The Speaker, on behalf of the entire membership of the House of Representatives, offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 331.

            A resolution of tribute for the Honorable Gene DeRossett.

            Whereas, It is with deep appreciation for his dedication over the past six years that we give tribute to Gene DeRossett and thank him for his effective leadership as a member of this legislative body. A staunch believer in limited government, lower taxes, and the sanctity of life, Representative DeRossett has served the interests of his constituents with honor; and

            Whereas, A longtime resident of Washtenaw County, Gene DeRossett earned his building trades certification through selected course work at Cleary College and Washtenaw Community College.  A successful small business owner, Mr. DeRossett founded his own construction company working as a licensed general contractor for over 30 years and was also a real estate agent.  He was involved in numerous professional, civic, and community organizations, including the Washtenaw County Right to Life, the National Rifle Association, the Michigan Coalition for Responsible Gun Owners, the Saline Rotary Club, and the Manchester Kiwanis Club; and

            Whereas, Since his election in 1998, Representative DeRossett served the House of Representatives as Chair of the House Committee on Transportation, Chair of the House Committee on Agricultural and Resource Management, Vice-Chair of the House Committee on Family and Children Services, Chair of the House Republican Campaign Committee, and Chair of the House Republican Task Force on Obstacles to Doing Business in Michigan. Over this period, he has sponsored at least 22 Public Acts, ranging from reducing the income tax credit threshold for farmers to repealing the Sunday hunting ban in Washtenaw County; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this expression of respect to the Honorable Gene DeRossett for his contributions to the House of Representatives and to our entire state; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to Representative DeRossett as evidence of our gratitude and best wishes.