Reps. McMillin, Genetski and Horn offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 132.

            A resolution to memorialize the United States Senate to oppose the ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

            Whereas, For nearly 20 years, there has been debate across the country concerning the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. In spite of this span of time, a great deal of misunderstanding exists with regard to this treaty; and

            Whereas, As some people promote the United States' ratification of this measure, it is essential to recognize the threat that adopting the convention could present to the sovereignty of the United States. The unique network of legal jurisdictions and rights among individual citizens, the states, and the federal government make the approval of the U.N. treaty a more complex challenge than appears at the surface; and

            Whereas, Many are concerned that the provisions included in the Convention on the Rights of the Child could imperil long-cherished rights of Americans to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. Decisions long made by families for the well-being of their children, including those pertaining to discipline and religious education, could be subject to an international body. This would not only intrude on family life, but also supercede the authorities assured for the states under the United States Constitution; and

            Whereas, It is also important to make sure the emotions surrounding the serious matter of protecting children do not obscure the fact that a treaty itself can do little help the children of the world most in need of care and protection. The long-acknowledged frustrations the United Nations experiences with enforcing its initiatives demonstrate that this treaty itself can do little to protect children; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we memorialize the United States Senate to oppose the ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.