Rep. Young offered the following resolution:
House Resolution No. 130.
A resolution to urge Michigan's public universities to adopt policies to prohibit investment in nations identified by the United States State Department as state sponsors of terrorism.
Whereas, The effort to safeguard our country and its citizens from terrorism will be most effective when it is comprehensive in nature. In addition to the obvious components of national defense and homeland protection and public safety measures, attention to investments made in countries sponsoring terrorism should be part of this effort. Given the nature of the threats to our safety, minimizing access to financial resources is clearly a significant part of the issue of dealing with those who would harm innocent people; and
Whereas, Many states, communities, and institutions have taken or are considering actions to restrict investment in countries that are known to support terrorism. This movement is a most appropriate step to encourage. Divestiture initiatives have proven effective in the past; and
Whereas, Michigan's universities carry out a host of worthwhile activities all around the world. These activities, which range from health care to agriculture and education, enrich many lives. They also represent a significant investment of resources, which can be misused. Programs with the best of intentions can make it easier for a murderous government to remain in power; and
Whereas, All steps must be taken to join the community of nations in isolating regimes that advance terrorism. The costs of not taking every possible action are far too high; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we urge Michigan's public universities to adopt policies to prohibit investment in nations identified by the United States State Department as state sponsors of terrorism; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the governing boards of each of the state's public universities.