumbent on citizens of the United States to honor their service in any way possible; and
Whereas, The cost of attending college has increased greatly in recent years, and as a result the benefits provided by the GI Bill are no longer sufficient to cover the average cost of tuition; and
Whereas, Since 1944, Congress has periodically updated the GI Bill to reflect the changing needs of our soldiers and the military as a whole. However, despite the changes of the past decades, it has been 24 years since the law was significantly reformed; and
Whereas, Improving and updating the GI bill would create an additional incentive for individuals considering enlistment, which is vital given the all-volunteer nature of our military; and
Whereas, Two pieces of legislation currently before Congress, S. 22 and H. R. 2702, would update the GI Bill to reflect the current realities facing our servicemembers. These bills, known as the Post 9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act, would increase the amount of aid available to these students, and would otherwise remove obstacles to obtaining a college education. While not perfect, these bills represent a significant improvement over the current system; and
Whereas, Those who would complain about the costs of such a program seem to forget the staggering price we ask of these men and women. Likewise, those who complain that these bills would create an incentive to leave the military underestimate the dedication and devotion of our troops; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That we memorialize the Congress of the United States to enact, and the President of the United States to sign, S. 22 and H. R. 2702; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States, the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.
The concurrent resolution was referred to the Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security.
Announcement by the Clerk of Printing and Enrollment
The Clerk announced the enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor on Friday, May 16, for her approval of the following bills:
Enrolled House Bill No. 5085 at 10:18 a.m.
Enrolled House Bill No. 5174 at 10:20 a.m.
Enrolled House Bill No. 5274 at 10:22 a.m.
Enrolled House Bill No. 5585 at 10:24 a.m.
The Clerk announced that the following bills had been printed and placed upon the files of the members on Friday, May 16:
House Bill Nos. 6122 6123
Senate Bill Nos. 1314 1315 1316 1317 1318 1319 1320 1321 1322 1323 1324
The Clerk announced the enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor on Tuesday, May 20, for her approval of the following bills:
Enrolled House Bill No. 4602 at 9:28 a.m.
Enrolled House Bill No. 5909 at 9:30 a.m.
Reports of Standing Committees
The Committee on Transportation, by Rep. Hopgood, Chair, reported
House Bill No. 4982, entitled
A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “Michigan vehicle code,” by amending section 320a (MCL 257.320a), as amended by 2004 PA 495, and by adding section 602b.
With the recommendation that the substitute (H-3) be adopted and that the bill then pass.
The bill and substitute were referred to the order of Second Reading of Bills.
Favorable Roll Call
To Report Out:
Yeas: Reps. Hopgood, Griffin, Accavitti, Bieda, Donigan, Ebli, Miller, Young and LaJoy
Nays: Reps. Casperson, Nitz, Pavlov, Stahl and Knollenberg
The Committee on Transportation, by Rep. Hopgood, Chair, reported
House Bill No. 5117, entitled
A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “Michigan vehicle code,” (MCL 257.1 to 257.923) by adding section 602b.
With the recommendation that the substitute (H-3) be adopted and that the bill then pass.
The bill and substitute were referred to the order of Second Reading of Bills.
Favorable Roll Call
To Report Out:
Yeas: Reps. Hopgood, Griffin, Accavitti, Bieda, Donigan, Ebli, Leland, Mayes, Miller, Young, LaJoy, Casperson, Pearce, Stahl and Knollenberg
Nays: Reps. Nitz and Pavlov
The Committee on Transportation, by Rep. Hopgood, Chair, reported
House Bill No. 5396, entitled
A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “Michigan vehicle code,” (MCL 257.1 to 257.923) by adding section 602b.
With the recommendation that the substitute (H-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.
The bill and substitute were referred to the order of Second Reading of Bills.
Favorable Roll Call
To Report Out:
Yeas: Reps. Hopgood, Griffin, Bieda, Donigan, Ebli, Leland, Mayes, Miller, Young, LaJoy, Casperson, Pavlov, Pearce, Stahl and Knollenberg
Nays: Rep. Nitz
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The following report, submitted by Rep. Hopgood, Chair, of the Committee on Transportation, was received and read:
Meeting held on: Thursday, May 15, 2008
Present: Reps. Hopgood, Griffin, Accavitti, Bieda, Donigan, Ebli, Leland, Mayes, Miller, Young, LaJoy, Casperson, Nitz, Pavlov, Pearce, Stahl and Knollenberg
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The following report, submitted by Rep. Coulouris, Chair, of the Committee on Banking and Financial Services, was received and read:
Meeting held on: Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Present: Reps. Coulouris, Johnson, Mayes, Virgil Smith, Moore, Robertson and Green
Absent: Reps. Clemente and Calley
Excused: Reps. Clemente and Calley
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The following report, submitted by Rep. Farrah, Chair, of the Committee on Regulatory Reform, was received and read:
Meeting held on: Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Present: Reps. Farrah, Scott, Meadows, Virgil Smith, Wojno, Marleau, Palsrok and Gaffney
Absent: Reps. Warren and Ward
Excused: Reps. Warren and Ward
Messages from the Senate
House Bill No. 4184, entitled
A bill to amend 1953 PA 232, entitled “Corrections code of 1953,” by amending section 34a (MCL 791.234a), as amended by 1998 PA 315.
The Senate has appointed Senators Cropsey, Sanborn and Whitmer as conferees to join with Representatives Condino, Alma Smith and Rick Jones.
The bill was referred to the Conference Committee on May 16, 2008.
House Bill No. 5102, entitled
A bill to amend 1972 PA 239, entitled “McCauley-Traxler-Law-Bowman-McNeely lottery act,” by amending section 23 (MCL 432.23), as amended by 2004 PA 272.
The Senate has passed the bill, ordered that it be given immediate effect and pursuant to Joint Rule 20, inserted the full title.
The House agreed to the full title.
The bill was referred to the Clerk for enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor.
House Bill No. 5509, entitled
A bill to amend 2003 PA 198, entitled “Farm produce insurance act,” by amending sections 3, 13, and 15 (MCL 285.313, 285.323, and 285.325).
The Senate has passed the bill, ordered that it be given immediate effect and pursuant to Joint Rule 20, inserted the full title.
The House agreed to the full title.
The bill was referred to the Clerk for enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor.
Introduction of Bills
Reps. Simpson, Leland, LeBlanc, Cushingberry, Condino, Clack, Donigan, Johnson, Vagnozzi and Hammon introduced
House Bill No. 6124, entitled
A bill to amend 2005 PA 210, entitled “Commercial rehabilitation act,” by amending section 3 (MCL 207.843).
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Commerce.
Reps. Simpson, Virgil Smith, Leland, Bieda, Miller, Cushingberry, Coulouris, Tobocman, Condino, Hood, Hammon, Clack, Donigan, Johnson and Vagnozzi introduced
House Bill No. 6125, entitled
A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” (MCL 500.100 to 500.8302) by adding section 2090.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Insurance.
Reps. Simpson, Corriveau, Alma Smith, Leland, Polidori, Bieda, Cushingberry, Coulouris, Condino, Hood, Clack, Donigan, Johnson, Vagnozzi, Dean and Hammon introduced
House Bill No. 6126, entitled
A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “Michigan vehicle code,” by amending section 682 (MCL 257.682), as amended by 1990 PA 188.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Transportation.
Rep. David Law introduced
House Bill No. 6127, entitled
A bill to amend 1980 PA 299, entitled “Occupational code,” by amending sections 1201, 1203, 1203b, 1204, and 1217 (MCL 339.1201, 339.1203, 339.1203b, 339.1204, and 339.1217), sections 1201 and 1217 as amended and section 1203b as added by 1997 PA 97 and section 1204 as amended by 2003 PA 57.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Regulatory Reform.
Reps. Meltzer, Opsommer, Amos, Palmer, Marleau, Agema and Palsrok introduced
House Bill No. 6128, entitled
A bill to repeal 1993 PA 330, entitled “State real estate transfer tax act,” (MCL 207.521 to 207.537).
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Tax Policy.
Reps. Meltzer, Opsommer, Amos, Marleau, Agema and Palsrok introduced
House Bill No. 6129, entitled
A bill to amend 1979 PA 94, entitled “The state school aid act of 1979,” by amending sections 11 and 17b (MCL 388.1611 and 388.1617b), as amended by 2007 PA 137.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
Reps. Mayes and Farrah introduced
House Bill No. 6130, entitled
A bill to amend 1941 PA 207, entitled “Fire prevention code,” (MCL 29.1 to 29.33) by adding section 3f.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Regulatory Reform.
Reps. Alma Smith and Warren introduced
House Bill No. 6131, entitled
A bill to amend 1939 PA 280, entitled “The social welfare act,” by amending sections 115g, 115i, and 115j (MCL 400.115g, 400.115i, and 400.115j), section 115g as amended by 2004 PA 193 and sections 115i and 115j as amended by 2002 PA 648.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Families and Children’s Services.
______
Rep. Hune moved that the House adjourn.
The motion prevailed, the time being 4:00 p.m.
The Speaker Pro Tempore declared the House adjourned until Wednesday, May 21, at 1:30 p.m.
RICHARD J. BROWN
Clerk of the House of Representatives
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