KEVIN SHERWOOD MEMORIAL HWY. S.B. 1160: FIRST ANALYSIS


Senate Bill 1160 (as passed by the Senate)
Sponsor: Senator Michelle A. McManus
Committee: Transportation


Date Completed: 5-6-04

RATIONALE


On October 9, 2003, Clare County Sheriff's Deputy Kevin Sherwood was responding to a 9-1-1 call about a drunk driver traveling the wrong direction on US-127, when the driver hit his patrol car head-on, killing him. Deputy Sherwood was a nine-year veteran of the Sheriff's Department and the first Clare County deputy to be killed in the line of duty. It has been suggested that a section of highway should be named for him to commemorate his service to the community.

CONTENT
The bill would amend the Michigan Memorial Highway Act to designate the portion of highway US-127 in Clare County as the "Kevin Sherwood Memorial Highway".


MCL 250.1082

ARGUMENTS (Please note: The arguments contained in this analysis originate from sources outside the Senate Fiscal Agency. The Senate Fiscal Agency neither supports nor opposes legislation.)

Supporting Argument Deputy Kevin Sherwood lost his life doing what he loved: protecting the safety of others in his community. One former colleague wrote of him, "Everything about him shined of professionalism, enthusiasm and a sincere passion for law enforcement. He was always there when any of his fellow officers needed backup, and he was the first one to lend a helping hand-truly a quality officer, but even more so, a quality human being and friend." Another wrote, "...Kevin is a hero but not for the actions of that night. Kevin was a hero for the way he lived every day of his life and his desire to help others and improve his community." He left behind a wife and three daughters, for whom he was the sole provider. Naming a portion of the highway after him would prompt people to remember Deputy Sherwood and the sacrifice he made, every time they traveled on it.


Legislative Analyst: Julie Koval

FISCAL IMPACT
The bill would have no fiscal impact on State or local government.


Fiscal Analyst: Craig Thiel

Analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent. sb1160/0304