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

            House Resolution No. 479.

            A resolution of tribute for the Honorable Edward Gaffney.

            Whereas, It is with great admiration for his commitment to the people of the First District and the state of Michigan that we salute our colleague Representative Edward Gaffney upon the completion of his service as a member of the Michigan House of Representatives. His thoughtfulness, commitment, and deep respect for the legislative process have been an asset to this body during his six years of service; and

            Whereas, Edward Gaffney, after earning a bachelor of science in his native state of Connecticut, journeyed to Michigan to earn his advanced degrees and make his adopted state his home. He earned a master of science in history from Michigan State University, a juris doctorate from Thomas Cooley Law School, and a master's of law from Wayne State University. Never one to shy away from hard work, Edward Gaffney earned his law degree while working full-time as a researcher and went on to become a bill drafter at the Legislative Service Bureau. He then used his unique experience and skills as a government affairs director for the American Automobile Manufacturers Association and as the director of the Michigan Center for Truck Safety; and

            Whereas, Edward Gaffney began his record of elective public service with his election to the Grosse Pointe Farms City Council in 1991, serving as mayor from 1999 to 2002. Since his election to the House of Representatives in 2002, Representative Gaffney has been a leader on issues of import to the health of the citizens of our great state, serving as chair and vice chair of the Committee on Health Policy. He served with dedication and distinction on the standing committees charged with directing state policy on insurance, regulatory reform, ethics and elections, criminal justice, and transportation; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this expression of our gratitude to the Honorable Edward Gaffney for his notable contributions to this legislative body and the entire state; and be it further

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