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

            House Resolution No. 482.

            A resolution of tribute for the Honorable Ted Hammon.

            Whereas, It is with great appreciation for his commitment to public service that we salute Ted Hammon upon his departure from this chamber. Relying on his business experience and love of history, Ted Hammon has brought an open mind and practical approach to every issue he has addressed as a committed public servant at the local and state level; and

            Whereas, Ted Hammon served his hometown of Burton as a City Council member from 1996 to 2000. He then moved on to serve a larger community as a member of the Genesee County Board of Commissioners from 2000 to 2006 and as chair of the county health board. While a county commissioner, Ted Hammon became particularly interested in the plight of the mentally ill in county jails. He learned that the mentally ill had a particularly high recidivism rate that was linked to the lack of access to medications. Armed with this knowledge, the county took steps to lower the recidivism rate; and

            Whereas, Ted Hammon's concern for making his community a better place has been reflected in his work in Lansing on behalf of the citizens of the Fiftieth District and the entire state. Representative Hammon contributed to this legislative body's exploration of energy and technology issues, the conduct of elections and ethical public service, problems faced by families and children, health policy, and the conservation, preservation, and enjoyment of our state's vast natural resources. Representative Hammon brought a steadfast commitment to public service in all of his work; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this resolution with great appreciation to the Honorable Ted Hammon for his unwavering commitment to public service; and be it further

            Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to Representative Hammon as evidence of our gratitude and best wishes.