No. 46

STATE OF MICHIGAN

Journal of the Senate

103rd Legislature

REGULAR SESSION OF 2025

Senate Chamber, Lansing, Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

10:00 a.m.

The Senate was called to order by the President pro tempore, Senator Jeremy Moss.

The roll was called by the Secretary of the Senate, who announced that a quorum was present.

Albert—present Hauck—present Moss—present

Anthony—present Hertel—present Nesbitt—present

Bayer—present Hoitenga—present Outman—excused

Bellino—present Huizenga—present Polehanki—present

Brinks—present Irwin—present Runestad—present

Bumstead—present Johnson—excused Santana—present

Camilleri—present Klinefelt—present Shink—present

Cavanagh—present Lauwers—present Singh—present

Chang—present Lindsey—excused Theis—present

Cherry—present McBroom—present Victory—present

Daley—present McCann—present Webber—present

Damoose—present McMorrow—present Wojno—present

Geiss—present

Senator Joseph N. Bellino, Jr. of the 16th District offered the following invocation:

My Creator, I am now willing that You should have all of me, good and bad. I pray that You now remove from me every single defect of character which stands in the way of my usefulness to my fellow man and woman. Grant me strength as I go out here to do Your bidding. Amen.

The President pro tempore, Senator Moss, led the members of the Senate in recital of the Pledge of Allegiance.

Motions and Communications

The following communications were received:

Office of Senator Sean McCann

May 13, 2025

I respectfully request that my name be added as a co-sponsor to the following bills:

• Senate Bill 285, sponsored by Senator Klinefelt

• Senate Bill 286, sponsored by Senator Klinefelt

• Senate Bill 287, sponsored by Senator Klinefelt

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact my office. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

May 15, 2025

I respectfully request that my name be added as a co-sponsor to the following bills:

• Senate Bill 296, sponsored by Senator Chang

• Senate Bill 297, sponsored by Senator McBroom

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact my office. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Sean McCann

State Senator

19th District

The communications were referred to the Secretary for record.

The following communication was received:

Department of State Police

May 16, 2025

Pursuant to MCL 445.573c, please find a copy of MSP’s 2025 Bottle Deposit Report.

If you have any questions, please feel free to direct them to MSP.

Thank you,

Sgt. Travis R. Fletcher

Government Relations Section

Office of the Director

The communication was referred to the Secretary for record.

The following communications were received:

Department of Treasury

May 16, 2025

Pursuant to PA 121 of 2024, Section 904(2), the Michigan Department of Treasury, Bureau of Investments is providing the attached State of Michigan Investment Board Meeting Quarterly Investment Review held on January 8, 2025, which consists of the performance of each portfolio by investment advisor as of September 30, 2024. The report can also be found on the Bureau of Investments website.

Should you have any questions, please contact Jon M. Braeutigam, Chief Investment Officer for the Bureau of Investments, Michigan Department of Treasury at (517) 335-5401.

May 16, 2025

Pursuant to PA 121 of 2024, Section 944, and effective October 1, 2023 through September 30, 2024, the Department of Treasury, Bureau of Investments, has retained all reports provided by the pension plan consultant, Aon, and provides notification that the following reports are available upon request: (current list of reports listed below).

The rationale for the reports received from the pension plan consultant is consistent with institutional investment consulting services provided to similar public pension fund peers and is an industry best practice.

FY 2024 Aon Reports

1) Capital Market Assumptions related items (Quarterly)

2) Monthly Index Return Sheets

3) Private Equity Pacing Output

4) Private Equity Risk / Return Chart

5) Private Debt Educational Presentation

Kind regards,

Lori Barrett

Senior Executive Management Assistant

CIO Jon Braeutigam

Bureau of Investments

The communications were referred to the Secretary for record.

The following communication was received:

Judicial Tenure Commission

May 20, 2025

I am pleased to present the Commission’s 2024 Annual Report. This report informs the public and all branches of state government about the Commission’s duties, operations, and actions.

The Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission thanks the Legislature, Governor Whitmer and the Supreme Court for continuing to provide the Commission with resources it needs to ensure the judiciary is working for the people of the state. The Commission used those resources to continue to reduce the backlog of investigations that had accumulated during years when the Commission’s workload exceeded the capacity of staff.

The Commission remains committed to fulfilling its responsibilities to the people of the State of Michigan. It thanks its staff for their hard work. We hope the vigilant and dedicated work of the Commission will promote the public’s confidence in the integrity, independence, and fairness of the Michigan judiciary. Very truly yours,

Thomas J. Ryan, Esq.

Chairperson

For the Commission

The communication was referred to the Secretary for record.

Senator Lauwers moved that Senators Nesbitt and McBroom be temporarily excused from today’s session.

The motion prevailed.

Senator Lauwers moved that Senators Johnson, Lindsey and Outman be excused from today’s session.

The motion prevailed.

Senator Nesbitt entered the Senate Chamber.

The following communication was received and read:

Office of the Auditor General

May 14, 2025

Enclosed is a copy of the following report:

• Report on internal control, compliance, and other matters of the Self-Insurers’ Security Fund, Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (186-0101-25).

Sincerely,

Doug Ringler

Auditor General

The audit report was referred to the Committee on Oversight.

Senator Singh moved that rule 3.902 be suspended to allow the guests of Senator Theis admittance to the Senate floor.

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

Senator Singh 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. 303

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

Recess

Senator Singh moved that the Senate recess subject to the call of the Chair.

The motion prevailed, the time being 10:03 a.m.

10:11 a.m.

The Senate was called to order by the President pro tempore, Senator Moss.

During the recess, Senator McBroom entered the Senate Chamber.

By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of

Resolutions

Senator Singh moved that rule 3.204 be suspended to permit immediate consideration of the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 49

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

Senators Brinks and Nesbitt offered the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 49.

A resolution of tribute offered as a memorial for George Alvin McManus Jr., former member of the Senate.

Whereas, It was with great sorrow that the members of this legislative body learned of the passing of George Alvin McManus Jr. In his twelve years in the Senate, he represented his lifelong home of the Traverse City area and constituents throughout northwestern Michigan and the eastern Upper Peninsula. The humor and common sense that he brought to his community and to the Legislature will not soon be forgotten; and

Whereas, George McManus was a fourth-generation cherry farmer who grew up on the family farm on Old Mission Peninsula. He married his wife, Clara Kratochvil, in 1949, and they settled in East Bay Township, where they would raise their family. After earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Michigan State College, George had a lengthy career with the Michigan State University Extension Service, retiring as County Extension Director after 26 years of service. In addition to sharing his agricultural expertise on the WTCM radio program, “The Farm and Orchard Show,” he and his family hosted numerous foreign agricultural exchange students on their farm. George and Clara raised nine children together, ensuring that all of them attended college; and

Whereas, George McManus began his career in public service in the 1970s. Elected to the Northwestern Michigan College Board of Trustees from 1970 to 1990, he also served on the Michigan Commission of Agriculture from 1985 to 1988, having been appointed to the position by Governor Blanchard. In addition to these public service positions, George served as a trustee for the Michigan National Bank Traverse City branch and on the Farmers Mutual Insurance Board, while also being a pillar of the community. The McManus family were faithful parishioners at St. Francis Church in Traverse City, and George was actively involved in the Farm Bureau, the Elks Club, and the Honorary Order of Hibernians. He also served as President of the Rotary Club, taking the stage at the club’s annual minstrel show; and

Whereas, In 1990, at the urging of his wife, Clara, George McManus ran for and won a seat in the Senate. Representing the Thirty-seventh District in his first term and the Thirty-sixth District in his second and third terms, George’s expertise was immediately recognized, earning him appointments to several committees related to agriculture. In his very first term, he was appointed vice chair of the Committee on Agriculture, Forestry, and Wildlife and chair of the Appropriations Subcommittees on Agriculture and Transportation. He also chaired the Appropriations Subcommittee on Natural Resources in later terms, served on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Higher Education, and rose to chair the Committee on Farming, Agribusiness and Food Systems in his final term; and

Whereas, As a legislator, George McManus shepherded numerous bills to improve the lives of his constituents and farmers across the state. He was most proud of his work in sponsoring the Groundwater and Freshwater Protection Act, which encouraged responsibility in the use of agricultural pesticides and fertilizers and provided funds to close abandoned wells, and in securing funding for Project GREEEN, an initiative housed at Michigan State University that works to enhance plant agriculture through research and outreach. He also sponsored legislation to facilitate the transfer of the former Traverse City Regional Psychiatric Hospital from the state to the Grand Traverse Commons Redevelopment Corporation, facilitating the transformation of this historic facility into retail stores, offices, and housing. Remembering his roots, George worked tirelessly to negotiate legislation that protected family farms from the property tax “pop-up” under Proposal A, and he supported legislation to reduce the tax credit threshold for farmers to participate in the Farmland and Open Space Preservation program, ensuring that the program’s incentives were not inadvertently eliminated when property taxes were cut by Proposal A; and

Whereas, George McManus is survived by nine children, 22 grandchildren, 48 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. He will be remembered by his relatives, by his extended family of foreign exchange students, and by his community for his wit and wisdom, his dramatic storytelling, and his love of the land, which he shared with all around him; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That we offer this expression of our highest tribute to honor the memory of George Alvin McManus Jr., a member of this legislative body from 1991 to 2002; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the McManus family as evidence of our lasting esteem for his memory.

The question being on the adoption of the resolution,

The resolution was adopted by a unanimous standing vote of the Senate.

Senator Singh moved that rule 3.204 be suspended to name the entire membership of the Senate and the Lieutenant Governor as co-sponsors of the resolution.

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

A moment of silence was observed in memory of George Alvin McManus Jr., former member of the Senate.

Senators Brinks and Damoose asked and were granted unanimous consent to make statements and moved that the statements be printed in the Journal.

The motion prevailed.

Senator Brinks’ statement is as follows:

I rise to honor the memory of former Senator George McManus, Jr. Senator McManus represented his lifelong home of the Traverse City area in the Michigan Senate for 12 years, but his career in public service began long before his time in the Legislature. He served on the Northwestern Michigan College Board of Trustees and Michigan Commission of Agriculture for decades before later running for the State Senate. Senator McManus quickly demonstrated his agricultural expertise and was selected to chair several agricultural committees throughout his tenure. His leadership was crucial in ensuring the long-term sustainability and success of Michigan’s diverse farming communities. In fact, Senator McManus was a proud champion of policies that aimed to provide the livelihoods of farmers all across the state. His greatest accomplishments, as you heard, included sponsoring the Groundwater and Freshwater Protection Act and securing funding for Project Green—an initiative at Michigan State University that improves plant agriculture through research and outreach.

Beyond his service to state government, Senator McManus was also a husband, a father, a grandparent, a dramatic storyteller, a fourth-generation cherry farmer, a community pillar, and so much more. Today, we honor the life of one of our own who is no longer with us, and we express our gratitude for Senator McManus’ many contributions as a dedicated public servant. We extend our gratitude to his many family members who have joined us here today. May his memory live on.

Senator Damoose’s statement is as follows:

I rise today to honor the legacy of a true statesman—the Honorable George Alvin McManus, Jr.—who passed away on June 21, 2024, at the age of 93. While I may now fill his seat in this Senate Chamber, it is impossible to fill his shoes. Born on the Old Mission Peninsula in 1930, George, as was mentioned, was a fourth-generation cherry farmer and an unshakable advocate for Northern Michigan. Prior to his public service, he served as Michigan State University Extension director for 25 years and his tireless dedication made him a true titan of agriculture, a legacy that will survive for generations to come.

The Honorable Senator McManus served the public for 12 years and in that time, championed so many notable efforts to make his community and the state of Michigan truly a better place. He authored the Michigan Groundwater and Freshwater Protection Act, fought tirelessly to protect family farms, and secured vital funding for Northwestern Michigan College. Even more than that, he truly embodied what public service should be, both in Lansing and in his district, and he did so with a gracefulness and a civility too often missing in today’s political environment. What made Senator McManus truly remarkable was his ability to work across the aisle. His calendar regularly featured an event called the Hunt Club, which was not for hunting but for a friendly yet serious card game that built relationships between Republicans and Democrats. These gatherings led to conversations that might never have occurred otherwise. Friendships formed in place of disagreements, which fostered better communication and the ability to find real solutions to difficult legislative issues.

No tribute to Senator McManus would be complete without mentioning his legendary wit. Some may recall his poetic tribute to Representative Bill Bobier that began, Listen, my children, and you shall hear of the midnight ride of Bill Bobier. Or perhaps his comment on the floor about the flashing purple lights in funeral processions, that they’re there so the devil knows you’re coming. His staff fondly remembers other George‑isms like his reply of, Two to the hill, when asked how he was doing—which is a potato reference for, Just OK. Or describing someone as, Slippery as a cat in pajamas—whatever that may mean. Above all, though, George was a family man, married to his wife Clara for 70 remarkable years—think of that, 70 years. Together they raised 9 children, and were blessed with 23 grandchildren, 48 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild at the time of his passing. Five of his children, including Molly Agostinelli, Lisa McManus, George McManus III, Peggy Egelus, and Bridgett Popp are here today in the west Gallery, along with many of the grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

I’d like to close with a phrase from Senator McManus’ own farewell floor speech: “Now good luck to you all; life is really a ball. / Remember work is not work if you enjoy it.” The Honorable George McManus will be remembered for his wisdom, for his humor, and his unwavering commitment to working together for the common good. May we all strive to follow his example.

Recess

Senator Singh moved that the Senate recess subject to the call of the Chair.

The motion prevailed, the time being 10:25 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

The Senate was called to order by the President pro tempore, Senator Moss.

By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of

Introduction and Referral of Bills

Senator Hertel introduced

Senate Bill No. 314, entitled

A bill to amend 1851 PA 156, entitled “An act to define the powers and duties of the county boards of commissioners of the several counties, and to confer upon them certain local, administrative and legislative powers; and to prescribe penalties for the violation of the provisions of this act,” by amending section 12a (MCL 46.12a), as amended by 2017 PA 204.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Local Government.

Senator Damoose introduced

Senate Bill No. 315, entitled

A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled “The revised school code,” by amending sections 11a, 1141, 1212, and 1351a (MCL 380.11a, 380.1141, 380.1212, and 380.1351a), sections 11a and 1351a as amended by 2016 PA 192 and section 1212 as amended by 2023 PA 26.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Education.

Senators Hauck, Bellino, Geiss, McMorrow, McBroom, Outman, Runestad, Webber and Wojno introduced

Senate Bill No. 316, entitled

A bill to amend 1974 PA 258, entitled “Mental health code,” by amending sections 409 and 972 (MCL 330.1409 and 330.1972), section 409 as amended by 2022 PA 214 and section 972 as added by 2020 PA 402.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Health Policy.

Senators Johnson, Damoose, Victory, Daley, Lindsey, Webber and Chang introduced

Senate Bill No. 317, entitled

A bill to allow for the establishment of a wholesale prescription drug importation program; to provide for the powers and duties of certain state and local governmental officers and entities; and to allow for the promulgation of rules.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Health Policy.

Senators Santana, Irwin, Bayer, Cavanagh, Shink, Chang, Geiss and Damoose introduced

Senate Bill No. 318, entitled

A bill to amend 1953 PA 232, entitled “Corrections code of 1953,” by amending section 67a (MCL 791.267a), as added by 1996 PA 234.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Finance, Insurance, and Consumer Protection.

House Bill No. 4090, entitled

A bill to authorize the state administrative board to convey state-owned property in Wayne County; to prescribe conditions for the conveyance; to provide for powers and duties of state departments, agencies, and officers regarding the property; and to provide for disposition of revenue derived from the conveyance.

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 Local Government.

House Bill No. 4201, entitled

A bill to amend 1967 PA 281, entitled “Income tax act of 1967,” by amending section 30 (MCL 206.30), as amended by 2023 PA 4.

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 Finance, Insurance, and Consumer Protection.

House Bill No. 4222, entitled

A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled “The revised school code,” by amending section 1308b (MCL 380.1308b), as added by 2018 PA 436.

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 Education.

House Bill No. 4223, entitled

A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled “The revised school code,” (MCL 380.1 to 380.1852) by adding section 1308g.

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 Education.

House Bill No. 4225, entitled

A bill to amend 2020 PA 211, entitled “Save our students act,” by amending the title and sections 3 and 5 (MCL 380.1893 and 380.1895).

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 Education.

House Bill No. 4226, entitled

A bill to amend 1941 PA 207, entitled “Fire prevention code,” by amending section 19 (MCL 29.19), as amended by 2024 PA 36.

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 Education.

House Bill No. 4229, entitled

A bill to amend 2018 PA 435, entitled “An act to create the office of school safety and prescribe its powers and duties; and to provide for the powers and duties of certain state entities,” by amending section 3 (MCL 28.683).

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 Education.

House Bill No. 4258, entitled

A bill to amend 2013 PA 183, entitled “Student safety act,” by amending section 3 (MCL 752.913), as amended by 2020 PA 401.

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 Education.

House Bill No. 4259, entitled

A bill to amend 2013 PA 183, entitled “Student safety act,” by amending section 2 (MCL 752.912), as amended by 2020 PA 401.

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 Education.

House Bill No. 4315, entitled

A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled “The revised school code,” (MCL 380.1 to 380.1852) by adding section 1308f.

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 Education.

House Bill No. 4350, entitled

A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled “Natural resources and environmental protection act,” by amending section 40111a (MCL 324.40111a), as amended by 2015 PA 265.

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 Natural Resources and Agriculture.

House Bill No. 4392, entitled

A bill to make, supplement, and adjust appropriations for certain capital outlay projects, community colleges, and the department of natural resources for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025; to provide for expenditure of the appropriations; and to prescribe certain conditions for the appropriations.

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 Appropriations.

By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of

General Orders

Senator Singh 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 pro tempore, Senator Moss, designated Senator McBroom as Chairperson.

After some time spent therein, the Committee arose; and the President pro tempore, Senator Moss, having resumed the Chair, the Committee reported back to the Senate, favorably and without amendment, the following bills:

Senate Bill No. 220, entitled

A bill to amend 1974 PA 258, entitled “Mental health code,” by amending sections 206a and 429 (MCL 330.1206a and 330.1429), section 206a as added by 2020 PA 55 and section 429 as amended by 2022 PA 214.

Senate Bill No. 221, entitled

A bill to amend 1974 PA 258, entitled “Mental health code,” (MCL 330.1001 to 330.2106) by adding section 1021 and chapter 10A.

Senate Bill No. 303, entitled

A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” (MCL 333.1101 to 333.25211) by adding section 16189.

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. 219, entitled

A bill to amend 1974 PA 258, entitled “Mental health code,” by amending sections 401, 427, 430, 461, 468, 472a, and 475 (MCL 330.1401, 330.1427, 330.1430, 330.1461, 330.1468, 330.1472a, and 330.1475), sections 401, 461, 468, 472a, and 475 as amended by 2018 PA 593, section 427 as amended by 2016 PA 320, and section 430 as amended by 1995 PA 290.

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. 222, entitled

A bill to amend 1974 PA 258, entitled “Mental health code,” by amending section 473 (MCL 330.1473), as amended by 2018 PA 593.

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.

By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of

Third Reading of Bills

The following bill was read a third time:

Senate Bill No. 78, entitled

A bill to amend 1965 PA 213, entitled “An act to provide for setting aside the conviction in certain criminal cases; to provide for the effect of such action; to provide for the retention of certain nonpublic records and their use; to prescribe the powers and duties of certain public agencies and officers; and to prescribe penalties,” by amending sections 1b, 1c, 1d, 2, and 3 (MCL 780.621b, 780.621c, 780.621d, 780.622, and 780.623), section 1b as added by 2020 PA 188, section 1c as amended by 2021 PA 79, section 1d as amended by 2021 PA 82, and sections 2 and 3 as amended by 2020 PA 193, and by adding section 1j; and to repeal acts and parts of acts.

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. 139 Yeas—23

Anthony Cherry Klinefelt Santana

Bayer Damoose McBroom Shink

Brinks Geiss McCann Singh

Camilleri Hertel McMorrow Victory

Cavanagh Huizenga Moss Wojno

Chang Irwin Polehanki

Nays—11

Albert Daley Lauwers Theis

Bellino Hauck Nesbitt Webber

Bumstead Hoitenga Runestad

Excused—3

Johnson Lindsey Outman

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: Moss

The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.

Senator Santana asked and was granted unanimous consent to make a statement and moved that the statement be printed in the Journal.

The motion prevailed.

Senator Santana’s statement is as follows:

Today, I stand before you to address an issue that lies at the very heart of our justice system—a matter that speaks not only to our legal framework but also to our moral compass as a society. We have a unique opportunity before us, a chance to offer redemption to 50-, 60-, and 70-year-olds who committed a specific crime prior to their 18th birthday but have since embraced measurable and impressive rehabilitation.

Imagine, if you will, a young person, just a child, who either due to circumstances beyond their control or clearly misguided, made a mistake. Perhaps they were swept up into the peer pressure, faced an unstable home life, or were simply lost and searching for and belonging in a challenged environment. These youthful indiscretions, while regrettable, do not define who they are today. With the passage of decades, these individuals have worked tirelessly to rebuild their lives, showing remarkable resilience and unwavering commitment to bettering themselves and contributing to everything good about our communities.

Now, let’s imagine in some honest introspection for a moment. Imagine your own selves, when you were teenagers, the mistakes you made, some public and others very private. Think about all the things you did not to get caught doing. Can you imagine the impact on your lives and your careers if those past actions were brought to light today? Can you imagine how it would affect your children, your spouse, your neighbors, your place of worship, or even your colleagues right here on this chamber floor? Can you imagine having your poor choices as a teenager used against you for the rest of your life, even though you are no longer that person 30 to 40 years later? You would definitely be asking yourself, When is enough enough?

We must ask ourselves, Should a single moment in our past overshadow decades of our hard work, dedication, and law-abiding exemplary behavior? Should we continue to punish individuals who have taken meaningful steps toward accountability and redemption? I believe the answer is, resoundingly, No. The few individuals who this bill affects were not forced or mandated to live exceptional lives—they chose to. They are law-abiding citizens who in the last years have gone above and beyond to demonstrate their value, worthiness, and forgiveness. When is enough enough?

As legislators, we have the power to punish those who break the law. We also have the ability to highlight those who exceed expectations after struggling in their youth. Recently, Michigan has made considerable strides to focusing on rehabilitation and redemption to our juvenile justice system with reforms. This bill represents more than just a judicial process; it embodies the belief that power and redemption, and the fundamental principles that we as a society are strengthening, allow individuals to reclaim their lives by expunging their records for ex-offenders who were juveniles at the last time of their offense. We acknowledge their growth, resilience, paving them to pursue higher education, quality housing, unrestricted travel, employment-based earning power that is meaningful and contributes to society without the burden of their past mistakes holding them back.

As lawmakers, we have the responsibility to shape a just and equitable society. Supporting this bill is an opportunity for us to affirm the commitment to fairness and rehabilitation. It is our duty as Christians, Jews, and Muslims to ensure that our system is not one of perpetual punishment but hope, possibility, and progress. I urge each and every one of you to join me in supporting this crucial legislation. Let us be champions of the second chance and architects of a more compassionate society for those who have earned it.

The following bill was read a third time:

Senate Bill No. 257, entitled

A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled “Revised judicature act of 1961,” by amending section 5851b (MCL 600.5851b), as added by 2018 PA 183.

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. 140 Yeas—25

Anthony Damoose McCann Santana

Bayer Geiss McMorrow Shink

Brinks Hertel Moss Singh

Camilleri Huizenga Nesbitt Victory

Cavanagh Irwin Polehanki Webber

Chang Klinefelt Runestad Wojno

Cherry

Nays—9

Albert Daley Hoitenga McBroom

Bellino Hauck Lauwers Theis

Bumstead

Excused—3

Johnson Lindsey Outman

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: Moss

The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.

The following bill was read a third time:

Senate Bill No. 258, entitled

A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled “Revised judicature act of 1961,” by amending section 5805 (MCL 600.5805), as amended by 2018 PA 183.

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. 141 Yeas—25

Anthony Damoose McCann Santana

Bayer Geiss McMorrow Shink

Brinks Hertel Moss Singh

Camilleri Huizenga Nesbitt Victory

Cavanagh Irwin Polehanki Webber

Chang Klinefelt Runestad Wojno

Cherry

Nays—9

Albert Daley Hoitenga McBroom

Bellino Hauck Lauwers Theis

Bumstead

Excused—3

Johnson Lindsey Outman

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: Moss

The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.

The following bill was read a third time:

Senate Bill No. 259, entitled

A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled “Revised judicature act of 1961,” by amending section 6452 (MCL 600.6452), as amended by 2020 PA 44.

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. 142 Yeas—25

Anthony Damoose McCann Santana

Bayer Geiss McMorrow Shink

Brinks Hertel Moss Singh

Camilleri Huizenga Nesbitt Victory

Cavanagh Irwin Polehanki Webber

Chang Klinefelt Runestad Wojno

Cherry

Nays—9

Albert Daley Hoitenga McBroom

Bellino Hauck Lauwers Theis

Bumstead

Excused—3

Johnson Lindsey Outman

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: Moss

The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.

The following bill was read a third time:

Senate Bill No. 260, entitled

A bill to amend 1964 PA 170, entitled “An act to make uniform the liability of municipal corporations, political subdivisions, and the state, its agencies and departments, officers, employees, and volunteers thereof, and members of certain boards, councils, and task forces when engaged in the exercise or discharge of a governmental function, for injuries to property and persons; to define and limit this liability; to define and limit the liability of the state when engaged in a proprietary function; to authorize the purchase of liability insurance to protect against loss arising out of this liability; to provide for defending certain claims made against public officers, employees, and volunteers and for paying damages sought or awarded against them; to provide for the legal defense of public officers, employees, and volunteers; to provide for reimbursement of public officers and employees for certain legal expenses; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,” by amending section 7 (MCL 691.1407), as amended by 2013 PA 173, and by adding section 7d.

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. 143 Yeas—25

Anthony Damoose McCann Santana

Bayer Geiss McMorrow Shink

Brinks Hertel Moss Singh

Camilleri Huizenga Nesbitt Victory

Cavanagh Irwin Polehanki Webber

Chang Klinefelt Runestad Wojno

Cherry

Nays—9

Albert Daley Hoitenga McBroom

Bellino Hauck Lauwers Theis

Bumstead

Excused—3

Johnson Lindsey Outman

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: Moss

The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.

The following bill was read a third time:

Senate Bill No. 261, entitled

A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled “Revised judicature act of 1961,” by amending section 6431 (MCL 600.6431), as amended by 2020 PA 42.

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. 144 Yeas—25

Anthony Damoose McCann Santana

Bayer Geiss McMorrow Shink

Brinks Hertel Moss Singh

Camilleri Huizenga Nesbitt Victory

Cavanagh Irwin Polehanki Webber

Chang Klinefelt Runestad Wojno

Cherry

Nays—9

Albert Daley Hoitenga McBroom

Bellino Hauck Lauwers Theis

Bumstead

Excused—3

Johnson Lindsey Outman

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: Moss

The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.

The following bill was read a third time:

Senate Bill No. 137, entitled

A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “Michigan vehicle code,” by amending sections 233, 234, 239, and 240 (MCL 257.233, 257.234, 257.239, and 257.240), section 233 as amended by 2014 PA 290, section 234 as amended by 2002 PA 552, section 239 as amended by 2020 PA 382, and section 240 as amended by 2004 PA 493.

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. 145 Yeas—33

Anthony Daley Klinefelt Runestad

Bayer Damoose Lauwers Santana

Bellino Geiss McBroom Shink

Brinks Hauck McCann Singh

Bumstead Hertel McMorrow Theis

Camilleri Hoitenga Moss Victory

Cavanagh Huizenga Nesbitt Webber

Chang Irwin Polehanki Wojno

Cherry

Nays—1

Albert

Excused—3

Johnson Lindsey Outman

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: Moss

The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.

The following bill was read a third time:

Senate Bill No. 138, entitled

A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “Michigan vehicle code,” by amending section 227 (MCL 257.227), as amended by 2011 PA 92.

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. 146 Yeas—33

Anthony Daley Klinefelt Runestad

Bayer Damoose Lauwers Santana

Bellino Geiss McBroom Shink

Brinks Hauck McCann Singh

Bumstead Hertel McMorrow Theis

Camilleri Hoitenga Moss Victory

Cavanagh Huizenga Nesbitt Webber

Chang Irwin Polehanki Wojno

Cherry

Nays—1

Albert

Excused—3

Johnson Lindsey Outman

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: Moss

The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.

The following bill was read a third time:

Senate Bill No. 139, entitled

A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled “Natural resources and environmental protection act,” by amending sections 80304 and 81105 (MCL 324.80304 and 324.81105), section 80304 as amended by 2018 PA 678 and section 81105 as amended by 2018 PA 519.

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. 147 Yeas—33

Anthony Daley Klinefelt Runestad

Bayer Damoose Lauwers Santana

Bellino Geiss McBroom Shink

Brinks Hauck McCann Singh

Bumstead Hertel McMorrow Theis

Camilleri Hoitenga Moss Victory

Cavanagh Huizenga Nesbitt Webber

Chang Irwin Polehanki Wojno

Cherry

Nays—1

Albert

Excused—3

Johnson Lindsey Outman

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: Moss

The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.

By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of

Resolutions

Senator Singh moved that rule 3.204 be suspended to permit immediate consideration of the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 50

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

Senators Hertel, Singh, Moss, McCann, Camilleri, McMorrow, Shink, Wojno, Geiss, Klinefelt, Polehanki, Brinks, Santana, Chang, Irwin, Cherry, Bayer, Cavanagh and Anthony offered the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 50.

A resolution to urge the President of the United States and the United States Congress to fully fund Medicaid and to reject any proposal that would strip access to those in need and shift costs onto states, health care providers, and vulnerable individuals.

Whereas, Medicaid provides healthcare access to over 71 million Americans and nearly 2.2 million Michigan residents. The program plays a vital role in ensuring access to essential health care services, improving health outcomes, and reducing uncompensated care for hospitals and providers; and

Whereas, Medicaid is a foundational component of the health care safety net, particularly in underserved and rural communities where access to affordable care may otherwise be limited. Michigan’s Medicaid program receives around 70 percent of its funding, 19 billion dollars, from the federal government to provide health coverage to more than one million children, 300,000 individuals with disabilities, and 168,000 seniors; and

Whereas, Despite Medicaid’s importance, President Trump and Congressional Republicans are proposing funding cuts and structural changes that would be inefficient and ineffective, and that would shift costs to the states, health care providers, and vulnerable individuals. Full and consistent federal funding of Medicaid is essential to ensure access to care, especially during times of emergency, economic downturns, and periods of increased cost of living; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That we urge the President of the United States and the United States Congress to fully fund Medicaid and to reject any proposal that would strip access to those in need and shift costs onto states, health care providers, and vulnerable individuals; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, the Majority Leader of the United States Senate, and the Michigan congressional delegation.

The question being on the adoption of the resolution,

Senator Singh 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. 148 Yeas—21

Anthony Cherry Klinefelt Santana

Bayer Geiss McCann Shink

Brinks Hertel McMorrow Singh

Camilleri Huizenga Moss Webber

Cavanagh Irwin Polehanki Wojno

Chang

Nays—13

Albert Damoose Lauwers Runestad

Bellino Hauck McBroom Theis

Bumstead Hoitenga Nesbitt Victory

Daley

Excused—3

Johnson Lindsey Outman

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: Moss

Protest

Senator Theis, under her constitutional right of protest (Art. 4, Sec. 18), protested against the adoption of Senate Resolution No. 50.

Senator Theis’ statement is as follows:

I can’t think of anybody who would be opposed to people who desperately need Medicaid getting it. I am so frustrated that what we’re doing is claiming we need to throw all the money at it without doing any kind of review for where we ought to save the money, so I am calling right now on the department to show us what they’ve done to save money instead of constantly sending us supplementals asking for more. I can think readily of how we’re handling the pharmaceuticals as ways that we could save significant money, and it certainly ought to be reviewed before we ask people to throw more money at it.

Senators Hertel and Runestad asked and were granted unanimous consent to make statements and moved that the statements be printed in the Journal.

The motion prevailed.

Senator Hertel’s statement is as follows:

I rise today with a simple message: Ensuring Michiganders, especially our most vulnerable, have access to health care, should not be a political or a partisan issue. Across the country right now, there are children, pregnant mothers, seniors, nursing home residents, people with disabilities, and veterans who depend on Medicaid for critical health services. Here in Michigan, one in every four of our residents are covered by Medicaid, relying on the program for everything from immunizations, well checkups, to cancer treatments and prescription medications. Medicaid doesn’t only benefit those it directly serves, its reach goes far beyond to benefit Michigan workers, hospitals, and patients. Across the state, Medicaid provides stability and support for over 217,000 hospital employees who not only help keep us healthy but help us boost the personal spending power for Michigan residents by $2.3 billion every single year.

The positive impacts of Medicaid don’t go unnoticed by the public either. Since the program was first established almost six decades ago, Medicaid has received widespread support from Americans on both sides of the political aisle. As a result, blue states and red states have worked in partnership with the federal government to expand their programming to better reach underserved populations. In fact, here in Michigan, the effort to expand Medicaid was supported by former Republican Governor Rick Snyder, who said the program makes sense for both physical and fiscal health here in the state of Michigan.

All of this to say that protecting the health of our people is not and should not ever be the responsibility of one party. It is our shared responsibility. And yet, today we are seeing deeply troubling efforts out of Washington, D.C., to undermine that responsibility. Right now, we are watching President Trump and Republicans in Congress fight tooth and nail to slash funding for Medicaid in order to afford a $4 trillion tax break for the wealthiest Americans. Let’s be absolutely clear, this is not about balancing a budget and this is not about weeding out fraud and abuse, this is about our priorities, and these are the wrong ones.

If this proposal becomes reality, there will be real and dire consequences for our entire state. Many of our family, friends, and neighbors will go uninsured. Nursing home residents will face reduced care due to exacerbated staffing shortages. Seniors and veterans who rely on home care won’t be able to stay in their homes and age with dignity. And hospitals, especially rural hospitals, will be forced to drastically reduce their staff or close their doors altogether, meaning patients, even patients with private insurance, will have to travel farther and wait longer to receive the care that they need.

We can not and must not let this happen, and so I ask my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to have the will, to have the courage to step up and do what is right. Put the health of the residents and communities that we represent first. Let’s send a message to Republicans in Washington that Michigan stands united in support of Medicaid and in defense of every person who counts on it for their health and wellbeing.

Senator Runestad’s statement is as follows:

There’s a reason that the Democrats handed in this Senate Resolution No. 50 at the last second—because it’s so chock full of misinformation. The whole commentary I just heard is so contrary to what the intent of what the administration is trying to do, which is preserve Medicaid, which is to be able to take care of the people who have real needs. One of the provisions is that if you’re an able-bodied adult who has no dependents, you have to work at least 80 hours per month—either work or perform some kind of community service. Now, how many people should say if you’re an able-bodied adult with no dependents, you should have no obligation to do anything to receive Medicaid when it is under duress? Why is it under duress? I was reading it was $1.1 trillion of misspent money over the last 10 years of people who were not supposed to get the money. What the administration is trying to do is curtail not the real needy that was messaged on the other side of the aisle but the people who are not supposed to be receiving it—the people who are draining it down, like this example of somebody who’s an able-bodied adult who has no dependents, cannot even be asked to work for 80 hours per month to receive these benefits or do some kind of community service? This is the kind of thing the administration is trying to do to preserve it.

They eliminated gender alteration care for minors out of the budget. Well, most people do not want to pay for that. I know that’s something the Democrats want to use our Medicaid dollars for, but I believe Medicaid dollars should be used for those who really have needs. Unlike what was messaged over there, the intent is that we don’t have a system going bust and we’re able to preserve a system for those who really have a need.

By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of

Statements

Senators Bellino and Runestad asked and were granted unanimous consent to make statements and moved that the statements be printed in the Journal.

The motion prevailed.

Senator Bellino’s statement is as follows:

Mr. President, I’d like to begin with a quote—and you might be surprised at the source of this quote: “Nobody is above the law.” This is a phrase often and proudly used by our Attorney General Dana Nessel, and I just found a spot on Facebook that showed our Secretary of State saying the same thing. But in news lately, it should shock absolutely no one that it appears our Attorney General doesn’t apply the standard evenly. It appears that in Dana Nessel’s Michigan, you are above the law—as long as you’re the Secretary of State and you’re buddies with the Attorney General. Just ask any Republicans caught in the crosshairs of our AG.

Yesterday, Attorney General Dana Nessel announced that Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson—a former law school dean and self-proclaimed election law expert who gave us that website that’s all broken and screwed up—she broke the very campaign finance law she was supposed to enforce. On the first day of her campaign, no less. She broke a law that is so basic that even new interns in our offices are expected to understand and follow, and that is that partisan politics and their activities are banned from state-owned buildings. Madam Secretary of State, partisan politics is banned from state-owned buildings.

The state law allows for a misdemeanor penalty against those who have improperly used public resources, and not more than one year behind bars and up to a $1,000 fine. But what did our Attorney General do when it came time to prove that nobody is above the law? She shrugged her shoulders and issued the Secretary of State a warning: Please don’t do that again—but if you do, I’ll have to slap you on the wrist again.

Mr. President, this is brazen partisan politics from the highest law enforcement official in our state, and she’s doing it right out in the open. It’s no longer, “Nobody is above the law.” It’s, Rules for thee, but not for me—or my Democratic friends.

Senator Runestad’s statement is as follows:

In May of 2024, the Detroit News reported that legislative grants—often referred to as earmarks, pet projects, or pork barrel spending—bypassed the public grant application process and are inserted directly into the state’s budget without bidding or vetting, like the recent taxpayer rip-off to a California-based developer who squandered $1.6 million in taxpayer dollars with a no-bid contract to pay off his taxes—and then he went into receivership. These grants are frequently used as bargaining tools during budget negotiations and are supposed to serve the public good. However, when I attended the National Conference of State Legislatures and explained to the other legislators how Michigan permits no-bid contracts to private companies—often, wink wink, nod nod, possibly in exchange for campaign cash—they all said that is categorically illegal in all of the states, even if there is no campaign donations. However, the Detroit News investigation revealed that many of these appropriations have instead benefitted political appointees, followed political contributions, or subsidized private businesses and developments.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation—MEDC—confirmed to the News that in its 25 year history, it has never clawed back a legislative grant or withheld additional funding due to improper use. Not even once. One of the most basic tools for preventing waste, fraud, abuse, and corruption is transparency, especially in revealing which of these legislators are requesting the grants. Yet, despite the promises of increased accountability, the Democrat-led Michigan Legislature slashed the oversight by eliminating MEDC’s quarterly reporting so we could see what’s going on, and they replaced it with a single annual report.

To restore transparency, the Michigan House members are demanding that every legislative grant request be made public before we vote on the budget bills. However, here in the state Senate, the Michigan Senators in the minority are backing the same transparency demand. But what about the Senate Democrats? They are refusing. They are hiding their pork barrel requests from the public and the press, protecting the backroom deals that fuel influence and insider perks. It is outrageous, it is despicable, and it is proof that the Democrats are doubling down on this budget cycle to keep the feeding frenzy going at the trough of secrecy.

A glaring example of this past corruption was the $20 million no-bid legislative grant awarded to a nonprofit by Fay Beydoun. Although there’s a lot of finger pointing, nobody is wanting to admit to making this request that was supposed to be for a business accelerator but was instead used for $4,500 in a luxury coffee maker, $40,000 in furniture, $108,000 salaries for two people in three months, along with a whole bunch of international airfare—all paid for by you, the public taxpayer.

Michigan is renowned as the nation’s least-transparent state. Democrats—step up this cycle. Come out from hiding in the tall grass, come clean, let everyone know about the perks and the political favors that come from these hidden transparent requests that are made under the cover of darkness. Democrats, let the people here in the state of Michigan know exactly what pork barrel projects and lard you are requesting before we vote. Give the media the time to do a deep dive into every request and expose to the voters of Michigan what are the goodies and the garbage that the media unearths.

Announcements of Printing and Enrollment

The Secretary announced that the following bill was printed and filed on Wednesday, May 14, and is available on the Michigan Legislature website:

House Bill No. 4493

The Secretary announced that the following bills were printed and filed on Thursday, May 15, and are available on the Michigan Legislature website:

Senate Bill Nos. 305 306 307 308 309 310 311 312 313

House Bill Nos. 4494 4495 4496 4497 4498 4499 4500 4501 4502

Committee Reports

The Committee on Regulatory Affairs reported

Senate Bill No. 157, entitled

A bill to regulate pet cemeteries; to regulate the sale of pet cemetery merchandise and services; and to prescribe penalties and remedies.

With the recommendation that the substitute (S-2) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

Jeremy Moss

Chairperson

To Report Out:

Yeas: Senators Moss, Polehanki, McCann, Wojno, Santana, Hertel and Singh

Nays: Senators Hauck, Lauwers and Bellino

The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.

The Committee on Regulatory Affairs reported

Senate Bill No. 229, entitled

A bill to amend 1933 PA 167, entitled “General sales tax act,” by amending section 2d (MCL 205.52d), as added by 2019 PA 143.

With the recommendation that the bill pass.

Jeremy Moss

Chairperson

To Report Out:

Yeas: Senators Moss, Polehanki, McCann, Wojno, Santana, Hertel, Singh, Hauck, Webber, Lauwers and Bellino

Nays: None

The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.

COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT

The Committee on Regulatory Affairs submitted the following:

Meeting held on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 9:00 a.m., Room 403, 4th Floor, Capitol Building

Present: Senators Moss (C), Polehanki, McCann, Wojno, Santana, Hertel, Singh, Hauck, Webber, Lauwers and Bellino

The Committee on Health Policy reported

Senate Bill No. 303, entitled

A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” (MCL 333.1101 to 333.25211) by adding section 16189.

With the recommendation that the bill pass.

Kevin Hertel

Chairperson

To Report Out:

Yeas: Senators Hertel, Santana, Wojno, Cherry, Klinefelt, Geiss, Webber, Hauck and Runestad

Nays: None

The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.

COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT

The Committee on Health Policy submitted the following:

Meeting held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 9:30 a.m., Room 1100, Binsfeld Office Building

Present: Senators Hertel (C), Santana, Wojno, Cherry, Klinefelt, Geiss, Webber, Hauck and Runestad

Excused: Senator Huizenga

Scheduled Meetings

Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety – Thursday, May 22, 12:00 noon, Room 1200, Binsfeld Office Building (517) 373-5312

Senator Singh moved that the Senate adjourn.

The motion prevailed, the time being 11:46 a.m.

The President pro tempore, Senator Moss, declared the Senate adjourned until Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.

DANIEL OBERLIN

Secretary of the Senate