STATE OF MICHIGAN
Journal of the Senate
100th Legislature
REGULAR SESSION OF 2020
Senate Chamber, Lansing, Thursday, June 25,
2020.
10:00 a.m.
The Senate was called to order by the
Assistant President pro tempore, Senator Lana Theis.
The roll was called by the
Secretary of the Senate, who announced that a quorum was present.
Alexander—present Horn—present Outman—present
Ananich—present Irwin—present Polehanki—present
Barrett—present Johnson—present Runestad—present
Bayer—present LaSata—present Santana—present
Bizon—present Lauwers—present Schmidt—present
Brinks—present Lucido—present Shirkey—present
Bullock—excused MacDonald—present Stamas—present
Bumstead—present MacGregor—present Theis—present
Chang—present McBroom—present VanderWall—present
Daley—present McCann—present Victory—present
Geiss—present McMorrow—present Wojno—present
Hertel—present Moss—present Zorn—present
Hollier—present Nesbitt—present
Senator Wayne A. Schmidt of the 37th District
offered the following invocation:
Dear God, please be with us today and in the
future as we gather here this morning to work together to heal our state.
Please give us the wisdom, the courage, and the guidance as we put aside our
differences to help our fellow Michigan citizens who are struggling during
these very challenging times. As Your humble servants, please work through us
to better serve the people of Michigan, and while we gather here in peace and
comfort, please be with the men and women on the frontlines of our health care
system and those affected by this pandemic.
In Your name we pray. Amen.
The Assistant President pro tempore, Senator
Theis, led the members of the Senate in recital of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Motions and Communications
Senator MacGregor moved that Senator Nesbitt
be temporarily excused from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Chang moved that Senator Hollier be
temporarily excused from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Chang moved that Senator Bullock be
excused from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the
members serving voting therefor.
Senate
Bill No. 977
Senate
Bill No. 978
Senate
Bill No. 153
Senate
Bill No. 748
Senate
Bill No. 751
The motion prevailed, a majority of the
members serving voting therefor.
Senators Nesbitt and Hollier entered the
Senate Chamber.
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to
the order of
General Orders
The motion prevailed, and the Assistant
President pro tempore, Senator Theis, designated Senator McMorrow as
Chairperson.
After some time spent therein, the Committee
arose; and the Assistant President pro tempore, Senator Theis, having
resumed the Chair, the Committee reported back to the Senate, favorably and
without amendment, the following bills:
Senate Bill No. 977, entitled
A bill to amend 1954 PA 116, entitled “Michigan
election law,” by amending section 759 (MCL 168.759), as amended by 2018 PA
603.
A bill to amend 1927 PA 175, entitled “The
code of criminal procedure,” by amending section 11d (MCL 777.11d), as amended
by 2018 PA 661.
Senate Bill No. 153, entitled
A bill to make, supplement, and adjust
appropriations for various state departments and agencies for the fiscal year
ending September 30, 2020; and to provide for the expenditure of the appropriations.
Senate Bill No. 748, entitled
A bill to make, supplement, and adjust
appropriations for various state departments and agencies for the fiscal year
ending September 30, 2021; and to provide for the expenditure of the
appropriations.
Senate Bill No. 751, entitled
A bill to amend 1979 PA 94, entitled “The
state school aid act of 1979,” by amending sections 11 and 17b (MCL 388.1611
and 388.1617b), section 11 as amended by 2019 PA 162 and section 17b as amended
by 2007 PA 137.
The bills were placed on the order of Third
Reading of Bills.
By unanimous consent the Senate returned to
the order of
Third Reading of Bills
Senate
Bill No. 977
Senate
Bill No. 978
Senate
Bill No. 153
Senate
Bill No. 748
Senate
Bill No. 751
The motion prevailed, a majority of the
members serving voting therefor.
Senator MacGregor moved that the Senate
proceed to consideration of the following bills:
House
Bill No. 4390
House
Bill No. 4391
Senate
Bill No. 977
Senate
Bill No. 978
Senate
Bill No. 897
Senate
Bill No. 153
Senate
Bill No. 748
Senate
Bill No. 751
The motion prevailed.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4390, entitled
A bill to amend 1966 PA 291, entitled “Firefighters
training council act,” by amending sections 2 and 9 (MCL 29.362 and 29.369), as
amended by 2017 PA 144, and by adding section 9c.
The
question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor,
as follows:
Roll Call No.
237 Yeas—36
Alexander Geiss MacDonald Santana
Ananich Hertel MacGregor Schmidt
Barrett Hollier McBroom Shirkey
Bayer Horn McCann Stamas
Bizon Irwin McMorrow Theis
Brinks Johnson Moss VanderWall
Bumstead LaSata Outman Victory
Chang Lauwers Polehanki Wojno
Daley Lucido Runestad Zorn
Nays—1
Nesbitt
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: Theis
The question being on concurring in the
committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of
the members serving voting therefor.
Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of
the act shall be inserted to read as follows:
“An act to create the firefighters training
council; to prescribe the powers and duties of the council, the state fire
marshal, and certain fire departments and other organizations; to create the
firefighters training council fund and to provide for allocations from the fund
to local agencies of government participating in a firefighters training
program; and to make an appropriation,”.
The Senate agreed to the full title.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4391, entitled
A bill to amend 1974 PA 154, entitled “Michigan
occupational safety and health act,” by amending section 14 (MCL
408.1014), as amended by 2012 PA 415, and by adding section 14r.
The
question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor,
as follows:
Roll Call No.
238 Yeas—36
Alexander Geiss MacDonald Santana
Ananich Hertel MacGregor Schmidt
Barrett Hollier McBroom Shirkey
Bayer Horn McCann Stamas
Bizon Irwin McMorrow Theis
Brinks Johnson Moss VanderWall
Bumstead LaSata Outman Victory
Chang Lauwers Polehanki Wojno
Daley Lucido Runestad Zorn
Nays—1
Nesbitt
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: Theis
The question being on concurring in the committee
recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of
the members serving voting therefor.
Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of
the act shall be inserted to read as follows:
“An act to prescribe and regulate working
conditions; to prescribe the duties of employers and employees as to places and
conditions of employment; to create certain boards, commissions, committees,
and divisions relative to occupational and construction health and safety; to prescribe
their powers and duties and powers and duties of the department of labor and
department of public health; to prescribe certain powers and duties of the
directors of the departments of labor, public health, and agriculture; to
impose an annual levy to provide revenue for the safety education and training
division; to provide remedies and penalties; to repeal certain acts and parts
of acts; and to repeal certain acts and parts of act on specific dates,”.
The Senate agreed to the full title.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 977, entitled
A bill to amend 1954 PA 116, entitled “Michigan
election law,” by amending section 759 (MCL 168.759), as amended by 2018 PA
603.
The
question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor,
as follows:
Roll Call No.
239 Yeas—32
Ananich Hertel McBroom Schmidt
Barrett Horn McCann Shirkey
Bayer Johnson McMorrow Stamas
Bizon LaSata Moss Theis
Brinks Lauwers Nesbitt VanderWall
Bumstead Lucido Outman Victory
Daley MacDonald Polehanki Wojno
Geiss MacGregor Runestad Zorn
Nays—5
Alexander Hollier Irwin Santana
Chang
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: Theis
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Daley’s statement is as follows:
In May, Michigan’s Secretary of State Jocelyn
Benson announced that she would mail absentee ballot applications to each of
Michigan’s 7.7 million registered voters. This has created a lot of concern
about how this could cause an increase in voter fraud. Last week a constituent
of mine told me that he was mailed an absentee ballot application to his home
that was addressed to someone who hasn’t lived there in over 20 years.
This person has lived and has been registered to vote in Grand Ledge for those
20 years. That’s why I introduced Senate Bill Nos. 977 and 978. They would make
it a felony for someone to knowingly submit another person’s name or personal
identity information on a ballot application or attempt to obtain multiple
ballots. Making voter fraud a felony will help discourage those who wish to
tamper with our elections in the first place.
The people of Michigan need to have the
confidence that their elections are being conducted honestly and that they can
trust the results, win or lose. There is a lot of concern about election
integrity within our system right now. These bills will help discourage voter
fraud, improve trust in our elections, and protect our fundamental right to
vote. I encourage my colleagues to support these bills.
Senator Irwin’s statement is as follows:
I just want to point out just for the record
and for the Journal that voter fraud is already illegal, forgery is already
illegal, and with the passage of this bill and its signing, it will be
double-secret illegal.
The President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist,
assumed the Chair.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 978, entitled
A bill to amend 1927 PA 175, entitled “The
code of criminal procedure,” by amending section 11d (MCL 777.11d), as amended
by 2018 PA 661.
The
question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor,
as follows:
Roll Call No.
240 Yeas—31
Ananich Horn McCann Shirkey
Barrett Johnson McMorrow Stamas
Bayer LaSata Moss Theis
Bizon Lauwers Nesbitt VanderWall
Brinks Lucido Outman Victory
Bumstead MacDonald Polehanki Wojno
Daley MacGregor Runestad Zorn
Hertel McBroom Schmidt
Nays—6
Alexander Geiss Irwin Santana
Chang Hollier
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: President
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 897, entitled
A bill to amend 1998 PA 58, entitled “Michigan
liquor control code of 1998,” by amending section 536 (MCL 436.1536), as
amended by 2019 PA 131.
The
question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor,
as follows:
Roll Call No.
241 Yeas—37
Alexander Hertel MacGregor Santana
Ananich Hollier McBroom Schmidt
Barrett Horn McCann Shirkey
Bayer Irwin McMorrow Stamas
Bizon Johnson Moss Theis
Brinks LaSata Nesbitt VanderWall
Bumstead Lauwers Outman Victory
Chang Lucido Polehanki Wojno
Daley MacDonald Runestad Zorn
Geiss
Nays—0
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: President
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 153, entitled
A bill to make, supplement, and adjust
appropriations for various state departments and agencies for the fiscal year
ending September 30, 2020; and to provide for the expenditure of the
appropriations.
The
question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor,
as follows:
Roll Call No.
242 Yeas—22
Barrett LaSata Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon Lauwers Outman Theis
Bumstead Lucido Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn MacGregor Shirkey Zorn
Johnson McBroom
Nays—15
Alexander Chang Irwin Polehanki
Ananich Geiss McCann Santana
Bayer Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Brinks Hollier Moss
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: President
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 748, entitled
A bill to make, supplement, and adjust
appropriations for various state departments and agencies for the fiscal year
ending September 30, 2021; and to provide for the expenditure of the
appropriations.
The
question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor,
as follows:
Roll Call No.
243 Yeas—22
Barrett LaSata Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon Lauwers Outman Theis
Bumstead Lucido Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn MacGregor Shirkey Zorn
Johnson McBroom
Nays—15
Alexander Chang Irwin Polehanki
Ananich Geiss McCann Santana
Bayer Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Brinks Hollier Moss
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: President
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 751, entitled
A bill to amend 1979 PA 94, entitled “The
state school aid act of 1979,” by amending sections 11 and 17b (MCL 388.1611
and 388.1617b), section 11 as amended by 2019 PA 162 and section 17b as amended
by 2007 PA 137.
The
question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor,
as follows:
Roll Call No.
244 Yeas—22
Barrett LaSata Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon Lauwers Outman Theis
Bumstead Lucido Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn MacGregor Shirkey Zorn
Johnson McBroom
Nays—15
Alexander Chang Irwin Polehanki
Ananich Geiss McCann Santana
Bayer Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Brinks Hollier Moss
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: President
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
Senator MacGregor moved that Senate Bill No.
977 be given immediate effect.
The motion did not prevail, 2/3 of the members
serving not voting therefor.
Recess
Senator MacGregor moved that the Senate recess
subject to the call of the Chair.
The motion prevailed, the time being 10:34
a.m.
The Senate was called to order by the
President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist.
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to
the order of
Introduction and Referral of Bills
The motion prevailed.
Senator MacDonald’s statement is as follows:
Colleagues, Senator Shirkey, I want to thank you for recognizing my
little baby girl Evelyn Michelle. I’d like to give a special shout-out to my
wife Lauraanne. To be quite frank, without her I’d be completely lost, and this
whole experience—having a baby—has been just a magical time, but I rely so
heavily on my wife and I love her so much. Thank you Laura.
Colleagues on both sides of the aisle, thank you for the kind regards.
Thank you everyone.
Senate Joint Resolution P, entitled
A joint resolution proposing an amendment to
the state constitution of 1963, by amending sections 2 and 54 of article
IV, to modify length of and limits to terms for certain elected state offices.
The joint resolution was read a first and
second time by title and referred to the Committee on Government Operations.
Senators McBroom, Irwin, Barrett
and Santana introduced
A bill to amend 1975 PA 46, entitled “An act
to create the office of the legislative corrections ombudsman; to prescribe the
powers and duties of the office, the ombudsman, the legislative council, and
the department of corrections; and to provide remedies from administrative
acts,” by amending section 4 (MCL 4.354), as amended by 2018 PA 571, and by
adding section 4a.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety.
Senator McBroom introduced
A bill to amend 1980 PA 299, entitled “Occupational
code,” by amending sections 2401 and 2403 (MCL 339.2401 and 339.2403), section
2401 as amended by 1991 PA 166 and section 2403 as amended by 2016 PA 412.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Regulatory Reform.
Senators
Schmidt introduced
Senate Bill No. 987, entitled
A
bill to amend 1979 PA 94, entitled “The state school aid act of 1979,” by
amending sections 11 and 17b (MCL 388.1611 and 388.1617b), section 11 as
amended by 2019 PA 162 and section 17b as amended by 2007 PA 137.
The
bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on
Appropriations.
Senator Schmidt introduced
A bill to amend 1979 PA 94, entitled “The
state school aid act of 1979,” by amending sections 11 and 17b (MCL 388.1611
and 388.1617b), section 11 as amended by 2019 PA 162 and section 17b as amended
by 2007 PA 137.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
Senator Bumstead introduced
A bill to make, supplement, and adjust
appropriations for certain capital outlay projects for the fiscal year ending
September 30, 2020; to provide for expenditure of the appropriations; and to
prescribe certain conditions for the appropriations.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
Senators Hertel, Irwin, Chang,
McMorrow, Alexander, Bayer, McCann, Geiss, Polehanki, Brinks, Wojno, Hollier
and Ananich introduced
A bill to amend 1931 PA 328, entitled “The
Michigan penal code,” by amending sections 520a, 520b, 520c, 520d, and 520e
(MCL 750.520a, 750.520b, 750.520c, 750.520d, and 750.520e), section 520a as
amended by 2014 PA 64, section 520b as amended by 2014 PA 23, and sections
520c, 520d, and 520e as amended by 2012 PA 372.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety.
Senators Hertel, Irwin, Geiss,
Polehanki, Wojno, Ananich and Hollier introduced
A bill to amend 2019 PA 152, entitled “Lawful
internet gaming act,” by amending sections 3, 5, 7, and 11 (MCL 432.303,
432.305, 432.307, and 432.311).
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Regulatory Reform.
Senator Irwin introduced
A bill to require law enforcement agencies to
investigate law enforcement officers’ use of excessive force and failure to
intervene during the use of excessive force; to enable law enforcement agencies
to impose disciplinary actions in certain instances of law enforcement officers’
use of excessive force and failure to intervene during the use of excessive
force; to prohibit the use of excessive force and failure to intervene during
the use of excessive force by law enforcement officers and prescribe penalties;
and to provide for the powers and duties of certain state agencies and departments.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety.
Senator Irwin introduced
A bill to amend 1846 RS 14, entitled “Of
county officers,” (MCL 49.153 to 49.160) by adding section 53a.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety.
Senator Schmidt introduced
A bill to make, supplement, and adjust
appropriations for various state departments and agencies for the fiscal year
ending September 30, 2020; and to provide for the expenditure of the
appropriations.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
Senators Polehanki, Hollier,
Brinks, Geiss, Moss, Irwin, Bayer, Chang, Alexander, McCann, McMorrow, Wojno,
Ananich and Santana introduced
A bill to amend 1936 (Ex Sess) PA 1, entitled “Michigan
employment security act,” by amending section 27 (MCL 421.27), as amended
by 2016 PA 522.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Economic and Small Business Development.
Senators Santana, Hollier, Brinks,
Polehanki, Geiss, Moss, Irwin, Bayer, Chang, Alexander, McCann, McMorrow, Wojno
and Ananich introduced
A bill to make, supplement, and adjust
appropriations for various state departments and agencies for the fiscal year
ending September 30, 2020; and to provide for the expenditure of the
appropriations.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
Senators Moss, Hollier, Brinks,
Polehanki, Geiss, Irwin, Bayer, Chang, Alexander, McCann, McMorrow, Wojno,
Ananich and Santana introduced
A bill to make, supplement, and adjust
appropriations for various state departments and agencies for the fiscal year
ending September 30, 2020; and to provide for the expenditure of the
appropriations.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
Senators Geiss, Hollier, Brinks,
Polehanki, Moss, Irwin, Bayer, Chang, Alexander, McCann, McMorrow, Wojno,
Ananich and Santana introduced
A bill to amend 1936 (Ex Sess) PA 1, entitled “Michigan
employment security act,” by amending sections 28 and 29 (MCL 421.28 and
421.29), section 28 as amended by 2020 PA 83 and section 29 as amended by 2013
PA 146.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Economic and Small Business Development.
Senators Hollier, Brinks,
Polehanki, Geiss, Moss, Irwin, Bayer, Chang, Alexander, McCann, McMorrow,
Wojno, Ananich and Santana introduced
A bill to amend 1936 (Ex Sess) PA 1, entitled “Michigan
employment security act,” by amending section 46 (MCL 421.46), as amended
by 2012 PA 218.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Economic and Small Business Development.
Senators Irwin, Hollier, Brinks,
Polehanki, Geiss, Moss, Bayer, Chang, Alexander, McCann, McMorrow, Wojno,
Ananich and Santana introduced
Senate Bill No. 1000, entitled
A bill to amend 1936 (Ex Sess) PA 1, entitled “Michigan
employment security act,” by amending section 27 (MCL 421.27), as amended
by 2016 PA 522.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Economic and Small Business Development.
Senators McMorrow, Hollier, Brinks,
Polehanki, Geiss, Moss, Irwin, Bayer, Chang, Alexander, McCann, Wojno, Ananich
and Santana introduced
Senate Bill No. 1001, entitled
A bill to amend 1936 (Ex Sess) PA 1, entitled “Michigan
employment security act,” by amending section 42 (MCL 421.42), as amended
by 2014 PA 241.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Economic and Small Business Development.
Senators Brinks, Hollier,
Polehanki, Geiss, Moss, Irwin, Bayer, Chang, Alexander, McCann, McMorrow,
Wojno, Ananich and Santana introduced
Senate Bill No. 1002, entitled
A bill to amend 1936 (Ex Sess) PA 1, entitled “Michigan
employment security act,” by amending sections 27 and 28b (MCL 421.27 and
421.28b), section 27 as amended by 2016 PA 522 and section 28b as added by 2012
PA 216.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Economic and Small Business Development.
Senators Bayer, Hollier, Brinks,
Polehanki, Geiss, Moss, Irwin, Chang, Alexander, McCann, McMorrow, Wojno,
Ananich and Santana introduced
Senate Bill No. 1003, entitled
A bill to amend 1936 (Ex Sess) PA 1, entitled “Michigan
employment security act,” by amending section 27 (MCL 421.27), as amended
by 2016 PA 522.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Economic and Small Business Development.
Senators McCann, Hollier, Brinks,
Polehanki, Geiss, Moss, Irwin, Bayer, Chang, Alexander, McMorrow, Wojno, Ananich
and Santana introduced
Senate Bill No. 1004, entitled
A bill to amend 1936 (Ex Sess) PA 1, entitled “Michigan
employment security act,” by amending section 13 (MCL 421.13), as amended
by 2012 PA 493.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Economic and Small Business Development.
Senators Alexander, Hollier,
Brinks, Polehanki, Geiss, Moss, Irwin, Bayer, Chang, McCann, McMorrow, Wojno,
Ananich and Santana introduced
Senate Bill No. 1005, entitled
A bill to amend 1936 (Ex Sess) PA 1, entitled “Michigan
employment security act,” by amending section 32 (MCL 421.32), as amended
by 2016 PA 522.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Economic and Small Business Development.
Senators Ananich, Hollier, Wojno,
Irwin, Moss, Chang, McMorrow, Alexander, Santana, Bayer, McCann, Geiss and
Hertel introduced
Senate Bill No. 1006, entitled
A bill to amend 1939 PA 280, entitled “The
social welfare act,” by amending section 10b (MCL 400.10b), as amended by 2017
PA 13, and by adding section 14m.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Families, Seniors, and Veterans.
Senators Ananich, Hollier, Wojno,
Irwin, Chang, Moss, McMorrow, Alexander, Bayer, Santana, McCann, Geiss,
Polehanki and Hertel introduced
Senate Bill No. 1007, entitled
A bill to amend 1965 PA 203, entitled “Michigan
commission on law enforcement standards act,” by amending section 3 (MCL
28.603), as amended by 2016 PA 289.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety.
Senators Chang and Brinks
introduced
Senate Bill No. 1008, entitled
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public
health code,” (MCL 333.1101 to 333.25211) by adding section 20205.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Health Policy and Human Services.
Senators Chang, Irwin, Geiss, Wojno,
Santana, Hertel, Bayer and Brinks introduced
Senate Bill No. 1009, entitled
A bill to amend 1982 PA 325, entitled “An act
to authorize county sheriffs to declare a county jail overcrowding state of
emergency; to prescribe the powers and duties of certain judges, county
sheriffs, and other county officials; and to provide remedies for a county jail
overcrowding state of emergency,” by amending the title and sections 2, 3, 4,
5, and 9 (MCL 801.52, 801.53, 801.54, 801.55, and 801.59), sections 2, 3,
4, 5, and 9 as amended by 2007 PA 140, and by adding section 5a.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety.
Senator MacGregor introduced
Senate Bill No. 1010, entitled
A bill to amend 1985 PA 227, entitled “Shared
credit rating act,” by amending section 7 (MCL 141.1057), as amended by 2012 PA
439, and by adding section 16e.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
A bill to amend 1980 PA 299, entitled “Occupational
code,” by amending sections 1801, 1804, 1805, 1806, 1807, 1809, 1809a, and 1810
(MCL 339.1801, 339.1804, 339.1805, 339.1806, 339.1807, 339.1809, 339.1809a, and
339.1810), sections 1801 and 1810 as amended by 2006 PA 300, section 1806 as
amended by 2013 PA 80, and section 1809a as added by 2009 PA 149, and by adding
section 1806b.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Regulatory Reform.
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public
health code,” (MCL 333.1101 to 333.25211) by adding article 18.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Health Policy and Human Services.
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public
health code,” (MCL 333.1101 to 333.25211) by adding section 24509 to article
18.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Health Policy and Human Services.
A bill to amend 2001 PA 142, entitled “Michigan
memorial highway act,” (MCL 250.1001 to 250.2081) by adding section 1090.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “Michigan
vehicle code,” by amending section 20a (MCL 257.20a), as amended by 2012 PA
239, and by adding section 30d.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public
health code,” by amending section 16221 (MCL 333.16221), as amended by 2018 PA
463.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill
and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Health Policy and Human Services.
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public
health code,” by amending section 16226 (MCL 333.16226), as amended by 2018 PA
463.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Health Policy and Human Services.
A bill to amend 1974 PA 258, entitled “Mental
health code,” (MCL 330.1001 to 330.2106) by adding section 206b.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Health Policy and Human Services.
A bill to amend 2001 PA 142, entitled “Michigan
memorial highway act,” (MCL 250.1001 to 250.2084) by adding section 1050.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
A bill to amend 1909 PA 283, entitled “An act
to revise, consolidate, and add to the laws relating to the establishment,
opening, discontinuing, vacating, closing, altering, improvement, maintenance,
and use of the public highways and private roads; the condemnation of property
and gravel therefor; the building, repairing and preservation of bridges;
maintaining public access to waterways under certain conditions; setting and
protecting shade trees, drainage, and cutting weeds and brush within this
state; providing for the election or appointment and defining the powers,
duties, and compensation of state, county, township, and district highway
officials; and to prescribe penalties and provide remedies,” by amending
section 10 of chapter IV (MCL 224.10), as amended by 2004 PA 516.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
A bill to amend 2001 PA 142, entitled “Michigan
memorial highway act,” (MCL 250.1001 to 250.2084) by adding section 16d.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
A bill to require certain standards for smoke
alarm and certain other devices; and to prohibit certain conduct.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Regulatory Reform.
A bill to amend 1984 PA 270, entitled “Michigan
strategic fund act,” by amending section 90l (MCL 125.2090l), as added by 2018
PA 423.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Economic and Small Business Development.
A bill to amend 1917 PA 273, entitled “An act
to regulate and license pawnbrokers that conduct business in this state; to
provide for the disposition of allegedly misappropriated property in the
possession of pawnbrokers; to provide remedies and prescribe penalties; and to
provide for the powers and duties of certain local governmental units and state
agencies,” by amending section 8 (MCL 446.208), as amended by 2002 PA 469.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Regulatory Reform.
A bill to amend 1972 PA 230, entitled “Stille-DeRossett-Hale
single state construction code act,” by amending section 28a (MCL 125.1528a),
as amended by 2018 PA 332.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Regulatory Reform.
A bill to prohibit employers from requiring
employees and prospective employees to have devices implanted or otherwise
incorporated into their bodies as a condition of employment or any employment
benefit; to prohibit employers from discriminating in the terms, conditions,
and benefits of employment against employees who refuse to have a device implanted
or otherwise incorporated into their bodies; and to provide remedies.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Economic and Small Business Development.
A bill to amend 1998 PA 386, entitled “Estates
and protected individuals code,” by amending section 2502 (MCL 700.2502) and by
adding section 2504a.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety.
A bill to amend 1911 PA 44, entitled “An act
to create a state board of equalization; to prescribe its powers and duties; to
provide that said board shall be furnished with certain information by the
several boards of supervisors and by the state tax commission; to provide for
meeting the expense authorized by this act, and to repeal all acts or parts of
acts contravening the provisions of this act,” by amending section 5 (MCL
209.5), as amended by 2001 PA 36.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Finance.
A bill to amend 1893 PA 206, entitled “The
general property tax act,” (MCL 211.1 to 211.155) by adding section 33a.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Finance.
A bill to amend 1974 PA 258, entitled “Mental
health code,” by amending sections 100a, 100b, 161, 409, and 439 (MCL
330.1100a, 330.1100b, 330.1161, 330.1409, and 330.1439), section 100a as
amended by 2018 PA 595, section 100b as amended by 2020 PA 55, section 161 as
amended by 2012 PA 500, section 409 as amended by 2018 PA 593, and section
439 as added by 1986 PA 118, and by adding sections 971, 972, 973, 974, 975,
976, 977, 978, and 979.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Health Policy and Human Services.
A bill to amend 1965 PA 203, entitled “Michigan
commission on law enforcement standards act,” by amending the title and
sections 9, 9b, 9c, and 9d (MCL 28.609, 28.609b, 28.609c, and 28.609d), the
title as amended by 1998 PA 237 and sections 9, 9b, 9c, and 9d as amended by
2018 PA 552, and by adding sections 9f and 9g.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety.
A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled “Revised
judicature act of 1961,” by amending sections 803 and 807 (MCL 600.803 and
600.807), section 803 as amended by 2012 PA 36 and section 807 as amended by
2004 PA 492.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety.
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 promote safe and
efficient travel for motor vehicle drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians, and other
legal users of roads, streets, and highways; 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,” (MCL 247.651 to
247.675) by adding section 11i.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by
title and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
By unanimous consent the Senate returned to
the order of
Messages from the House
Senate Joint Resolution G, entitled
A joint resolution proposing an amendment to
the state constitution of 1963, by amending section 11 of article I, to require
the government to obtain a search warrant in order to access a person’s
electronic data or electronic communication.
The House of Representatives has adopted the
joint resolution by a 2/3 vote.
A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “Michigan
vehicle code,” by amending section 676d (MCL 257.676d), as added by 2014 PA
303.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill, ordered that it be given immediate effect and pursuant to Joint Rule 20,
inserted the full title.
The question being on concurring in the
committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of
the members serving voting therefor.
The Senate agreed to the full title.
The bill was
referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the
Governor.
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public
health code,” by amending sections 16226 and 17754 (MCL 333.16226 and
333.17754), section 16226 as amended by 2018 PA 463 and section 17754 as
amended by 2014 PA 525.
The House of Representatives has substituted
(H-2) the bill.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill as substituted (H-2), ordered that it be given immediate effect and
amended the title to read as follows:
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “An act
to protect and promote the public health; to codify, revise, consolidate,
classify, and add to the laws relating to public health; to provide for the
prevention and control of diseases and disabilities; to provide for the
classification, administration, regulation, financing, and maintenance of
personal, environmental, and other health services and activities; to create or
continue, and prescribe the powers and duties of, departments, boards,
commissions, councils, committees, task forces, and other agencies; to
prescribe the powers and duties of governmental entities and officials; to regulate
occupations, facilities, and agencies affecting the public health; to regulate
health maintenance organizations and certain third party administrators and
insurers; to provide for the imposition of a regulatory fee; to provide for the
levy of taxes against certain health facilities or agencies; to promote the
efficient and economical delivery of health care services, to provide for the
appropriate utilization of health care facilities and services, and to provide
for the closure of hospitals or consolidation of hospitals or services; to
provide for the collection and use of data and information; to provide for the
transfer of property; to provide certain immunity from liability; to regulate
and prohibit the sale and offering for sale of drug paraphernalia under certain
circumstances; to provide for the implementation of federal law; to provide for
penalties and remedies; to provide for sanctions for violations of this act and
local ordinances; to provide for an appropriation and supplements; to repeal certain
acts and parts of acts; to repeal certain parts of this act; and to repeal
certain parts of this act on specific dates,” by amending sections 7333, 16226,
16322, 16501, 16511, 16513, 16521, 16525, 16529, 17744, and 17751 (MCL
333.7333, 333.16226, 333.16322, 333.16501, 333.16511, 333.16513, 333.16521,
333.16525, 333.16529, 333.17744, and 333.17751), section 7333 as amended by
2018 PA 34, section 16226 as amended by 2018 PA 463, sections 16322, 16501,
16511, 16521, 16525, and 16529 as amended by 2019 PA 140, section 16513 as
added by 2019 PA 140, section 17744 as added by 2012 PA 209, and section 17751
as amended by 2020 PA 4.
Pending
the order that, under rule 3.202, the bill be laid over one day,
Senator
MacGregor moved that the rule be suspended.
The motion
prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The
question being on concurring in the substitute made to the bill by the House,
The substitute was concurred in, a majority of the members serving
voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No.
245 Yeas—37
Alexander Hertel MacGregor Santana
Ananich Hollier McBroom Schmidt
Barrett Horn McCann Shirkey
Bayer Irwin McMorrow Stamas
Bizon Johnson Moss Theis
Brinks LaSata Nesbitt VanderWall
Bumstead Lauwers Outman Victory
Chang Lucido Polehanki Wojno
Daley MacDonald Runestad Zorn
Geiss
Nays—0
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: President
The question being on concurring in the
committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of
the members serving voting therefor.
The Senate agreed to the title as amended.
The bill was
referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the
Governor.
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public
health code,” by amending sections 7333 and 16221 (MCL 333.7333 and 333.16221),
section 7333 as amended by 2018 PA 34 and section 16221 as amended by 2018 PA
463.
The House of Representatives has substituted
(H-1) the bill.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill as substituted (H-1), ordered that it be given immediate effect and
amended the title to read as follows:
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “An act
to protect and promote the public health; to codify, revise, consolidate,
classify, and add to the laws relating to public health; to provide for the
prevention and control of diseases and disabilities; to provide for the
classification, administration, regulation, financing, and maintenance of personal,
environmental, and other health services and activities; to create or continue,
and prescribe the powers and duties of, departments, boards, commissions,
councils, committees, task forces, and other agencies; to prescribe the powers
and duties of governmental entities and officials; to regulate occupations,
facilities, and agencies affecting the public health; to regulate health
maintenance organizations and certain third party administrators and insurers;
to provide for the imposition of a regulatory fee; to provide for the levy of
taxes against certain health facilities or agencies; to promote the efficient
and economical delivery of health care services, to provide for the appropriate
utilization of health care facilities and services, and to provide for the
closure of hospitals or consolidation of hospitals or services; to provide for
the collection and use of data and information; to provide for the transfer of
property; to provide certain immunity from liability; to regulate and prohibit
the sale and offering for sale of drug paraphernalia under certain
circumstances; to provide for the implementation of federal law; to provide for
penalties and remedies; to provide for sanctions for violations of this act and
local ordinances; to provide for an appropriation and supplements; to repeal
certain acts and parts of acts; to repeal certain parts of this act; and to
repeal certain parts of this act on specific dates,” by amending sections 16221
and 16221b (MCL 333.16221 and 333.16221b), section 16221 as amended by 2018 PA
463 and section 16221b as added by 2017 PA 249.
Pending
the order that, under rule 3.202, the bill be laid over one day,
Senator
MacGregor moved that the rule be suspended.
The motion
prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The
question being on concurring in the substitute made to the bill by the House,
The substitute was concurred in, a majority of the members serving
voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No.
246 Yeas—37
Alexander Hertel MacGregor Santana
Ananich Hollier McBroom Schmidt
Barrett Horn McCann Shirkey
Bayer Irwin McMorrow Stamas
Bizon Johnson Moss Theis
Brinks LaSata Nesbitt VanderWall
Bumstead Lauwers Outman Victory
Chang Lucido Polehanki Wojno
Daley MacDonald Runestad Zorn
Geiss
Nays—0
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: President
The question being on concurring in the
committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of
the members serving voting therefor.
The Senate agreed to the title as amended.
The bill was
referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the
Governor.
Recess
Senator MacGregor moved that the Senate recess
subject to the call of the Chair.
The motion prevailed, the time being 11:25
a.m.
The Senate was called to order by the
President pro tempore, Senator Nesbitt.
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 promote safe and
efficient travel for motor vehicle drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians, and other
legal users of roads, streets, and highways; 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,” (MCL 247.651 to 247.675) by amending the title, as amended by 2010 PA
135, and by adding section 10r.
The House of Representatives has substituted
(H-1) the bill.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill as substituted (H-1) and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
Pending
the order that, under rule 3.202, the resolution be laid over one day,
Senator
MacGregor moved that the rule be suspended.
The motion
prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The
question being on concurring in the substitute made to the resolution by the
House,
The substitute was concurred in, a majority of the members serving
voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No.
247 Yeas—24
Barrett LaSata Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon Lauwers Outman Theis
Bumstead Lucido Polehanki VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Runestad Victory
Horn MacGregor Schmidt Wojno
Johnson McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—13
Alexander Chang Hollier McMorrow
Ananich Geiss Irwin Moss
Bayer Hertel McCann Santana
Brinks
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
Senator MacGregor moved that the bill be given
immediate effect.
The motion prevailed, 2/3 of the members
serving voting therefor.
The bill was referred to the Secretary for
enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor.
A bill to amend 2001 PA 142, entitled “Michigan
memorial highway act,” by amending sections 11 and 14 (MCL 250.1011 and
250.1014), and by adding section 14a.
The House of Representatives has substituted
(H-1) the bill.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill as substituted (H-1), ordered that it be given immediate effect and
amended the title to read as follows:
A bill to amend 2001 PA 142, entitled “An act
to consolidate prior acts naming certain Michigan highways; to provide for the
naming of certain highways; to prescribe certain duties of the state
transportation department; and to repeal acts and parts of acts and certain
resolutions,” by amending sections 11 and 14 (MCL 250.1011 and 250.1014),
section 11 as amended by 2020 PA 11, and by adding section 14a.
Pending
the order that, under rule 3.202, the bill be laid over one day,
Senator
MacGregor moved that the rule be suspended.
The motion
prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The
question being on concurring in the substitute made to the bill by the House,
The substitute was concurred in, a majority of the members serving
voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No.
248 Yeas—37
Alexander Hertel MacGregor Santana
Ananich Hollier McBroom Schmidt
Barrett Horn McCann Shirkey
Bayer Irwin McMorrow Stamas
Bizon Johnson Moss Theis
Brinks LaSata Nesbitt VanderWall
Bumstead Lauwers Outman Victory
Chang Lucido Polehanki Wojno
Daley MacDonald Runestad Zorn
Geiss
Nays—0
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The question being on concurring in the
committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of
the members serving voting therefor.
The Senate agreed to the title as amended.
The bill was
referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the
Governor.
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public
health code,” by amending sections 16111, 16333, 17705, 17706, 17707, 17709,
17722, 17742, 17748, 17767, and 17768 (MCL 333.16111, 333.16333, 333.17705,
333.17706, 333.17707, 333.17709, 333.17722, 333.17742, 333.17748, 333.17767,
and 333.17768), section 16111 as amended by 2006 PA 392, section 16333 as
amended by 2014 PA 285, section 17705 as amended by 1986 PA 304, section 17706
as amended by 2014 PA 280, sections 17707, 17709, 17722, 17742, 17748, and
17768 as amended by 2020 PA 4, and section 17767 as amended by 1993 PA 79, and
by adding sections 17748e and 17748f.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill, ordered that it be given immediate effect and pursuant to Joint Rule 20,
inserted the full title.
The question being on concurring in the
committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of
the members serving voting therefor.
The Senate agreed to the full title.
The bill was
referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the
Governor.
A bill to prohibit a state department or
agency or a member or office of the senate or house of representatives from
taking disciplinary action against certain state employees for communicating
with certain individuals in the legislative branch.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
The question being on concurring in the
committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of
the members serving voting therefor.
The bill was referred to the Secretary for
enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor.
A bill to amend 1980 PA 299, entitled “Occupational
code,” by amending sections 1801 and 1809 (MCL 339.1801 and 339.1809), section
1801 as amended by 2006 PA 300.
The House of Representatives has substituted
(H-1) the bill.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill as substituted (H-1), ordered that it be given immediate effect and
pursuant to Joint Rule 20, inserted the full title.
Pending
the order that, under rule 3.202, the bill be laid over one day,
Senator
MacGregor moved that the rule be suspended.
The motion
prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The
question being on concurring in the substitute made to the bill by the House,
The substitute was concurred in, a majority of the members serving
voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No.
249 Yeas—37
Alexander Hertel MacGregor Santana
Ananich Hollier McBroom Schmidt
Barrett Horn McCann Shirkey
Bayer Irwin McMorrow Stamas
Bizon Johnson Moss Theis
Brinks LaSata Nesbitt VanderWall
Bumstead Lauwers Outman Victory
Chang Lucido Polehanki Wojno
Daley MacDonald Runestad Zorn
Geiss
Nays—0
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The question being on concurring in the
committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of
the members serving voting therefor.
The Senate agreed to the full title.
The bill was
referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the
Governor.
A bill to create an industrial hemp program;
to authorize certain activities involving industrial hemp to require the
registration of persons engaged in certain activities; to provide for the
sampling and testing of industrial hemp; to provide for the collection of fees;
to create certain funds; to provide for the powers and duties of certain state
departments and officers and state agencies and officials; to prohibit certain
acts; and to prescribe civil sanctions.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
The question being on concurring in the
committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of
the members serving voting therefor.
The bill was referred to the Secretary for
enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor.
A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “Michigan
vehicle code,” by amending sections 216, 226, 255, 301, 309, and 314 (MCL
257.216, 257.226, 257.255, 257.301, 257.309, and 257.314), section 216 as
amended by 2009 PA 32, section 226 as amended by 2018 PA 342, section 255 as
amended by 2018 PA 64, sections 301 and 314 as amended by 2011 PA 159, and
section 309 as amended by 2016 PA 23, and by adding sections 312k and 801k.
The House of Representatives has substituted
(H-2) the bill.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill as substituted (H-2), ordered that it be given immediate effect and
amended the title to read as follows:
A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “An act
to provide for the registration, titling, sale, transfer, and regulation of
certain vehicles operated upon the public highways of this state or any other
place open to the general public or generally accessible to motor vehicles and
distressed vehicles; to provide for the licensing of dealers; to provide for the
examination, licensing, and control of operators and chauffeurs; to provide for
the giving of proof of financial responsibility and security by owners and
operators of vehicles; to provide for the imposition, levy, and collection of
specific taxes on vehicles, and the levy and collection of sales and use taxes,
license fees, and permit fees; to provide for the regulation and use of streets
and highways; to create certain funds; to provide penalties and sanctions for a
violation of this act; to provide for civil liability of manufacturers, the
manufacturers of certain devices, the manufacturers of automated technology,
upfitters, owners, and operators of vehicles and service of process on
residents and nonresidents; to regulate the introduction and use of certain
evidence; to regulate and certify the manufacturers of certain devices; to
provide for approval and certification of installers and servicers of certain
devices; to provide for the levy of certain assessments; to provide for the
enforcement of this act; to provide for the creation of and to prescribe the
powers and duties of certain state and local agencies; to impose liability upon
the state or local agencies; to provide appropriations for certain purposes; to
repeal all other acts or parts of acts inconsistent with this act or contrary
to this act; and to repeal certain parts of this act on a specific date,” by
amending sections 216, 226, 255, 301, 306, 306a, 309, 312f, 314, and 321c
(MCL 257.216, 257.226, 257.255, 257.301, 257.306, 257.306a, 257.309, 257.312f,
257.314, and 257.321c), section 216 as amended by 2009 PA 32, section 226 as
amended by 2018 PA 342, section 255 as amended by 2018 PA 64, sections 301 and
314 as amended by 2011 PA 159, section 306 as amended by 2015 PA 11, section
306a as added by 2015 PA 11, section 309 as amended by 2016 PA 23, section 312f
as amended by 2016 PA 58, and section 321c as amended by 2009 PA 194, and by
adding sections 312k and 801k.
Pending
the order that, under rule 3.202, the bill be laid over one day,
Senator
MacGregor moved that the rule be suspended.
The motion
prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The
question being on concurring in the substitute made to the bill by the House,
The substitute was concurred in, a majority of the members serving
voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No.
250 Yeas—37
Alexander Hertel MacGregor Santana
Ananich Hollier McBroom Schmidt
Barrett Horn McCann Shirkey
Bayer Irwin McMorrow Stamas
Bizon Johnson Moss Theis
Brinks LaSata Nesbitt VanderWall
Bumstead Lauwers Outman Victory
Chang Lucido Polehanki Wojno
Daley MacDonald Runestad Zorn
Geiss
Nays—0
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The question being on concurring in the
committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of
the members serving voting therefor.
The Senate agreed to the title as amended.
The bill was
referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the
Governor.
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 sections 2 and 9a (MCL
28.292 and 28.299a), section 2 as amended by 2018 PA 669 and section 9a as
added by 2008 PA 32.
The House of Representatives has substituted
(H-2) the bill.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill as substituted (H-2), ordered that it be given immediate effect and
amended the title to read as follows:
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 sections 2 and 9a
(MCL 28.292 and 28.299a), section 2 as amended by 2020 PA 92 and section 9a as
added by 2008 PA 32.
Pending the order that, under rule 3.202, the
bill be laid over one day,
Senator MacGregor moved that the rule be
suspended.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the
members serving voting therefor.
The question being on concurring in the
substitute made to the bill by the House,
The substitute was
concurred in, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 251 Yeas—37
Alexander Hertel MacGregor Santana
Ananich Hollier McBroom Schmidt
Barrett Horn McCann Shirkey
Bayer Irwin McMorrow Stamas
Bizon Johnson Moss Theis
Brinks LaSata Nesbitt VanderWall
Bumstead Lauwers Outman Victory
Chang Lucido Polehanki Wojno
Daley MacDonald Runestad Zorn
Geiss
Nays—0
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The
question being on concurring in the committee recommendation to give the bill
immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of the members serving voting
therefor.
The
Senate agreed to the title as amended.
The bill was referred to the Secretary for enrollment
printing and presentation to the Governor.
A bill to amend 2008 PA 23, entitled “Enhanced
driver license and enhanced official state personal identification card act,”
by amending sections 4 and 6 (MCL 28.304 and 28.306), section 4 as amended by
2018 PA 47 and section 6 as amended by 2009 PA 211.
The House of Representatives has substituted
(H-1) the bill.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill as substituted (H-1), ordered that it be given immediate effect and
pursuant to Joint Rule 20, inserted the full title.
Pending the order that, under rule 3.202, the
bill be laid over one day,
Senator MacGregor moved that the rule be
suspended.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the
members serving voting therefor.
The question being on concurring in the
substitute made to the bill by the House,
The substitute was
concurred in, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No.
252 Yeas—37
Alexander Hertel MacGregor Santana
Ananich Hollier McBroom Schmidt
Barrett Horn McCann Shirkey
Bayer Irwin McMorrow Stamas
Bizon Johnson Moss Theis
Brinks LaSata Nesbitt VanderWall
Bumstead Lauwers Outman Victory
Chang Lucido Polehanki Wojno
Daley MacDonald Runestad Zorn
Geiss
Nays—0
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The question being on concurring in the
committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of
the members serving voting therefor.
The Senate agreed to the full title.
The bill was
referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the
Governor.
A bill to amend 1937 PA 94, entitled “Use tax
act,” by amending section 6 (MCL 205.96), as amended by 2014 PA 426, and by
adding section 6d.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill, ordered that it be given immediate effect and pursuant to Joint Rule 20,
inserted the full title.
The question being on concurring in the
committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was not concurred in, 2/3
of the members serving not voting therefor.
Senator MacGregor moved that
the bill be given immediate effect.
The motion prevailed, 2/3 of
the members serving voting therefor.
The Senate agreed to the full title.
The bill was
referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the
Governor.
A bill to amend 1933 PA 167, entitled “General
sales tax act,” by amending section 6 (MCL 205.56), as amended by 2014 PA 425,
and by adding section 6d.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill, ordered that it be given immediate effect and pursuant to Joint Rule 20,
inserted the full title.
The question being on concurring in the
committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of
the members serving voting therefor.
The Senate agreed to the full title.
The bill was
referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the
Governor.
A bill to amend 1967 PA 281, entitled “Income
tax act of 1967,” by amending sections 703 and 705 (MCL 206.703 and 206.705),
section 703 as amended by 2016 PA 158 and section 705 as amended by 2011 PA 192.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill, ordered that it be given immediate effect and pursuant to Joint Rule 20,
inserted the full title.
The question being on concurring in the
committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of
the members serving voting therefor.
The Senate agreed to the full title.
The bill was
referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the
Governor.
A bill to amend 1998 PA 58, entitled “Michigan
liquor control code of 1998,” by amending sections 205, 233, 609d, and 1014
(MCL 436.1205, 436.1233, 436.1609d, and 436.2014), section 205 as amended by
2015 PA 246, section 609d as added by 2020 PA 26, and section 1014 as added by
2015 PA 47, and by adding sections 537a, 538, and 551.
The House of Representatives has substituted
(H-5) the bill.
The House of Representatives has passed the
bill as substituted (H-5), ordered that it be given immediate effect and
amended the title to read as follows:
A bill to amend 1998 PA 58, entitled “An act
to create a commission for the control of the alcoholic beverage traffic within
this state, and to prescribe its powers, duties, and limitations; to provide
for powers and duties for certain state departments and agencies; to impose
certain taxes for certain purposes; to provide for the control of the alcoholic
liquor traffic within this state and to provide for the power to establish
state liquor stores; to prohibit the use of certain devices for the dispensing
of alcoholic vapor; to provide for the care and treatment of alcoholics; to
provide for the incorporation of farmer cooperative wineries and the granting
of certain rights and privileges to those cooperatives; to provide for the
licensing and taxation of activities regulated under this act and the
disposition of the money received under this act; to prescribe liability for
retail licensees under certain circumstances and to require security for that
liability; to provide procedures, defenses, and remedies regarding violations
of this act; to provide for the enforcement and to prescribe penalties for
violations of this act; to provide for allocation of certain funds for certain
purposes; to provide for the confiscation and disposition of property seized
under this act; to provide referenda under certain circumstances; and to repeal
acts and parts of acts,” by amending sections 205, 233, 536, 609c, and 1014
(MCL 436.1205, 436.1233, 436.1536, 436.1609c, and 436.2014), section 205 as
amended by 2015 PA 246, section 536 as amended by 2019 PA 131, section
609c as added by 2017 PA 130, and section 1014 as added by 2015 PA 47.
Pending
the order that, under rule 3.202, the bill be laid over one day,
Senator
MacGregor moved that the rule be suspended.
The motion
prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The
question being on concurring in the substitute made to the bill by the House,
The substitute was concurred in, a majority of the members serving
voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No.
253 Yeas—36
Alexander Geiss MacDonald Santana
Ananich Hertel MacGregor Schmidt
Barrett Hollier McCann Shirkey
Bayer Horn McMorrow Stamas
Bizon Irwin Moss Theis
Brinks Johnson Nesbitt VanderWall
Bumstead LaSata Outman Victory
Chang Lauwers Polehanki Wojno
Daley Lucido Runestad Zorn
Nays—1
McBroom
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist,
resumed the Chair.
The question being on concurring in the
committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of
the members serving voting therefor.
The Senate agreed to the title as amended.
The bill was
referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the
Governor.
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to
the order of
Resolutions
Senator MacGregor moved that the Senate
proceed to consideration of the following resolution:
Senate
Resolution No. 131
The motion prevailed.
Senator MacGregor offered the following resolution:
Senate
Resolution No. 131.
A
resolution to commemorate July 2020 as Craft Beer Month.
Whereas,
Michigan craft brewers are a vibrant affirmation and expression of Michigan’s
entrepreneurial traditions, operating as community-based small businesses and
providing employment for more than 14,000 workers; and
Whereas,
Our state has craft brewers in every region of the state and more than 300
craft brewers statewide; and
Whereas,
Michigan ranks fifth in the nation for overall number of breweries, microbreweries,
and brewpubs; and
Whereas,
The Michigan Brewers Guild celebrates Michigan Craft Beer Month each year by
hosting a Summer Festival in July; and
Whereas,
The Michigan Brewers Guild is looking for creative ways to celebrate Michigan
Beer Month with its breweries and the community this year, given the
unfortunate cancellation due to COVID-19 concerns; and
Whereas,
Craft brewers in Michigan support state agriculture by purchasing hops, malted
barley, wheat, beet sugar, cherries, apples, and numerous other fruits, herbs,
spices, and vegetables grown here; and
Whereas,
Michigan craft brewers promote Michigan’s spirit of independence through a
renaissance in handcrafted beers like those first brought to our state by
European settlers and produced here by our forefathers, including Bernhard
Stroh, for the enjoyment of the citizenry; and
Whereas,
Striving to educate legal drinking-age residents, Michigan craft brewers convey
awareness about the differences in beer flavor, aroma, color, alcohol content,
body, and other complex variables, beer history, and gastronomic qualities of
beer; and
Whereas,
Michigan craft brewers champion the message of responsible enjoyment to their
customers and work within their communities to prevent alcohol abuse and
underage drinking; and
Whereas,
Craft brewers in Michigan produce more than 100 distinct styles of flavorful
beers, the quality and diversity of which have made Michigan the envy of many
states, while also contributing to balanced trade with both the increase of
Michigan exports and promotion of our state’s tourism; and
Whereas,
Michigan craft brewers have shown a successful business model by contributing
more than $600 million in labor income with a total economic contribution
of more than $2 billion, thriving and expanding by furthering their economic
importance to the state; and
Whereas,
Michigan craft brewers are vested in the future, health, and welfare of their
communities as employers provide a diverse array of quality local jobs, as
contributors to the local tax base, and as committed sponsors of a broad range
of vital community institutions and philanthropic causes, including
not-for-profit housing development associations, chambers of commerce, humane
societies, athletic teams, and medical research; now, therefore, be it
Resolved
by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body commemorate July 2020
as Craft Beer Month and recognize the contributions that Michigan craft brewers
have made to our state’s communities, economy, and history; and be it further
Resolved,
That we commend Michigan craft brewers for providing jobs, improving the
balance of trade, supporting Michigan agriculture, and educating residents
about the history and culture of beer, while promoting the responsible
consumption of beer as a beverage of moderation.
Senator MacGregor moved that the rule be
suspended.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the
members serving voting therefor.
Senators Brinks, Chang and Moss were named
co-sponsors of the resolution.
Senators Moss and MacGregor asked and were
granted unanimous consent to make statements and moved that the statements be
printed in the Journal.
The
motion prevailed.
Senator Moss’ statement is as follows:
I want history to reflect how strongly I
support this resolution to declare July of 2020 as Craft Beer Month. I have
signed on as a co-sponsor. I think we should recognize the value that people
who produce craft beer and people who consume craft beer provide to the state
of Michigan.
I enjoy craft beer. Some may call that
enjoyment a lifestyle, some may call it a choice—I think it’s genetics possibly
that makes me enjoy craft beer so much. But there are those in this chamber and
those in this state who don’t support alcohol consumption. And anytime that
there is a bill on alcohol consumption, they will oppose those bills. Some
believe alcohol consumption is immoral. Some believe it harms children. Some
believe it breaks down the fabric of families in the state of Michigan. But
nevertheless, despite those differences, we are coming together to support
those of us who sell and consume craft beer.
You don’t have to drink craft beer to support
this resolution. And we’re moving quickly on this resolution too. Getting it
done before July starts—I’m excited about it. Not being sent to committee;
suspending the rules to pass it right now.
As we head into this weekend, you know I celebrated my birthday on Tuesday. I’m
going to enjoy craft beer on my front lawn. I hope nobody disparages me in my
neighborhood for it, but if they do, Mr. President, I’m going to pull this
resolution out and say that the Senate took a stand today to support craft beer
in the state of Michigan. I am proud of our actions today. I’m proud of all of
you. This resolution brings me a lot of pride. You should all be very proud of
yourselves.
Senator MacGregor’s statement is as follows:
Today before us is a resolution that will
declare July 2020 as Craft Beer Month. And I’m super happy and glad for the
strong support from my colleagues from the other aisle, especially from the
Senator from District 11. I am very happy that he is in support of the 400
breweries that are across this state and in all our communities. These are
small businesses and they represent over 21,000 full-time jobs. Not only do
these represent Michigan’s entrepreneurial tradition and spirit, but it also
supports the state’s agricultural history and contributes more than $2.5
billion to the Michigan economy every year. So please join me in supporting
Michigan’s beer industry in declaring July as Michigan Beer Month and I hope
everybody enjoys a couple of craft beers over the next break.
Senator MacGregor moved that the Senate
proceed to consideration of the following resolution:
Senate
Resolution No. 133
The motion prevailed.
Senator Barrett offered the following
resolution:
Senate
Resolution No. 133.
A
resolution to commemorate June 27, 2020, as Post-Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI)
Awareness Day.
Whereas,
The brave men and women who serve in the United States (U.S.) Armed Forces risk
their lives to protect the freedom of the United States and deserve the
investment of every possible resource to ensure their lasting physical, mental,
and emotional wellbeing; and
Whereas,
More than 2,000,000 U.S. service members have deployed as part of overseas
contingency operations since the events of September 11, 2001; and
Whereas,
The military has sustained an operational tempo for a period of time
unprecedented in the history of the United States, with many service members
deploying multiple times to combat zones, placing them at high risk of PTSI;
and
Whereas,
It is expected that ten thousand veterans will return to the state of Michigan
every year for the next three to five years after spending a significant amount
of time in combat environments, exposing thousands of soldiers to traumatic,
life threatening events; and
Whereas,
In fiscal year 2012, The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs reported that more
than 500,000 veterans from all wars who sought care at a Department of
Veterans Affairs medical center received treatment for PTSI; and
Whereas,
PTSI significantly increases the risk of depression, suicide, and drug or
alcohol-related disorders and deaths; and
Whereas,
Thousands of Michigan corrections professionals who perform a critical and
dangerous job protecting the public suffer health detriments due to high stress
and potentially traumatic occupational experiences. Recent studies have shown
that nearly 33.7 percent of surveyed corrections officers are estimated to be
PTSI positive in this state; and
Whereas,
The U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs have
made significant advances in the prevention, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
of PTSI. However, many challenges remain; and
Whereas,
The establishment of a Post-Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI) Awareness Day in
Michigan will raise public awareness about issues related to PTSI; now,
therefore, be it
Resolved
by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body commemorate June 27,
2020, as Post-Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI) Awareness Day; and be it further
Resolved,
That we urge the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency and the Adjutant General to
continue working to educate service members, veterans, the families of service
members and veterans, and the public about the causes, symptoms, and treatment
of PTSI; and be it further
Resolved,
That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the state of
Michigan.
Senator MacGregor moved that the rule be
suspended.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members
serving voting therefor.
The resolution was adopted.
Senators Brinks and Chang were named
co-sponsors of the resolution.
Senators
Barrett asked and was granted unanimous consent to make a statement and moved
that the statement be printed in the Journal.
The motion
prevailed.
Senator
Barrett’s statement is a follows:
Today we are pausing to recognize the
struggles facing those who are afflicted by post-traumatic stress. Like all of
you, I’ve witnessed the challenges our men and women face when dealing with the
haunting effects of psychological trauma. For decades, these traumas were
unrecognized or not adequately treated. I know of veterans who were pumped
full of drugs that numbed them to having no feelings at all, only to suffer
withdrawal effects when they were taken off of medication. As a result, some
have sought out self‑medicating alternatives like alcohol, drugs, and
other harmful substances that can ultimately lead to self‑harm and,
sadly, suicide.
We have to do better. We have to eliminate the
stigma with seeking help. We have to embrace all of our veterans, particularly
those in our Vietnam generation who were mistreated so severely after they
served honorably and returned home. We actually have a higher veteran suicide
rate amongst our Vietnam generation than our post-9/11 generation of service.
When I returned home from serving in Operation Enduring Freedom, we were
welcomed home with open arms into our community. Our Vietnam veterans made sure that we were not treated the way they
were. I want to say from my generation to yours: Thank you for having
our back. Let this resolution stand as a reminder of the healing that is still
left undone. I appreciate the Senate adopting this resolution today. Our
veterans, police officers, corrections officers, and all others who have faced
a post-traumatic stress injury also thank you for your action today.
Colleagues, joining me in the north Gallery is
Kent Hall, the associate director of Honor For All. Kent has been a tireless
advocate for those struggling with post-traumatic stress. He has fearlessly
shared his story of the struggles he has faced and provided inspiration and
leadership to others like him. Thank you for being here today, Kent, and thank
you for taking up this resolution.
Senate
Concurrent Resolution No. 30
The motion prevailed.
Senate
Concurrent Resolution No. 30.
A
concurrent resolution to urge the United States Department of Education to
grant waivers for Michigan state assessment requirements under the Every
Student Succeeds Act.
Whereas, State and federal laws
require schools to assess student learning every year in specific grade levels
and subjects. Under the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), states must
administer annual statewide assessments. If states do not meet certain
requirements, the U.S. Department of Education may withhold federal funding;
and
Whereas, Michigan meets this
federal requirement in part by requiring schools to administer standardized
tests. The Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress (M-STEP) is given to
students online in grades 3‑7 to measure their knowledge of state
standards in English language arts (ELA) and mathematics. The Michigan
Department of Education also administers the PSAT 8/9 which replaced the M-STEP
ELA and mathematics assessment for grade 8. The M-STEP and the PSAT 8/9 aim to
provide valuable information to parents and teachers on student academic
performance that help schools and districts evaluate curriculum and programming
effectiveness; and
Whereas, While the PSAT 8/9 is
paper-based and the M-STEP is administered online, students normally take both
assessments under the supervision of an administrator who can ensure test
security. Maintaining uniform procedures for test administration helps ensure
that results are accurate and meaningful and that no student has an unfair
advantage in their assessment performance; and
Whereas, In light of the
uncertainty of in-person school attendance for the upcoming school year due to
the COVID-19 Pandemic, it will be difficult to prepare uniform procedures for
administration of state assessments. This may result in decreased test security
and overall confusion regarding the process, which may detract from the
reliability of the assessment results; and
Whereas, The U.S. Department of
Education announced that they will grant a waiver to any state that is unable
to assess its students due to the ongoing national emergency brought on by the
COVID-19 Pandemic for the current 2019-2020 school year. The decision was made
in order to allow students to focus on learning and staying healthy while
allowing teachers time to adapt to remote learning; and
Whereas, School districts will
continue to face enormous burdens and challenges as they scramble to prepare
for education under new and uncertain circumstances in the upcoming school
year. It is essential that we allow them flexibility to ease some of those
burdens. While state assessments provide valuable information, we should allow
schools to focus their limited resources and energy on other initiatives; now,
therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate (the House
of Representatives concurring), That we urge the United States Department of
Education to grant waivers for Michigan state assessment requirements under the
Every Student Succeeds Act for the 2020-2021 school year; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this
resolution be transmitted to the United States Secretary of Education.
Senator MacGregor moved that the rule be
suspended.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the
members serving voting therefor.
The question being on the adoption of the
concurrent resolution,
Senator MacGregor moved that the concurrent
resolution be referred to the Committee on Education and Career Readiness.
The motion prevailed
Senator MacGregor moved that the Senate
proceed to consideration of the following resolution:
Senate
Resolution No. 132
The motion prevailed.
Senator MacDonald offered the following
resolution:
Senate
Resolution No. 132.
A
resolution to condemn Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s inaction in addressing issues
at the Unemployment Insurance Agency with residents filing for and receiving
unemployment benefits.
Whereas, The COVID-19 Pandemic has disrupted life for all
Michigan residents. Since the virus reached the state in early March, tens of
thousands of Michigan residents have been infected, and more than 6,000 have
lost their lives. Governor Whitmer has taken dramatic action to mitigate the
virus’ spread, including closing schools and all nonessential businesses and
ordering residents to stay home whenever possible; and
Whereas,
Actions to address the COVID-19 Pandemic have led to a historic surge in
unemployment claims. More than 2 million people were forced to file for
benefits since the crisis began, bringing the state’s unemployment rate to 24
percent in April. Over this period, more than $11.4 billion in unemployment
benefits have been paid out; and
Whereas,
The Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) has failed to process claims in a
timely manner, denying Michigan residents desperately needed income to pay
bills and feed their families. More than 200,000 Michigan residents who have
filed for benefits have not received a payment or have had their payments
halted entirely; and
Whereas,
The UIA has been unresponsive to the people they serve. Far too many people
have been unable to address potential issues with their claims due to inaction
or abysmal service by the UIA. Some residents have gone months without a
response and have called and messaged the agency more than 1,000 times without
being able to speak with a staff member; and
Whereas,
The UIA has mismanaged potential fraud within the system, suspending benefits
to deserving residents without forewarning or any regard for the impact on
their lives. The UIA halted payments to 540,000 unemployment benefit accounts,
without proper investigation, due to suspected fraud. More than half of these
accounts have been cleared, an astounding error rate in identifying fraudulent
activity. About 240,000 potentially innocent people are still waiting to see if
their benefits will be approved or reinstated; and
Whereas,
Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the UIA have failed to implement any meaningful
changes to improve the situation. In any properly managed organization, a
failure of this magnitude would have led to significant and timely changes in
process, personnel, or both. Yet, the Governor has ignored legislators’ calls
for leadership changes at UIA, and her efforts to address the situation have
been wholly inadequate; and
Whereas,
Governor Whitmer failed to address known issues at the UIA when she had the
opportunity. Even before the coronavirus pandemic and the surge in claims,
there was abundant evidence of problems at UIA. The Auditor General found that,
across 2018 and 2019, about 28 percent of callers hung up before they were able
to speak with UIA staff. While action was taken to address this problem, it is
clear that issues persist; and
Whereas,
Governor Whitmer has demonstrated a lack of preparedness, a lack of
responsiveness, and ultimately, a lack of leadership in addressing issues at
the UIA. While quick to unilaterally declare and extend orders that have
impacted the lives of every Michigander and their ability to earn a living, she
has been unacceptably slow in ensuring the proper systems were in place to
mitigate the adverse impacts of her actions. Governor Whitmer’s ineffective
leadership and poor decision-making have exacerbated the issues Michigan
residents are facing during this deeply uncertain and difficult period. She has
failed to meet the trust placed in her by the people of Michigan; now,
therefore, be it
Resolved
by the Senate, That we condemn Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s inaction in
addressing issues at the Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) with residents
filing for and receiving unemployment benefits; and be it further
Resolved,
That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor, the Director of
the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, and the Director of
the Unemployment Insurance Agency.
Senator MacGregor moved that the rule be
suspended.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the
members serving voting therefor.
The question being on the adoption of the
resolution,
Recess
Senator MacGregor moved that the Senate recess
subject to the call of the Chair.
The motion prevailed, the time being 12:14
p.m.
The Senate was called to order by the
President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist.
The question being on the adoption of the
resolution,
Senator MacDonald offered the following
substitute (S-1):
A
resolution to condemn Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s inaction in addressing issues
at the Unemployment Insurance Agency with residents filing for and receiving
unemployment benefits and to urge the Governor to promptly sign Enrolled Senate
Bill No. 690 of 2020.
Whereas, The COVID-19 Pandemic
has disrupted life for all Michigan residents. Since the virus reached the
state in early March, tens of thousands of Michigan residents have been
infected, and nearly 6,000 have lost their lives. Governor Whitmer has taken
dramatic action to mitigate the virus’ spread, including closing schools and
all nonessential businesses and ordering residents to stay home whenever
possible; and
Whereas, Actions to address the
COVID-19 Pandemic have led to a historic surge in unemployment claims. More
than 2 million people were forced to file for benefits since the crisis began,
bringing the state’s unemployment rate to 24 percent in April. Over this
period, more than $11.4 billion in unemployment benefits have been paid out;
and
Whereas, The Unemployment
Insurance Agency (UIA) has failed to process claims in a timely manner, denying
Michigan residents desperately needed income to pay bills and feed their
families. More than 200,000 Michigan residents who have filed for benefits have
not received a payment or have had their payments halted entirely; and
Whereas, The UIA has been
unresponsive to the people they serve. Far too many people have been unable to
address potential issues with their claims due to inaction or abysmal service
by the UIA. Some residents have gone months without a response and have called
and messaged the agency more than 1,000 times without being able to speak with
a staff member; and
Whereas, The UIA has mismanaged
potential fraud within the system, suspending benefits to deserving residents
without forewarning or any regard for the impact on their lives. The UIA halted
payments to 540,000 unemployment benefit accounts, without proper
investigation, due to suspected fraud. More than half of these accounts have
been cleared, an astounding error rate in identifying fraudulent activity.
About 240,000 potentially innocent people are still waiting to see if their
benefits will be approved or reinstated; and
Whereas, Governor Gretchen Whitmer
and the UIA have failed to implement any meaningful changes to improve the
situation. In any properly managed organization, a failure of this magnitude
would have led to significant and timely changes in process, personnel, or
both. Yet, the Governor has ignored legislators’ calls for leadership changes
at UIA, and her efforts to address the situation have been wholly inadequate;
and
Whereas, Governor Whitmer failed
to address known issues at the UIA when she had the opportunity. Even before
the coronavirus pandemic and the surge in claims, there was abundant evidence
of problems at UIA. The Auditor General found that, across 2018 and 2019, about
28 percent of callers hung up before they were able to speak with UIA staff.
While action was taken to address this problem, it is clear that issues
persist; and
Whereas, Governor Whitmer has
demonstrated a lack of preparedness, a lack of responsiveness, and ultimately,
a lack of leadership in addressing issues at the UIA. While quick to
unilaterally declare and extend orders that have impacted the lives of every
Michigander and their ability to earn a living, she has been unacceptably slow
in ensuring the proper systems were in place to mitigate the adverse impacts of
her actions. Governor Whitmer’s ineffective leadership and poor decision-making
have exacerbated the issues Michigan residents are facing during this deeply
uncertain and difficult period. She has failed to meet the trust placed in her
by the people of Michigan; and
Whereas, Promptly signing Enrolled
Senate Bill No. 690 of 2020 will be a critical step in addressing the issues
Governor Whitmer has allowed to fester at the UIA. The bill provides funding
for an additional 500 temporary employees at the agency. This supplemental
workforce would greatly enhance the agency’s ability to efficiently process
claims; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, That we
condemn Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s inaction in addressing issues at the
Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) with residents filing for and receiving
unemployment benefits; and be it further
Resolved, That we urge Governor
Whitmer to promptly sign Enrolled Senate Bill No. 690 of 2020 and provide
critical resources to address the backlog at the UIA; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution
be transmitted to the Governor, the Director of the Michigan Department of
Labor and Economic Opportunity, and the Director of the Unemployment Insurance
Agency.
The question being on the adoption of the
substitute,
Senator MacGregor requested the yeas and nays.
The yeas and nays were ordered, 1/5 of the members present voting
therefor.
The substitute (S-1) was adopted, a majority
of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 254 Yeas—22
Barrett LaSata Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon Lauwers Outman Theis
Bumstead Lucido Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn MacGregor Shirkey Zorn
Johnson McBroom
Nays—14
Alexander Chang McCann Polehanki
Ananich Geiss McMorrow Santana
Bayer Hollier Moss Wojno
Brinks Irwin
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—1
Hertel
In The Chair: President
Senator Ananich offered the following
substitute (S-2):
A
resolution to denounce the decision of the President of the United States to
slow COVID-19 testing.
Whereas,
On June 20, 2020, during his campaign rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma, President
Donald Trump told his supporters that he had directed his people to “slow the
[COVID-19] testing down, please.” He described testing as a “double-edged
sword,” and said, “When you do testing to that extent, you’re going to find
more people, you’re going to find more cases.”; and
Whereas,
COVID-19 continues to be a substantial threat to public health in Michigan and
across the nation. Testing reveals that new cases have been increasing in
nearly half of states throughout the month of June. On June 20, 2020, eight
states reported their highest ever numbers of new COVID-19 case counts; and
Whereas,
Slowing down the rate of testing would leave public health officials in the
dark about what steps need to be taken to protect residents. The state of
Michigan, like most other states, considers the numbers and trends of new cases
and the percent of positive tests as key indicators of how well the state is
tracking and containing the spread of COVID-19; and
Whereas,
Slowing down the rate of testing would also leave the American public in the
dark about the level of risk from COVID-19. Testing provides vital information
about the prevalence of COVID-19 in a community, allowing individuals to make
informed personal decisions to protect themselves. It increases compliance with
voluntary and mandatory measures to slow the spread of COVID-19 that benefit
everyone; and
Whereas,
Decreasing access to COVID-19 testing puts Americans at risk and could create
shortages of testing supplies for states. Testing allows states to direct
resources to areas that need them most to contain COVID-19 cases before the
rate of disease spread becomes unmanageable. It is a critical tool that saves
lives and helps protect all citizens but particularly our most vulnerable
citizens living in nursing homes and other high-risk environments who have
limited freedom to protect themselves; and
Whereas,
President Trump’s statements and actions are reckless and dangerous. COVID-19
remains a substantial threat to the health of the American public with tens of
thousands of new cases still being reported in the U.S. each day. COVID-19 will
not go away simply because we choose to look the other way or actively attempt,
like some other countries, to prevent our citizens from knowing the truth about
the extent of its impact; now, therefore, be it
Resolved
by the Senate, That we denounce the decision of the President of the United
States to slow COVID-19 testing; and be it further
Resolved,
That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United
States.
The question being on the adoption of the
substitute,
Senator Chang requested the yeas and nays.
The yeas and
nays were ordered, 1/5 of the members present voting therefor.
Roll Call No. 255 Yeas—15
Alexander Chang Irwin Polehanki
Ananich Geiss McCann Santana
Bayer Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Brinks Hollier Moss
Nays—22
Barrett LaSata Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon Lauwers Outman Theis
Bumstead Lucido Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn MacGregor Shirkey Zorn
Johnson McBroom
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: President
Senator Hertel offered the following
substitute (S-3):
A
resolution to memorialize the President and Congress of the United States to
enact legislation extending the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation
(FPUC) program.
Whereas,
The COVID-19 Pandemic has disrupted life for all Michigan residents. In
Michigan alone, tens of thousands of Michigan residents have been infected, and
nearly 6,000 have lost their lives. Recent trends indicate that the Pandemic
will not subside in the near future, as more than 20 states are seeing an
increase in daily new cases; and
Whereas,
In order to supplement state unemployment benefits, Congress created the
Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) program. The FPUC program was
created as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES)
Act and provides an additional $600 per week to those receiving unemployment
benefits; and
Whereas,
Letting the FPUC program expire would be devastating for Americans who are
already suffering. Under the CARES Act, the FPUC program is set to expire at
the end of July. Taking these critical resources from families and individuals
will force them to make difficult decisions about which expenses to pay and
which essentials they will have to live without; and
Whereas,
Allowing FPUC to expire will hurt the economy’s recovery. Limiting the money
that Americans have during this economic crisis will drastically reduce
spending, hurting businesses and the entire economy; now, therefore, be it
Resolved
by the Senate, That we memorialize the President and Congress of the United
States to enact legislation extending the Federal Pandemic Unemployment
Compensation (FPUC) program; and be it further
Resolved,
That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United
States, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, the
President of the United States Senate, and the members of the Michigan
congressional delegation.
The question being on the adoption of the
substitute,
Senator Chang requested the yeas and nays.
The yeas and
nays were ordered, 1/5 of the members present voting therefor.
Roll Call No. 256 Yeas—15
Alexander Chang Irwin Polehanki
Ananich Geiss McCann Santana
Bayer Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Brinks Hollier Moss
Nays—22
Barrett LaSata Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon Lauwers Outman Theis
Bumstead Lucido Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn MacGregor Shirkey Zorn
Johnson McBroom
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: President
The question being on the adoption of the
resolution,
Senator MacGregor requested the yeas and nays.
The yeas and
nays were ordered, 1/5 of the members present voting therefor.
The resolution as substituted (S-1) was adopted, a majority of the
members therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No.
257 Yeas—22
Barrett LaSata Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon Lauwers Outman Theis
Bumstead Lucido Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn MacGregor Shirkey Zorn
Johnson McBroom
Nays—15
Alexander Chang Irwin Polehanki
Ananich Geiss McCann Santana
Bayer Hertel McMorrow Wojno
Brinks Hollier Moss
Excused—1
Bullock
Not
Voting—0
In The Chair: President
The motion prevailed.
Senator MacDonald’s statement is as follows:
The COVID-19 pandemic had unprecedented impact
on our state and our people. Since early March, over 62,000 residents have been infected and more than 5,800 people have lost
their lives. On top of that, millions of Michigan workers have lost
their jobs and our unemployment rate skyrocketed to 24 percent in April, the
second-highest rate in the country and the worst since the Great Depression.
This crisis was made even worse when the state’s
Unemployment Insurance Agency utterly and completely failed to quickly process
claims and provide people out of work with the necessary assistance to pay the
bills and feed their families. Under the Governor’s leadership, the UIA has
been unresponsive to the people they serve
and has mis-managed the potential fraud in the system, halting payments to over
half-a-million residents without warning or any regard to the impact of
people’s lives. Months after the pandemic hit Michigan, far too many people
have yet to receive any assistance or, hell, even a phone call. Governor
Whitmer has demonstrated a lack of preparedness, responsiveness, and leadership
in addressing issues at the UIA. This situation is unacceptable and is
absolutely preventable.
There was a failure of the Governor to understand
the gravity of the problem and take quick and decisive action to fix it which
is what leaders do. Michigan workers deserve better and I encourage you to
support this resolution regarding the Governor’s inaction in addressing issues
at the UIA and urging her to sign Senate Bill No. 690 to immediately hire 500
temporary employees at the agency to help unemployed workers and their
families.
Senator Ananich’s statement is as follows:
The resolution—I have the resolution to
denounce the decision of the President of the United States to slow COVID-19
testing. On June 20, 2020, during the President’s campaign rally in Tulsa,
President Donald Trump told his supporters that he had directed his people to “slow
the COVID-19 testing down, please.” Let me say that again, the President of the
United States directed his people to slow the COVID-19 testing down, please.
Subsequently he was asked—because the White House said he was kidding—and he
said, I don’t kid. I added a little Donnie Brasco for effect. Colleagues, when
the President of the United States says he wants to slow down testing in a
global pandemic, he is ultimately saying that he would rather people get sick
and die than understand and admit to the severity of the problem. The President
is choosing to cower in ignorance instead of bravely facing the painful reality
of 124,000 people dead. Slowing down testing puts lives at risk. This is not
leadership and we must say so. True leaders don’t turn a blind eye to the
problems facing and killing their constituents. I ask for your support of this
substitute.
Senator Hertel’s first statement is as
follows:
Colleagues, as you know the Federal Pandemic
Unemployment Compensation program is set to end soon. As many of you also
know—or at least should—Michigan unemployment is woefully inadequate to
actually help people dealing with the crisis we’re in. I know that many of you
should be aware of it since many of you actually voted for the cuts to the
unemployment system that people would experience without this actual federal
benefit. It is incredibly important to those who are unemployed here in
Michigan that the federal employment benefit continues. I would ask all of you
to support this resolution and go on record saying that you support expansion
and continuation of the federal unemployment benefit.
Senator Hertel’s second statement is as
follows:
Colleagues, there’s an old saying that says
those in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones. I think that this is a perfect
time to remind you of that saying. I want to remind you that in 2011, Governor
Snyder signed a bill voted on by many of you to make unemployment more
difficult and to limit the ability for people to get it and to limit the number
of weeks people were eligible. Many of the holes that you are seeing people now
fall into are a direct result of that 2011 law. There have been bills
introduced by this side of the aisle in order to solve those problems. Not one
has gotten a hearing or has been taken up in this process.
Leaders lead. I think that was said by a
previous speaker. Leaders actually do things to accomplish their goals. They
don’t sit on the floor of this body and have resolutions to denounce people.
They actually roll up their sleeves, figure out problems, and work together. So
just a little bit of irony there. In 2014—in October—we had a massive problem
accusing many Michiganders of fraud with the unemployment system. Very little
was done in order to solve that, and in fact many of the recommendations that
were made by experts in the field have still not been taken up. Again, many of
the traps that people are falling in under the current process are the same
traps they fell in before, and, again, you refused and did nothing in order to
solve it.
Last week, we had an amendment that failed
upon partisan lines to spend $50 million on opening more local branches in
order to help people and get them unemployment benefits, allow them
face-to-face meetings. Again, as stated before, leaders lead, leaders do
things, this is not that.
Colleagues, my office had a town hall on
unemployment. I understand the vast problems that are out there. We had
hundreds of people call our office the next day. The system is not perfect and
needs solutions. But I can tell you that there are several of you whom we
respectfully referred cases to who called my office and got zero calls in
return. My office decided to actually help those people and solve those
problems. Now, I’m not going to list your names out today because I’m not going
to throw stones in a glass house. But again, leaders lead. They don’t denounce
with resolutions that do nothing, they actually work to accomplish things.
There are lots of things that we could do to
solve these problems together. There are important bills that we could solve,
there’s money we could put toward a solution, we certainly could do a better
job with our own constituents. But I would humbly suggest—humbly—that you
remove the plank from your own eye before you remove the speck from someone
else’s. I would suggest that we roll up our sleeves, put down partisan
bickering, put down resolutions that do absolutely nothing, and decide to lead,
decide to solve problems together. And until then, this nonsense of trying to
make this a political issue is going to solve nothing for no one.
Senator McBroom’s statement is as follows:
I’m aware of another old saying: beware of the
pot calling the kettle black. I don’t necessarily say that some of the
criticisms of the previous speaker are unfair or undue or that I disagree with
some of the analysis of the worthiness or the value of the policy here or the
actions, but I’d just like to take a moment to try and set a little bit of the
record straight that my committee, the Senate Oversight Committee, did a
hearing on the Unemployment Insurance Agency sometime last year after a long
audit on it, and we were assured multiple times that those problems that the
previous speaker referenced from the previous administrations said ‘were doing
great. Things are really moving along. Those problems are fixed. We are ready.
We can handle another problem if there is unemployment uptick.’ All those
issues were addressed in my committee and answered in the affirmative by the
agency and yet that’s not borne out now by what’s going on. And I recognize
that this particular crisis is quite unprecedented. I don’t care to get up here
and throw a bunch of stones at UIA because I recognize that it’s a really big
problem and it’s enormous and all of our offices have been trying to help with
it.
I think what’s become particularly frustrating
though after months and months of helping thousands of people is that the
support from the administration to do some sort of significant overhaul remains
lost in translation somewhere. And we were down to about a 10-day backlog and
now we’re back to a four-week backlog and we get a press release that says, ‘Hey,
everything is going to be great by July 4th. We are going to have cleared the
backlog for April.’ It’s just not acceptable. It’s outrageous. And so, debate
whether you think the resolution is necessary or not—whether you think it’s
going to accomplish anything or not—but we here in the Senate and in the House
continue to be relegated to subservient roles of just trying to clean up the
mess without getting a chance to offer much change to the way it’s being done
or suggestions for how to fix it or recognition that we made efforts to fix it
in the past that supposedly were greatly received, at least that’s what we’re
told. Everything’s hunky dory. So for whatever it’s worth, I just felt it was
necessary to set some of the record straight and beware of the pot calling the
kettle black.
Senator Hollier’s statement is as follows:
Colleagues, UIA is an administrative
department. They only administer the laws that we make. If we don’t like what
they’re doing, we should change the laws and I think that’s what we should be
doing. This resolution talks about what the Governor has not done. I’d like to
talk about what she has done. She has protected individuals who are in fear of
being exposed to COVID-19 and that’s why they haven’t gone back to work. It
ensures that they are still able to collect unemployment. She’s made sure that
we expanded the work share program, which has prevented layoffs and made sure
that a number of small businesses and state employees are able to both continue
to do their job and avoid layoffs. All of those were done via the same
executive order. She made protections against misclassification for employers,
protected people who were not actively looking for work for fear of coronavirus
and the staggering unemployment rate. She has also eased non-monetary issues
which are holding up a majority of individuals.
So, as we talk about what has and has not been
done and what is and is not working in UIA, this is an opportunity for us to
fix it. So much of the time we say the Governor is not listening or people are
saying that this isn’t happening or that isn’t happening. This is something
that the Legislature has 100 percent of the ability to fix. We can fix it. Now
is the time. And so I’d ask my colleagues that we work on those kind of things.
This executive order, for example, is full of a variety of things that the
Legislature could take action on in much the same way it’s done on a host of
other executive orders. I ask us that we do that and make sure that we
recognize that we’ve got constituents who are not being served yet. And the
best thing that we can do is to make sure that they type of issues that have
been affecting them go away.
Senator Horn’s statement is as follows:
I’m joining my colleagues today in a
bipartisan call for local Unemployment Insurance Agency offices to be opened
immediately. At this point the people are demanding it. They sometimes drive
hours to get the help that countless phone calls, emails, and unattended chat
rooms are not providing to them. Instead of finding help, Michiganders are
stuck with their noses pressed up against the glass, staring into empty
cubicles that could safely house our qualified agents.
Governor Whitmer, you put the people in this
position when you chose to manage this COVID crisis all by yourself.
Single-handedly you brought an end to all normal human activity in the state of
Michigan. Early on many of us stood with you because we did not understand the
scope of the pandemic. With your executive orders, over a million paychecks
came to a screeching halt. Without help, there would be no way for Michiganders
to put bread on the table. You changed the unemployment insurance claim rules
to include those affected most by the stay-at-home orders. I applauded these
changes. In fact, wrote a bill to codify the rules that worked the best. You
took away peoples’ livelihoods and you promised you’d take care of them through
this crisis. Then you broke that promise to over half-a-million people who were
out of work. I’m not so certain that the word scandalous is too strong for this
debacle.
The department points a finger of blame at
your predecessor, but it hadn’t repaired the problems after several demands to
do so. The Legislature just passed a bill that would allow you to hire 500 more
agents to get us through this mess and it’s my hope to at least work with the
Legislature on this one. The Department of Treasury has a clean record of every
person who pays income tax in the state of Michigan. How in the world is it
that the UIA, a department that you manage as Governor of the state of
Michigan, can’t verify an individual who is employed and pays taxes in the
state of Michigan.
The people of Michigan deserve much better.
They deserve answers. They’re afraid for their families because they are being
ignored by the very government that put them into this untenable position. I
have four staff members in my office alone working overtime to find answers for
constituents. The best we can do is offer these frustrated and frightened
residents a position in the UIA queue line—a line that nobody seems to have a
handle on. No more waiting for a phone call. No more waiting for an email.
Governor Whitmer, you have it within your power to safely open UIA
branches. Look people in the eye and give them the help they need. While the
Legislature stands ready to help, you chose this crisis path alone. On behalf
of all the families who are hurting: fix this unemployment system now.
Senate
Concurrent Resolution No. 29
The motion prevailed.
Senators Nesbitt, LaSata, Bumstead and Bizon
offered the following concurrent resolution:
Senate
Concurrent Resolution No. 29.
A
concurrent resolution to request that the Auditor General conduct a financial
and performance audit of the Unemployment Insurance Agency within the next 6
months and provide recommendations to address any organizational deficiencies.
Whereas, Policies implemented to
mitigate the COVID-19 Pandemic have resulted in substantial hardships for
Michigan workers across the state. In order to limit the virus’ spread,
Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued executive orders closing all nonessential
businesses and requiring residents to stay home except for essential
activities. While necessary to protect public health, these measures left
millions of Michigan residents out of work; and
Whereas, With so many Michigan
residents out of work, there has been unprecedented strain on the unemployment
system. Since Michigan’s first COVID-19 cases were confirmed on March 10, more
than 2.2 million residents have filed for unemployment benefits. Over this
period the state has paid out in total more than $11.4 billion in benefits to
more than 2 million claimants; and
Whereas, The Unemployment
Insurance Agency (UIA) has struggled to adapt to the immense surge in claims.
Tens of thousands of residents have been unable to contact UIA staff, including
some who have called the agency hundreds of times without getting through.
Approximately 540,000 accounts have not received payment or had their benefits
suspended for suspected fraud. While about 300,000 of these accounts have been
cleared and have resumed benefits, 240,000 potentially innocent claimants are
still waiting for the agency to clear their accounts; and
Whereas, An audit of the UIA will
help the Legislature to understand potential issues at the agency and improve
its performance in the future. In the aftermath of an unprecedented surge in
claims and thousands of potentially fraudulent claims, it is critical to assess
the agency’s performance and identify any organizational deficiencies where
changes are necessary; and
Whereas, Auditing the UIA’s use
of federal and state funds is important to ensure that the agency properly
administered taxpayer dollars during the crisis. With $11.4 billion and
counting in benefits being paid out, it is critical to confirm that taxpayer
funds are used responsibly and to understand what changes may be necessary to
prevent future waste; and
Whereas, An audit of the UIA’s
staffing levels and ability to process claims during an emergency is critical
in understanding the issues the agency faced during this crisis and preparing
for future emergencies. It is important to determine any necessary changes that
will ensure future emergencies do not overwhelm the UIA’s ability to process
claims; and
Whereas, Auditing the UIA’s
cybersecurity protections is important to protect the agency from fraudulent
claims. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, hackers have taken advantage of states’
unemployment systems to file fraudulent claims and collect hundreds of millions
of dollars in benefits. Assessing the adequacy of the agency’s current cybersecurity
protections will identify potential necessary improvements to protect the state
from future attacks by hackers; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate (the House
of Representatives concurring), That we request that the Auditor General conduct
a financial and performance audit of the Unemployment Insurance Agency within
the next 6 months and provide recommendations to address any organizational
deficiencies; and be it further
Resolved, That this audit should
examine the UIA’s use of federal and state funding, staffing levels,
cybersecurity policies, and response time and ability to process claims during
emergencies, along with any other information the Auditor General feels should
be included; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution
be transmitted to the Auditor General.
Senator MacGregor moved that the rule be
suspended.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the
members serving voting therefor.
The concurrent resolution was adopted.
House
Concurrent Resolution No. 24
The motion prevailed.
House Concurrent Resolution No. 24.
A concurrent resolution to demand that the
Governor compile and make publicly available certain data, to encourage medical
professionals to provide elective medical procedures, and to encourage the
people of Michigan to continue to practice safe social distancing.
(This concurrent resolution was received from
the House on June 23, rules suspended and consideration postponed. See Senate
Journal No. 56, p. 1047.)
The question being on the adoption of the
concurrent resolution,
The concurrent resolution was adopted.
Senator MacGregor moved that the Senate
proceed to consideration of the following resolution:
Senate
Resolution No. 117
The motion prevailed.
Senator Shirkey offered the following
resolution:
Senate
Resolution No. 117.
A
resolution to grant the Senate Standing Committee on Oversight the power to
subpoena state records and files.
Whereas,
Full access to accurate information is essential for sound decision making by
any public or private body; and
Whereas,
Standing committees of the Senate, including the Senate Standing Committee on
Oversight, may be granted the power to subpoena state records and files.
Section 1 of 1952 PA 46, MCL 4.541, provides, in part, that:
...any standing or select committee of the
senate or the house of representatives, and any joint select committee of the
senate and house of representatives, shall be authorized to subpoena and have
produced before any such committee, or inspect the records and files of any
state department, board, institution or agency; and it shall be the duty of any
state department, board, institution or agency to produce before the committee
as required by the subpoena, or permit the members of any such committee to
inspect its records and files.
; and
Whereas,
Pursuant to Rule 2.102 of the Standing Rules of the Senate, the authority for a
committee to issue subpoenas shall be granted by resolution; now, therefore, be
it
Resolved
by the Senate, That, pursuant to MCL 4.541 and Rule 2.102 of the Standing Rules
of the Senate, we hereby grant the Senate Standing Committee on Oversight the
power to subpoena state records and files.
Senator MacGregor moved that the rule be
suspended.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the
members serving voting therefor.
The question being on the adoption of the
resolution,
Senator Shirkey offered the following
substitute (S-1):
Whereas,
Full access to accurate information is essential for sound decision making by
any public or private body; and
Whereas,
Standing committees of the Senate, including the Senate Standing Committee on
Oversight, may be granted the power to subpoena state records and files.
Section 1 of 1952 PA 46, MCL 4.541, provides, in part, that:
...any standing or select committee of the
senate or the house of representatives, and any joint select committee of the
senate and house of representatives, shall be authorized to subpoena and have
produced before any such committee, or inspect the records and files of any
state department, board, institution or agency; and it shall be the duty of any
state department, board, institution or agency to produce before the committee
as required by the subpoena, or permit the members of any such committee to
inspect its records and files.
; and
Whereas,
Section 1 of 1931 PA 118, MCL 4.101, provides:
Committees and commissions of or appointed by
the legislature may by resolution of the legislature be authorized to
administer oaths, subpoena witnesses and/or to examine the books and records of
any persons, partnerships or corporations involved in a matter properly before
any of such committees or commissions. Any witness who neglects or refuses to
obey a subpoena of any of such committees or commissions, or who refuses to be
sworn or testify, or who fails on demand to produce any papers, books or
documents touching any matter under investigation, or any witness or attorney
who is guilty of any contempt while in attendance at any hearing before any of
such committees or commissions, may be punished as for contempt of the legislature.
; and
Whereas,
Pursuant to Rule 2.102 of the Standing Rules of the Senate, the authority for a
committee to issue subpoenas shall be granted by resolution; now, therefore, be
it
Resolved
by the Senate, That, pursuant to MCL 4.101, MCL 4.541, and Rule 2.102 of the
Standing Rules of the Senate, we hereby grant the Senate Standing Committee on
Oversight the power to subpoena state records and files and the power to issue
subpoenas and administer oaths to elected officers, appointees, and employees
of state departments, boards, institutions, agencies, or other bodies in the
executive branch.
The resolution as substituted was adopted.
House
Concurrent Resolution No. 28
The motion prevailed.
House Concurrent Resolution No. 28.
A
concurrent resolution prescribing the legislative schedule.
Resolved
by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That when the House
adjourns on Thursday, June 25, 2020, it stands adjourned until Tuesday, July
21, 2020 at 1:30 p.m.; when it adjourns on Tuesday, July 21, 2020, it stands
adjourned until Wednesday, July 22, 2020, at 1:30 p.m.; when it adjourns on
Wednesday, July 22, 2020, it stands adjourned until Thursday, July 23, 2020, at
12:00 noon; when it adjourns on Thursday, July 23, 2020, it stands adjourned
until Wednesday, August 12, 2020, at 1:30 p.m.; and when it adjourns on
Wednesday, August 12, 2020, it stands adjourned until Tuesday, September 1,
2020, at 1:30 p.m.; and be it further
Resolved,
That when the Senate adjourns on Thursday, June 25, 2020, it stands adjourned
until Wednesday, July 22, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.; when it adjourns on Wednesday,
July 22, 2020, it stands adjourned until Thursday, July 23, 2020, at 10:00
a.m.; when it adjourns on Thursday, July 23, 2020, it stands adjourned until
Tuesday, July 28, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.; when it adjourns on Tuesday, July 28,
2020, it stands adjourned until Wednesday, July 29, 2020, at 10:00 a.m.; when
it adjourns on Wednesday, July 29, 2020, it stands adjourned until Wednesday,
August 12, 2020, at 10:00 a.m.; and when it adjourns on Wednesday, August 12,
2020, it stands adjourned until Tuesday, September 1, 2020, at 10:00 a.m.
The House of Representatives has adopted the
concurrent resolution.
Pending the order that, under rule 3.202, the
concurrent resolution be laid over one day,
Senator MacGregor moved that the rule be
suspended.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the
members serving voting therefor.
The concurrent resolution was adopted.
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to
the order of
Statements
The motion prevailed.
Senator Polehanki’s statement is as follows:
I would like to remind this body that equal
rights is not pie. Equal rights for others does not mean fewer rights for you.
Everyone deserves an equal slice of pie. So I’m perplexed as to why this body
refuses to give a group of fellow humans who have been, and still are,
discriminated against a month during which they can celebrate and be officially
recognized in a positive way for simply being who they are. And while I’m all
for naming July as Craft Beer Month, which was just passed minutes ago, I’m
angry that it doesn’t appear that Senator Moss’ resolution naming June as LGBTQ
Pride Month will be put up for a vote today, the last day in June before
recess.
To my friend and colleague, Senator Moss, and
to our LGBTQ friends across Michigan, it rips my heart out that for the sixth
year in a row, the majority party in the Michigan Legislature has deemed things
like craft beer as more worthy of recognition than you.
Senator McMorrow’s statement is as follows:
I’ve been thinking a lot over the past few
weeks about the social contract that binds us all together. We all pay taxes,
we all live in communities, and when one of your neighbor’s houses is on fire
there is the understanding that all of the resources in that moment are going
to go to put that fire out; that you will stand there and call for help for
your neighbor, regardless of who they are. I’ve also been moved by constituents
who have asked me to be louder. And I will be the first to admit, sometimes it
is uncomfortable when you don’t know what to say; when you think to yourself, ‘These
aren’t my issues. I don’t know how to step into this space.’ But people need
us.
Over the past month the Black community has
told us, Our house is on fire. They have told us that racism is a public health
crisis. They have said, Our people are being killed in the streets. Please help
us. But this body has chosen to turn a blind eye and not even stand up and
point out that our friend’s and neighbor’s house is on fire. Equality by its
very definition doesn’t exist until everyone has it. And for people like me—a
straight, married, white woman who grew up in a wonderful middle-class family
and had access to good schools—I started out a step ahead. And that’s not
something to be ashamed of, but it is something to acknowledge and to understand
as we move into the world.
The LGBTQ community has stood up and said, Our
house is on fire. But some in this body are choosing to look the other way.
Their house is on fire and they are asking us first just to see it and to call
for help and to ask that the resources go to put that house out. You may not
know them, but it’s their house and every time you refuse to stand up and call
for help and send the resources, you are saying that it is okay that their
house burns to the ground. And I hope we remember that when our house is on
fire and we need help.
Senator Runestad’s statement is as follows:
My colleagues, I rise today to offer a heartfelt thanks for your support
of Senate Joint Resolution G which passed unanimously in the House last night.
As you know, Senate Joint Resolution G is a constitutional amendment to clarify
that our electronic papers and communications are secured from unreasonable
search and seizure. This resolution adds that electronic communications and
data are also protected as personal property. Placing these words in our State
Constitution ensures that our Fourth Amendment rights are protected.
I have introduced this amendment every term that I have been in office,
and I’ve seen it pass the House overwhelmingly in 2015 and 2017 but never in
both chambers. To see both the Senate and the House now unanimously vote to
place these protections on the ballot fills me with great confidence and
optimism for our state as a whole. It gives me great confidence to know that no
Michigander will have to choose between technology and personal property. It
gives me great joy not just for Michiganders today, but for future generations
to come. And it gives me great encouragement that we can all come together and
make a real difference for our state.
Both Missouri and New Hampshire voted overwhelmingly to support similar
privacy measures at their polls. I strongly feel that we will see similar
results this year. I look forward to November when Michigan will then become a
national leader in protecting our data privacy. We may not be able to predict
what technology will come next, or what advancement is around the corner, but,
thanks to your support, we can guarantee that our privacy rights will be
protected. From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank each and every one of
you for standing up for individual rights, for Michiganders everywhere, and for
our right to privacy.
Senator Irwin’s statement is as follows:
A couple of weeks ago I stood here at this podium and sounded the alarm
for the impending cliff that our citizens who are receiving unemployment were
about to go over.
About that time two weeks in about six weeks at the end of July we are
going to start getting calls from people who had seen their federal
unemployment support evaporate. We should take action here to support those
citizens and to support those families because Michigan has some of the most
limited benefits and duration than an amount of any state in the country. It is
the $600 federal addition that has been critical to keeping food on tables and
keeping mortgages paid and keeping families together.
So I am here again telling you that the alarm has set to say that
reckoning is coming even sooner if the feds do not extent unemployment support
our residences are going to see the checks they received plummet.
Consider for a second, the server who is used to working double shifts
several times a week and now has no customers, their pay might go down from
$962 a week to $362 a week. What is that going to mean to that server? What is
that going to mean to their families? Consider the small business owner, who
was made eligible for this unemployment support because of some changes at the
federal level and is now receiving $760 a month. That person who may not be
getting a lot of calls from their customers right now because of the pandemic
is going to drop down to $160 a week—$160 a week—that is because Michigan has
once again some of the most limited benefits in amount and duration.
But, we can fix this; we can fix this here in this Legislature. I am
going to ask you to do two things to do that. One, I want to ask all of you to
speak to your members of Congress. I have spoken to my member of Congress. I
have been asking them for many weeks to extend the federal unemployment help
until our workers can really go back to work, until that server has customers,
until that small business owner has customers, they need this kind of support.
Please ask your member of Congress to step up and do the right thing.
Secondly, I just want to remind my colleagues here in this Legislature,
that the Legislature speaks through bills and statutes. We can pass resolutions
until we are blue in the face, but what we need to do, is we need to pass laws.
We need to pass statutes and there are bills sitting in this chamber now that
we can take up before our citizens fall off this financial cliff. We can extend
state-level benefits for longer than that bill has been sitting in committee.
We can extend and increase the benefits that the state of Michigan provides to
our workers. We should do that. This Legislature should act on behalf of its
citizens in the way that legislators are supposed to act by passing bills, by
changing the law to increase our unemployment support. Also, please follow up
with your members of Congress because I am looking at our calendar, we are not
expected to meet again. We are all going to go and celebrate a happy 4th of
July without doing this business, without improving our unemployment system. If
we don’t act before our next session day and Congress doesn’t act our citizens
are going to be dramatically hurt.
So please take those two actions from me. Call your member of Congress.
If your member of Congress is not willing to act and not stand up for our
citizens, then let’s come back early July and move bills on unemployment that
will actually fix the problem and support our families and workers who don’t
currently have businesses and don’t currently have work.
Senator Bumstead’s statement is as follows:
Thank you, Mr. President, for the opportunity
to address my colleagues. I want to speak to you today in support of law
enforcement officers throughout our state. First, I’d like to thank all law
enforcement officers for the work you do every day to protect the cities,
villages, townships, and communities that you serve. I’d also like to thank the
Senate Police and House Sergeants for all the years you have spent protecting
legislators, members of the public, staff, our great State Capitol, and most
importantly, protecting the legislative process. I also look around this
chamber I know that each and every one of you was shaken as we watched the
death of George Floyd. I believe the officers responsible should be held
accountable for their actions. There’s absolutely no excuse for what
transpired. The actions of some should not condemn all law enforcement
officers. Unless we have served ourselves, then we really don’t understand the
tough and life-threatening situations they go through each day serving all of
us. Some legislators have even spoken about the fear they felt during the
recent protests here at the Capitol. Now, imagine every day that you walk out
of your house in the morning, that you may have to face angry protestors or
something far worse.
Colleagues, before we criticize law
enforcement officers, I ask that each of you take some time while you’re
serving here in the Senate to visit the Law Enforcement Officers Memorial which
is two blocks west. The memorial celebrates and honors the lives of fallen law
enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. I encourage each of you
to visit that memorial, read each name, take time to reflect, pay tribute to
those who lost their lives in the line of duty, because remember, they take an
oath to serve all of us.
I would like to share the names of two of the
men I knew. First, Ben Carpenter was always known to me as Uncle Ben. Uncle Ben
was a former police chief of the Newaygo Police Department. He was loved by
everyone in our community and he is well-respected by his peers, and was
dedicated to his service, unfortunately on July 23, 1963 he was tragically
killed in a high-speed car chase. I was also blessed to know Michigan State
Trooper Paul Butterfield. During my time in the Michigan House of
Representatives, Trooper Butterfield was senselessly killed while conducting a
routine traffic stop while working his evening shift on road patrol just a few
miles from Senator VanderWall’s home. I believe Senator VanderWall was a county
commissioner at the time. I remember the
heartbreak his family felt and remember former Representative Ray
Franz and I attending court proceedings and the sentencing of the man who
needlessly ended the life of the brave officer.
Colleagues, as elected representatives of the
people sometimes our instincts are to pass legislation with knee-jerk reaction
that means nothing. We tear each other down in the process and in my years of
service to this great state, I often have seen the Legislature be reactionary
instead of taking the time to thoughtfully listen to concerns of our residents.
I believe we all recognize that the law enforcement system we have today is far
from perfect and it deserves change. I truly believe that this is not a
partisan issue and we need to work together to thoughtfully make improvements.
We also need to show each other empathy. We need to honor those who serve in
law enforcement. We need to hold accountable those who do wrong without
condemning all. And we need to grieve with those families who lost their loved
ones in these tragic abuses of power. If we truly want to make the lasting
changes that make a difference for the people of Michigan, then we need to stop
criticizing each other, and start listening, learning, and understanding one
another.
Senator Ananich’s statement is as follows:
I’m rising because I’m disappointed. I’m
disappointed that while the world has changed outside this chamber, inside
these walls a few small-minded people use their silence as a tool of
discrimination. Michigan supports the spirit of Senate Resolution No. 123.
Millions of Americans support the spirit of Senate Resolution No. 123. Go ahead
and stand for discrimination. You stand alone.
Senator Barrett’s statement is
as follows:
I
want to speak for a moment to recognize the celebration of our independence
that we will be commemorating on the Fourth of July. Right now, we’re a country
that is torn apart. We’re divided. All sides are angry. I honestly don’t know
when it will stop. Just this week, in Wisconsin, a mob decapitated and
destroyed the monument at their state capitol of Hans Christian Heg, a man who
led an anti-slavery militia and ultimately gave his life in defense of the
Union during the Civil War. They then turned their attention to viciously beat
Tim Carpenter, perhaps one of the most liberal State Senators in that state and
a man who was actually one of the first openly gay members of the Wisconsin Legislature.
It appears his only fault was observing and documenting this destruction.
When
I heard about this, I thought about Austin Blair, Michigan’s Civil War
Governor, whose statue stands on the front lawn of our Capitol just outside
this window. I read a report that suggested he left office as Governor nearly
destitute because he exhausted all of his wealth in support of the Civil War
effort. He fought against capital punishment and for voting rights for women
and minorities. Will we see the same fate befall his statue? The one that many
of us pass without a second thought as to its significance?
Now
we can all point to injustices that have taken place in our society, but we
should not miss an opportunity to reflect on the premise and the idea and the
foundation of what is America.
America
exists because a bunch of rebels had the crazy thought and stated the
fundamental truth that our rights do not come from the king or from the
government. Our rights come from God. They are intrinsic within us. Our
country, unlike any other in human history, subordinates the government below
the people; and we actually place civilians in charge of our military. And,
yes, at our nation’s founding we did not abolish slavery. But, on July 4th, the
Founders of the greatest nation on Earth tipped the first domino in pursuit of
justice and equal rights for every man and woman. In fact, Abraham Lincoln, in
the Gettysburg Address, stated that our nation was “conceived in liberty” but
then went further to declare that “this nation, under God, shall have a new
birth of freedom.” He didn’t call for a new world order or for the destruction
of historical fixtures. He rightfully recognized that all of the tools needed
to pursue justice were present already in our American Constitution. America
will never be perfect. Government is comprised of men and women, human beings
with shortcomings and flaws. Our Founders never envisioned perfection. Rather,
they called on us to form a more perfect union. Isn’t that our quest in this
chamber with the vigorous debate that we engage in? If we all agreed on
everything, we would not need the Michigan Senate to make decisions on
governing our state.
In
1964, Ronald Reagan gave a speech called A
Time For Choosing about the presidential election in that year. He recalled
a story about some friends who spoke to a Cuban refugee who had escaped Castro’s
regime and were retelling their story. Reagan said that, in the midst of this
story, one of my friends turned to the other and said, “we don’t how lucky we
are.” And the Cuban stopped them and said, “How lucky you are? I had
someplace to escape to.” And, in that sentence, he told us the entire story. If
we lose freedom here, there’s no place to escape to. This is the last stand on
Earth. Colleagues, join me in celebrating our country and for being proud of
our freedoms and our accomplishments. I look forward to working with you when
we come back into session.
Senator Geiss’ statement is as follows:
Among the things that will be going on soon is
that, in about a week, we will be celebrating the 244th birthday of this
country. A birthday that—as our colleague from the 24th Senate District so
eloquently put—that without a rebellion—protest against King George III and his
policies for the colonies—would not have occurred, or at least not in the way
we’ve learned.
Now, as probably the only legislator who grew
up in Massachusetts in this body, I can tell you that having spent my teen, my
young adult, and early adult years living there, not far from where many of the
events of the American Revolution unfolded, I am likely the only person here
who spent summers swimming on Walden Pond, riding their bike along the parts of
the route of Paul Revere’s ride. My parents didn’t live too far from there. Or
playing on the very bridge on Concord, or Concord as you guys say, of the famed
shot heard ‘round the world. I also went to high school in Boston just blocks
away from the Freedom Trail. And as was discussed leading up to Juneteenth, the
Fourth of July is a conflicted date for many African Americans. And again, our
colleague from the 24th District mentioned the fact that on Independence Day,
slavery had yet to be abolished.
Now for someone who is also a second
generation American, the granddaughter of grandparents—who in coming to this
country for the promise of liberty and justice for all that this country
offers, and who is simultaneously patriotic because of that hope and that
promise, even as this country often fails to live up to that promise, that very
promise imbued within the guiding framework and tenets of unalienable rights of
life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—I can say that confliction is real
and this is why.
Two hundred forty-four years ago those rights
were not imbued to all upon these shores, to all on this stolen land. And while
people on and around the Fourth of July have family celebrations, cookouts,
barbecues, maybe even a backyard pyrotechnic show in honor of America’s
birthday, I really want us to all to pause for a moment to reflect on some of
the events that inched us further towards the moral arc of justice and that
inched us further towards living up the promise of America’s tenets. A lot of
things happened in July historically in this country. I hope that you will
think about the fact that within a year of the founding of this country,
Vermont would be the first state to abolish slavery.
It would take many more years for other states
to follow suit and in fact it would be another decade—in 1787—that the
Continental Congress would forbid slavery in the region northwest of the Ohio
River by the Northwest Ordinance. But that was not the end of slavery in this
country, for in July of 1839 the Amistad
mutiny, rebellion, and victory of enslaved people over their captors occurred.
If you get a chance, watch the film over the next few weeks. And in a decade
after that, Harriet Tubman would escape her captors in the South and make 20
trips back to lead over 300 enslaved people north to freedom.
Now this isn’t an exhaustive history of Black
people on this land—far from it. But I also hope that on July 2, just two
days before this country’s 188th birthday, that we all pause and reflect that
it was only 56 years ago that the Civil Rights Act was signed. Fifty-six
years ago. This country has made small measures towards progress—towards living
up to her tenets of the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of
happiness, as well as her promise of liberty and justice for all. But we still
have it within our power—within our grasp—to do better and move even closer to
living up to those tenets and promises. We have before us Senate Concurrent
Resolution No. 27 to declare racism a public health crisis and I’m reminded of
Martha G. Scott’s daily plea: sign my bill. The Michigan Lottery has a
slogan of You’ve got to be in it to win it and Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm
said: “You don’t make progress by sitting on the sidelines…you make progress by
implementing ideas.” I want us all to consider our resolve and dedication to
answer the mandate of doing better.
Senator Stamas’ statement is as
follows:
I just want to take a moment to
take this opportunity to tell my colleague from the 11th District that I do
support many of the aspirations and goals stated in Senate Resolution No. 123
that it offers.
Announcements
of Printing and Enrollment
The Secretary announced that the following
House bills were received in the Senate and filed on Wednesday, June 24:
House Bill Nos. 4437 4459 4460 4475 4866 4990 4991 5178 5267 5314 5334 5407 5575 5589 5602 5672 5795 5824 5825 5832 5837 5859 5861
The Secretary announced that the following
bills and resolutions were printed and filed on Wednesday, June 24, and are
available on the Michigan Legislature website:
Senate Bill Nos. 982 983 984
Senate Resolution Nos. 129 130
House Bill Nos. 5899 5900 5901 5902 5903 5904 5905 5906 5907 5908 5909 5910 5911 5912 5913 5914 5915 5916 5917
The
Committee on Appropriations reported
Senate
Bill No. 153, entitled
A bill to make, supplement, and adjust appropriations for various state
departments and agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2020; and to
provide for the expenditure of the appropriations.
With
the recommendation that the bill pass.
The
committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Jim
Stamas
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Stamas, Bumstead, Barrett, Bizon, LaSata, MacDonald,
MacGregor, Nesbitt, Outman, Runestad, Schmidt and Victory
Nays:
Senators Hertel, Bayer, Hollier, Irwin, McCann and Santana
The
bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Appropriations reported
Senate
Bill No. 748, entitled
A bill to make, supplement, and adjust appropriations for various state
departments and agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2021; and to
provide for the expenditure of the appropriations.
With
the recommendation that the bill pass.
The
committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Jim
Stamas
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Stamas, Bumstead, Barrett, Bizon, LaSata, MacDonald,
MacGregor, Nesbitt, Outman, Runestad, Schmidt and Victory
Nays:
Senators Hertel, Bayer, Hollier, Irwin, McCann and Santana
The
bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Appropriations reported
Senate
Bill No. 751, entitled
A bill to amend 1979 PA 94, entitled “The state school aid act of 1979,”
by amending sections 11 and 17b (MCL 388.1611 and 388.1617b), section 11 as
amended by 2019 PA 162 and section 17b as amended by 2007 PA 137.
With
the recommendation that the bill pass.
The
committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Jim
Stamas
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Stamas, Bumstead, Barrett, Bizon, LaSata, MacDonald,
MacGregor, Nesbitt, Outman, Runestad, Schmidt and Victory
Nays:
Senators Hertel, Bayer, Hollier, Irwin, McCann and Santana
The
bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Finance reported
Senate
Bill No. 58, entitled
A bill to amend 1993 PA 327, entitled “Tobacco products tax act,” by
amending section 7 (MCL 205.427), as amended by 2016 PA 86.
With
the recommendation that the bill pass.
The
committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Jim
Runestad
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas:
Senators Runestad, Nesbitt, Daley, Bumstead and VanderWall
Nays:
Senators Chang and Alexander
The
bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Finance reported
Senate
Bill No. 970, entitled
A bill to amend 1993 PA 327, entitled “Tobacco products tax act,” by
amending sections 2 and 11 (MCL 205.422 and 205.431), section 2 as amended by
2012 PA 188 and section 11 as amended by 2016 PA 86.
With
the recommendation that the bill pass.
The
committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Jim
Runestad
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas:
Senators Runestad, Nesbitt, Daley, Bumstead, VanderWall, Chang and Alexander
Nays:
None
The
bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Finance submitted the following:
Meeting
held on Wednesday, June 24, 2020, at 12:00 noon, Room 403, 4th Floor, Capitol
Building
Present:
Senators Runestad (C), Nesbitt, Daley, Bumstead, VanderWall, Chang and Alexander
The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure reported
Senate
Bill No. 536, entitled
A bill to amend 2001 PA 142, entitled “Michigan memorial highway act,”
(MCL 250.1001 to 250.2083) by adding section 1070a.
With
the recommendation that the bill pass.
The
committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Tom
Barrett
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas:
Senators Barrett, LaSata, McBroom, Victory, Outman, Lauwers, Geiss and Hollier
Nays:
None
The
bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure reported
Senate
Bill No. 892, entitled
A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “Michigan vehicle code,” by
amending the title and sections 35a, 36, 53, 69, 79, 612, and 679a (MCL 257.35a,
257.36, 257.53, 257.69, 257.79, 257.612, and 257.679a), the title as amended by
2016 PA 32, sections 35a and 36 as amended by 2013 PA 231, section 79 as
amended by 1992 PA 134, and section 612 as amended by 2014 PA 386, and by
adding section 40d and chapter VIA.
With
the recommendation that the substitute (S-3) be adopted and that the bill then
pass.
The
committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Tom
Barrett
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas:
Senators Barrett, LaSata, McBroom, Victory, Outman and Lauwers
Nays:
Senator Hollier
The
bill and the substitute recommended by the committee were referred to the
Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure reported
House
Bill No. 4965, 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 promote safe and efficient travel
for motor vehicle drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians, and other legal users of
roads, streets, and highways; 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
11h, 12, 14, and 15 (MCL 247.661h, 247.662, 247.664, and 247.665), section 11h
as amended by 2018 PA 471, sections 12 and 14 as amended by 2015 PA 175, and
section 15 as amended by 1999 PA 50.
With the
recommendation that the bill pass.
The
committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Tom
Barrett
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas:
Senators Barrett, LaSata, McBroom, Victory, Outman, Lauwers, Geiss and Hollier
Nays:
None
The bill
was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure reported
House
Bill No. 4966, 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 promote safe and efficient travel
for motor vehicle drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians, and other legal users of
roads, streets, and highways; 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 section
13 (MCL 247.663), as amended by 2015 PA 175.
With
the recommendation that the bill pass.
The
committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Tom
Barrett
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas:
Senators Barrett, LaSata, McBroom, Victory, Outman, Lauwers, Geiss and Hollier
Nays:
None
The
bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure reported
House
Bill No. 4971, 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 promote safe and efficient travel
for motor vehicle drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians, and other legal users of
roads, streets, and highways; 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 section 9a (MCL 247.659a), as amended by 2018 PA 325.
With
the recommendation that the bill pass.
The
committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Tom
Barrett
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas:
Senators Barrett, LaSata, McBroom, Victory, Outman, Lauwers, Geiss and Hollier
Nays:
None
The
bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure submitted the
following:
Meeting held on Wednesday, June 24, 2020, at 12:00 noon, Senate Hearing
Room, Ground Floor, Boji Tower
Present:
Senators Barrett (C), LaSata, McBroom, Victory, Outman, Lauwers, Geiss and
Hollier
Excused:
Senator Bullock
The Committee on Elections reported
Senate
Bill No. 977, entitled
A bill to amend 1954 PA 116, entitled “Michigan election law,” by
amending section 759 (MCL 168.759), as amended by 2018 PA 603.
With
the recommendation that the bill pass.
The
committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Ruth
A. Johnson
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas:
Senators Johnson, McBroom, Lucido, VanderWall and Wojno
Nays:
None
The
bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Elections reported
Senate
Bill No. 978, entitled
A bill to amend 1927 PA 175, entitled “The code of criminal procedure,”
by amending section 11d (MCL 777.11d), as amended by 2018 PA 661.
With
the recommendation that the bill pass.
The
committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Ruth
A. Johnson
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas:
Senators Johnson, McBroom, Lucido, VanderWall and Wojno
Nays:
None
The
bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Elections submitted the following:
Meeting held on Wednesday, June 24, 2020, at 1:30 p.m., Harry T. Gast
Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building
Present:
Senators Johnson (C), McBroom, Lucido, VanderWall and Wojno
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Natural Resources submitted the following:
Meeting
held on Wednesday, June 24, 2020, at 8:00 a.m., Room 403, 4th Floor, Capitol
Building
Present:
Senators McBroom (C), Bumstead, Outman, Schmidt and McCann
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Joint Select Committee on the COVID-19 Pandemic (HCR 20) submitted
the following:
Meeting held on Thursday, June 24, 2020, at 8:15 a.m., Room 519, House
Office Building
Present: Senators Nesbitt, LaSata, Schmidt, Hertel and Hollier
Elections -
Wednesday, June 29, 2:00 p.m., Harry T. Gast Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor,
Capitol Building (517) 373-5323
Energy and Technology - Wednesday, July 22, 3:00 p.m., Harry T. Gast
Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building (517) 373-1721
State Capitol Commission - Tuesday, June 30, 11:00 a.m., Room 352, House
Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building (517) 373-0184
Senator MacGregor moved that the Senate
adjourn.
The motion prevailed, the time being 1:26 p.m.
Pursuant to House Concurrent Resolution No.
28, the President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist, declared the Senate adjourned
until Wednesday, July 22, 2020, at 10:00 a.m.
MARGARET
O’BRIEN
Secretary
of the Senate