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

            House Resolution No. 347.

            A resolution for the Honorable David Farhat.

            Whereas, It is with gratitude for his dedication over the past four years as a lawmaker that we salute David Farhat and thank him for his efforts as a member of this legislative body. His commitment and dedication have been beneficial not only to his Muskegon and Ottawa County District, but also to our entire state; and

            Whereas, A lifelong resident of Muskegon County, David Farhat is dedicated to the people of the Ninety-first House District that he calls home. As a member of numerous civic and business organizations, he developed relationships within his community to promote economic development while balancing this growth with the need for shoreline and sand dune protection. His willingness to reach across boundaries to listen to competing interests has well served his district and the state of Michigan; and

            Whereas, Representative Farhat's insight and commitment to our state government have contributed to his leadership on promoting policies to protect the citizens of Michigan from the youngest to the oldest. In particular, Representative Farhat sought changes in state law that would protect children from unwanted attention on the Internet, guard against identity theft, and ensure senior citizens have long-term care choices. As an avid boater and fisherman, David Farhat sought to protect the environment through the enactment of invasive plant legislation. He worked to ensure that future generations will be able to enjoy our Great Lakes legacy; and

            Whereas, Representative Farhat provided leadership in the state budget process during difficult economic times. In addition to his membership on the House Appropriations Committee, he served as the chair of the subcommittee for Joint Capital Outlay and as a member of the subcommittees handling the budgets of several programs and state agencies, including Economic Development, School Aid, and the Departments of Education and Community Health; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this expression of tribute to commend and thank the Honorable David Farhat for his notable contributions to this legislative body and to our entire state; and be it further

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