2007-SJ-01-24-002.htm

No. 2

STATE OF MICHIGAN

Journal of the Senate

94th Legislature

REGULAR SESSION OF 2007

Senate Chamber, Lansing, Wednesday, January 24, 2007.

10:00a.m.

The Senate was called to order by the President, Lieutenant Governor John D. Cherry, Jr.

The roll was called by the Secretary of the Senate, who announced that a quorum was not present.

Allen--present Garcia--present Pappageorge--present

Anderson--present George--present Patterson--present

Barcia--present Gilbert--present Prusi--present

Basham--present Gleason--present Richardville--present

Birkholz--present Hardiman--present Sanborn--present

Bishop--present Hunter--present Schauer--present

Brater--present Jacobs--present Scott--present

Brown--present Jansen--present Stamas--present

Cassis--present Jelinek--present Switalski--present

Cherry--present Kahn--present Thomas--present

Clark-Coleman--excused Kuipers--present Van Woerkom--present

Clarke--present McManus--present Whitmer--present

Cropsey--present Olshove--present

Pastor Terry Prisk of River Community Church of Hartland offered the following invocation:

Dear God, we thank You for this day. This is the day that You have made and we'll rejoice and be glad in it. We thank You for Your goodness, for Your grace, for Your love, and for Your awesomeness. When we come before You, we realize that maybe we're not everything we should be. We confess to You when we go our own way and don't go Your way. We thank You that when we do confess, You forgive us.

Right now, we just pause to thank You for all that we have to be thankful for: the country in which we live, the people whom we serve, and just the fact that we can be in the country that we are in right now. We thank You for our families. We thank You for our friends. We thank You for the future, that if we put You there in that future, it is a bright future.

Dear God, I pray for everything that will take place today and in the weeks to come, that Your mind might be sought and Your heart might be sought, and that we might be a state and a country that seeks You and honors You and that our lives reflect, in fact, who You are.

Thank You for this day. Thank You that we can come before You and thank You for a session like this where we can come and stop and honor You first. This is the day that You've made and we'll rejoice and be glad in it.

We pray all of this in Jesus' name. Amen.

The President, Lieutenant Governor Cherry, led the members of the Senate in recital of the Pledge of Allegiance.

Recess

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

The motion prevailed, the time being 10:05a.m.

10:29a.m.

The Senate was called to order by the President, Lieutenant Governor Cherry.

During the recess, Senators Brater, Gilbert, Birkholz, Sanborn, Kuipers, George, McManus, Richardville, Stamas, Jelinek, Van Woerkom, Bishop, Pappageorge, Hardiman, Brown, Jansen, Cassis and Kahn entered the Senate Chamber.

A quorum of the Senate was present.

Motions and Communications

Senator Thomas moved that Senator Clark-Coleman be excused from today's session.

The motion prevailed.

The following communications were received and read:

Office of the Auditor General

January 11, 2007

Enclosed is a copy of the following audit report:

Performance audit of Individual Income Tax Return Processing, Department of Treasury.

January 17, 2007

Enclosed is a copy of the following audit report:

Performance audit of the Muskegon Correctional Complex, Department of Corrections.

January 17, 2007

Enclosed is a copy of the following audit report:

Performance audit of the Community Programming and Support Services Division, Department of Human Services.

Sincerely,

Thomas H. McTavish, C.P.A.

Auditor General

The audit reports were referred to the Committee on Government Operations and Reform.

The following communications were received and read:

Office of the Senate Majority Leader

January 23, 2007

Pursuant to MCL 4.1301, I am appointing Senator Bruce Patterson and Senator Gretchen Whitmer to the Michigan Commission on Uniform State Laws for terms from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2010. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Bill Sullivan in my office at 373-2417.

January 23, 2007

Pursuant to MCL 4.1401, I am appointing Senator Bruce Patterson and Senator Hansen Clarke to the Michigan Law Revision Commission for a term from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2010. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Bill Sullivan in my office at 373-2417.

January 23, 2007

Pursuant to MCL 324.32202, I am appointing Senator Patricia Birkholz to the Great Lakes Commission for a term from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2010. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Bill Sullivan in my office at 373-2417.

January 23, 2007

Pursuant to MCL 333.2612, I am appointing Senator Jason Allen to the Michigan Center for Rural Health Board for a term from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2010. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Bill Sullivan in my office at 373-2417.

January 23, 2007

Pursuant to MCL 388.1301, I am appointing Senator Wayne Kuipers to serve on the Education Commission of the States for a term from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2010. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Bill Sullivan in my office at 373-2417.

January 23, 2007

Pursuant to MCL 390.1430(1), I am nominating Greg Clevenger, 11623 Shell Bark Lane, Grand Blanc, Michigan 48439, county of Genesee for the Michigan Education Trust Board. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Bill Sullivan in my office at 373-2417.

January 23, 2007

Pursuant to MCL 390.1532, I am appointing Senator Tony Stamas to the Midwestern Higher Education Commission for a term from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2010. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Bill Sullivan in my office at 373-2417.

January 23, 2007

Pursuant to MCL 397.14, I am reappointing Senator Tom George to the Michigan Library Board of Trustees for a term from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2010. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Bill Sullivan in my office at 373-2417.

January 23, 2007

Pursuant to MCL 399.1, I am appointing Michael Ranville, 403 S. Cochran, Charlotte, Michigan 48813, county of Eaton to the Michigan Historical Commission for a term from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2008. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Bill Sullivan in my office at 373-2417.

January 23, 2007

Pursuant to MCL 399.73, I am reappointing Dennis Takalo, P.O. Box 79, Skandia, Michigan 49885, county of Marquette to the Michigan Iron Industry Museum Advisory Board for a term from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2008. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Bill Sullivan in my office at 373-2417.

January 23, 2007

Pursuant to MCL 484.1713, I am reappointing Lloyd R. Fayling, 2039 Smith Park Drive, Owosso, Michigan 48867, county of Shiawassee to serve on the Michigan Emergency Telephone Service Committee for a term from April 29, 2007 to December 31, 2007. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Bill Sullivan in my office at 373-2417.

Sincerely,

Michael D. Bishop

Senate Majority Leader

The communications were referred to the Secretary for record.

The following communication was received:

Department of Transportation

January 12, 2007

Public Act 69 of 1993, Michigan Heritage Routes: MCL 247.958, Section 8, reads "By December 31 each year, the department shall report to the commission, the Governor, and the legislature the following information regarding this act:

(a) Routes designated during the previous year.

(b) Deletions or other changes made in the heritage route system during the previous year.

There have been no changes, deletions or additions to the currently designated Heritage Routes for calendar year 2006.

Categories and Currently Designated Routes

There are three categories of heritage routes:

*Scenic - a state highway having outstanding natural beauty

*Historic - a state highway having outstanding historic resources along its length

*Recreational - maintained not only to serve the recreational driver, but also to capture that recreational setting of the facility or area itself, and set the mood for the recreational experience

Scenic:

*Copper Country (US-41), Houghton and Keweenaw Counties

*Tahquamenon Trail (M-123), Chippewa and Luce Counties

*Leelanau Heritage Route (M-22), Leelanau County

*Tunnel of Trees (M-119), Emmet County

Historic:

*Heritage Trail (US-2), Iron County

*Center Avenue (M-25), Bay City

*Territorial Road (I-94 Business Loop), City of Marshall

*US-12 Heritage Trail (US-12), Berrien, Cass, St. Joseph, Branch, Hillsdale, Lenawee, Washtenaw and Wayne Counties

*Monroe Street Heritage Route (M-125), City of Monroe

Recreational:

*Miles of Smiles (M-15), from Clarkston to Bay City in Oakland, Genesee, Tuscola and Bay Counties

*Chief Noonday (M-179), from US-131 to Hastings in Allegan and Barry Counties

*Woodward Avenue (M-1), from Detroit to Pontiac in Wayne and Oakland Counties

*Sunrise Side Coastal Highway (US-23), from Standish to Mackinaw City in Arenac, Iosco, Alcona, Alpena, Presque Isle and Cheboygan Counties

Routes in Designation Process:

*M-64, Ontonagon County

*M-37, Peninsula Township, Grand Traverse County

*M-35, from Menominee to Gladstone in Menominee and Delta Counties

If you have any questions, please contact either me or Susan P. Mortel, Director, Bureau of Transportation Planning, at 517-373-0343.

Sincerely,

Kirk T. Steudle

Director

The communication was referred to the Secretary for record.

The following communication was received:

Department of Treasury

January 12, 2007

Please find attached one copy of the first Principal Residence Exemption Compliance Program Quarterly Report for the period October 1, 2006 through December 31, 2006. The report is required by Public Act 345 of 2006, the General Government Appropriations Act. Section 947 of the Act provides, in part, as follows:

(1)Of the $5,856,800.00 included in part 1 for the revenue enhancement program, $5,356,000.00 shall be used for revenue collection enhancement activities including auditing functions.

(3)The $500,000.00 balance of the $5,856,800.00 shall be used for the principal residence exemption compliance program. Along with other program costs, expenditures shall include the development of a statewide web-based database created for the purpose of enforcing the principal residence exemption compliance program. The department shall submit quarterly progress reports that include the number of exemptions denied and the revenue received under this program. The legislative auditor general shall complete a performance audit of the principal residence exemption compliance program prior to April 1, 2007. Revenue generated to the state from the principal residence exemption compliance program shall be used to reimburse the state general fund for the $500,000.00 appropriation prior to any other allocation. Additional funds from the revenue enhancement program and carry-forward appropriations may be used to support costs in excess of $500,000.00.

Sincerely,

Frederick Headen, Director

Bureau of Local Government Services

The communication was referred to the Secretary for record.

The following communication was received:

Office of the Great Lakes

January 17, 2007

This letter is being sent in compliance with Act 156 of the Public Acts of 1989. Section 10(1) of PA 156 requires that a list of grants be submitted annually to the legislature.

The Office of the Great Lakes (OGL) released a request for new proposals in December 2005, for the fourth year of the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Information Education Small Grants Program. The program, administered by the Michigan Great Lakes Protection Fund (MGLPF), utilizes proceeds from the sale of the 2005 Great Lakes Protection Fund decal to fund local information and education initiatives for prevention and control of AIS introductions and spreading throughout Michigan waters. Eight grants were awarded under the program totaling $22,427. A list of grant awards is attached.

In addition, the MGLPF provided $26,292 to the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Land and Water Management Division, for the fifth year of the Michigan Wetland Inventory project.

If you have any questions, please contact Ms.Emily Finnell of my staff at 517-241-7927, or you may contact me.

Sincerely,

Ken DeBeaussaert

Director

The communication was referred to the Secretary for record.

The Secretary announced that pursuant to Rule 2.109 of the Standing Rules of the Senate, the following expense reports have been filed with the Secretary of the Senate for the quarter from July 1, 2006 through September 30, 2006, and are available in the Secretary's office during business hours for public inspection:

Committee Chairperson

Agriculture, Forestry and Tourism Senator Gerald Van Woerkom

Appropriations Senator Shirley Johnson

Banking and Financial Institutions Senator Michael Bishop

Commerce and Labor Senator Jason Allen

Economic Development, Small Business and Regulatory Reform Senator Alan Sanborn

Education Senator Wayne Kuipers

Families and Human Services Senator Bill Hardiman

Finance Senator Nancy Cassis

Gaming and Casino Oversight Senator Jason Allen

Government Operations Senator Ken Sikkema

Health Policy Senator Beverly Hammerstrom

Judiciary Senator Alan Cropsey

Local, Urban and State Affairs Senator Laura Toy

Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Senator Patricia Birkholz

Senior Citizens and Veterans Affairs Senator Laura Toy

Technology and Energy Senator Bruce Patterson

Transportation Senator Jud Gilbert

The Secretary announced that the following official bills were printed on Thursday, January 11, and are available at the legislative website:

Senate Bill Nos. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

The Secretary announced that the following official bills and joint resolutions were printed on Wednesday, January 23, and are available at the legislative website:

House Bill Nos. 4001 4002 4003 4004 4005 4006 4007 4008 4009 4010 4011 4012 4013 4014

4015 4016 4017 4018 4019 4020 4021 4022 4023 4024 4025 4026 4027 4028

4029 4030 4031 4032 4033 4034 4035 4036 4037 4038 4039 4040 4041 4042

4043 4044 4045 4046 4047 4048 4049 4050 4051 4052 4053 4054 4055 4056

4057 4058 4059 4060 4061 4062 4063 4064 4065 4066 4067 4068 4069 4070

4071 4072 4073 4074 4075 4076 4077 4078 4079 4080 4081 4082 4083

House Joint Resolutions A B C D

Messages from the Governor

The following messages from the Governor were received and read:

January 10, 2007

I respectfully submit to the Senate, pursuant to Section 6 of Article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963, the following appointment to state office under Section 501 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.501:

Commission of Natural Resources

Rev.Hurley J. Coleman, Jr., a Democrat, of 11 Cobblestone Place, Saginaw, Michigan 48603, county of Saginaw, succeeding Gerald R. Hall, who has resigned, for a term commencing January 10, 2007 and expiring December 31, 2010.

January 10, 2007

I respectfully submit to the Senate, pursuant to Section 6 of Article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963, the following reappointments to office under Section 7 of the Agricultural Commodities Marketing Act, 1965 PA 232, MCL 290.657:

Michigan Onion Marketing Program Committee

Mr.Bruce J. Klamer of 9850 Brin Point Court, Byron Center, Michigan 49315, county of Kent, reappointed to represent growers at-large, for a term expiring August 16, 2009.

Mr.Gregg J. Krikke of 77460 55th Street, Decatur, Michigan 49045, county of Van Buren, reappointed to represent growers at-large, for at term expiring August 16, 2009.

January 10, 2007

I respectfully submit to the Senate, pursuant to Section 6 of Article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963, the following reappointments to state office pursuant to Section 28 of Article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 and Section 3 of 1964 PA 286, MCL 247.803:

State Transportation Commission

Ms.Linda M. Atkinson, a Democrat, of N13927 Newberg Road, Channing, Michigan 49815, county of Dickinson, reappointed for a term expiring December 21, 2009.

Mr.Vincent J. Brennan, an Independent, of 1038 Bishop, Grosse Pointe Park, Michigan 48230, county of Wayne, reappointed for a term expiring December 21, 2009.

January 17, 2007

I respectfully submit to the Senate, pursuant to Section 6 of Article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963, the following appointments and reappointment to state office under Section 1 of 1963 (2nd Ex Sess) PA 48, MCL 90.551:

Eastern Michigan University Board of Control

Mr.Ismael Ahmed of 7801 West Morrow Circle, Dearborn, Michigan 48126, county of Wayne, succeeding Jan A. Brandon, who has resigned, representing the general public, for a term commencing January 16, 2007 and expiring December 31, 2008.

Mr.Gary D. Hawks of 4668 Nakoma Drive, Okemos, Michigan 48864, county of Ingham, succeeding Sharon J. Rothwell, who has resigned, representing the general public, for a term commencing January 16, 2007 and expiring December 31, 2010.

Ms.Francine Parker of 22700 Gordon Switch, St. Clair Shores, Michigan 48081, county of Macomb, succeeding Joseph E. Antonini, whose term has expired, representing the general public, for a term commencing January 16, 2007 and expiring December 31, 2014.

Mr.James F. Stapleton of 4484 Lake Forest Drive East, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108, county of Washtenaw, succeeding Karen Quinlan Valvo, who has resigned, representing the general public, for a term commencing January 16, 2007 and expiring December 31, 2008.

Mr.Floyd Clack of 3120 Helber Street, Flint, Michigan 48504, county of Genesee, reappointed to represent the general public, for a term expiring December 31, 2014.

January 17, 2007

I respectfully submit to the Senate, pursuant to Section 6 of Article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963, the following appointments to state office under Section 1 of 1963 (2nd Ex. Sess.) PA 48, MCL 390.551:

Western Michigan University Board of Control

Ms.Jeanne H. Carlson of 30847 Palmer Drive, Novi, Michigan 48377, county of Oakland, succeeding James P. Holden, whose term has expired, representing the general public, for a term commencing January 17, 2007 and expiring December 31, 2014.

Mr.William D. Johnston of 7487 Cottage Oaks, Portage, Michigan 49024, county of Kalamazoo, succeeding Peter L. Asertis, whose term has expired, representing the general public, for a term commencing January 17, 2007 and expiring December 31, 2014.

January 19, 2007

I respectfully submit to the Senate, pursuant to Section 6 of Article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963, the following appointment and reappointment to state office under Sections 22 and 22a of the Michigan Election Law, 1954 PA 116, MCL 168.22 and 168.22a:

Board of State Canvassers

Ms.Shelly J. Edgerton, a nominee of the State Central Committee of the Michigan Republican Party, of 313 Hyder Circle Drive, Plainwell, Michigan 49080, county of Allegan, succeeding Katherine J. DeGrow, whose term has expired, appointed for a term commencing February 1, 2007, and expiring January 31, 2011. Under the Michigan Election Law, the Governor is obligated to appoint as a member of the Board of State Canvassers one of three individuals nominated by the State Central Committee of the Michigan Republican Party by January 20, 2007.

Ms.Erane C. Washington-Kendrick, a nominee of the State Central Committee of the Michigan Democratic Party, of 8409 South Huron River Drive, Ypsilanti, Michigan 49197, county of Washtenaw, reappointed for a term expiring January 31, 2011. Under the Michigan Election Law, the Governor is obligated to appoint as a member of the Board of State Canvassers one of three individuals nominated by the State Central Committee of the Michigan Democratic Party by January 20, 2007.

January 23, 2007

I respectfully submit to the Senate, pursuant to Section 6 of Article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963, the following appointments and reappointments to office under Section 7 of the Agricultural Commodities Marketing Act, 1965 PA 232, MCL 290.657:

Michigan Cherry Marketing Program Committee

Mr.Kurt B. Dowd of 59725 60th Avenue, Hartford, Michigan 49057, county of Van Buren, succeeding William R. Pugsley, whose term has expired, representing tart cherry growers in District #3, for a term commencing January 23, 2007 and expiring February 1, 2008.

Mr.Marc C. Willmeng of 7680 Hill Road, Watervliet, Michigan 49098, county of Berrien, succeeding Patricia M. Molter, whose term has expired, representing tart cherry growers in District #3, for a term commencing January 23, 2007 and expiring February 1, 2007 and reappointed for a term commencing February 2, 2007 and expiring February 1, 2010.

Mr.John F. King, 4620 North M-88, Central Lake, Michigan 49622, county of Antrim, reappointed to represent tart cherry growers in District #1, for a term expiring February 1, 2009.

Mr.Jeffrey J. Send, 2866 South Lee Point Road, Suttons Bay, Michigan 49682, county of Leelanau, reappointed to represent tart cherry growers in District #1, for a term expiring February 1, 2009.

January 23, 2007

I respectfully submit to the Senate, pursuant to Section 6 of Article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963, the following appointment to state office pursuant to Section 1 of 1927 PA 89, MCL 285.141:

Upper Peninsula State Fair Board of Managers

Mr.Barry J. Bahrman of 231 M-94, West Skandia, Michigan 49916, county of Marquette, succeeding Joanne M. Stefl, whose term has expired, representing the general public, for a term commencing January 23, 2007 and expiring September 30, 2011.

Sincerely,

Jennifer M. Granholm

Governor

The appointments were referred to the Committee on Government Operations and Reform.

The following message from the Governor was received and read:

January 11, 2007

Due to an error on the January 10, 2007 letter filed with your office pursuant to Section 501 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.501, please be advised of the following correction appearing in bold print:

Commission of Natural Resources

Sincerely,

Jennifer M. Granholm

Governor

The message was referred to the Committee on Government Operations and Reform.

Resolutions

Senator Cropsey moved that rule 3.204 be suspended to permit immediate consideration of the following resolutions:

House Concurrent Resolution No.1

House Concurrent Resolution No.2

Senate Resolution No.4

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

House Concurrent Resolution No.1.

A concurrent resolution prescribing the Joint Convention Rules for the Legislature.

Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That the following be and are hereby adopted as the Joint Convention Rules of the House of Representatives and the Senate:

JOINT CONVENTION RULES OF THE

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AND SENATE

Held in Hall of House.

Rule 1. Joint conventions shall be held in the Hall of the House of Representatives, or such other location as may be agreed to by the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Majority Leader of the Senate. The President of the Senate or, in the absence of the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House shall preside. Before the 2 Houses shall meet in joint convention, a concurrent resolution shall be introduced in one House setting forth the date and hour at which the joint convention shall meet, which, if adopted, shall be transmitted to the other House for concurrence.

Secretaries-Journals.

Rule 2. The Secretary of the Senate and Clerk of the House of Representatives shall be the secretaries of the joint convention. The proceedings of the joint convention shall be published with the Journals of the House, and the final result, as announced by the President on the return of the Senate to its chamber, shall be entered on the Journals of the Senate.

Rules of House to Govern.

Rule 3. The rules of the House of Representatives, so far as the same may be applicable, shall govern the proceedings in joint convention.

President pro tempore of Convention.

Rule 4. Whenever the Speaker of the House presides, he or she shall be entitled to vote on all occasions, and in case of a tie the question shall be declared lost.

Power to Compel Attendance.

Rule 5. Joint conventions shall have the power to compel the attendance of absent members in the mode and under the penalties prescribed in the rules of the House to which such members respectively belong, and for that purpose the Sergeant at Arms of each House shall attend.

May Adjourn from Time to Time.

Rule 6. Joint conventions may adjourn from time to time, as may be found necessary, and it shall be the duty of the House of Representatives to prepare to receive the Senate, and of the Senate to proceed to the joint convention, at the time fixed by law or resolution, or to which the joint convention may have adjourned.

The House of Representatives has adopted the concurrent resolution.

The question being on the adoption of the concurrent resolution,

The concurrent resolution was adopted, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

Senators Birkholz, Brater, Gleason, Pappageorge, Schauer, Switalski and Van Woerkom were named co-sponsors of the concurrent resolution.

House Concurrent Resolution No.2.

A concurrent resolution providing for a joint convention of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That the House of Representatives and Senate meet in joint convention in the Hall of the House of Representatives, Tuesday, February 6, 2007, at 6:30p.m., to receive the message of Governor Jennifer M. Granholm.

The House of Representatives has adopted the concurrent resolution.

The question being on the adoption of the concurrent resolution,

The concurrent resolution was adopted.

Senators Birkholz, Brater, Gleason, Pappageorge, Schauer, Switalski and Van Woerkom were named co-sponsors of the concurrent resolution.

Senators Bishop and Schauer offered the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No.4.

A resolution honoring Charles Thornhill.

Whereas, Charles Thornhill was born on April 1, 1944, in Roanoke, Virginia, to Waverly and Ella Thornhill; one of six siblings who grew up in the Lincoln Terrace projects; and

Whereas, Charlie Thornhill played football for Lucy Addison High School, and in 1962, broke the color barrier by becoming the first African American to receive the Most Outstanding Back award from the Roanoke Touchdown Club; and

Whereas, Charlie Thornhill came to Michigan State University and became part of the legendary MSU football team, coached by Duffy Daugherty, playing middle linebacker from 1964-1966. He was an instrumental member of the national championship team and was part of one of the most famous games of all time, the 10-10 tie against Notre Dame in 1966. Charlie "Mad Dog" Thornhill played defense with fierce intensity and in the process became a living legend; and

Whereas, Charlie Thornhill was a dedicated employee of General Motors Corporation for 20 years and a dedicated and respected employee of the Michigan State Senate since 1993 as an assistant sergeant at arms, bringing a warm smile and a kind word to every person he encountered. For nearly 13 years, Charlie touched all who visited the Senate; and

Whereas, Charlie Thornhill was a man of integrity, honesty, humor, and humility who served as an informal "ambassador" for MSU and the Michigan Senate; and

Whereas, Charlie Thornhill's greatest accomplishment in life was his loving and devoted family. Charlie's love for his family was evident in the proud tone he used to talk about his wife Lauri and her work at MSU, as well as when bursting with pride over the success of his sons as they too donned the Spartan green and white on football Saturdays. There was also a special light in his eyes when showing pictures of his granddaughter; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That we offer our condolences to the family of Charles Thornhill and pay tribute to his kindness and years of service to the Senate; and be it further

Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to his wife, Laureen Thornhill, sons Josh and Kaleb, daughter-in-law Katie, and granddaughter Hannah Grace.

The question being on the adoption of the resolution,

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

Senator Cropsey 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 Assistant Sergeant at Arms Charlie "Mad Dog" Thornhill.

Senators Bishop, Basham, Sanborn, Whitmer, Scott, Switalski and Schauer asked and were granted unanimous consent to make statements and moved that the statements be printed in the Journal.

The motion prevailed.

Senator Bishop's statement is as follows:

We come back to session with all of us excited and ready to take on new challenges, but at the same time, we come back with a heavy heart as we have for the first time an opportunity to reflect on our relationship and the life of Charlie Thornhill, someone all of us developed a very strong friendship and affinity for.

Charlie was an assistant sergeant at arms for thirteen years. He brought a warm smile and a really, I think, kind word to every person he encountered. We, to this day, still mourn his loss. We heard a little bit in the memorial resolution about his days as a Michigan State football star. It was always a pleasure for me to have a chance to come in on those Tuesday mornings after a Michigan State football game and reflect on the game; to see the intensity in the eyes of the man we all knew to be a very intense football player, but he always brought that same intensity to the floor and to the work that he did. He was just an incredible source of energy. I don't think a day went by that Charlie was on the floor that any of us felt insecure about our safety. He was the one guy we could always look to--all due respect to Mike here--that we knew would protect us under any circumstances.

I'll never forget the day that I was standing to collect on a debt from my friend from Macomb County regarding the Michigan/Michigan State football game, which gets really boring over the years because it happens all the time, but that particular day, I stood up and donned a Michigan football helmet just to drive a point home. It was funny at the time until I looked over and saw Charlie. It occurred to me that it was dumb enough for me to stand up and say what I said, but I actually put a Michigan football helmet on, and the look in Charlie's eyes was enough to get me to sit down really quick. I'll never do that again, believe me.

Charlie used that same motivation to do what he did every day of his life. He motivated us. He motivated young people. He loved to talk about it. He loved to talk about how he'd do things with kids, and he would try and inspire them the same way he inspired so many other people. He really had a dedication and purpose to his life. He was and continues to be a hero to so many people, and he will be sorely missed.

In his honor, I'm happy to announce today, however, that the Senate has developed an exciting new plan that will honor Charlie and help others to follow in his successful footsteps. Now Charlie's memory will help create what we are going to call another field of dreams. In cooperation with the school he loved so much, his friends, family, and colleagues, we're starting a scholarship that will create opportunities for the next generation. The Charlie Thornhill Memorial Page Scholarship will be given each year and its recipients will receive $1,000. To be eligible, the student must attend Michigan State University and serve as a page in the Michigan Legislature. This is an appropriate and outstanding way to honor a very good man. Two of the institutions that Charlie loved the most--Michigan State University and this chamber--are combining forces to help others to preserve the memory of a legendary man.

In so many ways, Charlie was an ambassador for Michigan State University and was really an ambassador for this chamber as well. He knew firsthand how the school was instrumental in helping individuals to reach their full potential. Now, thanks to Charlie and his generous friends, we have yet another way for students to become leaders for tomorrow. We're very excited about this plan and we're very excited to carry on the memory of Charlie.

On behalf of the Michigan Senate and all those who called Charlie a friend--and, believe me, there are so many--we extend our deepest sympathy to the Thornhill family. I might add that William "Nay" Thornhill, Charlie's brother, is in the Gallery on the east side. Nay, thank you for being here today and we'd like it if you would extend our deepest sympathies to the family. Please know of our love for Charlie and our appreciation for the joy that he brought genuinely to all of our lives.

Senator Basham's statement is as follows:

I grew up and was born in Roanoke, Virginia; as a matter of fact, in northwest Roanoke. Roanoke was basically divided into four sections. Northwest was a blue-collar and tough area of the city--was, is, and probably will be for a number of years. It's interesting, when I came to Michigan and was elected to the State Legislature in 1997, I met Nay Thornhill and he and Charlie were always able to identify the same landmarks that I would. For instance, I would call Nay "Krispy Kreme" and he knew exactly what I meant because we had Krispy Kremes in Roanoke, Virginia, long before they had them in Michigan. We had a lot in common. He'd mention a landmark or street and I would mention another one. We went back and forth and even did some of that with Charlie.

What was interesting about Charlie, I called my brother and told him about Charlie's passing and he said, "Yeah, it was in the Roanoke Times." It was a big article about Charlie, dated Saturday, December 23, 2006. He sent me the article, so I framed it and will give it to Nay after this session.

That was a time when Charlie and I went to school, we were never allowed to go to school together. I went to a segregated school. I never went to school with a black. The way we remember, if we want to plan our future, we need to remember the past. Charlie was a diplomat. He broke the mold in Roanoke, Virginia. He actually exemplified everything good about black folks. They are just like white folks. He not only exemplified everything that was good, but he was extraordinary in the way that he did it. He had a vision. He had a good temperament. I'm proud to call him and Nay my friends, my neighbors.

Anyway, I wanted to let this Legislature know that when I did a school event for Martin Luther King Day, Monday a week ago, I thought about Charlie and some of the stuff that folks like Dr.Martin Luther King did in a big way. Charlie Thornhill did in maybe a smaller way, but it was still just as significant. His role in changing this country for the better is one that will actually go down in history. So a lot of folks in years to come will remember that it is folks like Charlie "Mad Dog" Thornhill who set the bar pretty high. Future generations will have to work hard to achieve it.

Senator Sanborn's statement is as follows:

You know, over the years Charlie and I had gotten to be very good friends. As you might imagine, there was that Spartan connection. He was a friend to all of us here who knew him. He was a friend to so many young people who served as messengers here, including my former staffer Andrew Doerr, who was the head of the messengers and a Spartan and just absolutely loved Charlie and the example he set.

He was a mentor to the football players and often went in and spoke to the Spartan team at halftime to fire those guys up, or before the game and took them under his wing. Charlie just loved working with the young people. He loved Spartan football; he truly did. He loved his sons Joshua and Kaleb. For many, many hours, we shared stories about our sons playing sports. I told lies to him about my athletic prowess, but nonetheless, I had a real personal example with Charlie with regard to my own son who went to Michigan State. He went out for baseball and got cut. The next year he went out again. The whole time Charlie kept telling him what to do, how to train, and the weight lifting to do. He just took him under his wing. He'd talk with him on the telephone and when he saw him would just encourage him. The third time was a charm and I thank Charlie for taking that personal interest in him. That's the way Charlie was, though. Right, Nay? He loved these young people. He loved Spartans. He loved these young people here in the Senate. He loved his sons. He loved his beautiful wife. The colleagues here loved Charlie, right? We loved him. He was a hero to the young people he mentored.

Majority Leader Bishop, I saw that look--that look, that snarl, that growl. You know, I remember Chad--the last day I saw Charlie, we were standing out here and we were doing a memorial tribute and Charlie stood with those broad shoulders and that intensity at the door. He wasn't going to let us in the door because we had been out in the lobby. He wasn't going to let us interfere with the Senate processes that went on. Chad, for some unknown reason to me, looked to me, and I think it was Tony Stamas who was out there with us, maybe. He looked at Charlie and said, "You know, I think the three of us, if we rush him, could take him." Charlie looked back at us and, Senator Bishop, I know that look. He snarled at us. For the first time in my life, I knew what an opposing quarterback must have felt looking at Charlie Thornhill from across the line. It was the fear of God that he put in us. Courageously, I looked at Chad and said, "You're on your own this time."

Charlie, the young man knows not of what he speaks. But, Charlie, we'll miss you. We all loved you here. Charlie, Go Green! Go White! Go State!

Senator Whitmer's statement is as follows:

I remember when I got news that Charlie passed away and it was so sad, but a few days later, I went over to the memorial. I know a number of you were there as well. It was the most wonderful memorial I could have imagined for Charlie Thornhill. It took place at the Michigan State Stadium. When you got off the elevator, there were hundreds of people there signing books and listening to Motown music, as Charlie would have wanted. There was so much laughter. The people who stood up to speak, they addressed and they talked about all of these great stories about Charlie from when he was in college to when he was growing up in Virginia, when he was serving as a sergeant. Mike did a beautiful job on behalf of many of the sergeants. There were all of these wonderful stories.

I was so proud to have known him, even though I was one of the newer members here in the Senate. Mad Dog and I bonded very quickly over, obviously, Michigan State University. My husband worked here in the Senate for many years and knew Mad Dog very well. I've always been a big fan of Nay's from my time in the House, so Mad Dog and I bonded very quickly. Actually, it wasn't until a few months ago that I even learned his first name was Charlie. I always knew him as Mad Dog.

When I think of Mad Dog, I think of his warm smile and the twinkle in his eyes. I think of his humor. I'll never forget, we were standing in the first floor of the Farnum Building and all of the sergeants were sitting around. He looked at me and he said, "Senator, what dorm did you live in over at Michigan State?" I said, "Wonders." He said, "You know, I thought you looked familiar," intimating that we were at MSU at the same time. Of course, I was there about 25 years after Charlie. I pointed out that perhaps he recognized me when he was there to visit Josh.

He always talked about his family--Lauri, Josh, Kaleb, and his granddaughter, and, of course, his brother Nay. One of the things I remember Charlie talking about most, though, besides his family, of course, was mentoring and how he spent a lot of time when he wasn't here with us and he wasn't home with his family, mentoring kids in this community, helping kids who didn't have parents who could be involved or who didn't have parents at all. That was something he was going to dedicate more of his time to after the boys were out and living their own lives. That was something he was really looking forward to and that he was enjoying during his time. I know that there are many people in this community, this broad community of Lansing and Greater Lansing, whom he has touched, people in this building, but many people whom we will never meet, whom we will never know who feel his absence every day.

His memory will live on in this scholarship. I think it's a great compliment to Charlie, the spirit, and the type of person he was. I want to compliment both of the leaders of the State Senate for doing this and putting this together because I think that it is a wonderful thing to do on behalf of a wonderful man who made a huge impact on the many lives and people here in Lansing.

Senator Scott's statement is as follows:

I rise to give condolence to the family of Mr.Charlie Thornhill. I got to know Charlie quite well in my years over here in the Senate. He was a very, very special person. So I do thank God for his life, for who he was, and to all of us whom he touched. It's not about how long we are here, but it's about what we do while we're here. Do we make a difference in someone's life? Charlie certainly did that. I want to thank him for that.

I was out of town when he passed away. When I got the news, it was truly hard to believe because it wasn't but maybe a week or so before that that Nay and I sat over at a fundraiser. We talked about Charlie and their lives growing up. That's what Charlie and I would talk about, how our parents raised us. We had just that wonderful, warm camaraderie. I know he and Nay had a special bonding. I remember us laughing about Nay saying they would talk every day if they didn't just pick up the phone and say a couple of words to one another.

So I just want to say to Nay and to his wife and children that we all truly did love Charlie because Charlie gave love. I remember when I brought in an apple pie. I gave it to him and said, "This is for you and your guys." Then I found out later that Charlie didn't give that pie to anybody. Charlie said, "No, I tasted it and I said this is going home with me." He would always say to me, "When are you going to bring another apple pie in here?" I said, "When Jason brings those apples in again in the fall, then I will make some more pies and bring them in. But this time you will have to share with everybody, Charlie." He just looked at me and laughed.

So, anyway, I do want to thank Charlie for all of the encouragement that he always gave me and just the kind of individual he was. So I know he is resting in Heaven. Rest on, Charlie.

Senator Switalski's statement is as follows:

The scholarship is most appropriate for Charlie because of his great devotion to young people. The greatest thing you could ever have in the Senate would be if you were here late in the afternoon and had a school group visiting and Charlie was on duty. Those kids would come in and when they would find out that Charlie's nickname was "Mad Dog," their eyes would get wide and you knew they weren't going to touch anybody's desk. But when they saw his smile and they felt his warmth, they came to feel about him the way we all do here in the Senate.

Rest in peace, Charlie.

Senator Schauer's statement is as follows:

I wasn't sure I was going to speak, but as co-sponsor of the resolution along with Senator Bishop, I wanted to make a brief remark. I, along with a number of colleagues, was able to be at Spartan Stadium for the memorial service for Charlie. At sine die, I commented on the passing of Charlie and what Charlie means to us. It's fitting, I guess, about a month after Charlie's passing, we're here again talking about this very special friend.

Of course, my heart goes out to Charlie's family, but my heart also goes out to Charlie's fellow sergeants, who I know were his family. In so many ways, Charlie was the heart and soul of this Senate. I regret for you new members sitting in this chamber for what I guess is the second official time that you didn't get to know Charlie the way the rest of us did. He was an amazing individual, an amazing blend of intensity, of values, of passion, and compassion.

I hope that the sense of this body that has been expressed today and this legislation are felt by all of those who loved Charlie.

Senate Concurrent Resolution No.1.

A concurrent resolution granting authority for adjournment for more than 2 days.

(For text of resolution, see Senate Journal No.1, p. 4.)

The House of Representatives has adopted the concurrent resolution.

The concurrent resolution was referred to the Secretary for record.

Introduction and Referral of Bills

Senators Barcia, Gleason, Stamas and Kahn introduced

Senate Bill No.14, entitled

A bill to amend 1855 PA 105, entitled "An act to regulate the disposition of the surplus funds in the state treasury; to provide for the deposit of surplus funds in certain financial institutions; to lend surplus funds pursuant to loan agreements secured by certain commercial, agricultural, or industrial real and personal property; to authorize the loan of surplus funds to certain municipalities; to authorize the participation in certain loan programs; to authorize an appropriation; and to prescribe the duties of certain state agencies," by amending section 2e (MCL 21.142e), as amended by 2004 PA 342.

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

Senator Thomas introduced

Senate Bill No.15, entitled

A bill to amend 1967 PA 281, entitled "Income tax act of 1967," (MCL 206.1 to 206.532) by adding section 436.

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

Senator Thomas introduced

Senate Bill No.16, entitled

A bill to establish the prostate cancer research fund in the department of community health; to provide for the distribution of money from the fund; to prescribe the powers and duties of certain agencies and officials; and to provide for appropriations.

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

Senator Thomas introduced

Senate Bill No.17, entitled

A bill to create the Detroit area regional transportation authority; to transfer certain powers of authorities to the Detroit area regional transportation authority; to provide regional transportation; to prescribe certain powers and duties of the authorities and of certain state agencies and officials; to provide for the issuance of bonds and notes; to provide for the state to guarantee payment of certain claims against the authority; to provide for the pledge of taxes, revenues, assessments, tax levies, and other funds for bond and note payments; to authorize certain local entities to levy property taxes and make special assessments; and to repeal acts and parts of acts.

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

Senator Thomas introduced

Senate Bill No.18, entitled

A bill to amend 1982 PA 432, entitled "Motor bus transportation act," by amending section 4 (MCL 474.104), as amended by 1989 PA 233.

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

Senator Thomas introduced

Senate Bill No.19, entitled

A bill to amend 1951 PA 51, entitled "An act to provide for the classification of all public roads, streets, and highways in this state, and for the revision of that classification and for additions to and deletions from each classification; to set up and establish the Michigan transportation fund; to provide for the deposits in the Michigan transportation fund of specific taxes on motor vehicles and motor vehicle fuels; to provide for the allocation of funds from the Michigan transportation fund and the use and administration of the fund for transportation purposes; to set up and establish the truck safety fund; to provide for the allocation of funds from the truck safety fund and administration of the fund for truck safety purposes; to set up and establish the Michigan truck safety commission; to establish certain standards for road contracts for certain businesses; to provide for the continuing review of transportation needs within the state; to authorize the state transportation commission, counties, cities, and villages to borrow money, issue bonds, and make pledges of funds for transportation purposes; to authorize counties to advance funds for the payment of deficiencies necessary for the payment of bonds issued under this act; to provide for the limitations, payment, retirement, and security of the bonds and pledges; to provide for appropriations and tax levies by counties and townships for county roads; to authorize contributions by townships for county roads; to provide for the establishment and administration of the state trunk line fund, local bridge fund, comprehensive transportation fund, and certain other funds; to provide for the deposits in the state trunk line fund, critical bridge fund, comprehensive transportation fund, and certain other funds of money raised by specific taxes and fees; to provide for definitions of public transportation functions and criteria; to define the purposes for which Michigan transportation funds may be allocated; to provide for Michigan transportation fund grants; to provide for review and approval of transportation programs; to provide for submission of annual legislative requests and reports; to provide for the establishment and functions of certain advisory entities; to provide for conditions for grants; to provide for the issuance of bonds and notes for transportation purposes; to provide for the powers and duties of certain state and local agencies and officials; to provide for the making of loans for transportation purposes by the state transportation department and for the receipt and repayment by local units and agencies of those loans from certain specified sources; and to repeal acts and parts of acts," by amending sections 10c, 10h, 10l, and 10n (MCL 247.660c, 247.660h, 247.660l, and 247.660n), section 10c as amended by 2005 PA 45, section 10has amended by 2002 PA 498, section 10l as amended by 1987 PA 234, and section 10n as amended by 2002 PA 329.

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

Senator Thomas introduced

Senate Bill No.20, entitled

A bill to amend 1998 PA 58, entitled "Michigan liquor control code of 1998," by amending section 531 (MCL 436.1531), as amended by 2005 PA 97.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Economic Development and Regulatory Reform.

Senator Thomas introduced

Senate Bill No.21, entitled

A bill to amend 1975 PA 228, entitled "Single business tax act," (MCL 208.1 to 208.145) by adding section 36f.

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

Senator Thomas introduced

Senate Bill No.22, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled "The insurance code of 1956," by amending section 2105 (MCL 500.2105) and by adding section 2111f.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Economic Development and Regulatory Reform.

Senator Thomas introduced

Senate Bill No.23, entitled

A bill to amend 1967 PA 281, entitled "Income tax act of 1967," (MCL 206.1 to 206.532) by adding section 273.

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

Senator Thomas introduced

Senate Bill No.24, entitled

A bill to provide a retirement system to increase access to retirement plans for small business employees; and to provide certain duties of certain state agencies.

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

Senator Gleason introduced

Senate Bill No.25, entitled

A bill to amend 1982 PA 204, entitled "Deaf persons' interpreters act," by amending the title and sections 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 (MCL 393.502, 393.503, 393.504, 393.505, 393.506, 393.507, and 393.508), section 8 as amended by 1988 PA 435, and by adding sections 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 8a, and 8b.

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

Senator Stamas introduced

Senate Bill No.26, entitled

A bill to provide for the establishment of local tourism improvement tax increment finance authorities; to prescribe the powers and duties of the authorities; to promote economic development and job creation; to authorize the acquisition and disposal of interests in real and personal property; to authorize the creation and implementation of development plans and development areas; to create a board; to prescribe the powers and duties of the board; to authorize the issuance of bonds and other evidences of indebtedness; to authorize the use of tax increment financing; to prescribe powers and duties of certain state officials; to provide for rule promulgation; and to provide for enforcement of the act.

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

Senator Stamas introduced

Senate Bill No.27, entitled

A bill to amend 1967 PA 281, entitled "Income tax act of 1967," (MCL 206.1 to 206.532) by adding section 273.

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

Senators Switalski and Brater introduced

Senate Bill No.28, entitled

A bill to amend 1939 PA 288, entitled "Probate code of 1939," by amending sections 2d and 18 of chapter XIIA (MCL 712A.2d and 712A.18), section 2d as amended by 1998 PA 478 and section 18 as amended by 2004 PA 475.

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

Senator Switalski introduced

Senate Bill No.29, entitled

A bill to amend the Initiated Law of 1976, entitled "A petition to initiate legislation to provide for the use of returnable containers for soft drinks, soda water, carbonated natural or mineral water, other nonalcoholic carbonated drink, and for beer, ale, or other malt drink of whatever alcoholic content, and for certain other beverage containers; to provide for the use of unredeemed bottle deposits; to prescribe the powers and duties of certain state agencies and officials; and to prescribe penalties and provide remedies," by amending section 1 (MCL 445.571), as amended by 1989 PA 93.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs.

Senator Switalski introduced

Senate Bill No.30, entitled

A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled "The revised school code," (MCL 380.1 to 380.1852) by adding section 1290.

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

Senator Switalski introduced

Senate Bill No.31, entitled

A bill to amend 1953 PA 232, entitled "Corrections code of 1953," by amending section 34 (MCL 791.234), as amended by 2006 PA 167.

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

Senator Switalski introduced

Senate Bill No.32, entitled

A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled "The revised school code," (MCL 380.1 to 380.1852) by adding section 1259.

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

Senator Switalski introduced

Senate Bill No.33, entitled

A bill to amend 1984 PA 44, entitled "Motor fuels quality act," by amending section 3 (MCL 290.643), as amended by 2006 PA 271.

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

Senator Switalski introduced

Senate Bill No.34, entitled

A bill to amend 1927 PA 175, entitled "The code of criminal procedure," by amending section 14 of chapter XI (MCL 771.14), as amended by 2000 PA 279.

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

Senator Switalski introduced

Senate Bill No.35, entitled

A bill to amend 1998 PA 58, entitled "Michigan liquor control code of 1998," by amending section 703 (MCL 436.1703), as amended by 2006 PA 443.

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

Senator Switalski introduced

Senate Bill No.36, entitled

A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled "The revised school code," (MCL 380.1 to 380.1852) by adding section 1180.

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

Senator Scott introduced

Senate Bill No.37, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled "The insurance code of 1956," (MCL 500.100 to 500.8302) by adding section 255.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Economic Development and Regulatory Reform.

Senator Scott introduced

Senate Bill No.38, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled "The insurance code of 1956," by amending section 2111 (MCL 500.2111), as amended by 2002 PA 492.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Economic Development and Regulatory Reform.

Senator Scott introduced

Senate Bill No.39, entitled

A bill to amend 1953 PA 232, entitled "Corrections code of 1953," (MCL 791.201 to 791.285) by adding section 37a.

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

Senators Scott and Brater introduced

Senate Bill No.40, entitled

A bill to amend 1931 PA 328, entitled "The Michigan penal code," (MCL 750.1 to 750.568) by adding section 506b.

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

Senators Scott and Jacobs introduced

Senate Bill No.41, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled "The insurance code of 1956," (MCL 500.100 to 500.8302) by adding section3406s.

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

Senators Jacobs and Scott introduced

Senate Bill No.42, entitled

A bill to amend 1980 PA 350, entitled "The nonprofit health care corporation reform act," (MCL 550.1101 to 550.1704) by adding section 416e.

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

Senators Gleason, Scott, Barcia, Clarke, Clark-Coleman, Hunter, Switalski, Anderson, Whitmer, Prusi, Schauer, Cherry, Basham, Brater, Jacobs and Olshove introduced

Senate Bill No.43, entitled

A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled "Revised judicature act of 1961," by amending section 2946 (MCL 600.2946), as amended by 1995 PA 249.

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

Senator Scott introduced

Senate Bill No.44, entitled

A bill to amend 1953 PA 232, entitled "Corrections code of 1953," by amending sections 35, 37, and 67 (MCL 791.235, 791.237, and 791.267), section 35 as amended by 1998 PA 315, section 37 as amended by 1994 PA 217, and section 67 as amended by 1996 PA 565, and by adding sections 34b and 37a.

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

Senators Cropsey and Scott introduced

Senate Bill No.45, entitled

A bill to amend 1972 PA 222, entitled "An act to provide for an official personal identification card; to provide for its form, issuance and use; to regulate the use and disclosure of information obtained from the card; to prescribe the powers and duties of the secretary of state; to prescribe fees; to prescribe certain penalties for violations; and to provide an appropriation for certain purposes," by amending section 1 (MCL 28.291), as amended by 2005 PA 143.

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

Senators Switalski and Scott introduced

Senate Bill No.46, entitled

A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled "Michigan vehicle code," by amending section 307 (MCL 257.307), as amended by 2006 PA 298.

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

Senators Allen and Richardville introduced

Senate Bill No.47, entitled

A bill to provide for the establishment of a water improvement tax increment finance authority; to prescribe the powers and duties of the authority; to correct and prevent deterioration in water resources; to authorize the acquisition and disposal of interests in real and personal property; to authorize the creation and implementation of development plans and development areas; to promote water resource improvement; to create a board; to prescribe the powers and duties of the board; to authorize the issuance of bonds and other evidences of indebtedness; to authorize the use of tax increment financing; to prescribe powers and duties of certain state officials; to provide for rule promulgation; and to provide for enforcement of the act.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs.

Senator Whitmer introduced

Senate Bill No.48, entitled

A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled "Michigan vehicle code," by amending section 710e (MCL 257.710e), as amended by 1999 PA 29.

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

Senator Whitmer introduced

Senate Bill No.49, entitled

A bill to create the Michigan women's history commission; and to prescribe the powers and duties of certain state departments, agencies, commissions, and officers.

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

Senator Whitmer introduced

Senate Bill No.50, entitled

A bill to designate the second Friday in May of each year as Military Services Appreciation Day.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Senior Citizens and Veterans Affairs.

Senator Whitmer introduced

Senate Bill No.51, entitled

A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled "Michigan vehicle code," (MCL 257.1 to 257.923) by adding section 811r.

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

Senator Whitmer introduced

Senate Bill No.52, entitled

A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled "Public health code," by amending sections 2685, 2687, 2688, 2692, and 16274 (MCL 333.2685, 333.2687, 333.2688, 333.2692, and 333.16274), section 16274 as added by 1998 PA 108.

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

Senator Whitmer introduced

Senate Bill No.53, entitled

A bill to amend 1964 PA 284, entitled "City income tax act," (MCL 141.501 to 141.787) by adding section 10 to chapter 1 and section 36 to chapter 2.

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

Senator Whitmer introduced

Senate Bill No.54, entitled

A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled "The revised school code," by amending section 1212 (MCL 380.1212), as amended by 2003 PA 299.

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

Senator Pappageorge introduced

Senate Bill No.55, entitled

A bill to amend 1893 PA 206, entitled "The general property tax act," (MCL 211.1 to 211.157) by adding section 7ll.

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

Senator Pappageorge introduced

Senate Bill No.56, entitled

A bill to amend 1998 PA 58, entitled "Michigan liquor control code of 1998," (MCL 436.1101 to 436.2303) by adding section 545.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Economic Development and Regulatory Reform.

Senator Pappageorge introduced

Senate Bill No.57, entitled

A bill to amend 1998 PA 58, entitled "Michigan liquor control code of 1998," by amending sections 537 and 1025 (MCL 436.1537 and 436.2025), section 537 as amended by 2005 PA 269 and section 1025 as amended by 2002 PA 725.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Economic Development and Regulatory Reform.

Senator Stamas introduced

Senate Bill No.58, entitled

A bill to amend 1976 PA 388, entitled "Michigan campaign finance act," (MCL 169.201 to 169.282) by adding section 48.

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

Senator Gilbert introduced

Senate Bill No.59, entitled

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

Senator Gilbert introduced

Senate Bill No.60, entitled

A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled "Michigan vehicle code," by amending section 312e (MCL 257.312e), as amended by 2006 PA 298, and by adding sections 6e and 310a.

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

Senator Gilbert introduced

Senate Bill No.61, entitled

A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled "Michigan vehicle code," by amending section 726 (MCL 257.726), as amended by 1983 PA 107.

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

Senator Gilbert introduced

Senate Bill No.62, entitled

A bill to amend 1927 PA 210, entitled "An act to provide for the termination of tenancies by the entirety and the conveyance of interests therein," by amending sections 1 and 2 (MCL 557.101 and 557.102).

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

Senator Patterson introduced

Senate Bill No.63, entitled

A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled "Public health code," (MCL 333.1101 to 333.25211) by adding section 21525.

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

Senator Hunter introduced

Senate Bill No.64, entitled

A bill to require certain state departments, agencies, and public entities to gather and to report certain information to the legislative branch.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Economic Development and Regulatory Reform.

Senator Hunter introduced

Senate Bill No.65, entitled

A bill to amend 1975 PA 148, entitled "Debt management act," by amending sections 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 12, 13, 14, 16, 18, and 19 (MCL 451.412, 451.414, 451.415, 451.416, 451.418, 451.422, 451.423, 451.424, 451.426, 451.428, and 451.429), as amended by 2000 PA 255.

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

Senator Hunter introduced

Senate Bill No.66, entitled

A bill to amend 1979 PA 94, entitled "The state school aid act of 1979," by amending section 6 (MCL 388.1606), as amended by 2006 PA 342.

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

Senators Hunter and Brater introduced

Senate Bill No.67, entitled

A bill to allow inclusionary zoning; to prescribe the powers and duties of certain local agencies and officials; and to provide certain restrictions for dwelling units built within the inclusionary zone.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Local, Urban and State Affairs.

Senator Hunter introduced

Senate Bill No.68, entitled

A bill to amend 1980 PA 299, entitled "Occupational code," by amending section 1205 (MCL 339.1205), as amended by 1997 PA 97.

The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Economic Development and Regulatory Reform.

Senator Hunter introduced

Senate Bill No.69, entitled

A bill to provide for the establishment of a neighborhood improvement authority; to prescribe the powers and duties of the authority; to correct and prevent deterioration in neighborhoods and certain other areas; to authorize the acquisition and disposal of interests in real and personal property; to authorize the creation and implementation of development plans and development areas; to promote residential and economic growth; to create a board; to prescribe the powers and duties of the board; to authorize the issuance of bonds and other evidences of indebtedness; to authorize the use of tax increment financing; to prescribe powers and duties of certain state officials; to provide for rule promulgation; and to provide for enforcement of the act.

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

Senator Cassis introduced

Senate Bill No.70, entitled

A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled "The revised school code," by amending section 1531 (MCL 380.1531), as amended by 2006 PA 118.

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

Senator Richardville introduced

Senate Bill No.71, entitled

A bill to amend 1989 PA 88, entitled "An act to regulate watercraft and outboard motor manufacturers, distributors, dealers, and their representatives; and to regulate dealings between those manufacturers and distributors and their dealers," by amending the title and sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 (MCL 445.541, 445.542, 445.543, 445.544, 445.545, 445.546, and 445.547) and by adding sections 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 4g, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e, 7f, and 8.

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

Senator Jansen introduced

Senate Bill No.72, entitled

A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled "Michigan vehicle code," by amending section 811e (MCL 257.811e), as amended by 2006 PA 562, and by adding section 811r.

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

Committee Reports

COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT

The Committee on Banking and Financial Institutions submitted the following:

Meeting held on Wednesday, January 24, 2007, at 8:30a.m., Room 210, Farnum Building

Present: Senators Richardville (C), Sanborn, Clarke and Olshove

Excused: Senators Cassis, Stamas and Hunter

COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT

The Committee on Senior Citizens and Veterans Affairs submitted the following:

Meeting held on Wednesday, January 24, 2007, at 8:50a.m., Room 100, Farnum Building

Present: Senators Allen (C), Pappageorge, Garcia and Olshove

Excused: Senator Basham

Scheduled Meetings

Appropriations -

Subcommittee -

Human Services Department - Wednesday, January 31, 12:30p.m., Room 100, Farnum Building (373-2768)

Energy Policy - Thursday, January 25, 12:30p.m., Room 210, Farnum Building (373-7350)

Finance - Thursday, January 25, 1:00p.m., Room 110, Farnum Building (373-1758)

Senator Cropsey moved that the Senate adjourn.

The motion prevailed, the time being 11:19a.m.

The President, Lieutenant Governor Cherry, declared the Senate adjourned until Thursday, January 25, 2007, at 10:00a.m.

CAROL MOREY VIVENTI

Secretary of the Senate