Senators Jansen, Pappageorge and Marleau offered the following resolution:

            Senate Resolution No. 164.

            A resolution to express opposition to the proposed constitutional amendment by Citizens for More Michigan Jobs that would authorize the establishment of eight new casinos and to urge voters not to sign petitions placing this amendment on the statewide ballot.

            Whereas, This proposed amendment will take away the public's right to determine the establishment of gaming enterprises in our state by eliminating the requirement found in Article IV, Section 41 of the Constitution of the State of Michigan of 1963 mandating that the expansion of gaming must be approved by the majority of statewide voters as well as the majority of voters in the local municipality where the expansion will take place; and

            Whereas, The proposed amendment violates basic tenets of public participation by failing to publicly disclose the names and identities of the individuals and businesses that would own the eight proposed casinos. Further, the amendment would also guarantee these unnamed entities the right to own eight new casinos. These unnamed entities would not be subject to background checks or need to meet other rigorous regulatory standards required by the Liquor Control Commission; and

            Whereas, There are currently 25 operating casinos, plus Club Keno and charity gambling operations in the state of Michigan, more than enough to satisfy the gaming needs of Michigan residents; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate, That we hereby express strong opposition to the proposed constitutional amendment by Citizens for More Michigan Jobs that would authorize the establishment of eight new casinos and eliminate for Michigan residents and communities the right to vote on new casinos in the future; and be it further

Resolved, That we urge voters not to sign petitions placing this amendment on the statewide ballot; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to Protect MI Vote.