No. 61
STATE OF MICHIGAN
Journal of the Senate
94th Legislature
REGULAR SESSION OF 2008
Senate Chamber, Lansing, Wednesday, June 18, 2008.
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 Garcia—present Pappageorge—present
Anderson—present George—present Patterson—present
Barcia—present Gilbert—present Prusi—present
Basham—present Gleason—present Richardville—present
Birkholz—present Hardiman—present Sanborn—present
Bishop—present Hunter—present Schauer—present
Brater—present Jacobs —present Scott—present
Brown—present Jansen—present Stamas—excused
Cassis—present Jelinek—present Switalski—present
Cherry—present Kahn—present Thomas—present
Clark-Coleman—present Kuipers—present Van Woerkom—present
Clarke—present McManus—present Whitmer—present
Cropsey—present Olshove—present
Pastor Richard Bishop of the First Baptist Church of Laingsburg offered the following invocation:
Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for this opportunity before us today. Thank You that we can be here because of what Jesus Christ has done for us. Help us not to forget the sacrifices that have been made for us. Help us to realize that we need to be thankful people for what You have done for us; that You shed Your blood that we might have salvation.
Help these men and women here today to realize that they have a job before them; that they need seek Your face in all that they do. Thank You for the many Christians who stand before us today. Bless them and work with them. Help them, lead them, guide them, and give them wisdom. Help them to be used by You.
I pray that You would bless this work today as they stand and they want to do Your business. I pray that You would give them wisdom; that we would see You intervene today in the works of men. Help us to give You all the praise in Jesus’ name. Amen.
The President, Lieutenant Governor Cherry, led the members of the Senate in recital of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Motions and Communications
Senators Bishop, Jansen and Thomas entered the Senate Chamber.
Senator Cropsey moved that Senator Stamas be excused from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Cropsey moved that the Committee on Transportation be discharged from further consideration of the following bill:
Senate Bill No. 1370, entitled
A bill to amend 1972 PA 106, entitled “Highway advertising act of 1972,” by amending sections 2, 7, 7a, 11a, 17, and 21 (MCL 252.302, 252.307, 252.307a, 252.311a, 252.317, and 252.321), sections 2, 7, and 17 as amended and section 11a as added by 2006 PA 448 and section 7a as added by 2006 PA 447, and by adding section 17a.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, and the bill was placed on the order of General Orders.
Senator Cropsey moved that the rules be suspended and that the following bill, now on Committee Reports, be placed on the General Orders calendar for consideration today:
Senate Bill No. 1380
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
Senators Richardville, Pappageorge and Sanborn entered the Senate Chamber.
Senator Thomas moved that Senators Barcia and Hunter be temporarily excused from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
The Secretary announced that the following House bills were received in the Senate and filed on Tuesday, June 17:
House Bill Nos. 5127 6150 6208
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of
Messages from the House
Senator Brown entered the Senate Chamber.
Senate Bill No. 867, 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 sections 2, 9, and 15 (MCL 207.552, 207.559, and 207.565), sections 2 and 9 as amended by 2007 PA 146 and section 15 as amended by 1996 PA 513.
The House of Representatives has substituted (H-1) the bill.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill as substituted (H-1) and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
Pursuant to rule 3.202, the bill was laid over one day.
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of
General Orders
Senator Cropsey 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 George 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:
Senate Bill No. 1309, entitled
A bill to amend 2007 PA 36, entitled “Michigan business tax act,” (MCL 208.1101 to 208.1601) by adding section 461.
Senate Bill No. 1310, entitled
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” (MCL 333.1101 to 333.25211) by adding section 16631.
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:
Senate Bill No. 1167, entitled
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” by amending sections 16315, 16335, 17801, 17820, 17821, and 17822 (MCL 333.16315, 333.16335, 333.17801, 333.17820, 333.17821, and 333.17822), section 16315 as amended by 2007 PA 166, section 16335 as added by 1993 PA 80, section 17801 as amended by 1987 PA 213, sections 17820 and 17821 as amended by 2006 PA 387, and section 17822 as amended by 2005 PA 281, and by adding sections 17808, 17823, 17824, 17825, 17849, 17850, 17854, 17856, 17862, 17864, 17866, 17868, 17870, 17872, 17878, 17882, and 17884.
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. 880, entitled
A bill to amend 1937 PA 94, entitled “Use tax act,” by amending section 4p (MCL 205.94p), as added by 1999 PA 117.
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. 881, entitled
A bill to amend 1933 PA 167, entitled “General sales tax act,” by amending section 4u (MCL 205.54u), as amended by 2004 PA 173.
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. 1380, entitled
A bill to amend 1984 PA 270, entitled “Michigan strategic fund act,” by amending section 88b (MCL 125.2088b), as added by 2005 PA 225, and by adding section 88q.
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.
During the Committee of the Whole, Senators Birkholz and Barcia entered the Senate Chamber.
Recess
Senator Cropsey moved that the Senate recess subject to the call of the Chair.
The motion prevailed, the time being 10:21 a.m.
11:09 a.m.
The Senate was called to order by the President, Lieutenant Governor Cherry.
During the recess, Senator Hunter entered the Senate Chamber.
Resolutions
Senator Cropsey moved that consideration of the following resolutions be postponed for today:
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 22
Senate Resolution No. 181
The motion prevailed.
The question was placed on the adoption of the following resolution consent calendar:
Senate Resolution No. 206
The resolution consent calendar was adopted.
Senators Switalski, Olshove and Sanborn offered the following resolution:
Senate Resolution No. 206.
A resolution commemorating the 40th Anniversary of the city of Sterling Heights, Michigan.
Whereas, The city of Sterling Heights was incorporated 40 years ago on July 1, 1968. Area residents will commemorate this landmark, examining the progress they have made and looking forward to the future with understandable optimism and hope; and
Whereas, Historically, the area of 36.75 miles that encompasses Sterling Heights, the fourth-largest city in this great state, can trace its roots to the 1838 establishment of Sterling Township, then an area affording hardworking families the chance to make their living in the best American pioneer agrarian traditions; and
Whereas, Today the scene of farms and woodland is different, as Sterling Heights is now a leader in progressive and effective urban development. The same hardworking ethic is present in Sterling Heights that was present many years ago, and this spirit continues to attract major industries as evidenced by not only the creation of new businesses in the city, but also the continual reinvestment of longtime city businesses; and
Whereas, The city of Sterling Heights is a safe and welcoming place for families, offering great municipal services, highly-rated police and fire departments, a vibrant library, 26 parks, low taxes, and top-notch schools. Families from a wealth of different cultures have shown they approve, as family households constitute 76.1 percent of the city’s total households; and
Whereas, Sterling Heights has experienced phenomenal growth since its incorporation, the population growing from 47,221 in 1968 to 127,000 today. Most significant is the fact that residents, business leaders, and government in this thriving community are committed to working together for the continuation of the dynamic and foresighted development that has marked the first 40 years of Sterling Heights; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, That tribute hereby be offered in commemoration of the 40th Anniversary of the city of Sterling Heights; and be it further
Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the members of the Sterling Heights City Council as evidence of the esteem held for this community by this legislative body.
Senators Allen, Anderson, Birkholz, Brater, Cherry, Clark-Coleman, Clarke, Gleason, Jacobs, Pappageorge and Schauer were named co‑sponsors of the resolution.
Senate Resolution No. 177.
A resolution to express support for the construction of a replacement rail tunnel between Detroit and Windsor.
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
The resolution was adopted.
Senators Anderson, Basham, Bishop, Brown, Cassis, Cherry, Clarke, Cropsey, Gleason, Jacobs, Kahn, Pappageorge, Prusi, Richardville, Schauer, Switalski and Van Woerkom were named co‑sponsors of the resolution.
Senate Resolution No. 194.
A resolution to memorialize Congress to reauthorize transportation funding with appropriate recognition of the importance of the Great Lakes’ infrastructure to the nation’s economy.
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
The resolution was adopted.
Senator Basham asked and was granted unanimous consent to make a statement and moved that the statement be printed in the Journal.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Basham’s statement is as follows:
This is a good resolution. It supports our fair share of federal funding. It is consistent with the binational efforts, with the DRIC process, and even the Detroit Chamber spoke in favor of this resolution. They are certainly in support of redundancy.
I would encourage my colleagues to support this resolution.
By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of
Third Reading of Bills
Senator Cropsey moved that the following bills be placed at the head of the Third Reading of Bills calendar:
Senate Bill No. 494
Senate Bill No. 1318
Senate Bill No. 1320
Senate Bill No. 1253
The motion prevailed.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 494, entitled
A bill to amend 1951 PA 51, entitled “An act to provide for the classification of all public roads, streets, and highways in this state, and for the revision of that classification and for additions to and deletions from each classification; to set up and establish the Michigan transportation fund; to provide for the deposits in the Michigan transportation fund of specific taxes on motor vehicles and motor vehicle fuels; to provide for the allocation of funds from the Michigan transportation fund and the use and administration of the fund for transportation purposes; to set up and establish the truck safety fund; to provide for the allocation of funds from the truck safety fund and administration of the fund for truck safety purposes; to set up and establish the Michigan truck safety commission; to establish certain standards for road contracts for certain businesses; to provide for the continuing review of transportation needs within the state; to authorize the state transportation commission, counties, cities, and villages to borrow money, issue bonds, and make pledges of funds for transportation purposes; to authorize counties to advance funds for the payment of deficiencies necessary for the payment of bonds issued under this act; to provide for the limitations, payment, retirement, and security of the bonds and pledges; to provide for appropriations and tax levies by counties and townships for county roads; to authorize contributions by townships for county roads; to provide for the establishment and administration of the state trunk line fund, local bridge fund, comprehensive transportation fund, and certain other funds; to provide for the deposits in the state trunk line fund, critical bridge fund, comprehensive transportation fund, and certain other funds of money raised by specific taxes and fees; to provide for definitions of public transportation functions and criteria; to define the purposes for which Michigan transportation funds may be allocated; to provide for Michigan transportation fund grants; to provide for review and approval of transportation programs; to provide for submission of annual legislative requests and reports; to provide for the establishment and functions of certain advisory entities; to provide for conditions for grants; to provide for the issuance of bonds and notes for transportation purposes; to provide for the powers and duties of certain state and local agencies and officials; to provide for the making of loans for transportation purposes by the state transportation department and for the receipt and repayment by local units and agencies of those loans from certain specified sources; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,” by amending section 1h (MCL 247.651h), as added by 1997 PA 79.
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. 405 Yeas—37
Allen Clark-Coleman Jacobs Prusi
Anderson Clarke Jansen Richardville
Barcia Cropsey Jelinek Sanborn
Basham Garcia Kahn Schauer
Birkholz George Kuipers Scott
Bishop Gilbert McManus Switalski
Brater Gleason Olshove Thomas
Brown Hardiman Pappageorge Van Woerkom
Cassis Hunter Patterson Whitmer
Cherry
Nays—0
Excused—1
Stamas
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: President
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 1318, entitled
A bill to amend 1951 PA 51, entitled “An act to provide for the classification of all public roads, streets, and highways in this state, and for the revision of that classification and for additions to and deletions from each classification; to set up and establish the Michigan transportation fund; to provide for the deposits in the Michigan transportation fund of specific taxes on motor vehicles and motor vehicle fuels; to provide for the allocation of funds from the Michigan transportation fund and the use and administration of the fund for transportation purposes; to set up and establish the truck safety fund; to provide for the allocation of funds from the truck safety fund and administration of the fund for truck safety purposes; to set up and establish the Michigan truck safety commission; to establish certain standards for road contracts for certain businesses; to provide for the continuing review of transportation needs within the state; to authorize the state transportation commission, counties, cities, and villages to borrow money, issue bonds, and make pledges of funds for transportation purposes; to authorize counties to advance funds for the payment of deficiencies necessary for the payment of bonds issued under this act; to provide for the limitations, payment, retirement, and security of the bonds and pledges; to provide for appropriations and tax levies by counties and townships for county roads; to authorize contributions by townships for county roads; to provide for the establishment and administration of the state trunk line fund, local bridge fund, comprehensive transportation fund, and certain other funds; to provide for the deposits in the state trunk line fund, critical bridge fund, comprehensive transportation fund, and certain other funds of money raised by specific taxes and fees; to provide for definitions of public transportation functions and criteria; to define the purposes for which Michigan transportation funds may be allocated; to provide for Michigan transportation fund grants; to provide for review and approval of transportation programs; to provide for submission of annual legislative requests and reports; to provide for the establishment and functions of certain advisory entities; to provide for conditions for grants; to provide for the issuance of bonds and notes for transportation purposes; to provide for the powers and duties of certain state and local agencies and officials; to provide for the making of loans for transportation purposes by the state transportation department and for the receipt and repayment by local units and agencies of those loans from certain specified sources; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,” (MCL 247.651 to 247.675) by adding section 1k.
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. 406 Yeas—37
Allen Clark-Coleman Jacobs Prusi
Anderson Clarke Jansen Richardville
Barcia Cropsey Jelinek Sanborn
Basham Garcia Kahn Schauer
Birkholz George Kuipers Scott
Bishop Gilbert McManus Switalski
Brater Gleason Olshove Thomas
Brown Hardiman Pappageorge Van Woerkom
Cassis Hunter Patterson Whitmer
Cherry
Nays—0
Excused—1
Stamas
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: President
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 1320, entitled
A bill to amend 1951 PA 51, entitled “An act to provide for the classification of all public roads, streets, and highways in this state, and for the revision of that classification and for additions to and deletions from each classification; to set up and establish the Michigan transportation fund; to provide for the deposits in the Michigan transportation fund of specific taxes on motor vehicles and motor vehicle fuels; to provide for the allocation of funds from the Michigan transportation fund and the use and administration of the fund for transportation purposes; to set up and establish the truck safety fund; to provide for the allocation of funds from the truck safety fund and administration of the fund for truck safety purposes; to set up and establish the Michigan truck safety commission; to establish certain standards for road contracts for certain businesses; to provide for the continuing review of transportation needs within the state; to authorize the state transportation commission, counties, cities, and villages to borrow money, issue bonds, and make pledges of funds for transportation purposes; to authorize counties to advance funds for the payment of deficiencies necessary for the payment of bonds issued under this act; to provide for the limitations, payment, retirement, and security of the bonds and pledges; to provide for appropriations and tax levies by counties and townships for county roads; to authorize contributions by townships for county roads; to provide for the establishment and administration of the state trunk line fund, local bridge fund, comprehensive transportation fund, and certain other funds; to provide for the deposits in the state trunk line fund, critical bridge fund, comprehensive transportation fund, and certain other funds of money raised by specific taxes and fees; to provide for definitions of public transportation functions and criteria; to define the purposes for which Michigan transportation funds may be allocated; to provide for Michigan transportation fund grants; to provide for review and approval of transportation programs; to provide for submission of annual legislative requests and reports; to provide for the establishment and functions of certain advisory entities; to provide for conditions for grants; to provide for the issuance of bonds and notes for transportation purposes; to provide for the powers and duties of certain state and local agencies and officials; to provide for the making of loans for transportation purposes by the state transportation department and for the receipt and repayment by local units and agencies of those loans from certain specified sources; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,” by amending section 11c (MCL 247.661c), as amended by 2002 PA 498.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
Senator Cropsey moved that further consideration of the bill be postponed for today.
The motion prevailed.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 1253, entitled
A bill to amend 1943 PA 20, entitled “An act relative to the investment of funds of public corporations of the state; and to validate certain investments,” (MCL 129.91 to 129.96) by adding section 7.
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. 407 Yeas—37
Allen Clark-Coleman Jacobs Prusi
Anderson Clarke Jansen Richardville
Barcia Cropsey Jelinek Sanborn
Basham Garcia Kahn Schauer
Birkholz George Kuipers Scott
Bishop Gilbert McManus Switalski
Brater Gleason Olshove Thomas
Brown Hardiman Pappageorge Van Woerkom
Cassis Hunter Patterson Whitmer
Cherry
Nays—0
Excused—1
Stamas
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: President
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of
Introduction and Referral of Bills
Senator Cropsey introduced
Senate Bill No. 1396, entitled
A bill to amend 1986 PA 281, entitled “The local development financing act,” by amending section 2 (MCL 125.2152), as amended by 2007 PA 200.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Economic Development and Regulatory Reform.
Senators Cropsey, Allen, Jacobs, Hunter and Gilbert introduced
Senate Bill No. 1397, entitled
A bill to amend 1984 PA 270, entitled “Michigan strategic fund act,” by amending section 88c (MCL 125.2088c), as added by 2005 PA 225.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Commerce and Tourism.
Senator Jelinek introduced
Senate Bill No. 1398, entitled
A bill to amend 1933 PA 167, entitled “General sales tax act,” by amending section 25 (MCL 205.75), as amended by 2007 PA 69.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
Senator Pappageorge introduced
Senate Bill No. 1399, entitled
A bill to amend 2001 PA 63, entitled “History, arts, and libraries act,” by amending the title and section 2 (MCL 399.702), section 2 as amended by 2008 PA 85, and by adding section 9.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Finance.
House Bill No. 5127, entitled
A bill to prohibit certain units of government from establishing the ownership of real property as a qualification for public office; and to provide remedies.
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 Campaign and Election Oversight.
House Bill No. 6150, entitled
A bill to create the Michigan supply chain management development commission; to prescribe the powers and duties of the commission; and to provide for certain regulations.
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 Economic Development and Regulatory Reform.
House Bill No. 6208, entitled
A bill to amend 1984 PA 270, entitled “Michigan strategic fund act,” by amending section 88d (MCL 125.2088d), as amended by 2008 PA 80.
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 Commerce and Tourism.
Statements
Senators Scott, Basham, Switalski and Gleason asked and were granted unanimous consent to make statements and moved that the statements be printed in the Journal.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Scott’s statement is as follows:
You know, Coleman Young was a friend of mine. Coleman Young taught me a lot about politics and a lot about life. One of the things that Mayor Young taught me is, “There is no brilliant single stroke that is going to transform the water into wine or the straw into gold.” Coleman Young was often impatient, but he appreciated the fact that change was sometimes slow in coming. He knew that effecting change wasn’t magic. It took hard work.
I think of his words on those days when I get tired and discouraged and impatient. I am doing the hard work. I am laying the groundwork. I am reminding you every day of the importance of insurance reform to our state and to its residents. So, once again, I patiently stand before you to urge you to move my bills.
Senator Basham’s statement is as follows:
Let me just, first of all, say that I am a Christian. I belong to the Trenton Church of Christ, and I am proud that my church teaches acceptance. When a prayer is prayed that only references praying for Christians, I can’t help but wonder why we don’t pray for all people. I have colleagues on both sides of the aisle who are Jewish. Why don’t we pray for them? Why not even pray for Muslins or even atheists? Certainly, we are all deserving of prayer.
The book I study is the Bible. It talks about the Jews and the Gentiles. I would hope that this upper chamber, this government, this state, this nation, and even this world would work toward acceptance of others. Why do I say this? Because, unfortunately, more people are killed in the name of religion than any other cause.
Senator Switalski’s statement is as follows:
One of the cities I represent, Sterling Heights, will be celebrating its 40th anniversary of its incorporation on July 1. We had something on the resolution consent calendar for it, and I just want to share a few facts about Sterling Heights because members and staff have been coming to my desk all day asking about Sterling Heights: if they can visit; they want to see if they can incorporate it into their district; just endless inquiries. So I thought I would share a few facts.
It is the fourth-largest in population and the third-largest in area in the entire state. It has over 3,500 commercial and industrial businesses, and that includes many fine commercial establishments on M-59. It is home to 26 parks, many of which I have visited. According to the 2007 FBI statistics, Sterling Heights ranks as the safest city in Michigan. In 2008, the Sterlingfest was voted the best summer festival. It is the sister city to Tetevo, Yugoslavia; Legazpi City, Philippines; Cassino, Italy; and Sorsogon City, Philippines. And Sterling Heights’ motto is “To Strive on Behalf of All.”
So I hope that all members will congratulate Sterling Heights on its 40th birthday and add a visit to Sterling Heights to their bucket list.
Senator Gleason’s statement is as follows:
Lieutenant Governor Cherry and fellow Senators, I rise this morning to say what a country—what a country. The last few days, the United States and the globe itself have mourned the passing of Tim Russert, a young man from Buffalo, New York. I mention his name in conjunction with Senator Basham about religion. Tim Russert was educated by the Jesuit and Catholic schools, and he took that framework that the Jesuits gave him and his career and indeed his life.
It is quite interesting when you hear the remarks and antidotes about Mr. Russert that he said in the part of town where he was born in Buffalo; that you were born a Democrat and you were baptized a Catholic. I think he reflected the decency and morality that we would all expect and we all kind of deserve not only as individuals, but as people who pick different career paths, whether it’s the media or political life. I think he really imbued in all of us a sense of decency and fairness and integrity. I’ve gotten into a lot of trouble in my life, and I was told there were a lot of things I should have done at some particular time. But I know for a fact that every Sunday morning my wife would have to tell me two or three times, “John, it’s time to go to church.” The only hurdle that I had between going to St. Roberts Church was Tim Russert and “Meet the Press.” I think that that man is going to be deeply missed.
I know he was a big burly old Irishman. I had a chance to actually stand next to him for an hour at National High School in the state of New Hampshire four years ago. I tell you, that man was a decent human being, and he was so jovial. You would never expect him to have the celebrity that he enjoyed. He was just very down to earth. We talked about everything in life. He had a great Irish wit and just common decency, and I know the state of Michigan and those who do what we do for career choices will miss the decency and the responsibility that that big old Irishman from Buffalo, New York, provided all of us.
So today is his funeral. We are going to mark the passing from his earthly life to his eternal life, and I know darn well that he is going to be going in the right direction for the way that he treated everybody. It didn’t make a difference whether you were Democrat or Republican; he gave you a fair chance.
So, Mr. Russert, we know that you thought an awful lot about your father, and we thank you for all that you provided us fathers and the way that we should be raising our young kids today.
God bless the Russert family on the funeral of Tim Russert today.
Committee Reports
The Committee on Judiciary reported
House Bill No. 4065, entitled
A bill to amend 1931 PA 328, entitled “The Michigan penal code,” (MCL 750.1 to 750.568) by adding section 66.
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.
Wayne Kuipers
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Kuipers, Cropsey, Sanborn, Whitmer, Clarke and Prusi
Nays: None
The bill and the substitute recommended by the committee were referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Judiciary reported
House Bill No. 4330, entitled
A bill to amend 1953 PA 232, entitled “Corrections code of 1953,” by amending section 36 (MCL 791.236), as amended by 2006 PA 403.
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, Cropsey, Sanborn, Whitmer, Clarke and Prusi
Nays: None
The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Judiciary reported
House Bill No. 4453, entitled
A bill to amend 1927 PA 175, entitled “The code of criminal procedure,” by amending section 6b of chapter V (MCL 765.6b), as amended by 1994 PA 335.
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, Cropsey, Sanborn, Whitmer, Clarke and Prusi
Nays: None
The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Judiciary reported
House Bill No. 4611, entitled
A bill to authorize a process for retired law enforcement officers to carry concealed firearms in this state; to prescribe certain powers and duties of the commission on law enforcement standards and law enforcement agencies; to impose certain civil and criminal penalties; to impose certain requirements on persons issued certificates to carry concealed firearms; to provide for certain civil immunity; to allow for the collection of certain fees; to create certain funds; to provide for the forfeiture of firearms under certain circumstances; and to provide for the promulgation of rules.
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.
Wayne Kuipers
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Kuipers, Cropsey, Sanborn, Whitmer, Clarke and Prusi
Nays: None
The bill and the substitute recommended by the committee were referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Judiciary reported
House Bill No. 4612, entitled
A bill to amend 1927 PA 175, entitled “The code of criminal procedure,” by amending section 11b of chapter XVII (MCL 777.11b), as amended by 2005 PA 207.
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, Cropsey, Sanborn, Whitmer, Clarke and Prusi
Nays: None
The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Judiciary submitted the following:
Meeting held on Tuesday, June 17, 2008, at 1:00 p.m., Room 210, Farnum Building
Present: Senators Kuipers (C), Cropsey, Sanborn, Whitmer, Clarke and Prusi
Excused: Senator Patterson
The Committee on Local, Urban and State Affairs reported
House Bill No. 6121, entitled
A bill to amend 1955 PA 233, entitled “An act to provide for the incorporation of certain municipal authorities to acquire, own, extend, improve, and operate sewage disposal systems, water supply systems, and solid waste management systems; to prescribe the rights, powers, and duties thereof; to authorize contracts between such authorities and public corporations; to provide for the issuance of bonds to acquire, construct, extend, or improve the systems; and to prescribe penalties and provide remedies,” by amending section 4a (MCL 124.284a), as added by 1985 PA 178.
With the recommendation that the bill pass.
The committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Gerald Van Woerkom
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Van Woerkom, Birkholz, Allen, Gleason and Basham
Nays: None
The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Local, Urban and State Affairs submitted the following:
Meeting held on Tuesday, June 17, 2008, at 3:00 p.m., Room 110, Farnum Building
Present: Senators Van Woerkom (C), Birkholz, Allen, Gleason and Basham
The Committee on Commerce and Tourism reported
Senate Bill No. 1367, entitled
A bill to amend 1995 PA 24, entitled “Michigan economic growth authority act,” by amending sections 3 and 8 (MCL 207.803 and 207.808), section 3 as amended by 2008 PA 108 and section 8 as amended by 2008 PA 110.
With the recommendation that the bill pass.
The committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Jason E. Allen
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Allen, Gilbert, Sanborn and Clarke
Nays: None
The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Commerce and Tourism reported
Senate Bill No. 1380, entitled
A bill to amend 1984 PA 270, entitled “Michigan strategic fund act,” by amending section 88b (MCL 125.2088b), as added by 2005 PA 225, and by adding section 88q.
With the recommendation that the substitute (S-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.
The committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Jason E. Allen
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Allen, Gilbert and Clarke
Nays: None
The bill and the substitute recommended by the committee were referred to the Committee of the Whole.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Commerce and Tourism submitted the following:
Meeting held on Tuesday, June 17, 2008, at 2:30 p.m., Room 100, Farnum Building
Present: Senators Allen (C), Gilbert, Sanborn and Clarke
Excused: Senator Hunter
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Commerce and Tourism submitted the following:
Meeting held on Wednesday, June 18, 2008, at 9:00 a.m., Room 100, Farnum Building
Present: Senators Allen (C), Gilbert, Sanborn and Clarke
Excused: Senator Hunter
Scheduled Meetings
Agriculture - Thursday, June 19, 9:00 a.m., Room 110, Farnum Building (373-1635)
Appropriations -
Subcommittees -
Capital Outlay - Thursday, June 26, 9:00 a.m., House Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building (373-8080)
Higher Education - Wednesday, June 25, 9:00 a.m., Senate Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building (373-2768)
Finance - Thursday, June 19, 11:00 a.m., Room 110, Farnum Building (373-1758)
Legislative Commission on Government Efficiency - Friday, June 27, 9:00 a.m., Senate Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building (373-0212)
Legislative Commission on Statutory Mandates - Wednesday, June 25, 2:00 p.m., Oakland County Executive Office Building, Conference Center/West Oakland Room, Building 41-West, 2100 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford (373-0212)
Michigan Capitol Committee - Thursday, June 19, 8:00 a.m., Room 426, Capitol Building (373-5527)
Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs - Thursday, June 19, 9:00 a.m., Room 100, Farnum Building (373-3447)
Senator Cropsey moved that the Senate adjourn.
The motion prevailed, the time being 11:31 a.m.
The President, Lieutenant Governor Cherry, declared the Senate adjourned until Thursday, June 19, 2008, at 10:00 a.m.
CAROL MOREY VIVENTI
Secretary of the Senate
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