STATE OF MICHIGAN
Journal of the Senate
101st Legislature
REGULAR SESSION OF 2021
Senate Chamber, Lansing, Wednesday, May 19, 2021.
10:00 a.m.
The Senate was called to order by the President pro tempore, Senator Aric Nesbitt.
Alexander—present Hollier—present Outman—present
Ananich—present Horn—present Polehanki—present
Barrett—present Irwin—present Runestad—present
Bayer—present Johnson—present Santana—present
Bizon—present LaSata—present Schmidt—present
Brinks—present Lauwers—present Shirkey—present
Bullock—present MacDonald—present Stamas—present
Bumstead—present McBroom—present Theis—present
Chang—present McCann—present VanderWall—present
Daley—present McMorrow—present Victory—present
Geiss—present Moss—present Wojno—present
Hertel—present Nesbitt—present Zorn—present
Senator Sylvia Santana of the 3rd District offered the following invocation:
Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You that we are gathered here today in the Michigan Senate Chamber. We pray, Lord God, that You will shed a light on us today so we can conduct the business of the day on behalf of all the constituents here in the state of Michigan. We pray, O God, that You will remove all the old wineskins so that we can be open to receive a word and guidance from You so that we can continue to be humble and listen to Your Word and heed Your Word. We pray, Lord, that You will give us discernment on this day so that we can continue to make sure that we are doing the will of the people, and Your will first and foremost. And I pray, dear Heavenly Father, for each and every member of this chamber. Lord God, let their leadership shine, let our ears be open to listen, to understanding, and Lord God let us all be committed to what we are called here to do.
These things I truly ask in Your Son’s name. Amen.
The President pro tempore, Senator Nesbitt, led the members of the Senate in recital of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Motions and Communications
Senators Ananich and Hertel entered the Senate Chamber.
Senator Lauwers moved that Senator Schmidt be temporarily excused from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Chang moved that Senators Bullock and Hollier be temporarily excused from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
The following communication was received:
County of Muskegon
May 18, 2021
Attached please find the Muskegon County Resolution Regarding Vaccine Passports within the Boundaries of Muskegon County adopted by the Muskegon County Board of Commissioners on May 11, 2021.
Linda Sue Schutter
Administrative Secretary
County Clerk’s Office
The communication was referred to the Secretary for record.
Senate Resolution No. 53
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
Senators Schmidt and Hollier entered the Senate Chamber.
Recess
Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate recess subject to the call of the Chair.
The motion prevailed, the time being 10:05 a.m.
The Senate was called to order by the President pro tempore, Senator Nesbitt.
During the recess, Senator Bullock
entered the Senate Chamber.
Senator McMorrow moved that the remarks she made during the recess be printed in the Journal.
The motion prevailed.
Senator McMorrow’s statement is as follows:
I know this is not a normal year and this is certainly not a normal presentation, but despite everything that has happened over the past year with this pandemic, it has not stopped some athletic excellence from my district from some exceptional young student-athletes who I would like to recognize today.
First up—and they are joining us virtually—it is an honor to recognize Jack Van Howe for exemplary athletic success, being named the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 state champion for the boys backstroke. This is not the first time that he has showed excellence in this arena. In fact, this year he beat his own record by nearly two whole seconds, finishing at 49.35 seconds at the state final. With this new record and title, Jack became Rochester’s third athlete to win a state individual swim title and the first in the 100 backstroke. Jack finished in first place 14 times this season while at the same time maintaining a 3.8 grade point average. Please join me in giving a warm virtual congratulations to Jack Van Howe.
If you thought that was the end of the excitement, you are incorrect because we’re also here to celebrate the Rochester Adams competitive cheer team in celebration of their 2021 Division 1 state championship. There has been no shortage of amazing accomplishments out of the Rochester area this year. Even with an unconventional start and a two-month pause in the season, this team showed perseverance, continuing to work in their basements and garages, completing practices and workouts over Zoom to make sure they were ready to compete. This team was able to finish the season winning all other competitions and being undefeated in Division 1. This team also made history as only the fourth team ever to earn a back-to-back state title in Division 1 competitive cheer. Led by head coach Brooke Miller and assistant coaches Jocelyn Welsh and Quin Gonzalez, please join me in another congratulations, this time for the Rochester Adams competitive cheer team.
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of
Third Reading of Bills
Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate proceed to consideration of the following bill:
House Bill No. 4394
The motion prevailed.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4394, entitled
A bill to make appropriations for the department of agriculture and rural development for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022; and to provide for the expenditure of the appropriations.
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. 192 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4395, entitled
A bill to make appropriations for the department of natural resources for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022; and to provide for the expenditure of the appropriations.
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. 193 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4397, entitled
A bill to make
appropriations for the department of environment, Great Lakes, and energy for
the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022; and to provide for the expenditure
of the appropriations.
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. 194 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4401, entitled
A bill to amend 1979 PA 94, entitled “The state school aid act of 1979,” by amending sections 201 and 206 (MCL 388.1801 and 388.1806), as amended by 2020 PA 165.
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. 195 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:
“An act to make appropriations to aid in the support of the public schools, the intermediate school districts, community colleges, and public universities of the state; to make appropriations for certain other purposes relating to education; to provide for the disbursement of the appropriations; to authorize the issuance of certain bonds and provide for the security of those bonds; to prescribe the powers and duties of certain state departments, the state board of education, and certain other boards and officials; to create certain funds and provide for their expenditure; to prescribe penalties; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,”
The Senate agreed to the full title.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4407, 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), section 11 as amended by 2021 PA 3 and section 17b as amended by 2007 PA 137.
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. 196 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:
“An act to make appropriations to aid in the support of the public schools, the intermediate school districts, community colleges, and public universities of the state; to make appropriations for certain other purposes relating to education; to provide for the disbursement of the appropriations; to authorize the issuance of certain bonds and provide for the security of those bonds; to prescribe the powers and duties of certain state departments, the state board of education, and certain other boards and officials; to create certain funds and provide for their expenditure; to prescribe penalties; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,”
The Senate agreed to the full title.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4408, entitled
A bill to make appropriations for the department of education for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022; and to provide for the expenditure of the appropriations.
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. 197 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4396, entitled
A bill to make appropriations for the department of corrections for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022; and to provide for the expenditure of the appropriations.
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. 198 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4398, entitled
A bill to make appropriations for the legislature, the executive, the department of the attorney general, the department of state, the department of treasury, the department of technology, management, and budget, the department of civil rights, and certain other state purposes for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022; to provide for the expenditure of the appropriations; to provide for the disposition of fees and other income received by the state agencies; and to declare the effect of this act.
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. 199 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4399, entitled
A bill to make appropriations for the department of health and human services for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022; and to provide for the expenditure of the appropriations.
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. 200 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4400, entitled
A bill to amend 1979 PA 94, entitled “The state school aid act of 1979,” by amending sections 236 and 241 (MCL 388.1836 and 388.1841), as amended by 2020 PA 165.
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. 201 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:
“An act to make appropriations to aid in the support of the public schools, the intermediate school districts, community colleges, and public universities of the state; to make appropriations for certain other purposes relating to education; to provide for the disbursement of the appropriations; to authorize the issuance of certain bonds and provide for the security of those bonds; to prescribe the powers and duties of certain state departments, the state board of education, and certain other boards and officials; to create certain funds and provide for their expenditure; to prescribe penalties; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,”
The Senate agreed to the full title.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4403, entitled
A bill to make appropriations for the judiciary for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022; and to provide for the expenditure of the appropriations.
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. 202 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4404, entitled
A bill to make appropriations for the department of licensing and regulatory affairs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022; and to provide for the expenditure of the appropriations.
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. 203 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4405, entitled
A bill to make
appropriations for the department of insurance and financial services for the
fiscal year ending September 30, 2022; and to provide for the expenditure of
the appropriations.
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. 204 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4406, entitled
A bill to make appropriations for the department of state police for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022; and to provide for the expenditure of the appropriations.
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. 205 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4409, entitled
A bill to make appropriations for the state transportation department for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022; and to provide for the expenditure of the appropriations.
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. 206 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4466, entitled
A bill to make appropriations for the department of military and veterans affairs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022; and to provide for the expenditure of the appropriations.
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. 207 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of
Resolutions
Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate proceed to consideration of the following resolution:
Senate Resolution No. 53
The motion prevailed.
A resolution to urge President Joe Biden to support the Keystone XL Pipeline, reverse his decision to cancel the permit, and to support American jobs and energy cooperation with our Canadian neighbors.
(This resolution was reported by the Committee on Energy and Technology on Tuesday, May 18. See p. 778.)
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
Senator Lauwers requested the yeas and nays.
The yeas and nays were ordered, 1/5 of the members present voting therefor.
The resolution was adopted, a majority of the members voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 208 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—16
Alexander Bullock Hollier Moss
Ananich Chang Irwin Polehanki
Bayer Geiss McCann Santana
Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Excused—0
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
Senators McCann, Hollier, Polehanki, McMorrow, Bayer, Brinks, Wojno, Irwin, Moss, Geiss, Chang, Alexander and Ananich offered the following resolution:
Senate Resolution No. 54.
A resolution to urge the United States Congress and the President of the United States to pass H.R. 1 or a similar policy measure to protect democracy, access, integrity, and security in this country’s electoral system.
Whereas, Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of our democracy. Voting is not a privilege; it is one of the single most fundamental rights that can be exercised in a democracy and one that should be protected and championed; and
Whereas, Government should be accountable, transparent, and free from corruption. Our elected leaders should not serve special interests. They should be held to the highest of ethical standards; and
Whereas, In response to baseless claims of voter fraud during the 2020 election cycle, as of March 2021, legislators in 47 states, including here in Michigan, have introduced over 350 bills under the veil of “election integrity,” but they are really efforts to suppress and disenfranchise voters, particularly voters of color; and
Whereas, Currently in Congress, H.R. 1, the For the People Act of 2021, would enshrine many policies that protect the right to vote and ensure the integrity of our elections. The act would establish automatic voter registration, require a period of early voting for federal elections, prohibit restrictions on mail voting, and ban voter registration roll purges, among other critical policies that both protect and advance voting rights; and
Whereas, H.R. 1 would also institute campaign finance and ethics policies that strengthen our democracy and bring integrity to the system. The legislation would limit the influence of special interest money in our politics, bolster political donor disclosure requirements, and implement other measures designed to overhaul this country’s campaign finance system. It would enhance ethics laws for elected officials as well; and
Whereas, With states across the country, such as the state of Georgia, aggressively enacting legislation to impose unnecessary and unconscionable Jim Crow style restrictions on voters, Congress and the President must act expeditiously and intentionally to safeguard the right to vote for Michiganders and all Americans; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, That we urge the United States Congress and the President of the United States to pass H.R. 1 or a similar policy measure to protect democracy, access, integrity, and security in this country’s electoral system; 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, the members of the Michigan congressional delegation, the Governor of Michigan, and the Secretary of State of Michigan.
Senator Lauwers moved that the rule be suspended.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
Senator Lauwers moved that the resolution be referred to the Committee on Elections.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Hollier offered the following resolution:
Senate Resolution No. 55.
A resolution to designate May 2021 as Brain Tumor Awareness Month.
Whereas, Brain tumors, specifically glioblastomas, have become recognized in recent years as one of the deadliest cancers; and
Whereas, There are an
estimated 770 new diagnoses of brain tumors in Michigan in 2021, and an
estimated 600 Michigan residents will die from a brain tumor this year; and
Whereas, Brain tumors can be deadly and severely impact the quality of life. Brain cancer also continues to be the leading cause of cancer deaths among children and young adults; and
Whereas, The month of May is recognized across the United States as Brain Tumor Awareness Month in an effort to raise public consciousness about symptoms and advanced treatment options. Brain tumors continue to be one of the most difficult cancers to detect in the early stages of the disease, which contribute to its high mortality rates; and
Whereas, Brain tumors have the highest per-patient initial cost of care for any cancer group with an annualized cost at nearly $150,000. Brain cancer has the highest annualized cost for last year-of-life care, relative to other cancers, around $135,000-$210,000 (depending on age and gender) per patient; and
Whereas, More than any other cancer, brain tumors can have lasting and life-altering physical, cognitive, and psychological impacts on a patient’s life; and
Whereas, Michigan has received national recognition as a leading center of excellence for brain tumor treatment and research due to the number of patients traveling to the state for clinical trial participation, the local grant dollars used to create jobs in the field, and the highly trained professionals specializing in brain tumors across the state; and
Whereas, Michigan is proud to be home to high level brain cancer centers such as the Hermelin Brain Tumor Center at Henry Ford Hospital and the Rogel Cancer Center at University of Michigan; and
Whereas, Despite the number of brain tumors diagnosed annually, there are only four United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved drugs and one device to treat brain tumors in the past thirty years; and
Whereas, To date, there are not any drugs that have been developed and approved specifically for malignant pediatric brain tumors. The FDA approved drugs for brain tumors only provide incremental improvements to patient survival and mortality rates are relatively unchanged; and
Whereas, We remain optimistic and encourage residents to be vigilant and proactive when it comes to their brain health; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body designate May 2021 as Brain Tumor Awareness Month; and be it further
Resolved, That we recognize the need for additional research into diagnosis, screening, and treatments for brain tumors. We urge all Michiganders to use this month as an opportunity to raise awareness and educate themselves about brain tumors and cancer.
Senator Lauwers moved that the rule be suspended.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
Senator Bayer was named co-sponsor of the resolution.
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of
Introduction and Referral of Bills
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” by amending sections 2253 and 2453 (MCL 333.2253 and 333.2453), section 2253 as amended by 2006 PA 157.
The bill was read a first and second time by title.
Senator Lauwers moved that rule 3.203 be suspended and that the bill be referred to the Committee of the Whole and placed on the order of General Orders.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
Senators Barrett, Outman, Zorn, Runestad, Theis and LaSata introduced
A bill to amend 1846 RS 12, entitled “Of certain state officers,” (MCL 10.2 to 15.39) by adding section 3.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Oversight.
Senator Moss introduced
A bill to amend 1992 PA 147, entitled “Neighborhood enterprise zone act,” by amending section 4 (MCL 207.774), as amended by 2014 PA 17.
The bill was read a
first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Economic and
Small Business Development.
A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled “The revised school code,” by amending section 1278a (MCL 380.1278a), as amended by 2020 PA 158.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Education and Career Readiness.
A bill to amend 1993 PA 327, entitled “Tobacco products tax act,” by amending section 7 (MCL 205.427), as amended by 2016 PA 86.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Finance.
Statements
The motion prevailed.
Senator Stamas’ statement is as follows:
Colleagues today marks the one-year anniversary since several of my communities in the Great Lakes Bay Region were devastated by unprecedented flooding during this historic pandemic. On May 19, 2020, heavy rain fell and led to the breach of two dams that literally washed away homes and businesses. While the resulting flooding caused millions of dollars in damage, it is impossible to properly illustrate and describe the long-term effects on people’s lives. It was heartbreaking to see the devastation facing so many people and the difficulty to fully comprehend the challenges that lie ahead. Thankfully, due to the quick action from our first responders and volunteers, no one lost their life. A year later, our communities have come together and are rebuilding. In the immediate aftermath we were blessed to have so many people, organizations, and businesses step up to help the affected residents. Area nonprofit organizations raised millions of dollars in donations and neighbors and Good Samaritans from across our state and other states stepped up to help our community.
Here in the Senate we approved much-needed finances to support and help people recover from the unimaginable flooding. In addition to helping homeowners and small businesses, we’re taking steps to help restore the lakes and rebuild the local infrastructure. Over the past year we’ve provided millions towards this effort and I will continue to put a priority on this support until the job is done. I’m also helping introduce legislation to help prevent dam failures and disasters like we saw a year ago from impacting other communities in our state. In some areas, it’s hard to tell that something ever happened. In other areas, it’s a reality and brutal fact that you visually see as you go through the neighborhoods. As we mark a solemn anniversary, I want to remind all of us that our efforts to help communities have recovered much of the year, but there is still a long way to go. I thank you for your support in the previous things. I ask for your support in the future.
The President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist, assumed the Chair.
Senator McCann’s statement is as follows:
Colleagues, I rise today to offer Senate Resolution No. 54. This resolution declares our support for democracy and the integrity the American electoral process. We know that voting is more than a privilege. It is a constitutionally-guaranteed right for every American. And yet since the November 2020 election, hundreds of proposals have been introduced in state legislatures around the country under the guise of election reform or election integrity, when in fact these bills—including many introduced by members of this body—would make it increasingly difficult to vote.
People have the right to vote, plain and simple. Enacting policies that
increase burdens on the rightfully-registered voter is voter suppression. A
great deal of this resembles past Jim Crow-era racist politics that seeks to
dissuade some groups from voting and divide us further as a country. It smacks
of trying to change the rules of the game after you lose a contest, rather than
admit that your ideas and values didn’t carry the day with the voters.
Mr. President, it has now been more than six months since the November 2020 election. Yet, many people—particularly some elected officials who should aspire to a higher standard—continue to perpetuate the “Big Lie”, apparently because they didn’t like the outcome. They simply refused to be straight up with the voters and tell them the truth: that the November election was accurate. Well, friends, facts overrule beliefs. Math, paper ballots, and audits can’t be wished away. Just because you believe the speed limit is 85 miles an hour doesn’t mean you don’t still get the ticket.
Mr. President, I stand here today as a patriotic American who believes fervently in our democracy, and to offer my resolution urging our congressional leaders and the President to pass the For the People Act. The For the People Act would protect every American’s fundamental freedom to vote and would also eliminate unnecessary barriers to voting. It would boost voter participation, set guidelines for absentee voting, provide states with funding and equipment for our elections, and more. The For the People Act takes on entrenched special interests, ends the grip that dark money has on our politics, and ensures that public officials are indeed working in the public’s best interest as they were elected to do by the voters who chose them, and not the other way around. I look forward to your support of this resolution.
Announcements of Printing and Enrollment
The Secretary announced that the following bills and resolution were printed and filed on Tuesday, May 18, and are available on the Michigan Legislature website:
Senate Bill Nos. 447 448 449 450 451 452 453 454 455 456
Senate Resolution No. 53
House Bill Nos. 4844 4845 4846 4847 4848 4849 4850 4851 4852 4853 4854 4855 4856 4857 4858 4859 4860 4861 4862 4863 4864 4865 4866 4867 4868 4869 4870 4871 4872 4873 4874 4875 4876
Committee Reports
The Committee on Energy and Technology reported
Senate Resolution No. 53.
A resolution to urge President Joe Biden to support the Keystone XL Pipeline, reverse his decision to cancel the permit, and to support American jobs and energy cooperation with our Canadian neighbors.
(For text of resolution, see Senate Journal No. 44, p. 745.)
With the recommendation that the resolution be adopted.
Dan Lauwers
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Lauwers, Horn, LaSata, Nesbitt, Barrett, Bumstead, Bizon and Schmidt
Nays: Senators McCann, Brinks, McMorrow and Bullock
The resolution was placed on the order of Resolutions.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Energy and Technology submitted the following:
Meeting held on Tuesday, May 18, 2021, at 2:00 p.m., Senate Hearing Room, Ground Floor, Boji Tower
Present: Senators Lauwers (C), Horn, LaSata, Nesbitt, Barrett, Bumstead,
Bizon, Schmidt, McCann, Brinks, McMorrow and Bullock
The Committee on Oversight reported
House Bill No. 4448, entitled
A bill to amend 1976 PA 390, entitled “Emergency management act,” by amending section 3 (MCL 30.403), as amended by 2002 PA 132.
With the recommendation that the bill pass.
Ed McBroom
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators McBroom, Theis and Bizon
Nays: Senator Irwin
The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Oversight submitted the following:
Meeting held on Tuesday, May 18, 2021, at 2:00 p.m., Room 403, 4th Floor, Capitol Building
Present: Senators McBroom (C), Theis, Bizon and Irwin
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Regulatory Reform submitted the following:
Meeting held on Tuesday, May 18, 2021, at 3:00 p.m., Harry T. Gast Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building
Present: Senators Nesbitt (C), Theis, Johnson, Lauwers, VanderWall, Zorn, Moss, Polehanki and Wojno
Economic and Small Business Development – Thursday, May 20, 12:00 noon, Harry T. Gast Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building (517) 373-1721
Health Policy and Human Services – Thursday, May 20, 1:00 p.m., Senate Hearing Room, Ground Floor, Boji Tower (517) 373-5323
Local Government – Thursday, May 20, 2:00 p.m., Room 403, 4th Floor, Capitol Building (517) 373-5312 (CANCELLED)
Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate adjourn.
The motion prevailed, the time being 10:50 a.m.
The President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist, declared the Senate adjourned until Thursday, May 20, 2021, at 10:00 a.m.
MARGARET O’BRIEN
Secretary of the Senate