Senators Moolenaar, Robertson, Jones, Kahn, Jansen, Walker, Meekhof, Hildenbrand, Gregory, Proos, Hansen, Rocca, Booher, Marleau, Pappageorge, Emmons, Pavlov, Colbeck and Richardville offered the following resolution:

            Senate Resolution No. 169.

            A resolution to encourage and express support for the Michigan Unmanned Aircraft Systems Center in its pursuit of designation as a Federal Aviation Administration Center of Excellence.

            Whereas, The Michigan Unmanned Aircraft Systems Center near Alpena, Michigan, is seeking one of six designations by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a Center of Excellence. This designation would grant access to restricted airspace in the Alpena area for research and development of unmanned aircraft. Alpena is uniquely positioned for this type of industry with its proximity to the Combat Readiness Training Center and the largest restricted airspace east of the Mississippi; and

            Whereas, The unmanned aircraft system (UAS) market is growing rapidly and expected to double worldwide over the next decade. The military relies on the UAS to carry out dangerous missions and remove humans from harm's way. The UAS is also becoming an attractive tool for private companies and government agencies. Applications are being studied in the fields of law enforcement, emergency services, and surveillance of borders, waterways, power lines, and pipelines.

            Whereas, Obtaining the designation as a Center of Excellence would provide necessary funding for research activities. Partnerships with the Combat Readiness Training Center, Camp Grayling Ground Forces Training Center, and the University of Michigan make for limitless joint training and research and development opportunities. The Michigan Unmanned Aircraft Systems Center with its dedicated airspace and facilities for testing and development would bring together researchers, scientists, operators, and industry leaders to foster growth within the industry and organize a fast-growing center of expertise and operation; and

            Whereas, A Center of Excellence designation would have a tremendous economic impact on the Alpena area and Michigan. There would be direct and indirect benefits for the real estate and construction sectors, business investment, tourism, education, regional industry, and arts and recreation. The center could generate permanent investments linked to manufacturing, engineering, research and development, testing, maintenance, and aerial operations. It is estimated that 200 jobs will be created and over $50 million invested in buildings and equipment; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate, That we encourage and express support for the Michigan Unmanned Aircraft Systems Center in its pursuit of designation as a Federal Aviation Administration Center of Excellence; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the members of the Michigan congressional delegation, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the Michigan Unmanned Aircraft Systems Center.