Senator Bullock asked and was granted unanimous consent to make a statement and moved that the statement be printed in the Journal.

Senator Lauwers moved that rule 3.204 be suspended to name the entire membership of the Senate and the Lieutenant Governor as co-sponsors of the resolution.

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

The motion prevailed.

Senator Bullock’s statement is as follows:

Thank you Mr. President, I want to start out with a Black man, white man, Chinese man—only a few of you know what that means. Mr. President, colleagues, citizens of the state of Michigan, especially of the 4th Senate district, let me start by saying thank you, thank you, thank you for entrusting me with the privilege to represent you in this majestic chamber of democracy. I am still uncomfortable with these types of moments and was unsure about coming forward to say words of farewell, however there are people I must thank and unveil my sincere appreciation to—I almost had a MacGregor moment, there is no crying in baseball.

I simply rise today as a neighborhood kid born on the fourth of July, 1967, just 19 days before the Detroit Rebellion. I wonder how those times, that era of racial unrest and social economic disparities imprinted on the world, the city of Detroit around me that conditioned me with the good, the bad, and the ugly in which I saw and heard on a daily basis. The struggle my parents endured; my mother’s vision disability; being visually impaired myself and persevering; my father’s alcoholism; the divorce; the growing up on government assistance; hustling to make a few bucks but yet avoiding the hustles that got my friends killed; the village that covered me with wisdom, protection, and prayer. All while navigating the journey from Hally Region 5 to the infamous address of 17525 Wyoming—Samuel C’s finest—Mumford High School, where some of my values and beliefs were being involuntarily crafted. I, a young Black youth, was tagged an endangered species in the 80’s, wasn’t supposed to emerge from the systemic cycle and nature of conditions in the urban environment laid before me. However, due to a lot of love, a lot of luck, and God’s grace, we can fast forward through trials, tribulations, and accomplishments. Life landed my name on the rolls of the 100th and 101st Michigan Legislature. My name is on a door, a desk in the chamber of the Michigan State Senate. I can only imagine what Brenda Joyce and Marshall Laverne Sr. would say to me. I hope it would be that it was a job well done. I hope it would be that I served the people with dignity and civility, and an honest heart to put the people before myself because leadership matters.

So, I thank my parents, I thank Mr. Gary and my village for laying the foundation that I try to uphold everyday through a selflessness of serving the greater good. The Michigan State Senate is an extraordinary institution, with traditions that can still be improved upon. I am thankful and truly humbled to represent my community at a high level. It has been an honor without question. I feel like I am carrying all the folks I’ve met along the way along my journey with me, and the journey is not complete.

First, I have to thank my family for their sacrifice and contributions. My first born Maya Ellysse, who gave a great inauguration speech, showed her intellect and wit. And the twins Layla Denise and Marshall Laverne III for the knocking of doors, the dragging them around to assist with whatever was called for. Then there is the support and words of encouragement and uplift I had to give my wife, Angela Denise because she was ready to rumble at every turn. She was ready to go on social media and fight, and there was nothing I could do, just keeping her grounded kept me grounded. I thank you for your tireless love and support.

I thank all the unsung heroes behind the scenes. The Senate Business Office and Capitol staff. The Senate officers. The Senate Secretary madam O’Brien for always being gracious and having answers to my questions on procedure and decorum. The Dem policy and communications team, especially Lisa, Dave, and Virginia who made me look like a real Senator on social media constantly. My guys Brandon and Martine on policy.

Look, I know I can’t thank everybody and I will thank folks individually offline, however I must acknowledge a few members across the aisle. My neighbor, Senator Bizon and his team, Dave Biswas and company are always on point. I will miss the Bullock and Bizon lunches. Senator Theis for the early collaborations on insurance. Senator Johnson, I will miss your smile and hugs. Senator McBroom, I’m sorry I didn’t get to dye that cheese Honolulu blue, but there’s still time coming. Senators Victory and Horn, all I have to say is, Aloha. Brother Senator VanderWall for just being genuine. I was going to make a Wizard of Oz reference to ask who Dorothy’s gang really is over there, but I digress. Senator Stamas, my man, we hit it off and you have kept it the realest, but after the rooftop in South Dakota you’ve been my peeps like day one and you can roll with me through the streets of Detroit until the wee hours anytime. My guy, my Traverse City connect, my brother and Cigar Caucus Chair Senator Schmidt, I love you sir and I will still be visiting, as well as you visiting my way.

I already gave MacGregor a shout-out earlier. Then there is Mr. Majority Leader Shirkey, who wanted my opinion on an issue so bad he came to my office to beg me for my assistance that it blossomed into a wonderful friendship. This is about respecting differences and relationships. I think we are a great example of being able to communicate our respective views and not become enemies, and this is the model of how I got several bills passed and signed into law. I hope the 102nd Legislature takes a lesson in the interaction that I share with my friends across the aisle. Whenever I had events in the area, folks would always ask me, How did you get Shirkey out or how’d R’s come? I’d simply say, I got swag and soul food. I go to theirs, you know, respect eh?

To the Lieutenant Governor who stands tall for Michigan, just know I stand with you. I love what you represent. Shaquila, thank you for the institutional wisdom and level voice of reason. To the great Governor of this state, I thank you for your leadership, vision, and having my back personally.

To my staff, I don’t have enough words to express my admiration and appreciation for all you do. Emily, who has gone on to bigger and better things. Randy, who is now in the Peace Corps in the Dominican Republic. KW, my frat brother and friend since Eastern Michigan for being a ride or die from the beginning of this journey, and I’m sure it’ll be to infinity and beyond. And to Bobby Lawrence, the key to it all, Mr. everything, I simply humble myself for your dedication and loyalty to me and my success. There is no nicer, mannerable person I know, and I love the both of you to death.

I thank the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus for entrusting me as their leader and to hold the mantle for the Black communities throughout this great state of Michigan: Benton Harbor, Muskegon Heights, Saginaw, Flint, Pontiac, Inkster, Grand Rapids, and so on. Together we created the four pillars to be addressed by this Legislature: healthcare disparities, education inequities, workforce—labor—economic development and inclusiveness, and finally a rebrand of criminal justice to peace and justice. Words matter, Black and brown communities matter. Again I remind you, Black people have endured some of the worst atrocities in history and yet been the greatest contributors to society. So, keep that in mind as you conjure up legislation and policies to make the future progressively better.

To the best damn caucus in the land, 16 strong and soon to be 21 deep. I know its only been one term for me but it seems like I’ve been here a lifetime.

Senator Moss, know I got your back and I thank you for continuously showing me another perspective by living your beliefs on your sleeve. Senator Bayer, Polehanki, Irwin, Alexander, Wojno, McCann, I will miss the daily fist bumps and conversations. It has been a delight to work and get to know you all through events and weight loss challenges.

Senator Hollier, I know the veterans are in good hands brother. Senator McMorrow, you are now actually my Senator; my community and Detroit will need you, so lean on me. Senator Santana who is not here, we done run 100 miles but still got one to go.

Senator Floor Leader Chang and soon to be Majority Leader Brinks, I admire the two of you because I’ve never seen a consequence with anyone disagreeing with either of you. I think that is a great trait which I added to my personal toolbox, so I thank you.

And my sister from another mother, Senator Erika Geiss, I really feel like a sibling with you. I thank you for being diligent and such a professional about caucus, time, materials, and pushing me to push the envelope and being my second in the MLBC. I look forward to seeing what big things the future holds.

And then there is a sitcom title waiting to be made with Senator Curtis Hertel and Senator Jim Ananich, the two of you and your leadership has been invaluable to the caucus and me personally. I’ve learned so much by just being in the room listening, watching, and asking questions. I probably could not have been as spirited and successful if not for your leadership styles. Although we will be moving on, I hope to continue interacting and building upon our relationships. I’d like to also thank the brothers under the dome for their friendship, support, advice, and encouragement through this term and hope to continue to build.

As I close, I would just like to say to the incoming caucus: fighting is exhausting, especially if you are taking loses; work to fix issues; solve problems, don’t cause problems. We all know what can go wrong, but let’s talk about what can go right. Be mindful not to become that of which you despise, it’s time to lead with dignity and civility. I leave with a quote from Cornel West, You must love the people you serve to serve the people you love. Thank you.

Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate proceed to consideration of the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 185

The motion prevailed.

Senators Shirkey and Ananich offered the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 185.

A resolution of tribute for the Honorable Curtis Hertel, Jr.

Whereas, It is with distinct pleasure that we recognize Senator Curtis Hertel, Jr. During his time in this legislative body, he has faithfully and honorably served his constituents in the Twenty-third District which includes many communities in Ingham County as well as the residents of Michigan; and

Whereas, Senator Curtis Hertel, Jr. was born and raised in Michigan. As the son of the late Curtis Hertel, Sr., who was the co-speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives and served eighteen years in the Michigan Legislature, Senator Hertel grew up with a passion for public policy. He is a proud graduate of Michigan State University’s James Madison College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in social relations. Senator Hertel grew up surrounded by the tradition of public service with multiple family members having served in the Legislature; it was a natural path for him to also serve the residents of our great state. Past roles have laid the foundation for his legislative career. He worked for the Michigan House Democratic Caucus and worked as a policy analyst and legislative liaison with the Michigan Department of Community Health. He served on the Ingham County Board of Commissioners from 2001 to 2008 and served as the Ingham County Register of Deeds from 2009 to 2014. As an Ingham County Commissioner, he championed a living wage ordinance and the Ingham County Health Plan, the latter becoming a model across the country. Senator Hertel and his wife, Elizabeth, are proud parents to their four children: CJ, Nathan, Lee, and Jack; and

Whereas, Senator Hertel was first elected to the Michigan Senate in 2014. During his time, he was greatly passionate about his legislative duties and priorities. He served as a member of the committees on Banking and Financial Institutions, Health Policy, Administrative Rules, Regulatory Reform, Health Policy and Human Services, and the appropriations subcommittees on Capital Outlay, and Universities and Community Colleges. Additionally, he served as minority vice chair of the committees on Commerce, Banking and Financial Institutions, Health Policy, Advice and Consent, Appropriations, the Appropriations Subcommittee on Health/Human Services, Higher Education, and the Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor and Economic Opportunity/MEDC. Senator Hertel has worked tirelessly on legislation to expand access to health care, reduce the occurrence of sexual assault on college campuses, ensure sustainable funding for indigent hospice, and protect all vulnerable Michiganders from predatory lending. Moreover, he successfully partnered with his brother, Representative Kevin Hertel, to establish Wyatt’s Law, a Central Registry for Child Abuse and Neglect and worked across the aisle on a sports gaming package ensuring sustainable funding for the First Responders Presumed Coverage Fund; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That we offer this resolution of tribute to commend and thank the Honorable Curtis Hertel, Jr. for his notable contributions to this legislative body and to our state; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to Senator Hertel as evidence of our gratitude and best wishes for success in the future.

The question being on the adoption of the resolution,

Senator Hertel asked and was granted unanimous consent to make a statement and moved that the statement be printed in the Journal.

Senator Lauwers moved that rule 3.204 be suspended to name the entire membership of the Senate and the Lieutenant Governor as co-sponsors of the resolution.

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

The motion prevailed.

Senator Hertel’s statement is as follows:

The night I was elected to the Senate, my father called me and said, Son, I am so proud of you, but I want you to know, I had a lot of friends that were elected to the Senate and they all turned out to be assholes. I want to thank many of you for doing something that’s rare and proving my father wrong.

The night I got elected to the Senate was a roller coaster of emotions. The excitement of winning an election was soon mixed with the realization that I might be one of the few Democrats that won that night. I drove home with my wife, Elizabeth, slowly realizing we might be in the super minority. I found out at 2 a.m. that Sean McCann had lost by 59 votes and I fell asleep on my phone with a glass of rum in my hand. That was not the last night of the last eight years that has happened. Looking back now, I’m sure in some ways Sean is grateful for those 59 people that voted against him that day. Sean gets to serve in the first Democratic majority in 40 years while Jim and I are packing up our offices.

Minority Leader Ananich, David Knezek, and myself were elected to the smallest caucus since this Constitution was put into effect in 1963. Eleven members. We were the butt of many jokes in Lansing. A caucus small enough to caucus in an elevator. Less members than the Wu-Tang Clan. Jim and my first term was like the show Survivor, fighting for scraps, and people just kept getting voted off the island. But Jim set us on a path to stop assuming defeat before the game even started. We were going to build a team and fight to do something everyone thought was impossible—Jim gave us hope, and I think in politics that hope is one of the most powerful things—we were going take this caucus of 11, sometimes ten, sometimes 11 again, and sometimes ten again, then back to eleven, and build it into a majority. To my friend Jim, if I’m ever in a street fight and need someone to have my back, you would be my first pick every single time. You have been the best partner, leader, and friend that anyone could ever ask for. I have two brothers already, but I’ve never had an older brother, and I am proud to have one now. I am proud to be uncle Curtis to your son. You will always be my family. And for all of you that think that Jim is the good guy and I am the bad guy, you could not be more wrong. If you have ever seen the movie the Usual Suspects, there is a line in that movie that says, “the greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn’t exist.” Jim, you are my Keyser Söze. If you didn’t like an ad, Jim approved it. Every speech that I gave, Jim saw. I’m not complaining about it, he did a masterful job, but—amazing.

I also think it’s important to note that Jim and I wouldn’t be here—this caucus wouldn’t be where it is—if it wasn’t for Senator David Knezek. David put his heart and soul into building a majority. For a brief moment in time, we both thought Jim was leaving. We thought somebody was running for something and Jim was running for Congress and we started to run against each other for leader. I’m glad that didn’t happen. I’m glad we stayed friends. We’ve often debated who would have won that fight, and I would like to thank Betty Jean Alexander for settling that. I’m often sad that David didn’t get to serve these last four years, but then I remember that he makes three times than any of us and isn’t term limited—he’s fine.

Those first four years were brutal at times, but from that experience I got to serve with this amazing group of public servants. The first caucus in Michigan history to be half women and half men. A caucus that was hell bent on changing Michigan. There are times in the caucus room—sometimes like a few hours ago—where we will have long debates and there will be fights in caucus. Sometimes you disagree on direction, but you are the greatest team I’ve ever been a part of.

Rosemary Bayer—who I will fully admit, Rosemary, I’m sorry, I know I get frustrated with you sometimes, but it’s only because you want things to change so fast and I’m trying so hard to make it happen. You have a keen sense of justice and that is why I love to serve with you.

Sylvia Santana, for her strength and independence. Paul Wojno, who holds our institutional memory often. Dayna Polehanki, who has so much passion and tenacity, and is willing to fight every single day. Jeremy Moss, who will work with anyone, even those who won’t even recognize his basic rights to exist, if it makes Michigan just a little bit better. A willingness to look past all the evils sometimes and just try to get what is right done.

Mallory McMorrow, who was underestimated from the very second she filed for office, I don’t think that’ll ever happen again, but has been one hell of a champion. Adam Hollier who never gives up, in fact he was asking me about details of a supplemental two hours ago and I am pretty sure that’s dead. Jeff Irwin, who some say is the patron saint of lost causes but who I’ve seen time and time again resurrect those causes and get them done. Bough Bullock who is the ultimate people connector, I look forward to working with you in your new role and we are going to find some good time to spend with me, you, and Dave Massaron.

Betty Jean Alexander, you may have been an unlikely story but you have done your constituents proud. Also—and I think only our caucus knows this—Betty Jean is funnier than almost anyone in this chamber. She’s got one-liners like I have never heard. Sean McCann, for his quiet strength and unending loyalty—and also the donuts.

My seat mate, Erika Geiss—it’s fun for me because my first seatmate was Coleman Young, and you are less messy but there are also less snacks, so it’s a trade off right? I want to thank you for always being there for me on our tough days, and I also want to say that it was an honor to knock doors for you earlier this year and talk to your constituents about your passion. I could not have had a better seatmate. Thank you, Erika.

Stephanie Chang, my floor leader. Your passion and work ethic are unparalleled. You have fought very hard for this caucus and for your constituents, over and over again. I am proud that you are my leader.

Winnie Brinks, how could anyone forget about you? I am so proud that you will lead this body next term. From a write-in candidate to the first female leader of this body in history. It is quite a story and only you could have written it. Thank you for all the times you’ve spent with me, and thank you for taking care of one of my best friends.

But our team is not just members, it is our staff that goes to work every day and makes our success possible. I want to thank all those who have worked for me, some of them are in the Gallery right now. I believe Lauren and Tom Flammer are both here right now. Many have gone on to bigger and better things. My current team—Sydney, Julia, Brady, Christina, and K, and to all those who have worked for me before that, you have made countless people’s lives better. I get stopped all the time in the district and get thanked for the work that you did. Thank you for always having my back, but more importantly, the backs of every person we represented. Our central staff—while this team was important to making change happen in Michigan, our central staff played a huge role, and we don’t change this body without making the case every single day. They made that absolutely easier and they deserve all the credit in the world for that.

There is one person that I owe a debt to that I can never repay. Kathleen O’Reilly Farhat is the pinnacle of what a chief of staff should be. K, we have been on this journey for eight years together, thousands of miles in the car, bad fast food, but never Burger King—never—countless selfies of different events. You are the most loyal person I have ever known. Thank you for telling me when I was wrong and fighting for me regardless of if you agreed with me or not. No matter where you go—Dustin, Brady, Jack, and you will always be family. I am very proud that you’ve worked for me for the last eight years.

I have also been blessed with friends across the aisle. Wayne Schmidt—my first term, Senator Knezek and I used to joke that we had Wayne’s vote whenever we didn’t need it. Wayne sat on this side of the aisle. He was often our twelfth vote, but never our nineteenth. They even moved Wayne’s seat way over there so we would have a harder time talking to him this term. All that being said Wayne, David and I were wrong, and I want to say that we were wrong because this term you have been the very definition of profile in courage—willing to do what’s right, even when it’s tough. The people of Michigan will never know all the bad things you stopped from happening and the good that you were part of. Thank you for being my friend.

Ken Horn, a man of supreme moral character. You say and do what you think is right, regardless of the consequences. Your family here and your family in heaven are proud of you.

Chairman Stamas, you are a true statesman. I am honored to be your friend. Your love for your family and this institution is a testament to what a public servant should be. Even though I wish we got one more deal done, and I think with you and I it was always one more deal, I could not have had a more honest broker to work with and I am proud to have served with you. Thank you, my chairman.

Mike Shirkey, you have been one of the most frustrating friends that I have ever been proud to have. There are times when we agree and times when we don’t. I have certainly enjoyed your presence outside of this chamber, more than in it sometimes, but I am proud that you are my friend and I look forward to dinners with you and Sue. And thank you again for telling the former president “no.”

I am so proud to have served with all of you and serve the people of Michigan. While Senator might be one of the jobs that I will always be most proud of, there is nothing I am more proud of than my family. To Elizabeth and my kids, thank you for always being my home after every tough day. Thank you for reminding me to be humble.

My kids would often remind people when they called me Senator that I was only a State Senator, not a real Senator. But they reminded me of other lessons too. My son C.J. reminds me that you can always come back from anything. Nathan—that hard work pays off. Lee—to always live who you are. Jack—to laugh and be kind to everyone.

To my wife Elizabeth, I know that I am far from perfect. Thank you for letting me live my dream; planning our lives around legislative breaks; and putting up with me pacing the house all hours of the night on the phone, that’s probably not going to stop. I know that we would not have survived the last eight years if it was without you. I love you, and I am looking forward to a vacation that is not based on the scheduling whims of Mike Shirkey or Arlan Meekhof.

I’d also like to thank my mom and dad, who both inspired me to go into public service. Many people already assume my father, and there are certainly traits of his that I got, but if you’ve seen the more fierce speeches I’ve given, the more passion that I’ve given on this floor, that is one-hundred percent my mother. By the way, my dad may have had the best election night of all. His former legislative aide was elected to her second term as Governor. My dad was the last real Democrat elected Speaker of the House, now Joe Tate who represents the same area in the same city he loved will be Speaker. His former political director won the seat that decided the majority in the Senate in Bay, Midland, and Saginaw. And his son, Kevin, won the closest seat in the state. He is damn proud, and I am so proud.

Being part of building a majority and not being to serve is hard, you sometimes feel like Moses on top of Mount Sinai, realizing you can see the promised land but you can’t necessarily get there. But it made it a whole lot easier at 4:30 in the morning when I found out that my brother, Kevin, won. I couldn’t be more proud. That was one of the best calls of my life. There was a moment in the campaign, Kevin, where you asked, on a hard day, that maybe you aren’t built for this. What I can tell you is that you are the only one built for it. Nobody else—nobody else—could have won that campaign. Thank you for being my confidant on long, long days. We both lost probably our biggest mentor, but we get to mentor each other. Thank you for being that.

There are so many people to thank, but at the end of the day I owe the greatest thanks to the people who sent me here. Serving this body has been the greatest honor of my life. I hope that I have made you proud. At the end, it’s hard, you start to wonder where did all the time go? I feel like I blinked and I’m here. There is no place I’d rather be than with all of you. There is no place I’d rather be than standing at this podium, in these halls, in the room where it happens. What’s next? Thank you.

Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate proceed to consideration of the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 187

The motion prevailed.

Senators Shirkey and Ananich offered the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 187.

A resolution of tribute for the Honorable Jim Ananich.

Whereas, It is a distinct honor to recognize Senator Jim Ananich as he retires from this chamber. A longtime statesman, Senator Ananich has served the people of the Twenty-seventh District, including his hometown of Flint, with dignity and respect. His leadership has bettered the lives of his constituents and all Michiganians. Senator Ananich is a dedicated husband to his wife, Andrea, and a loving father to his son, Jacob; and

Whereas, Senator Ananich is an expert in governing by education and by trade. He earned a bachelor’s degree in political economics and a secondary education certificate in social studies from Michigan State University; he additionally earned a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Michigan-Flint. Public service was an important lesson passed on to Senator Ananich by his father. He began his professional career working as a staffer for Senate Minority Leader John D. Cherry, Jr., Senate Minority Leader Bob Emerson, and Congressman Dale Kildee. In 2005, he successfully won election to the Flint City Council, where he served until 2009 and was elected president for his final year. Senator Ananich spent time as a civics and government teacher at Carman-Ainsworth and Flint Community Schools and also worked as an education coordinator for Priority Children. Transitioning to serve the state at large, Senator Ananich was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 2010 and 2012; and

Whereas, Since his special election to the Senate in 2013, Senator Ananich has served on numerous committees, including as minority vice chair of the committees on Banking and Financial Institutions, Government Operations, and Agriculture and as a member of the committees on Economic Development, Health Policy, Transportation, and Insurance. Senator Ananich also advocated for his district as a member of the Joint Select Committee on the Flint Water Public Health Emergency. In addition, he served on the Legislative Council and the Board of Governors for the Senate Fiscal Agency; and

Whereas, Senator Ananich earned the respect of his caucus colleagues, as evidenced by his two-time election as Senate Minority Leader, serving for eight years, from 2015 to 2022. During his legislative tenure, he spearheaded initiatives to improve the health and safety of his constituents, protect seniors with the successful passage of elder abuse legislation, and help students pursue higher education. He sponsored successful legislation to fund the settlement of the Flint water crisis and enable the city of Flint to be designated as a promise zone, which allows high school graduates to receive financial assistance for post-secondary education. Senator Ananich also sponsored laws to help those suffering from mental illness or addiction, a further testament to his comprehensive approach to bettering the lives of Michiganians everywhere. While he was often seen as a quiet presence, it was well known he was a person of strength, embodied an infectious sense of humor, and held deep affection for those around him; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That we offer this expression of tribute to commend and thank the Honorable Jim Ananich for his notable contributions to this legislative body and to our state; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to Senator Ananich as evidence of our gratitude and best wishes.

The question being on the adoption of the resolution,

Senator Ananich asked and was granted unanimous consent to make a statement and moved that the statement be printed in the Journal.

Senator Lauwers moved that rule 3.204 be suspended to name the entire membership of the Senate and the Lieutenant Governor as co-sponsors of the resolution.

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

The motion prevailed.

Senator Ananich’s statement is as follows:

While my Republican colleagues wanted this to be a seal signed by all of us to the Governor, she had other plans in the last election and she’ll be back for four more years. I was cleaning out my office and found a beautiful MTA Capitol profile of a newly-elected Senator Gretchen Whitmer that I wanted to bring to her. I’m not supposed to have props, but I thought I’d bring this to the Governor. Dayna Polehanki asked me to be funny and apparently I’m not starting yet. They’re not all gems, guys.

Before I start, I did some Googling. I was staying up late thinking about this speech and I looked back and the No. 1 song when I was elected in January 2011 was “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele, the No. 1 movie was Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, and the critically-acclaimed show Game of Thrones was starting its very long and successful career, and on this day 12 years ago, Senator-elect Mary Cavanagh was on a fourth-grade trip to see the Capitol—I’m just kidding, it was third grade.

Four thousand three hundred fifty-eight days—I screwed it up—4,358, I’d like to start with a number. That is the number of days I’ve had the distinct pleasure to represent my community in the State Legislature. Every one of those days has been an honor and a privilege to first serve the constituents of the 49th State House district and now the 27th Senate district. I want to start off saying that none of those days would have happened if it weren’t for my wife Andrea and my son Jake, waving up in the Gallery. I can’t express my love and affection for them here, but their unwavering support is the only reason I am here today. I mean that from the bottom of my heart. Hey buddy, you are going to get to see me a lot more very soon; and sorry honey, you are too.

I have, you’ll see as you spend time in the Gallery, that I brought most of Flint with me today, and I want to give a shoutout to some of my friends who have been with me for a long time. I may miss some; I apologize. One of my best friends growing up since I was a kid, Chris Wascha and his amazing wife Christina, who I’ve never understood why she was with him, but he’s been my friend since kindergarten. Chris was in my wedding; Christina is godmother to my son.

To Matt and Nancy Sherry who were both in our wedding, and I’ve been friends with them for most of my life. To my good friend Bryce Mo and Mike Siweick who I’ve known since college who are hosting a happy hour for me after here at Kelley Cawthorne in the Christman Building, and when I’m done here, the reserved Jim you’ve seen for 12 years will no longer need to be around so come and have some fun with me over there if you get a chance. Nancy’s sister Sue and her husband Dan—Dan was a suitemate of mine in college—they’re here. One of my closest friends, lived with me for a while, Fabian Villarreal, also known as Cocoa Sauce, he’s here with Juan Vargas, Paulie Simpson, Tony Voo, and the list goes on and on of people who’ve helped me when I go home make sure I don’t forget why I came here.

I have some family here I want to recognize, and I don’t talk about a lot of my personal stuff very often, it’s just part of who I am. When I was a child, my mom passed away of cancer and it was just me and my dad for a long time. He was fortunate enough to meet another woman who made—most people find one love of their life; my dad was able to find two. I was fortunate enough to have two mothers, both named Sue so that was pretty easy for me. As you know, I usually have to have this written for me or I fall apart. When my dad passed away 20-plus years ago, I still had Sue and she met an amazing man named Mike and they’ve been married just slightly longer than Andrea and I have. I say he’s an amazing man because there is no way on a family tree to show Sue and my relationship, and for some reason he still allows me to hang out and he’s a great grandfather to my son, he’s great to Andrea and I, and we’re just fortunate to have him in our lives.

Another great person in my family, Deb is here. I went to school with her stepdaughter and I think we connected walking the dog and went to her garage sale and bought a bunch of kids toys without having a kid, and she didn’t ask any questions so we figured she must be alright wondering why we’re buying kids toys. Then later on we had Jacob and she’s been his Nanta ever since. I’m very fortunate to have tremendous in-laws, my brother-in-law Mike, who I’ve been friends with longer than I’ve known my wife—his sister. He’s truly a brother to me and he’s also the one I get to talk about giving me all the cool gear I have, going to Super Bowls and World Series. He does camera work and instant replays for all sorts of amazing things. He’s a great uncle, Uncle Mo Mo, to Jake. I have a tremendous father- and mother-in-law, especially my mother-in-law—father‑in-law is alright—Norm and Rachel. They have treated me, a kid, basically an orphan, like their own son. In order for my father-in-law not to get a cocky head, I’d like the record to cut out part of that for the record, please. I’m just very lucky. I’m a very lucky person; I have a strong support network.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t specifically mention my brother, Curtis Hertel. I can only imagine the amount of times that we have interrupted each other’s dinners, vacations, and God knows what else. We had a vision, along with David Knezek, when no one else believed, and for most of the first term people made fun of us for even trying. The sacrifices you both made finally paid off. Many of you might have seen the picture of Curtis and I looking up at a screen on Election Day when we realized we won the majority. A piece of relationship advice to all of you—find someone who looks at you the way Curtis looks at data. That’s true love.

Before I get to talking to all my colleagues about the times we’ve had together, I do want to mention the caucuses I’ve joined where I’ve gotten to know a lot of you really well—cigar caucus, I’m a part of a group called the dredge lunch, and the Big Boy supper club. That’s largely why now I am often referred to as Paul Blart’s doppelganger.

In the 12 years I’ve been here, I’ve gotten to come across a lot of amazing people. While we have shared many memories together, unfortunately not all of them have been good. We’ve buried some colleagues—I will not list them all, but losing Mo Hood, Vince Gregory, and Tom Casperson will be three of the toughest for me. I don’t talk about this much, but we’ve mourned together, we’ve buried children, grandchildren, parents, and close friends. To many of you, your kindness with a simple call, texting, or even stopping by to check in was more important than you could ever know. I hope I was some comfort to you when you were going through what you were going through, and many times it probably felt like the worst moment of your life. I mention this because this job by its very nature is meant to divide us—by district, by political party, by caucus, and so many other different ways—but if you take a minute to get to know the person you don’t share a region with, a party with, and get to know them, an aspect of them that they don’t put in their biography but what makes them who they are, you might just find something in common with them, many times common enough to be able to work with them on something small or something profound.

When I first got elected to the House, I had a crew over there. I want to take a second and mention them: Jeff Irwin, Jim Townsend, Rudy Hobbs, Maureen Stapleton, and Tommy Stallworth. We came in thinking we were going to be in the majority, and 20 seats later we were no longer in the majority. I left you guys a little early, but Jeff and I were reunited and all of us are still connected.

I mentioned Curtis before. I want to take a moment to mention a number of other colleagues. I’m not going to mention everyone but I feel like I need to mention a few. Mike Shirkey, when we first got elected 12 years ago, you got elected in a special election, and you were kicking around the House before we got all together, I remember a good friend of mine from back home, Phil Schultz, said, You need to meet Mike Shirkey. I first said, You mean the guy who got elected already? That Mike Shirkey? He said, Yes. I said, Ok, Phil, I trust you. I think he said the same thing to you. Twelve years later, we’ve had a strong bond and a good friendship. We haven’t always agreed, but we leave here, I think, stronger than we ever imagined we could 12 years ago. It’s a pleasure to have served with you.

Wayne Schmidt, Ken Horn, Jim Stamas, Pete MacGregor in particular, all four of us, we’ve had a number of dinners and events together with Curtis and David and others over the years where we’ve tried to piece things back together when things felt like they were falling off the rails. Many people will never know the extent we went to over the last 12 years to hold things together when times felt like they were falling apart.

To all my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, your positions have not always lined up with mine, but your perspective was always insightful and often challenged me to reconsider my own position, and that was from those of you on both sides of the aisle. I hope, going forward, you all have enough respect for each other to be willing to thoughtfully listen to one another, not with the expectation that your philosophies will change, that you never question a colleague’s motive, but you understand their perspective enough to evaluate your own.

Let me talk a little bit about the first term. Curtis had some great stories and my first term was with now-Governor Whitmer. It was a tremendous time. I came in midway through the session much like a kid moving to a new school and the Governor and so many others on both sides of the aisle treated me with such dignity and respect and helped me learn how the Senate works. I remember telling a number of you guys, I said, You guys will join me soon. Some of you will remember this. I said when I first got here, I don’t know if I like this Senate place. To each one of you, I said, Give me six months—Wayne, you remember that specifically—and I’ll ask again, if you like the House or Senate better. And to a person, you said you all like the Senate better. The next term, obviously I was Leader, on the other side of the spectrum I had the Senate Democratic Fund—our soft-money fund and unfortunately our legal-defense fund, which we had to use a little too often in that first term. Thank you, all my colleagues in this term, never having to get that phone call.

All joking aside, this term wasn’t one we wanted it to be. We had a number of things that came in the way of the term we all envisioned—but to my colleagues, my caucus, it has been the professional and personal pleasure of my life to serve with you. As Curtis mentioned, we have a 50 percent caucus of men and women, we have tremendous diversity, and it was my pleasure to work with you all to bring in the Democratic majority, many of whom are sitting behind us today.

The reasons, I think, I am leaving with good relationships with people all over the spectrum are many, but I will say this to everyone—you never have to apologize for something you didn’t say. Say less and listen more. Sometimes saying that great line might make you feel good, but does it further what you are trying to accomplish? If the answer is “no,” I’d advise you not to say it. I can promise you spending time to get to know each other is a much more productive use of your time. I’ll leave this place with meaningful and important relationships with people in this room who have served before with me, down the hall, across the street in the Governor’s office, and folks who are long gone, because I took the time to get to know the real person, not just the persona that we all present to the public. Remember this—the opposition is not your enemy, the House is.

To my friend and colleague of 12 years, Aric Nesbitt, and the rest of my colleagues on the Republican side of the aisle, Speaker of the House Sam Rayburn once said, “Any jackass can kick down a barn, but it takes a good carpenter to build one.” You have a job to do and I know that better than most, but there are times to be a carpenter too, and I know you’ll find them.

To the Majority Leader-elect, Winnie Brinks, Margaret Thatcher once said, “In politics, if you want anything said, ask a man. If you want anything done, ask a woman.” Show them what you can do. You got this.

To my Democratic colleagues, John Kenneth Galbraith once said, “Nothing is so admirable in politics as a short memory.” I tend to agree. Don’t settle old scores; write a new chapter. But not too short of a memory.

I have had a tremendous staff since I started this journey in late 2009. My first staff member was a guy named Steve Montle—who I never paid, but has been with me from the beginning. My first paid staff member was a guy named Brian Bates who did my campaign finance work. He, along with Bry McGarry and D.J. Palomares—he actually spoke so fast, people thought I hired a DJ by the name of Paul Ramirez—Tom Lenard, I have a list here, have to make sure I don’t miss anybody, Jordan Dickenson, Sean Walser, and Montel Menifee, that was all my staff in the House, some of which I brought over with me—Anthony Panneck, Annie Cross, Melvin, Nathan, and others on my campaigns, with way too many volunteers to count. John Mulcrone, whom I mentioned earlier, Michelle Carnevale, Rosie, who speaks much better than me and writes the words I normally speak, not today, that’s why it’s the way it is; Callie Abrams, Patrick Gerace, again Bryanna, Shaquila Myers, Andy Leavitt, Tyjuan, Corrina, Dominique, Michael Sandoval, Julie Thompson, and Alex Dobbins, I’ve all had the pleasure of them coming in my office and working alongside me. I would not be where I am today without their patience, dedication, and tremendous hard work. You’ve been with me at my worst and you shared with me some of my best moments, not just in this job but in life. I am not always good at expressing how I feel—I’ve often joked with many of you that I’m dead inside—but my appreciation, my loyalty, and my love for all of you is without bounds. I hope you know that.

For those of you who know me, I am going to lighten things up now, because this is a little too serious for me. I do want to tell a quick story, and I think it’s important to tell it hopefully for the humor but also for the history. D.J., as I’ve mentioned before, was my first front-desk person and Tom Lenard was my back-desk, as we refer to it in the House. D.J. is a great guy—he used to start listening to Christmas music in July—and one of my favorite stories about him—and there are plenty—was that I’d be in my office and he’d walk in and say, for instance, A Mark Shorkey called. I’d say, Mike Shirkey? Oh yeah, that’s it. Those stories are endless, so if you called during 2011-2012 and you never received a call back, now you probably know why.

To the central staff I inherited and have built since taking this office: you do an amazing job and your efforts have helped us win this majority for the first time in almost 40 years. I want you to know that I mean that. You’ve earned this. To Dave Schupbach and Lisa Keith, thank you for building a great team and for working so hard.

I think I’m going to be talking about you all day today, John. To John, Nancy, and Mike Vatter, I mentioned this earlier about all the advice people gave me, and as I mentioned before I didn’t take the advice, but I think a good leader is willing to admit when they make a mistake and then fixes it, so I suppose you can say it’s not how you start a race but how you finish it that matters most. John, Nancy, Mike Vatter, your dedication to the institution that is the Senate Democrats is unmatched. I can never repay what you have done for this caucus, this body, and like a true only child, me. Much like the end of Michael Scott’s time at Dunder Mifflin, I plan on speaking to all of you before I leave.

I think it’s important to take a moment to say a profound thank you to all the people who make this place run. The Business Office staff for always getting me my paycheck and all the other important work that you do every day; to Margaret and Dan and your entire team for running this place so well and keeping this place I love so much always running the way it’s supposed to; to the Chief, the Deputy Chief, and all the sergeants; to the Capitol Facilities staff, the hard-working men and women who work to keep the Capitol the beautiful place that it is; to the nonpartisan staff that make the work of the Senate look so seamless, thank you, thank you. Any of the staff that I might have missed, as they say in church, Charge it to my head and not my heart.

In 4,358 days I’ve been fortunate to come across some amazing people who have enriched my life and I can never say thank you enough for making me a better person. I’ve had a great and hopefully transparent relationship with the press corps, with friendships that are too many to single out. You are doing an extremely important job. I want to thank you for being the fourth estate and doing the work our Founders had in mind every day.

I decided long ago to try to leave this place with many strong and diverse relationships. Of course I want to thank my friends in labor, the trial lawyer community, and all those who represent the progressive community. I’ve had a great relationship with you and together we’ve been able to accomplish things no one believed we could.

I’ve also developed what most would have called strange bedfellows for a Democrat. Those are also too many to list, but I have always believed that having diverse and genuine relationships with people you don’t always align with philosophically can lead to surprising results and also an expansion of your mind. Don’t presume to know the whole person from a superficial interaction. There is always something you can find to work together on if you look hard enough.

I want to tell you a few lessons I’ve learned along the way. Years ago when I started out as leader, there’s a story that has turned into folklore and I think it’s important to tell you all about it. I’ll call it the story of the pocket ribs. One day we were here late but in anticipation of that, Senator Meekhof released us for lunch and I went to meet someone for lunch—I don’t remember who it was, it doesn’t really matter—and I was walking back and ran into my friend from Flint, Berton Brown, at the time a lobbyist over at Karoub, and his folks have a tremendous barbecue place back in Flint at the Flint Farmers Market. I’d recommend that you try it. And being one who never turns down free food, Berton asked me to grab a bag. I grabbed it and went about my business and went back to session. A little while later, I was getting hungry for about the time my second lunch usually kicks in and remembered I had the bag of ribs. I had them in my suit coat pocket and I pulled them out, and you can imagine a number of people asked me, Where did you get those ribs? My response was, I always carry some extra ribs around for an occasion like this. Tip O’Neill said, “A good lesson in keeping your perspective is, take your job seriously, but don’t take yourself seriously.” There’s a possibility I might have taken that advice a little too far, but I’ve always been able to laugh about myself and have a good time with all of you.

I’ll leave you all with a lesson I learned that I’ve realized many have not yet. In particular, to my Democratic colleagues because it’s now on you to steer this ship, don’t equate activity with work. Meetings, doing the work that the talented staff members can and should be doing isn’t work, it’s a way of avoiding making the tough decisions. The decision doesn’t get easier the longer you wait to make it. It gets harder. If you ask yourself with everything you’re doing, Am I doing what only I can do? If the answer is “no,” then you are wasting your time and you’re avoiding what you really need to be doing. I’ll do one sports analogy—I don’t normally do that, but I’ll do one—don’t try and be the mechanic when it’s your job to drive the car.

There were days I left here defeated, but not once did I leave not realizing what an honor it is to work in this beautiful building. There were times I was ashamed of the work that we did that day, but never did I lose the pride I felt working for the people of our state, and there were days I left angry, but I’m leaving with the same joy I felt when I walked into the organizational meeting we had 12 years ago, realizing I would be making lifelong friends and doing important work. To those who are leaving with me, I say thank you but not goodbye; and those who are coming back next year, I say good luck, trust your gut, keep your word, do what you think is right, and you cannot be anything but successful.

God bless you all and I ask that my remarks, likely for the last time, be placed in the record.

Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate proceed to consideration of the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 181

The motion prevailed.

Senators Shirkey and Ananich offered the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 181.

A resolution of tribute for the Honorable Kim LaSata.

Whereas, The members of this chamber commend the Honorable Kim LaSata as her time representing the Twenty-first District in the Michigan Senate comes to a close. Since stepping into her role in 2019, Senator LaSata has served Michigan’s citizens with distinction, especially her constituents in Berrien, Cass, and St. Joseph counties as their first female Senator; and

Whereas, Senator LaSata’s professional and educational background provided a basis for her success in carrying out the duties of her office. Senator LaSata holds a bachelor’s degree in education as well as a master’s degree in literacy studies from Western Michigan University. Her prior experiences as a teacher in her alma mater, the Lake Michigan Catholic School System – for which she was selected Teacher of the Year in 2015 – have been invaluable in her work in this legislative body. Senator LaSata’s commitment to her community is demonstrated through her service as president of the Women’s Service League in Berrien County, of Berrien County Guardianship Services, Inc., and of the Capstone Center and as vice-chair of Child and Family Services-Southwest. Before assuming her role in the Senate, Senator LaSata served as a member of the Michigan House of Representatives from 2017 to 2018. Senator LaSata is also the devoted wife to her husband, Charlie, who formerly served in the House, and loving mother to four children: Sarah, Anna, Chas, and Claire; and

Whereas, Senator LaSata’s service to this chamber is a testament to the dedication she holds for her constituency. Senator LaSata served as chair of the Appropriations subcommittee on Universities and Community Colleges as well as vice chair of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, the Advice and Consent Committee, and the Appropriations subcommittee on Capital Outlay. In addition, Senator LaSata actively served as a member of the Appropriations subcommittee on Community Health/Human Services and the committees on Economic and Small Business Development, Energy and Technology, Health Policy and Human Services, and Insurance and Banking. During her time in this chamber, the Senator championed legislation to establish new scholarship opportunities for students across the state as well as to honor the legacy of police officers fallen in the line of duty. Throughout her tenure, Senator LaSata proved to be a committed servant to Michiganians everywhere and a leader in this legislative body, as evidenced by her election and service as Assistant Majority Floor Leader; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That we offer this expression of tribute to commend and thank the Honorable Kim LaSata for her notable contributions to the Senate and to our state; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to Senator LaSata as an expression of our gratitude and sincere best wishes.

The question being on the adoption of the resolution,

Senator Lauwers moved that rule 3.902 be suspended to allow the guests of Senator Hertel admittance to the Senate floor

Senator Lauwers moved that rule 3.204 be suspended to name the entire membership of the Senate and the Lieutenant Governor as co-sponsors of the resolution.

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

Senators Shirkey and Ananich offered the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 183.

A resolution of tribute for the Honorable Ken Horn.

Whereas, It is with gratitude that we recognize Senator Ken Horn for his work on behalf of the citizens of Michigan. Throughout his tenure, Senator Horn’s hard work has benefited his constituents in the Thirty-second District of Saginaw and Genesee counties; and

Whereas, Senator Horn’s personal experiences prior to taking office reflect a deep commitment to public service. Senator Horn owned and operated Horn’s Restaurant in Frankenmuth for nearly 15 years, served as a Saginaw County Commissioner for 16 years, and served as vice president for donor services at the Saginaw Community Foundation. Senator Horn holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Concordia University, completed Michigan State University’s Political Leadership Program, graduated from the Henry Toll Fellowship Program, and was recently awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from Saginaw Valley State University. His active engagement with many organizations included the White House Conference on Tourism, Habitat for Humanity, and the Council of State Governments’ Midwest Conference, which he chaired. Furthermore, he was appointed by Governor Engler in 2002 to the Michigan Travel Commission. Most importantly, Senator Horn is the dedicated husband to his wife, Veronica, proud father to his two children, Kevin, his wife Ruth, and Andrea, and devoted grandfather to Liam, Aaliyah, and their angel, Zellie, who is terribly missed; and

Whereas, During his time in the House from 2007-2012 and in the Senate since 2015, Senator Horn, a first generation American, has put service to his constituents above all else as a zealous advocate for the hardworking people of Michigan. He served with distinction as the chair of the committees on Economic and Small Business Development and Economic Development and International Investment as well as the Appropriations subcommittees on Capital Outlay and Labor and Economic Development/MEDC. Additionally, Senator Horn served honorably as the vice chair of the committees on Energy and Technology, Education and Career Readiness, and Transportation as well as Appropriations Subcommittee on Universities and Community Colleges. Finally, Senator Horn served as a member of the Senate Committees on Insurance and Banking, Insurance, and Energy and Technology and as a member of the Michigan Legislative Council. His proudest accomplishments in economic development include establishing the Strategic Outreach and Attraction Reserve Fund, and also advocating for Pure Michigan. Senator Horn has championed career readiness for all Michiganders by sponsoring and supporting the Skilled Trades Training Act, the Occupational Licensing bill, Good Jobs for Michigan, and the Going Pro Talent Fund; now, therefore, be it.

Resolved by the Senate, That we offer this expression of tribute to commend and thank the Honorable Ken Horn for his notable contributions to this legislative body and to our state; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to Senator Ken Horn as evidence of our appreciation and best wishes as he leaves this legislative body.

The question being on the adoption of the resolution,

Senator Horn asked and was granted unanimous consent to make a statement and moved that the statement be printed in the Journal.

Senator Lauwers moved that rule 3.204 be suspended to name the entire membership of the Senate and the Lieutenant Governor as co-sponsors of the resolution.

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

The motion prevailed.

Senator Horn’s statement is as follows:

I’ve not made many speeches from this stand here so if I screw up today, I’m blaming my chief of staff. She’ll refuse to edit this farewell.

Last week, as I was driving home from Lansing with a car full of boxes from my office, it occurred to me that I had several of my challenge coins left over, including the one in my pocket. At the risk of getting gaveled down or getting tased for holding a prop, my coin will help me guide my words today.

On the front of the coin is the silhouette of the Capitol dome. As I look at it, I remain in awe of its beauty and its majesty. Our Capitol Building makes a towering statement that within these walls all the weight of democracy gently rests. Inscribed at the top of the coin is the title, Michigan State Senator. What a humbling experience this has been. With a population of nearly ten million people, very few can experience the honor of walking these hallowed halls carrying this title. Underneath is written my name. I’ve tried to correct people that my name is Ken, not Senator—I always prefer that. There are always those out of respect for the office who continue to express that honorific. Out of respect for them I let it go, content to remember that after this week I’m just plain old Ken again.

The front of the coin, however, would not exist without the back. At the center is my family crest. The things I hold most dear surround it, three words encircle it: faith, family, and community.

First, I’ll talk about my home community, Frankenmuth. I fell in love with this community where I was welcomed 40 years ago. I met my wife there, I raised my kids there, and in the end it’s my plan to lay in the shade of a catalpa tree behind Blessed Trinity Catholic Church for all eternity.

I owe a great deal to the people of Saginaw and Saginaw County and to all of my friends in the Great Lakes Bay Region. Truly these are communities to be proud of. I want to thank the people of the 32nd Senate District for entrusting me in this role during this brief moment in Michigan’s history. I pray that I’ve served you well.

To my Lansing community, to the community that surrounds us here in Lansing and in this Senate Chamber, thank you for your help and support. To Jordan Hankwitz, thank you for your hardworking team. I have a deep and abiding respect for the work that goes on behind the scenes. The work that makes us all proud to receive our guests and visitors into this chamber and into our Senate offices. To Chief Gary Setla and to all of our proud Senate police, there’s never been a moment where I felt unsafe in your capable hands. I know of the security concerns you manage even when there are no days of session. I will miss our daily conversations.

To Jennifer Dettloff and your entire team at LSB, including our former House officemate Shanda Greco, we could never accomplish our work without you—literally. To Secretary O’Brien, the same holds true for the work your team does. Thank you.

Thank you to all the friends I’ve met in the lobby community. The work we’ve done together over the years will continue to resonate throughout this great state of Michigan. There are a number of members of the government affairs community who have become very dear friends, such as Gavin Goetz, John Kaczynski, and Greg Dowis to name a few. These men have become the my drop-everything-they’re-doing-to-come-over-and-help kind of friends We’ll be friends long after this gig ends.

My family. Veronica and I will be married 40 years this next June. We’ve supported each other in all of our life’s pursuits. In 1992, Veronica helped me hand-paint campaign signs on a 4x4 plywood board as I began my first years of public service. We’ve ridden some fairly tall waves together and weathered a horrible storm or two. Through it all we’ve simply grown stronger together. Thank you, honey. I received tons of advice from two very special family members—JoAnn Crary and Annette Rummel—both of whom are sisters of Veronica and both of whom are successful in their own right as presidents of their organizations. Thank you for your help and advice, whether it was about economic development, tourism, or simply what to get Veronica for her birthday.

My CSG family. After all the time I committed to the Council of State Governments, I do need to mention a few highlights. Director Mike McCabe and his team were so gracious in all their work in partnering with us here in Michigan. You’ll meet them at orientations and at our Midwest conferences. They’ll provide educational opportunities including some foreign study trips. My travel partner to Berlin to examine their energy transition was Aric Nesbitt. Aric studied energy issues as deeply as I did. But Aric, I notice you didn’t get that particular chairmanship either.

I was honored to lead a delegation to Israel during this term and I was joined by Senator Theis, Senator McBroom, and Senator Geiss. We learned so much about the world around us. We learned a little bit more about each other. I discovered the depth of Lana Theis’ faith, the deep knowledge of history that Ed McBroom possesses, and from Erika Geiss I learned some new words—in the best sense, that is. I learned she is multi-lingual and committed to a lifelong education.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the upcoming 2023 CSG Conference in Detroit. Senator Roger Victory will lead us as the Midwest Chair and I hope to see each of the returning members in Detroit next summer.

Now, I have to talk about my freshman caucus family. I was one of eight new G.O.P. members in my first term. We were a tightknit group and met as often as once a month for supper. There was no agenda. We just liked being with each other. Of the six original freshmen remaining in this chamber, let me say thank you for your friendship and your trust.

Margaret O’Brien—Madam Secretary, I’d like to submit the following resolution:

Whereas, Representative O’Brien convinced me to join the so-called “legislative weight loss challenge,” and

Whereas, I was dutifully preparing carrot sticks, celery sticks, and rice cakes for two full months over the holiday seasons, and

Whereas, I discovered Representative O’Brien nonchalantly munching on her own homemade cookies only to discover that the sole participant out of 110 members of the House of Representatives was me, now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That with all the great work that we’ve accomplished together and all the great counsel which Senator and now Secretary O’Brien has offered to me, let it be known that that I, officially, no longer hate Margaret O’Brien.

And I’d like those remarks printed in the Journal, Madam Secretary.

Dale Zorn, 42 years of public service and still going strong. As I’ve served with Dale in both the House and Senate, I can’t tell you how many times someone’s come up to me to ask me about a bill I wrote that I had no clue about. Those would always turn out to be a Zorn bill. People would confuse us all the time. That’s why we always have to stand so far apart in group pictures. Dale with his service business brings an auto mechanic’s problem-solving approach to everything he does. He’s the type of person who will watch a ballet and say, Why don’t they just get taller dancers? Keep lighting up Ida, Dale.

Wayne Schmidt, when I think of Wayne Schmidt, I recall Bo Schembechler’s immortal locker-room words, “The Team, the Team, the Team.” You’ll never find a more loyal teammate in this building than Wayne, even as he fought valiantly for his own priorities. For all the shots he’s taken about sitting on the wrong side of the aisle, Wayne receives in my opinion the legislative good sport of the year award. He takes it all with his classic and classy Wayne Schmidt good humor. Wayne is considered quite the haberdasher. I’m not sure exactly what that means, but I’m pretty sure it has nothing to do with dashing quickly to committee hearings. My one regret over the years is that in my House farewell speech, I bequeathed my chairmanship of the Lansing cigar caucus to my then seatmate rather than the well-deserving Wayne Schmidt. But since you’re the current chair of that caucus, I feel redeemed. I’ll miss you Wayner.

Jim Stamas, it has little to do with age. Jim has all the personality and characteristics of the older brother I never had. It’s in his nature to keep a protective and watchful eye over his family, something as simple as helping me save my local Secretary of State office. To the untrained eye, Jim Stamas may appear gruff on the exterior but don’t let that fool you, he’s gruff on the inside too, especially when you’re asking for money. Jim came to my district once to meet with some community leaders on a very important project. They asked for $35 million. Jim, without hesitating much, asked in return, $20 million? $10 million is an awful lot of money. So what are you really planning on doing with this $5 million? Brother Jim, on the rare occasions that we stayed overnight here together in Lansing, I’ll always treasure our time and the honest conversations we’ve had together.

Two other names that aren’t with us in the chamber today—except one of them is—are Marty Knollenberg and Peter MacGregor. Marty is doing just fine as a restaurateur and with his other ventures. He reminded us in his farewell speech that there are those who come to Lansing to get big things done, and there are those who come to Lansing to try and be somebody. He always tried to get big things done. Pete is a larger-than-life personality—and has joined us sitting right next to me here—both on and off the public stage. You’ll always want to invite him to the MPLP alumni dinner. But he’s the same person you want in the trenches with you when things got heated here in Lansing. Thank you, Pete.

Mike Shirkey, I didn’t save Mike Shirkey for last because he’s our Majority Leader, this is just the toughest one for me. I was honored to nominate Mike in his bid for his leadership position. Following the unanimous decision to elect Senator Shirkey as our Majority Leader, the next step for him was to put his vision into action. Mike needed to pick the chair-people of each important committee. I was eager to start my final term as the chair of the powerful Energy and Technology Committee. After all, I had been training for that moment from my very first days in the Legislature. Well, Senator Shirkey had other plans for me—economic development. Mike, my Chief, Jami, was so upset on my behalf that she quit saying that your hair is better than mine—which it isn’t by the way. Come to find out, Mike was right. Economic development is exactly where Michigan needed to be. Without his vision and without his trust, my Project 1MP would never have taken shape. Mike, you entrusted and empowered your caucus members to chair their respective committees. You supported them in their work and you asked nothing in return for yourself. Leader Shirkey is a true servant-leader and I mean that also in the biblical sense. It’s what I focused on in my nominating speech and you’ll hear more in a moment.

My Senate Chamber family. Curt VanderWall, there’s really the tale of two Curts—the public Curt and the private Curt. When the public Curt puts on his game face as chairman, things get done. People feel empowered, but there’s no doubt who’s in charge. In private, you get to see the humbler side of Curt. You see Curt and Diane. She’s such a big part of his life. When she isn’t with him, he’s talking about her. This speaks to love and loyalty. It’s about the faith, family, and community I mentioned earlier. Curt sometimes reminds me a little of Vin Diesel but without all the tattoos. Curt, I’ve got a funny feeling you’re going to need to take a little bit of that attitude into the next term.

Kevin Daley, my new Senator. We’ve been through a lot together, some tough times buddy, but some good ones too. But I always appreciate your calm and meaningful approach to this job.

Jim Ananich, we may look at issues through different prisms at times, but I appreciate your friendship and your old-school ways. Even in this town, people can trust you to close a deal on a handshake.

Marshall Bullock, I appreciate you for your down-to-earth, roll-up-your-sleeves style of work ethic. I have a funny feeling we’re not done working together yet.

Sylvia Santana, you once invited us into your home—you and Harvey—to study the schools of Detroit. You are a visionary and a great advocate for your community. And at times, shall we say, passionate on the floor of the Senate. I feel like our work isn’t done yet either.

Curtis Hertel, you’re a true and loyal friend to those you serve and a paradox for the loyal opposition. You liked my committee meetings because they were quick and no-nonsense, only to come to this chamber to drag out session, providing the loftiest oratory in the history of the Senate Journal and easily breaking all Quote of the Day records. In the heat of battle once, I lamented to my friends across the aisle, We’re all Michigan Senators for crying out loud—vote like it. If you want to work for this administration, for heaven’s sake, send her your résumé. You, Curtis, apparently took me seriously. The Governor chose well. Thank you for being a friend.

Jeremy Moss, you are a valued and trusted partner at a time when that quality is sometimes rare to find. You’ll be taking over a pretty nice Capitol office though. No office belongs to you or me, but they belong to the people. Historically we’ll have shared an office where big ideas are born. I hope you’re not surprised though, on occasion, to find a new idea or an old idea on your desk which deserves reintroduction.

Kim LaSata, I’ll miss her. We both have a dry sense of humor, making certain that long session days were never boring. Higher education is in a better place because she was in her rightful place.

Dan Lauwers, thank you for your calm and steady hand on the big wheel of this ol’ tractor. I’ll treasure our time together both on and off the field.

Now we get to the harder part, my work family. I do have to mention a few names first who were such an integral part of Team Horn: Mo Omietanski, Elena Palombo, Dr. Cory Savino, and Josh Sefton. We sure counted on your wise counsel and couldn’t have gone as far as we did without you. Thank you all for your meticulous attention to detail. From both Jami and I, we’ll miss you.

Pattrick Yockey, Rich Miller, and Matt Blatchford—our communications team. Thank you for all your efforts. I know that you played a big role in keeping it all real. Pattrick and Rich, you’re more than just the camera you stand behind. You’re true story tellers. Our Hometown Jobs series on YouTube made our small towns feel so much bigger. While we’ll remain friends, this caucus will surely miss your talent.

Alright, now we get up in the Gallery. Mike Moon, I first met Mike when his campaign slogan caught my eye—It’s time to Moon Congress. I aced a libertarian test he gave me in a bar one night which caused him to become a Republican and run my final campaign for office. In 14 years, Mike is the first guy we hired in an all-female office. He survived that test, likely because he looks so good in a kilt.

Rachel Murdock, we took a chance on a young person to be our office manager and it paid off big time for us. Rachel is a not only a quick study but in an everybody’s-got-an-excuse kind of world Rachel owned her rare mistakes and she learned from them. People started noticing. This summer Rachel went from the premier economic development office in the Legislature to the premier economic development organization in Saginaw County—Saginaw Future. My only regret, Rachel, is that your transition happened during a time when we had no session days. You never got a proper farewell tribute, but we love you and we remain so very proud of you.

Melanie Rhine, Melanie on the other hand got a proper sendoff but I could not do a farewell speech ignoring what she meant to both Jami and me over my time in both the House and Senate. We watched our little girl grow up. We watched her get married, have children, complete her degree, and still do so much great work for the people of the 32nd Senate District, and now for the state of Michigan. Thanks Mel.

Maggie Lenard, Maggie came to us earlier this year and filled a big void. She came from Senator Zorn’s office. As we move on, Maggie will have gone from Zorn to Horn and back to Zorn again. That has to be some kind of a Lansing record—or very poetic at the very least. Maggie has great talent and my advice to Dale, hang on tight. Go to an outside printer like I did for Jami and design a business card that reads chief of staff. You won’t regret it. Believe me, Maggie is worthy. A title given to a valued team member shouldn’t be based on where they sit in the office, it should be based on their qualifications and duties.

Margie Roggelin, if there was only one word to describe Margie at work it would have to be, Incredible. My biggest successes in public office are not the things you heard about in the Senate resolution moments ago. I’m proudest of the help we gave to the people back home, those who needed it the most, whether it was a friend in a hospital bed who couldn’t get treatment coverage, a lost and lonely veteran at local office hours, or the constituent with a complicated Secretary of State issue, Margie was there. She always knew the right questions to ask and the right person to call. Margie is wise, doggedly persistent, and naturally kind. Most of the time a problem gets solved. In the cases where there is no answer, Margie has an empathetic professional way of having a constituent accept the bad news. There isn’t a dishonest bone in her body. Senator-elect Joe Bellino hit the lottery by choosing Margie.

And now we do come to the very hardest part. Jami Des Chenes, there’s a good reason why Jami is sitting in the back of the chamber and not in her usual spot. And there’s a reason I won’t be looking to the back of the chamber for a bit. It was 2006 and not unlike this year’s election, I walked unexpectedly into a fresh minority. A lot of talented people lost their jobs that cycle. I had 48 résumés on my desk to pore over. I picked out nine to interview. Veronica having worked in two congressional offices helped me in the first round. Jami was the first to walk in; she set a very high bar. It didn’t take long for me to realize, however, that Jami was actually interviewing me. She was already a legend in the Capitol. She could have her pick of the litter, gone to any office. For almost two years stakeholders would come to my office for a meeting and say, Oh? You’re the one that got Jami. Jami is a true chief of staff in every way, including building our office team. And with all due respect to each of my colleagues, if you ask outside the walls of this building, Jami built by far the best team in Lansing. To her credit Jami would always give me the last word in hiring and that word would always have to be “yes.” She encouraged me never to fall in love with Lansing, to never beat up the institution of which I’m a part of, and the 24-hour rule. Whenever I wrote an angry letter or editorial, we’d give it day. The next day she’d ask how I felt and then say, We’re not sending that right? While Jami was responsible for the everyday operations of the office, she would also take the lead on my biggest committees, immersing herself into the details. When stakeholders couldn’t get ahold of me quickly, they knew Jami was there. I would let them know very directly that no matter the issue, Jami knows as much about it as I do.

Long ago I adopted the Clint Eastwood line from Dirty Harry, “A man’s gotta know his limitations.” At my age, I certainly know mine. Here in Lansing, that’s where Jami comes in. I solve problems and I connect people. I don’t have the solution to every darn problem, but I’ll bet you a dime to a nickel I know somebody who does. I connect the two things to solve the problem and Jami makes sure that the problem stays solved. The office moves on to the next issue. I asked several people in and outside of the office to give me one word to describe Jami. The most common response was that it was cruel to ask for just one word. So we found out who the rule followers, the rule benders, and the rule breakers were. Some of the words were hyphenated, some gave multiple words, but here is the ever-growing list: stalwart, dynamic, exceptional, loyal, no-nonsense, precise, dependable, perfectionist, mentor, passionate, empowering, inspiring, team-player, thoughtful, dedicated, wholehearted, and miracle worker. To the chagrin of one arrogant out-of-state lobbyist, I’ll add one more: fierce. I can’t remember what the issue was but I was in a meeting and Jami was just outside the door screening the visitor when he said, You tell your boss to put his big pants on, do his job, and support this bill. I know the hair was going up on the back of her neck when she said, Excuse me? She proceeded to give him quite an earful, escorted him to the door, and we never saw him again.

Jami is retiring after 33 years in the Capitol. Let this serve as her farewell tribute, as well, and let it be known that Jami is not only the sum of all of the words used to describe her. Outside of my own home, Jami has grown to be my best friend and personal confidante. She is a partner in the office, not a staffer. When I lost my little Zellie, Jami was the first person standing at my front door with a couple bags of groceries, knowing we couldn’t face the public.

I don’t know what each of us are going to do post-Legislature, Jami, but whatever you decide I hope you’ll pick me again. I’ll miss you the most.

Now, I’ll talk about my faith. This brings me back to my challenge coin and back to Mike Shirkey. Some of you were present in this chamber as I read a tribute I wrote to my two-year-old Zellie five years ago. I took only three phone calls the day after she died. One of them was Mike. I couldn’t talk but I didn’t have to. He said all the words that needed to be said and prayed all the prayers that needed to be prayed. When I was ready, he gathered our freshman caucus, bringing them to my office to welcome me back to work. Together they escorted me to the floor of the Senate where I was greeted by my friends Jim Ananich, Curtis Hertel, and Mo Hood. Each of them walked up separately and gave me the biggest of bear hugs, not saying a word. They didn’t have to. Sometimes words aren’t necessary.

In my book “Letters to Heaven” I chronicle my grief and my faith journey, how it changed me as a person and as a legislator. You’ve heard me say at the beginning of each invocation that heaven is real, it’s really real. I feel that we are all connected to heaven by a spiritual umbilical cord. And if we’re all connected to heaven, then we’re all connected to each other. I’m truly convinced that God sends forth His people to act as angels for each other when we need each other the most. I am grateful that God put all of you, my colleagues, into my life’s path. Each of you in your own way have made my journey bearable.

As the senior exiting member, I know I’ve taken great liberties with your time so I thank you for indulging me this lengthy farewell. Let me leave you with this parting thought. This magnificent building represents an ideal—an ideal that has withstood the test of time like a majestic Michigan forest filled with hardwoods and pines alike. Each of us, we public servants, we’re just temporary. We are simply a breeze that occasionally tickles the leaves of the mighty oaks or a movement that casts about the aromatic scent of the pines. Some members arrive, comforting, like a warm summer breeze. Others appear as brisk as the gust of a Michigan winter. Some are as strong as a gale storm, while others are a mere whisper on the wind. But no matter how each of us present ourselves in this chamber, we are here only as long as heaven and the people allow us to be. It should remain a humbling thought.

God bless you all and God bless Michigan. In Frankenmuth we have a saying, Auf wiedersehen. It means, Until we meet again; we never say goodbye. Frankenmuth, leave the lights on. It’s time for me to come home.

Senators Shirkey and Ananich offered the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 184.

A resolution of tribute for the Honorable Wayne Schmidt.

Whereas, It is a great honor to recognize Senator Wayne Schmidt as his time in the Michigan Legislature comes to a close. Senator Schmidt has proven to be a dedicated and passionate leader for his constituents in the Thirty-seventh District which includes both the Upper and Lower Peninsula counties of Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Chippewa, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Luce, and Mackinac, as well as all of Michigan’s citizens; and

Whereas, Senator Schmidt is a lifelong resident of Traverse City where he currently resides with his wife, Kathleen, and their two sons, Ryan and Danny. He graduated from Traverse City Central High School and studied economics and public policy at the University of Chicago. Senator Schmidt is also a graduate of the Michigan Political Leadership Program at Michigan State University. Senator Schmidt has had an impressive career as a public servant. Prior to this service in the Michigan Legislature, he was elected five times to the Grand Traverse County Board of Commissioners and served terms as vice chair and chair. He served on many boards including the Grand Traverse County Economic Development Corporation, the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, the Bay Area Transit Authority, the National Cherry Festival, and the Great Lakes Community Mental Health Authority. His vast knowledge and experience led him to serve in the Michigan House of Representatives from 2009 to 2014; and

Whereas, Senator Schmidt was elected to the Michigan Senate in 2014. He earned the respect of his colleagues when they elected him to serve as Assistant Majority Leader. During his tenure, he served on the Legislative Council, as chair of the Appropriations’ subcommittees on K-12 and Michigan Department of Education and Transportation, and as vice chair on the Appropriations’ subcommittee on Labor and Economic Opportunity/MEDC. Senator Schmidt also served as chair on the Commerce Committee and as vice chair on the Economic Development and International Investment Committee. He served dutifully as a member of the committees on Agriculture, Insurance, Outdoor Recreation and Tourism, Natural Resources, Economic and Small Business Development, Energy and Technology, and the Appropriations’ subcommittees on Capital Outlay and Community Health/Human Services. Senator Schmidt had a prolific career in the Senate, as evidenced by his successful sponsorship of legislation to improve affordable housing, redevelop brownfield sites, promote responsible government spending, and protect the rights of all Michiganders. He also was an avid supporter of outdoor recreation, tourism, and the railroad industry; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That we offer this expression of tribute to commend and thank the Honorable Wayne Schmidt for his notable contributions to this legislative body and to our state; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to Senator Schmidt as a token of our gratitude and well wishes.

The question being on the adoption of the resolution,

Senator Schmidt asked and was granted unanimous consent to make a statement and moved that the statement be printed in the Journal.

Senator Lauwers moved that rule 3.204 be suspended to name the entire membership of the Senate and the Lieutenant Governor as co-sponsors of the resolution.

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

The motion prevailed.

Senator Schmidt’s statement is as follows:

It’s not usually something; many of you know I don’t get up here too often and speak. I was working—we titled this one, Waynes, Trains, and Automobiles farewell gratitude speech so I’ll just go and call it this. And I’ll end up acting like MacGregor here shortly.

It is kind of surreal standing here today, closing a 14-year chapter of my life. I came to Lansing back in 2009—for those of you who served in the minority, I’ve been there, welcome to the majority—served as a county commissioner in Grand Traverse County and after being elected to the House, I learned from constituents about how much opportunity there was to do more good for our state and I became motivated to take on more issues. Thank you for allowing me to serve you.

When I was elected in 2014 my district grew to include much more of northern Michigan and the eastern Upper Peninsula when I received the honor of representing the 37th Senate District—although some of my colleagues, and especially Jim Stamas, the Appropriations chairman, think that many times I represent the entire state based on my budget asks.

How amazing it has been to come to this historic building and advocate for northern Michigan and the U.P. As my time here comes to an end, I’ve had the opportunity to reflect on my years of service. This is where I become Pete. I wouldn’t be here without Ryan and Danny and my wife Kathleen. That’s another story. My sons motivate me every day to do good. I am proud of the young men they have become over my 14 years in office, and I am thankful they’ve allowed me the opportunity to serve. We know how serving in elected office can impact our families and I want to thank my entire family for serving as my support system and allowing me to serve. And make sure you—Mo Hood said it all the time—take care of your family, give them a hug. Yeah, paid the price. To my mom who is a retired public school teacher and my late father Tom, Mom, you motivated me to accept the K-12 Appropriations chairmanship and all the work that came with it. To my brother Matt and his wife Kate and their kids, thank you for always being there for me.

To Jason and Suzanne Allen, you are always there when I needed sage advice and guidance. Thank you to the J-Team, thank you to the crew who was part of that J-Team—I see some of them up in the Gallery—for your continued friendship and support. I wouldn’t have gotten here without you. Thank you to my family at Captain’s Quarters, Maurie, Betsy, and the entire crew. I’ve appreciated that spot where I can go, get away from here, reflect, and do a little bit of haberdashing. Thank you, Ken.

The work we do here is all about relationships. To my colleagues, every one of you have had an impact on me. Leader Mike Shirkey, thank you. Thank you for your confidence in me to chair K-12, to chair some other budgets—Transportation—and more importantly to have your confidence in me as the Assistant Majority Leader or as people more commonly refer to me as, the Ass. Leader. I do have the cocktail napkins and the little statue to show it. Thank you, Mike, I really appreciate it.

To my Senate friends, and actually I mentioned one of them who, beyond my brother, Jim Stamas. Thank you Jim, for everything. Ken Horn, Curt VanderWall, the same. We’ve stuck together on many different things and it’s not always been easy but we’ve been there together. To Pete MacGregor, thank you. Yeah, welcome back. To Democratic Leader Jim Ananich, thank you. I remember those times—you expressed it very well—those relationships, getting out across and expanding your circle and grabbing that burger and beer at Kelly’s way back then and that friendship we maintain. I appreciate all of your words and advice. Senator Hertel, the same. I’ve appreciated your calls. You were both right about the dinners with me and Pete and Curt and Ken and talking and making sure we kept things together. That is so important.

Marshall Bullock, Mr. Chairman of the cigar caucus, thank you, thank you. Any time you’re up north, you know it, Nolan’s is always open. Jeremy Moss, thank you for coming up and, again, coming to Traverse City. I look forward to coming back down to your district and looking forward to seeing what chairmanship and taking good care of Ken’s office. Stephanie Chang, I appreciate your support too and working with you. My former seatmate, Dave Knezek, I always enjoyed talking with him. I’ve appreciated all of your friendships but it’s our conversations that challenged all of us and it broadened my thinking and my ability to do good policy.

I’d also like to thank my legislative mentors—former Leader Meekhof, former Senator Hansen, and former Representative Paul Opsommer. To my House colleagues, I’ve been very fortunate. Representative John Roth is a good personal friend, I appreciate him. Representative Sara Cambensy, House mate Jack O’Malley, you’ve all been fun, working on policy issues, grabbing drinks at Steakhouse Philly, all of that. To Senator-elect John Damoose, you’re going to serve our district well. I also would like to take a moment to remember some late colleagues we have talked about. Senator Casperson who was a mentor along with Goeff Hansen, the late Representative Pete Pettalia, Representative John Kivela, these were all part of the northern Michigan caucus. Representative Morris Hood and Vince Gregory, they were good legislators, but they were great people.

In these ever-partisan times, I am leaving the Legislature with so many friends on both sides of the aisle. At the end of the day, we all came here with good intentions and a desire to serve. But disagreements do not need to be uncivil and attacks should never be personal. When we take the politics away, we really have more in common than some might think. I am glad that I’ve had the opportunity to discover these commonalities, whether through the Hayford BBQs—and I think of my good friend Doug Geiss and Senator Erika Geiss and getting to know them; that is just an example of what the Hayford was really all about. It’s just come together, wasn’t to talk politics, it was, How are your kids, How’s your family, What’s going on, What are the trips? How glamorous is it to sit in a driveway and lawn chairs eating a hamburger—what was the old adage, food for 25, beer for 50. I appreciate that. If you’ve ever been up north, Nolan’s Cigars, thank you Ben and Andy for always being gracious hosts to all my colleagues, and the good dinners at Mode’s Bum Steer. Hopefully that will continue.

To our newly-elected legislators, I challenge you look for opportunities to socialize with colleagues on the other side of the aisle with not a desire to change their mind, but with a desire to get to know them, to build a relationship and find commonalities. It’s a lot harder to dislike someone when you take the chance to know them.

Now I’d like to do a number of thank yous—as I said, this is about gratitude. I’d like to thank the team at BrightSpark; I appreciate their support. And to a crew here who wasn’t mentioned often in many of the speeches, but it’s all our friends out on the tiles, thank you. I’m saying a lot of names here and I know I’ll forget a few and I’m sorry about that but I do appreciate you. To the transportation crew, Lance, Ziggy, Ed, Jon Cool—you’ve just got to say Jon Cool—Schep, Dusty, Yutzey, thank you. Thank you to Brendan and Tim; thank you to Gavin and Brian and Griff and Matt and Chris—olé. Thank you to John, Bret, Sandi, Evie, and Johnny Mac. Thank you Frank, Tab, Stephanie, Amanda, Tom, Ben, Jean, Mike, the Breslin boys, Shelly and Krissy; and to Ron, you know there will be dinner up north.

To those who have helped make policy successful, thank you. A special thank you to the SMPO and specifically Tom, Mo, Nikki, Anne, Brittney, and Christine. On the Leader staff—again, Mike, you assembled a very good team—I just want to say thank you to Jeremy, Darin, Cole, and Danielle. To Senate Fiscal, thank you to Kathryn, Ryan, Cory, and Michael and to all the good folks at LSB. Many a late night, many a well-drafted bill which allowed me to always say, It’s a good bill.

I have been fortunate that half my time, I have had offices here in the Capitol. I’d like to thank Matt White and his staff, Chief Gary and all the sergeants for keeping us safe, and I’d like to thank all the other members in the Senate—whether the Business Office, the grounds crew, all of those folks—who make this a well-run institution and a great place to have an office. I want to say thank you to Secretary Margaret O’Brien. We were colleagues and now you and your team have done an excellent job. Thank you L.G. for running a well-run Senate too.

Now to my staff. We all know that we are only as good as our staff. Many of you know I don’t do farewell speeches when staff leave, mostly because I would be on the Senate agenda every week with a resolution of farewell. It says, Just joking but I’m not. I don’t think it’s because I was a bad boss, but hopefully that my team and going back to the days of Joe Underwood—and a good story is this. Pete Pettalia had two good staffers—Kent Wood and Matt Blakely—I’d get a good front-desk, get them trained, and then that darn Pete Pettalia would take them and they’d become a back-desker. It’s because we had a good staff, that we challenged one another, that we trained one another, that they went on to get better jobs, elevated to other offices, and the opportunity to showcase their skills, and I feel that was my best thing I could do is make sure my staff had that opportunity to get that next advancement, that better job. And while it is always sad to see staff go, I take it as one of the highest compliments as a boss, that my staff are in such demand. I would like to take about 20 minutes—not quite that long—to list off all the staff who have worked with me and moved forward legislative priorities for northern Michigan and the U.P. during my time in the House and Senate. My current chief, Danielle Sirianni; Camden Smith; my LD, Erin Hendges; Martin Johnston; Kirstie Sieloff, my former chief; Kayla Puckett, former chief; Brittney Rocha; Sir John Jones; Joe Underwood, who was with me in the House; Kent Wood, in the House; Jeff Caviston; Matt Blakley; Gabe Hisel; Triston Cole. Connie Russell, thank you for getting me here—that was a long 2014 and I wouldn’t wish that primary on any of my friends, or enemies for that matter. Mallory Fox; Molly Medinblik, former chief; Craig Puckett; Mikayla Lier; Madelin Dasen; Jake Winder; Katie Perry; and Cal Johnston. Great staff, they were the ones who helped me get where I am, who helped all of us get to where we are.

I’d like to also say thank you to staff on the other side of the aisle because I’ve always said the electeds, we’re just a bunch of yahoos. Oh yeah, brilliant ideas, but it’s staff who goes, Let’s think about that, Representative; let’s think about that, Senator. And really, How can we get that done? Whether it’s Kay, Bobby, Ellen, Connor, Mary, Patty in the Governor’s office, Shaquila, your help keeps this train moving forward. It is about the institution, don’t forget that. It’s not about just me or us, it’s about the entire institution.

With the support of my staff, we accomplished many things to be proud of. Again, thank you Senator Stamas and all my colleagues for helping close the 2x, or the gaps, for school funding and our work as a whole on the K-12 budget. I can’t think of a much more important budget—I know, it’s still slightly less than the DHHS budget, but it was a good one. All the work we did got us to where we are. An increase of funding to school-based health centers, increase on road funding, and work on brownfield, landbanks, TIF, hopefully we get EITC expanded—I appreciate the opportunity to push that envelope—and expanded 10 cents a meal.

My work with sovereign nations and spreading awareness of the Indian boarding schools history, that was tough. Also, the work we did for Indian country. Thank you, Senator Irwin.

With that, as I come to a close—I forgot one thing. I talked about all the friends on the tiles and such, but I just want to say thank you again to my wife Kathleen, Ryan and Danny, it was a tough price we paid for 14 years but we’re going to continue to move forward. To my friends, my colleagues, my staff who did an excellent job, for all these relationships—and we kept hearing that in so many speeches, it truly is about the people, it’s about the relationships and how we get things done—that makes this job possible and worth it. It has been an honor to serve northern Michigan and the U.P. here in Lansing. With that, I just want to express my final gratitude. Thank you.

Senators Shirkey and Ananich offered the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 186.

A resolution of tribute for the Honorable Jim Stamas.

Whereas, It is most appropriate that we thank Senator Jim Stamas as his tenure with the Michigan Senate comes to a close. It is a pleasure to salute Senator Stamas for his work on behalf of the people of the state of Michigan and, in particular, his constituents within the Thirty-sixth District, which includes the counties of Alcona, Alpena, Arenac, Gladwin, Iosco, Midland, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego, and Presque Isle; and

Whereas, Senator Stamas holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Northwood University and an associate’s degree in business management from Delta College. Senator Stamas honorably served his country in both the U.S. Army and the Michigan National Guard where he attained the rank of Specialist E‑4. His service to the community started in the family business, Pizza Sam’s, where he worked and eventually became general manager and owner. He also worked in real estate and as a project manager for Case Systems. Senator Stamas used his business acumen to benefit the Midland Downtown Development Authority, Midland Downtown Business Association, Midland County Planning Commission, and the Northern Michigan Alliance for Children, serving as a board member for each. Senator Stamas proudly served as Midland Township Trustee from 1997 to 2004 and on the Midland County Board of Commissioners from 2005 to 2008 before joining the Michigan House of Representatives in 2009. The respect of his caucus colleagues was evidenced when he was twice elected as Majority Floor Leader for the 96th and 97th Legislatures. Senator Stamas is a dedicated husband to his wife of over 35 years, Marsha, and a loving father to their two children, Nickolas and Jessica; and

Whereas, Since his election to the Michigan Senate in 2014, Senator Stamas has served the citizens of the Thirty-sixth District with great integrity. Senator Stamas’ work ethic and bipartisan relationships were key in his selection to chair the Senate Appropriations Committee by the Senate Majority Leader. As chair, he was responsible for appropriating an unprecedented amount of federal and state funding during the pandemic. Senator Stamas also served as chair of the Appropriations subcommittee on General Government, and the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules, and as vice chair of the Michigan Competitiveness Committee. Senator Stamas served with distinction on the following Senate committees: Economic Development and International Investment, Health Policy, Natural Resources, Oversight, and Legislative Council, and the Appropriation subcommittee on Agriculture and Rural Development. Senator Stamas tackled issues of importance to his constituents, such as education funding, infrastructure improvement, and fiscal responsibility. Moreover, he skillfully co-chaired the Joint Select Committee on the Flint Water Public Health Emergency and led state efforts to address the Midland flooding emergencies. His thoughtful yet firm leadership ensured the provision of services to impacted residents in both communities. Not widely known is Senator Stamas’ work to preserve the Michigan State Capitol. During his legislative tenure, he worked to preserve the building and to establish sustainable funding resources. He was instrumental in the funding for Heritage Hall, a premier tourist center for the Capitol; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That we offer this expression of tribute to commend and thank the Honorable Jim Stamas for his notable contributions to this legislative body; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to Senator Stamas as evidence of our gratitude and best wishes for his future endeavors.

The question being on the adoption of the resolution,

Senator Stamas asked and was granted unanimous consent to make a statement and moved that the statement be printed in the Journal.

Senator Lauwers moved that rule 3.204 be suspended to name the entire membership of the Senate and the Lieutenant Governor as co-sponsors of the resolution.

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

The motion prevailed.

Senator Stamas’ statement is as follows:

Good morning, yes I know it’s afternoon, but in this town time really does not seem to make a difference. I’m Jim Stamas, and 14 years ago I was told by my good friend, Shoaf, It’s not Representative or Senator, and when you leave this town at the end of your term, your name will still be Jim, just Jim, make sure you remember that. Thank you, Shoaf. Fourteen years ago, or in Senator Ananich’s terms—for me—5,110 days ago—that is a long time. A long time here, and it has been an honor to serve. It’s hard to believe that I’m now the old dog, and yes, I’ve gotten old while I was here.

It’s always been hard to put into words the things to say and include in this damn kind of thing, but I will start with thanking the Lord. Many of you may not believe this, but at the end of my term in the House I was considering going to the seminary to become a deacon in the Orthodox faith. The Lord was so concerned with that thought that He had Congressman Camp retire and had then-Senator Moolenaar becoming the next Congressman, opening the path for me to get here. Thank you, Lord.

To my wife and our kids, Nickolas and Jessica, thank you for everything—I don’t want to be a Wayne or a MacGoober—we had been to the parades that are three and a half hours away, we’ve missed the events, yet you all continue to love me and give me support and faith. I am so proud of each of you. Marsha, your drive to help those in the ALICE population to make a difference in our community; to helping people hold dignity, and continuing to make that difference, I am so proud. To our son Nick and his career in digital marketing and management—watching him grow up, I couldn’t get the kid to do two parades for me when he was growing up but now he ends up at the NRCC as the digital marketing director. Only the Lord works in mysterious ways. And my daughter Jessica, my stand-up comedian ready to take on the world—and she is trying—but she does it for her beliefs and I am so blessed to have her, and this family. Thank you, Lord. To my mom and dad, to mom and dad G, Tony, Nicholas, and Angela, thank you to you and your families for the years of support. I could not have done this without your support as well.

To my budget team—Shoaf, Scott, Patty, Tom, Moe, Katherine, Steve, Nicki, Christine—the long hours, the back and forth, included and not, included back, included again; the member requests, the stakeholder requests to the foundation of the budget itself—from vetoes of the first budget to losing billions of dollars during COVID in the first two months, to now sitting with $7 billion ready to be appropriated. We have had an unprecedented time and it has been my honor to work with so many to make a difference for so many families. I cannot talk about my budget team without just saying that each of you were always able to speak up—yes, even Tom—I know it’s a surprise, but each of you have changed my mind, reconvinced me, unconvinced me, but found a path to get there. We made a difference. You made a difference. Thank you.

To Directors Kolb, Massaron, and Harkins, and each of your teams—you are each so different yet you each demonstrate knowledge, passion, and true care. I am sure you would like many of your hours back that we have spent together, but I know we have helped and changed the lives of Michiganders for the better. I say thank you to each of you, and your teams as well.

To Shane and Thomas, and your teams, we have served together at a time in history that this state, country, and world has rarely ever seen and I pray does not see again for a very long time to come. Your strength, faith, and passion to make a difference has not gone unnoticed or unaccomplished. Our state, communities, and families will live with the positive things that you made happen.

To the Secretary of the Senate, Margaret, and your team, Dan, thank you. To our sergeants, of this group I think I have gotten along with much better than my first term. I truly appreciate each and every one of them in all that they do. Senate Fiscal, Legislative Service Bureau, Senate Business Office, you each make such a difference for each of us also. As we’ve heard today, we can’t make this place run without you, and you do make that difference.

To my current staff—Bryce, Ronan, Patty, Bev, Jonesy, and Cheryl—whether you worked with me for weeks, months, or years, you will forever be a member of Team Stamas. My hippie, Patty, I have been so blessed to have you join our team; even though it was a short period, you’ve truly brought peace and a perspective that was not lost. You continue to bring us back and find the ways that we had forgotten, and to look back and find a way there. Thank you, Patty. I wish you the very best in your next adventure in retirement. I don’t think you’ve had the 33 years, I think it was 23, so Jami definitely has you. Jami looks much older than you as well, I will say. Oh, she’s closer—

To Team Stamas, there are so many of you that have made it possible to accomplish so much. You each have, or are moving on to new adventures. The stories of trials, tribulations, and mostly successes are too numerous to pick out one today. You each have given me strength, knowledge, support, and pride. I cannot say thank you enough. I look forward to keeping in touch as we move forward. Once a Team Stamas member, always a Team Stamas member.

To my J-Team brothers whom we still text, have dinner, travel with, and support one another. Not many in Lansing will find the friendship that we have found. Thank you for your support, call outs, and the laughter as we continue to share our lives moving forward.

To Wayne, Kim, Curt, MacGoober—I mean MacGregor—Ken, and Margaret, you each have found a way to make this journey that much more memorable and bearable at times. I look forward to staying in touch. I will definitely plan on getting some of the molasses cookies Margaret makes for me twice a year. And yes Wayne, we know, the bill is good. To my good friends Marshall, Sylvia, Jeremy, and Rosemary on the other side of the aisle, and each of the others, your passion, your strength, your voice has not gone unheard. I truly appreciate having the conversations, watching you make a difference, and making that difference. Thank you.

In my time here I have had so many moments, from the pain of losing friends such as Vince Gregory, Mo Hood, Tom Casperson, but honestly, mostly Peter Pettalia. Peter, your family is well. We celebrate your life. But while I was here, I’ve also had this ability to have celebrations of life, of marriage, of new adventures. The thing I choose to recognize and hold is the passion we each have brought to this institution. The drive to make a difference. Our strength is the difference, along with the knowledge and beliefs we bring. The differences may not ever be known by some or even yourself, yet I have sat in meetings where decisions were made because of a statement or action each of you have taken that changed the direction in many pieces of legislation.

To my generals—General Vadnais, General Rogers, and your teams—we have seen our sons and daughters be deployed and return. Some have given their all during my time; may their memories be eternal. Your leadership and strength is unmatched. Thank you for your service. And, since Army and Navy is this week, Go Army! Beat Navy! Hooah.

There are so many others I have become close friends with and shared a glass of wine, maybe a cup of bourbon, spent some time with, or even driven them crazy on the golf course with my poor golf skills—which I hope to improve; Marsha has offered lessons. Your advice, knowledge, support, and friendship is truly appreciated.

To my constituents, and your communities—the mere 10 counties, 110 townships, 15 cities, 7 villages, 200 miles of Lake Huron, 2,300 farms, 38 school districts, 6 hospitals, and 38 parades, there is no better district I could have ever hoped to have represented. From my hometown of Midland to Gaylord, Alpena, Rogers City, Posen, Mikado, and so, so many more. I have learned and experienced the good and the bad, from floods, to tornados, to the beauty of not only the land but the individuals that make up this district. You have allowed me to make this my home for the last eight years. It has been an honor to represent you.

To my district representatives—Peter, Triston, Sue, Annette, Gary, Roger, Ken, Jason, and Mr. Speaker—thank you each for all your work in our district to make that difference as well.

Curtis and Jim, I searched for words to best describe you, which is probably why it took so long to write these remarks, but our time together in service to our state can only be called statesmanlike. Curtis, your knowledge, wit, passion, and respect of this institution is unmatched and I have confidence you will continue to protect this place as we have worked together to do. Jim, our time spent in your district and meeting with those who you have had such a strong voice for—for the time we have spent in your district, to a little restaurant a short 13-hour commute in downtown Flint, listening to your constituents. You have been such a strong voice, not only for them but for all of Michigan. You both continue to make a difference. Thank you.

I have had the privilege to serve with three Governors. My first experience as a new Representative was in Hemlock with Governor Granholm giving remarks. As she looked into the audience, she started to name those of us in the Legislature that were there. I could see it as soon as she got to me—what’s his name?—but without missing a beat she says, The Stamas brothers, and she just kept on going. Governor Snyder, your leadership and friendship is truly appreciated. The hours and events and issues were so many. Thank you sir, thank you for your leadership and thank you for your friendship. To Governor Whitmer, while our differences are many, you have always still found a way to work with me so many issues could be resolved. I wish you the very best.

To my leader and good friend, Mike Shirkey, your leadership, friendship, trust, and support has been a rock in our adventure here. Your faith in God and strength in family keeps you steadfast. I thank God for that every day. You have driven me crazy many times, along with many others in this chamber, yet you have still always found a way to stay steadfast, for each of those I’ve said. Your aim is true my friend, your aim is true. Hopefully one day you will forgive me for telling you to vote the wrong way on the first day you were in session, almost exactly 12 years ago today. Thank you, Mike.

To Shoaf, you have been my rock for the last 15 years. You have been with me through the hard times and the best times. You will always find a way to make things happen and that’s not an understatement. You are and will always be a part of me, my brother. I want to say so much more, but you would probably yell at me, so I won’t. Maybe you will even still find a way to laugh at my stupid jokes once this is done, I know, ha-ha Mr. Senator, that is funny. I wish you and your family the best and I am only a phone call away. Thank you.

May God bless each of you. It has been an honor. It’s time to take the next drive—and I’d love to get on the road and go driving. On this road, it is still to be found where I will end, but don’t worry, I’ll keep my eyes closed on that journey. May God bless you and may God bless our families and the families of Michigan.

Senators Ananich and Shirkey offered the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 188.

A resolution of tribute for the Honorable Mike Shirkey.

Whereas, It is with gratitude that we recognize Senator Mike Shirkey as his tenure with the Michigan Senate comes to a close. As Majority Leader of the Senate, he has worked tirelessly on behalf of the citizens of Michigan and, in particular, his constituents in the Sixteenth District, which includes Branch, Hillsdale, and Jackson counties; and

Whereas, Senator Shirkey was born and raised in Jackson County, Michigan; the birthplace of the Republican Party. Now residing in Liberty Township on Patriot Lane, Senator Shirkey is the proud father of three children, David, Marilyn, and Daniel, loving grandfather of 12 grandchildren, and a devoted husband of 47 years to his wife, Sue. Senator Shirkey earned a bachelor’s degree from General Motors Institute before going on to earn a master’s degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. After working for 13 years as an engineer and manager at General Motors, he founded his own engineering company, Orbitform. His experience as a business owner and his heart to serve his community and state motivated him to affect change in public policy. Senator Shirkey served on the Columbia Central School Board prior to joining the legislature and was a board chair of the Allegiance Health System. In 2010, Senator Shirkey successfully ran for and was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in a special election, where he served honorably through 2014. As a State Representative he had the unique opportunity to form and chair the Competitiveness Committee, which greatly impacted the oversight of economic issues in Michigan; and

Whereas, Senator Shirkey was first elected to the Michigan Senate in 2014, joining one of the smallest classes in the Senate, forming the Republican group of “Freshman 8”. His dedication and leadership displayed within this chamber led to him being elected to serve as the Senate Majority Leader by his Republican colleagues during his second term. Known for his focus and passion for complicated policy issues, Senator Shirkey served as chair of the Senate’s Government Operations, Health Policy, and Michigan Competitiveness committees. He also served with distinction as a member of the committees on Elections and Government Reform; Energy and Technology; and Appropriations, including its subcommittee on Health and Human Services. Senator Shirkey worked tirelessly on legislation to empower Michigan workers and citizens. During his legislative tenure, one of his most notable accomplishments was successfully leading the passage of Right to Work legislation, better known as the Freedom to Work laws. Senator Shirkey was also a champion of increasing access and improving care in the state’s mental health system, passing the Advanced Practice Nurse legislation, and was the driving force behind many health policy, energy, and economic reforms throughout his service. Most importantly, Senator Shirkey enjoyed serving others and working with his colleagues towards common goals. Known for his love of music, he could be found singing with the informal singing caucus in the Capitol Rotunda during late nights and the holidays; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That we offer this expression of tribute to commend and thank the Honorable Mike Shirkey for his notable contributions to this legislative body and to our state; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to Senator Shirkey as evidence of our appreciation and best wishes as he leaves the Michigan Senate.

The question being on the adoption of the resolution,

Senator Lauwers moved that rule 3.204 be suspended to name the entire membership of the Senate and the Lieutenant Governor as co-sponsors of the resolution.

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

Senator Shirkey asked and was granted unanimous consent to make a statement and moved that the statement be printed in the Journal.

The motion prevailed.

Senator Shirkey’s statement is as follows:

I fully recognize that I’m standing between you and us getting the rest of our work done and getting the heck out of here so I’ll do my best to force our way through this. I can describe the essence of my sharing here with you this way—I’m going to be focusing more on we than me, I’m going to be talking about the things we have experienced together, and the thanks that are deserved, I’m going to talk about that can’t happen and then I’ll share a little bit about some of the memories that are the most special, at least to me.

I thank you for your indulgence in allowing me to share some final thoughts, memories, and observations as we approach the end of this 101st Legislature. Of course, it begins with hearty and heartfelt thanks as it should, not necessarily for what has or has not been accomplished but for the relationships necessary to navigate in the roles for which we have been privileged to serve. Where to begin? Well, if you know me you know that’s a dumb question. It can only begin with Sue, so I’d like to make sure I introduce my wife Sue to this chamber one more time—Sue, please stand up, and thank you for being here with me. Please welcome my wife Sue to the chamber. You are still as stunning today as you were 51 years ago when you started flirting with me. Thank you for your patience, your wisdom, your patience, your support, your patience, your many sacrifices, and yet unwavering love that was often undeserved. Not just for these past 13 years, but the entirety of our near 48 years of marriage. Almost 40 years ago, I started an annual conversation with you, saying, You know, I’m thinking about possibly running for office. And for 25 years you had a very consistent and very concise and very quick—and the answer was, No. The 26th year, you said, Maybe. Babe, you have quietly endured every high and every low, every stress and every celebration. Your sacrifice is seldom acknowledged, yet your steadfastness ever present, and unconditional love finds its definition in you. Thank you for loving me through and sharing this experience and privilege with me.

To David and Kelly, Daniel and Mary, Marilyn and Kent, please do not think your sacrifices have been overlooked or unappreciated. You, along with the grandkids you have blessed us with—Andrew, Carter, Micah, Alysia, Tyler, Benjamin, Gracelyn, Collin, Ella, Hazel, Nora, and Ruby—have been the foundation of an enviable campaign team. Many of the grandkids started in strollers, one was still in the womb, but now they’re driving and the weddings began this year. What a team, what memories, thank you, and I love you. By the way, my daughter is joining my wife today in the Gallery and I’d like Marilyn to stand up just to say hi. I can tell you this, she is the greatest homeschooling teacher you will ever, ever meet. Thank you babe.

And then there’s Kirby. Most of you don’t know Kirby. He’s my co-grandpa and unexpected blessing from God. He’s up there in the Gallery also. We each have a dozen grandkids and we share ten of those together. One could not have a better coach, a better advisor, a better listening ear. You are a gifted counselor, Kirby, and encourager. We make a pretty darn good team, and we’re not done yet.

Now we all know that it’s dangerous to attempt to name all the people who have been critical partners in this endeavor. The list is long and the probability of forgetting someone important is exactly 100 percent. But here it goes. Hank, Hank’s not here, you were one of the very best cheerleaders and encouragers and friends anyone could ever ask for and few deserve. Part of me could blame you for the predicament I’m in, but the better part of me thanks you. And then there’s Greg, and Alisha, and Craig, and Jeremy, and Sarah, and Bill, and Molly, and Ben. You each are uniquely different and have left a uniquely precious fingerprint on me and our service together. Not always harmonious, but always for a cause greater than ourselves. Please know that my heart is indelibly marked with your words, your laughter, your loyalty, your sometimes brutal but much necessary honesty, and the love you shared with me and my family. We did good, we did good, a lot of good.

Speaker Wentworth, a worthy leader who definitely navigated some treacherous waters with grace and self-control, sometimes quiet, always humble, very strategic, occasionally boring. What a welcome relief.

The Secret Squirrels group has remained a pretty well-kept secret and a reliable, trustworthy, and invaluable resource these last four years, but being squirrels you’ve also lived up to that title by being certifiably nuts, and fun. Thank you for your investment in me and in our cause. To the Rocks, I’m not going to name you, you know who you are. You’ve had an oversize impact on what we have done and I hope you are as proud of us as I am of you—even you, MacGregor.

Then there’s Ed. Man that guy can make you sound really good when he’s playing the piano, but he’s also one of my favorite go-to people when I’m just not sure what to be sure about. Ed, you are a special gift to anyone and everyone who crosses your path and a real blessing to this chamber and to this world. What you and Sarah did, have done, is amazing.

Wayne, the joker, no no—I mean Wayne, steady-eddy Wayne. Wayne, I don’t know what we would do without you. Virtually every person serving in this chamber has a story about you. Some of them we can’t tell, but I just want you to know that you were a really important part of the Rocks group and helped us maintain levity when things needed it so.

Curt, you and I found some common things we enjoy in life—hunting being one and health policy being another. I was a little nervous turning that over to you, but you’ve made me damn proud. Good work.

Kenny, we started out like this, and then we did this, and now we’re this. You are very special to me.

Then there’s Jimmy from Flint. Talk about the theme That Can Never Happen. When Sue and I were living in Flint, had a couple of kids, still going to school working for GM, there was this little fellow, his name was Jimmy. Every now and then he’d show up in the backyard playing with the kids. Jimmy, you’ve got a lot of Mikes and Sues in your life. And my Sue visited your Sue in the hospital—your mom—and who ever would have thought that our paths would cross this many years later. I love you man.

And then there’s Curt—Curtis, excuse me. I enjoy to the core of my soul watching people who are experts at what they do and I could only in my dreams come even close to how expert you are in your role here in the Legislature. I think you’re the best legislator I’ve worked with. Doesn’t mean we agree on a lot, but I just am amazed and moved by the passion you apply to this job and how you handle yourself, and I just think the world of you.

And then there’s Jim, Big Bear Jim. Like you Kenny, age doesn’t matter. We all could use a big brother, right? And you’ve been that and more to me, pal. You’ve kept me out of more trouble than most people know. Steadfast, great listener, wise beyond your years, and we have two things we share—that is, a passion for this institution and two fantastic wives. Thank you, Marsha.

Nikki, Matt, Mo, Cole, Darin, Tom, Danielle, and Bill, a group of trusted advisors and leaders I frequently refer to as my Fun Governors. Your comfort and confidence to push back remains a key ingredient to a high-performing team and a real treasure to me. To the SMPO and the central staff, I can’t name everybody, but you laid it all on the line, you provided great work products, and your great work ethic, and we all benefited from you. Every time I go through this list of who to thank it gets longer, but I cannot forget these—Amy, who’s not here; Christin, with a CH; Heather; Kristin, with a K; Christine; and Amanda—all of you and a very long list of pastors from across the state who reliably called me every Friday morning with amazingly timed, on the mark prayers. How they knew? Well, yes, I know, how they knew what to pray about still astounds me.

Now, farewell addresses by definition deserve a healthy dose of reflection, not just about the people we have served with and for but also the circumstances that might be instructive for the future. I carry a burden and that burden is I do take life pretty serious, and also the burden is I can see things that are about to happen or are going to happen that other people sometimes can’t see. This next couple pages are going to be hard for some in this chamber, but there’s a point to it, so I just ask you to ride with me and let me get to the final point.

The irony of today being December 7 is interesting. On that day in 1941 our country and world witnessed something unexpected, unprecedented in modern times, and leaving an impact on history we are still learning from. Though none of us were alive then—except maybe Senator Zorn—we have all shared a similar experience requiring navigation without a playbook. One no one serving today has ever lived through what we are wrestling with. Let me say that again—no one serving today or before has ever dealt with what we dealt with in this chamber, in this Legislature. We lived through and are still wrestling with the surprise foreign attack of an insidious virus, one that we were not prepared for, but one that was most certainly planned. We would be negligent if we chose to ignore the lessons we have learned. We learned that leadership based on a core message of fear fogs the thinking of everybody. It leads to a false sense of being right, quickly compromises natural and healthy skepticism and curiosity, diminishes the value of honest challenge and iterative critique, and prolongs the recovery from whatever the risk or challenge may be. I’m sure glad our leaders in 1941 chose inspiration and hope, not fear, as their basis for rallying our country to conquer that threat.

We learned that even well-intentioned experts, unchallenged under an umbrella of fear, are prone to reject data that is not consistent with their expert or preferred narrative. We learned that in a world full of fear, science is elusive and unscientifically takes on a meaning of its own. We learned that unchallenged expert advice leads to bizarre, almost humorous but for the circumstances dictates. You can go fishing, but you can’t have a motor on the boat. We learned that the words “safe and effective” flow effortlessly off the tongue, hypnotic when deployed to an annoying extreme, and we now know “effective” was the first claim to be proven ridiculously false. “Safe” is now being legitimately questioned and researched with real science, and the early data is not good. We learned that leadership in public health evidently driven by fear or some other motivation completely forgot about a key part of fighting illnesses like a virus.

First, not understanding that the brain is the most important organ of healing in these miraculous bodies, and forgetting it doesn’t perform so well when inundated with fear. Second, there must have been a total brain freeze amongst our health care leaders because we have still never witnessed any honest informing, impassioned inspiring, sincere encouragement, or we trust you messaging regarding the proven science of naturally enhancing and optimizing one’s own personal immunity defenses. This remains a stunning and costly in human lives error. We learned that naturally-acquired immunity which was intentionally denigrated and severely compromised as a result of the drunken obsession with shots, shutdowns, and lockdowns has proven to be the most robust protection.

Unbelievably, we observed the unprecedented action of coercing young adults to get shots in order to attend classes at our state universities. It’s still unclear to me if these same university boards have been properly instructed about their very real liability as a result of these unscientific and unnecessary forced actions. These same bastions of learning failed to demonstrate what we most hope they train students to learn—critical thinking, challenge of assumptions, creative solutions, and leadership skills. The aggregate of these actions coupled with abusively-aggressive school closures have stolen something immeasurable of value from our younger generation—opportunity. It can be mitigated. We’re working on that, but it can never be replaced. We learned the obsession for pushing for shots especially on the lower-risk generation has led to an avalanche of adverse effects both in volume and severity, the totals of which exceed the same for all previously developed vaccines combined.

Now I can imagine what you might be thinking right now. Raising these points and questions is nothing but a parting shot or sour grapes. But stick with me, that’s not the case. If any one of us had been told just three years ago that these things were going to happen, our response would almost most certainly have been, That could never happen. No way would we lock down an entire country, interrupt and distort our Constitution, cause supply chain interruptions resulting in shortages of the most basics of life, and create unimaginable mental health crises and immeasurable education deficits, but it did happen. We experienced together, personally, painfully, with front-row seats, and every one of us to one level or another, were complicit either voluntarily, or out of ignorance, or out of fear.

What’s the point? As challenging—this is my vision of the future, but I think it’s right here. As challenging as COVID seemed, it’s becoming glaringly apparent that COVID was just the beginning of forces that will test the very fabric of our freedoms, independence, our sovereignty, our values, and even our God-given rights. Regardless of where one stands on the political spectrum, we must all recognize we are in a spiritual battle, where our values and aspirations, our economic independence, our speech, our energy, our religion, our health, and our unique American governance are all under attack. We are witnessing 2 Timothy 3 before our very eyes. COVID was a test. These next challenges will be much more than a test.

When humans combine control and reason without wisdom, they can easily become godlike in their own minds, and when they attempt to apply their worldly reason to the quest of, How can we make this world better, their cause is often translated into the worship of what I call little-G gods. These are the next threats that will make COVID an elementary memory. Little-G gods like ESG, climate change, gun control, child sacrifice, trans-whatever-we-can-concoct, central bank digital currencies, artificial intelligence, agricultural demonization, critical race theory, and the list goes on. The intent behind these little-G gods is to achieve one world governance, one world religion, one world health care, one world currency, one world control, and the elimination of sovereignty.

The most public and alarmingly transparent organization driving these efforts is the World Economic Forum. It is to our peril for any of us to ignore their agenda, their successes advancing their agenda, and their near-infinite reach into our lives, into our systems, into our media, into our messaging, and unfortunately, into our governments. Coincidentally, we have amongst us somebody who is intimately involved in the Senate and a celebrated emerging leader, trained in the mission and objectives of the World Economic Forum. If you haven’t done so yet, allow me to exhort to you at the very least to study the public representations of the WEF. They are boldly and scarily transparent in their mission and their objectives. While you’re researching the World Economic Forum, prepare to discover a long list of powerful multinational corporations who have willingly and publicly signed on to their mission. You’ll recognize them very easily.

Now the temptation to roll one’s eyes and conclude that these are ridiculous claims and concerns—and allow me to say it for you, conspiracies, that can never happen—we lived through, That can never happen, is dismissive to what is happening before our very eyes and blind to the lessons we have learned in the last three years. Our job—or more correctly, your job for those returning and leading—is to be alert, diligent, courageous, and bold in recognizing these threats despite how unpleasant or unpopular it may be. Be on notice. The organized corporate media opposition will be brutal to anyone who chooses to challenge these real affronts, and for these reasons I pray for the next leaders of Michigan, in particular the Michigan Senate.

For Senator Brinks, I’m going to break protocol here, for you Winnie, I pray you find yourself surrounded by people who will not only support you but also challenge you. I pray you will give them latitude to help you see what is happening in the world and the state around us, that they will pray for you and put frankness and honesty above loyalty, that they will help you assess the implications of actions being contemplated and routinely ask, What does good look like, before we take any actions. For you Senator Nesbitt—again, breaking protocol—I pray similarly for you, Aric. Additionally, I pray you will develop an open dialogue with Senator Brinks, that you will establish a trust where honest input does not negate the value of private conversations and exploration of the art of the possible. That you both engage in frank conversations around the question of, What is the problem we’re really trying to solve? And for both of you, I pray you develop a healthy respect for your differences while holding fast to your core values.

The threats you will face in the next four years are real and more dangerous than what we’ve endured these last three years. Be particularly sensitive to protecting individual and state’s rights from being stolen or hijacked by anything related to central planning. Central bank digital currencies—CBDCs—and uncontrolled application of artificial intelligence are in my mind two of the most immediate and dangerous threats. These threats will be advancing faster than anyone can imagine. If there’s a silver lining, and I believe there is because I believe you always find what you’re looking for, the danger these threats represent may result in a diminishing of political differences. Let me say that again. The silver lining is that the danger these threats represent may result in a diminishing of political differences. Not elimination of differences, but a rationalization, prioritization, of what are truly real important differences. And if this happens, and there’s a chance, that with this leadership team, Michigan can face these threats with confidence, together. These threats are serious and imminent, and please allow me to encourage you to apply your own critical thinking. This is a spiritual battle we are in and few of us are prepared to engage, let alone have the skills to discern real from imagined. It takes effort, a willingness to learn and test our own prejudices and opinions, and a whole lot of courage. I know that’s heavy, real heavy.

So let me pivot now. From serious to personal, these last 13 years have produced some fond and lifelong memories. Here’s just a few. When we moved into the Binsfeld Office Building, the first day I was there, you know, I had to go to the restroom. Went to the restroom, came back, and I’m thinking, boy, that was awful warm in that restroom. Next day, nature calls, I did the same thing. Man, why’s it so warm in here? The third time I did it, I figured it out. It was the toilet that was warm, and so, I put my hand in it, and it was hot water. So I went back to the office and said, Please get a hold of the maintenance staff around here and ask them why the taxpayers are paying for hot water in our toilets. They said, How did you know? I said, I put my hand in it.

Some of the best memories here are singing Christmas carols in the rotunda with you, Ed. You make me sound pretty good but there’s nobody that makes me sound as good as standing next to Earl Poleski. I miss that guy.

This year is the tenth anniversary of labor freedom, where unions are as free to make their case as workers are to make their choice. I remember back ten years ago when that was being moved and I believe I was the only elected official in either chamber who would go to union halls and debate union leaders and their leadership one-on-one. I felt safe most of the time, but the one most unique experience was when I went to Lapeer and there were about 400 good-looking fellows waiting for me there lining the sidewalk. I got inside and I was told there would be some support there for me. Representative Kurtz and then-Representative Daley found their way to me and made sure I saw them. Now, this was a cavernous building and there were over 400 union members in there doing this and everything else. We did have a good debate, but when I got to my point of standing on the stage and making our case—making my case—I looked out to find Kenny and Kevin. I think I saw them in the very furthest corner of this cavernous room, so I could not say I wasn’t supported but you weren’t exactly close by, I’ll just put it that way.

As a freshman Representative, I was called by the then-Majority Leader Randy Richardville. Now picture this for a minute. As a freshman Representative, I was called by the Majority Leader to join him in the esteemed Senate caucus room and to help him sell a very difficult and controversial policy. That was when we made the decision to expand Medicaid in Michigan. I still have open sores that haven’t quite healed on that, still called names for it. I don’t often get intimidated but I have to tell you, that day in that room in front of that group on that topic as a freshman, that was a very memorable moment of intimidation, but we succeeded.

I also would be welcome and often did this in the office to train anybody who would listen, the refined secrets of properly preparing Chicken in a Biskit and canned cheese. These are my stress arrestors. There’s a very specific way in which you have to lay out the crackers and apply the cheese, and then you have to eat them in a certain order. I’ve had many a rolling eye on that.

Early in my—actually day 1, my freshman year in the House—I employed a sand timer and I would ask the lobbyist when they came into the office, How much time do you need? Five minutes or fifteen? They would generally choose fifteen so I’d turn the timer over, and after about the third lobbyist I kicked out because the timer had run out, my staff tapped me on the shoulder and said, I don’t think this is a good idea. I still have lots of timers but I don’t use them anymore.

And then there’s the Rolex joke by Kenny Yonker. I can’t repeat it, and nobody could ever describe how hard that caucus laughed when he told that joke. A memory that will stick with me forever.

Another occasion in the not-too-distant past was navigating two international airports with a very intimate posse of friendly media folks singing “The Old Rugged Cross” so as to avoid what I really wanted to do with these media folks. Then, having more than one ask me, What is it you were singing? When I told them, they said, Never heard of that before.

Of course, the memory of spending 90 minutes in the Oval Office with six other colleagues, there’s the very finely crafted wooden box that sits at the left hand of the President with a bright red button on top of it. You know, clearly it was sitting there strategically and purposely, clearly for something very special. After about 20 minutes we found out what that special thing is because the President reached over and pressed that red button and within 15 seconds in comes a young man with a platter and a Diet Coke. He goes over, hands it to the President, and on his way out he goes, Oh, Mr. President. The President goes, Wait a minute, where are my manners? Bring everybody here a Diet Coke. Before I could catch his attention, he was gone and 30 seconds later he came back with seven Diet Cokes and as he walked down the chair line he came to me. I said, Excuse me, I don’t like Diet Coke, can you bring me a regular Coke? He was speechless for a moment and I think the President got a kick out of that as well.

One of the most interesting parts of that visit was when President Trump put Rudy Giuliani on a conference call. You guys and gals all remember the intensity of that time. It was really intense sitting in the Oval Office. Rudy got on the phone and began to filibuster. I don’t try to be disrespectful but every now and then it just comes out. He just kept talking and I said, Rudy. He just keeps talking, I said, Rudy! My third very loud Rudy, he stopped. I said, Rudy, when are you going to file a lawsuit in Michigan? Because if he’s not going to do that, he’s just talking crap. He paused about ten seconds and then started talking and never missed a beat from that point in time. In other words, he never answered the question. I doubt that anybody has acted that direct in the Oval Office that’s not part of the staff.

I always looked forward to the Tootsie Pop fairy stopping by to drop off one of my favorite Tootsie Pops. Another memory is Peggy’s special delivery of no-bake cookies while the rest of you suffered with her delicious sugar and molasses cookies. Oh you don’t know who Peggy is? Peggy is the Secretary of the Senate, the best and proudest appointment I’ve been able to make in these four years.

I could go on, but I’ll save some of these better ones for the next time we get together, and by then the stories, they’ll even get better. Many of us hope to leave office as the same person we were when we entered. I’m afraid to tell you I failed in that regard. By the end of this term, I will not be the same. I’ll be 15 pounds lighter and outfitted with two brand new knees. But seriously, it would be a shame for any of us to leave our service and not be changed; changed by having greater sensitivity to the voices of others, changed by learning to listen more than speak, changed by understanding the power of asking open-ended questions, changed by the richness of having met and established relationships with people whose paths we otherwise would never have crossed. And hopefully, changed by relearning a lesson we all learned in our early teenage years—just because you can doesn’t mean you should, and just because it might feel good doesn’t mean it is good. I think that should be the fundamental guiding principle for all lawmakers.

Sue, it’s time for you and me to close out this chapter and pursue our next, together, just us, can’t wait. Colleagues, it’s been a life’s privilege serving with and for you. May God continue to bless you and everything and everyone you touch.

Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 23.

A concurrent resolution to request the Joint Committee on the Library of Congress approve the replacement of Michigan’s statue of Lewis Cass with a statue of Coleman A. Young as part of the National Statuary Hall Collection and to take other actions related to this request.

(For text of resolution, see Senate Journal No. 8, p. 81.)

The House of Representatives has adopted the concurrent resolution.

The concurrent resolution was referred to the Secretary for record.

Recess

Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate recess subject to the call of the Chair.

The motion prevailed, the time being 5:35 p.m.

5:47 p.m.

The Senate was called to order by the President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist.

By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of

Motions and Communications

Senator Lauwers moved that the rules be suspended and that the following bill, now on Committee Reports, be placed on the General Orders calendar for consideration today:

House Bill No. 4762

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

Senator Chang moved that Senator Alexander be excused from the balance of today’s session.

The motion prevailed.

The following communications were received:

Department of State

Administrative Rules

Notices of Filing

March 16, 2022

In accordance with the requirements of Section 46 of Act No. 306 of the Public Acts of 1969, being MCL 24.246, and paragraph 16 of Executive Order 1995-6, this is to advise you that the Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules filed Administrative Rule #2021-074-LR (Secretary of State Filing #22‑03-15) on this date at 2:48 p.m. for the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs entitled, “Public Health Code – General Rules.”

These rules take effect immediately upon filing with the Secretary of State unless adopted under section 33, 44, or 45a(9) of the administrative procedures act of 1969, 1969 PA 306, MCL 24.233, 24.244, or 24.245a. Rules adopted under these sections become effective 7 days after filing with the Secretary of State.

March 17, 2022

In accordance with the requirements of Section 46 of Act No. 306 of the Public Acts of 1969, being MCL 24.246, and paragraph 16 of Executive Order 1995-6, this is to advise you that the Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules filed Administrative Rule #2021-082-LE (Secretary of State Filing #22‑03-16) on this date at 1:17 p.m. for the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity entitled, “Historic Preservation Certificate.”

March 17, 2022

In accordance with the requirements of Section 46 of Act No. 306 of the Public Acts of 1969, being MCL 24.246, and paragraph 16 of Executive Order 1995-6, this is to advise you that the Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules filed Administrative Rule #2021-020-LR (Secretary of State Filing #22‑03-17) on this date at 3:11 p.m. for the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs entitled, “Professional Engineers – General Rules.”

April 25, 2022

In accordance with the requirements of Section 46 of Act No. 306 of the Public Acts of 1969, being MCL 24.246, and paragraph 16 of Executive Order 1995-6, this is to advise you that the Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules filed Administrative Rule #2021-053-LR (Secretary of State Filing #22‑04-01) on this date at 1:30 p.m. for the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs entitled, “Social Work – General Rules.”

Sincerely,

Jocelyn Benson

Secretary of State

Sue Sayer, Departmental Supervisor

Office of the Great Seal

The communications were referred to the Secretary for record.

By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of

Messages from the House

Senate Bill No. 971, entitled

A bill to provide for a military veterans cemetery; to create the veterans cemetery fund; to authorize the purchase of land; and to provide for the powers and duties of certain state governmental officers and entities.

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.

Senate Bill No. 1111, entitled

A bill to amend 2019 PA 152, entitled “Lawful internet gaming act,” by amending section 16 (MCL 432.316).

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 Senate agreed to the full title.

The bill was referred to the Secretary for enrollment, printing and presentation to the Governor.

Senate Bill No. 1112, entitled

A bill to amend 1972 PA 382, entitled “Traxler-McCauley-Law-Bowman bingo act,” by amending section 8 (MCL 432.108), as amended by 2019 PA 159.

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 Senate agreed to the full title.

The bill was referred to the Secretary for enrollment, printing and presentation to the Governor.

Senate Bill No. 1133, entitled

A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled “Revised judicature act of 1961,” by amending section 2567a (MCL 600.2567a), as amended by 2006 PA 662.

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.

Senate Bill No. 1203, entitled

The bill was referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor.

A bill to amend 2016 PA 345, entitled “Limousine, taxicab, and transportation network company act,” by amending section 4 (MCL 257.2104), as amended by 2019 PA 72.

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.

Senate Bill No. 831, entitled

The bill was referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor.

A bill to make appropriations for the legislature, the executive, the department of attorney general, the department of state, the department of treasury, the department of technology, management, and budget, the department of civil rights, and certain other state purposes for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2023; to provide for the expenditure of the appropriations; to provide for the disposition of fees and other income received by the state agencies; and to declare the effect of this act.

The House of Representatives has appointed Representative Whiteford to replace Representative VanWoerkom as conferee and appointed Representative VanWoerkom to replace Representative Albert as conferee.

The message was referred to the Secretary for record.

Senate Bill No. 1208, entitled

A bill to amend 1994 PA 295, entitled “Sex offenders registration act,” by amending section 5a (MCL 28.725a), as amended by 2020 PA 295.

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.

By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of

The bill was referred to the Secretary for enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor.

General Orders

Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate resolve itself into the Committee of the Whole for consideration of the General Orders calendar.

The motion prevailed, and the President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist, designated Senator McBroom as Chairperson.

After some time spent therein, the Committee arose; and the President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist, having resumed the Chair, the Committee reported back to the Senate, favorably and without amendment, the following bills:

House Bill No. 6129, entitled

A bill to amend 2020 PA 84, entitled “Michigan reconnect grant act,” by amending sections 1, 3, and 5 (MCL 390.1701, 390.1703, and 390.1705) and by adding section 5a.

House Bill No. 6130, entitled

House Bill No. 5777, entitled

A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled “The revised school code,” (MCL 380.1 to 380.1852) by adding section 1705.

House Bill No. 6042, entitled

A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled “The revised school code,” by amending section 1308 (MCL 380.1308), as amended by 2016 PA 363.

House Bill No. 4379, entitled

A bill to amend 1995 PA 24, entitled “Michigan economic growth authority act,” by amending section 3 (MCL 207.803), as amended by 2010 PA 272.

House Bill No. 6297, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” by amending section 1301 (MCL 500.1301), as amended by 2020 PA 16.

House Bill No. 6298, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” by amending section 1326 (MCL 500.1326).

House Bill No. 6299, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” by amending section 1325a (MCL 500.1325a), as added by 2015 PA 244.

House Bill No. 6300, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” by amending section 1355 (MCL 500.1355), as amended by 2015 PA 244.

House Bill No. 6301, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” (MCL 500.100 to 500.8302) by adding section 1325b.

House Bill No. 6302, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” (MCL 500.100 to 500.8302) by adding section 1325c.

House Bill No. 6303, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” (MCL 500.100 to 500.8302) by adding section 1341a.

House Bill No. 4188, entitled

A bill to amend 1980 PA 300, entitled “The public school employees retirement act of 1979,” by amending section 127 (MCL 38.1427), as amended by 2017 PA 92.

House Bill No. 5489, entitled

A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” (MCL 333.1101 to 333.25211) by adding section 16190.

House Bill No. 6261, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” by amending section 2080 (MCL 500.2080), as amended by 2008 PA 513.

House Bill No. 5538, entitled

House Bill No. 4184, entitled

A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled “Revised judicature act of 1961,” by amending section 8512 (MCL 600.8512), as amended by 2014 PA 384.

House Bill No. 6370, entitled

House Bill No. 4457, entitled

House Bill No. 4458, entitled

House Bill No. 4459, entitled

House Bill No. 4460, entitled

A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled “Natural resources and environmental protection act,” (MCL 324.101 to 324.90106) by adding subpart 10 to part 115.

The bills were placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.

The Committee of the Whole reported back to the Senate, favorably and with a substitute therefor, the following bill:

House Bill No. 4378, entitled

A bill to amend 1893 PA 206, entitled “The general property tax act,” by amending sections 27 and 34d (MCL 211.27 and 211.34d), section 27 as amended by 2019 PA 116 and section 34d as amended by 2019 PA 117.

Substitute (S-3).

The Senate agreed to the substitute recommended by the Committee of the Whole, and the bill as substituted was placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.

The Committee of the Whole reported back to the Senate, favorably and with a substitute therefor, the following bill:

House Bill No. 4733, entitled

A bill to amend 1943 PA 240, entitled “State employees’ retirement act,” by amending section 58 (MCL 38.58), as added by 1996 PA 487.

Substitute (S-2).

The Senate agreed to the substitute recommended by the Committee of the Whole, and the bill as substituted was placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.

The Committee of the Whole reported back to the Senate, favorably and with a substitute therefor, the following bill:

House Bill No. 5488, entitled

A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” by amending section 18201 (MCL 333.18201) and by adding section 18211a.

Substitute (S-1).

The Senate agreed to the substitute recommended by the Committee of the Whole, and the bill as substituted was placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.

The Committee of the Whole reported back to the Senate, favorably and with a substitute therefor, the following bill:

House Bill No. 4416, entitled

A bill to prohibit the recording of deeds or other instruments relating to real property that contain certain restrictive covenants or conditions; to make such restrictions unenforceable; and to provide remedies with respect to those instruments.

Substitute (S-2).

The Senate agreed to the substitute recommended by the Committee of the Whole, and the bill as substituted was placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.

The Committee of the Whole reported back to the Senate, favorably and with a substitute therefor, the following bill:

House Bill No. 4454, entitled

Substitute (S-2).

The Senate agreed to the substitute recommended by the Committee of the Whole, and the bill as substituted was placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.

The Committee of the Whole reported back to the Senate, favorably and with a substitute therefor, the following bill:

House Bill No. 4455, entitled

Substitute (S-3).

The Senate agreed to the substitute recommended by the Committee of the Whole, and the bill as substituted was placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.

The Committee of the Whole reported back to the Senate, favorably and with a substitute therefor, the following bill:

House Bill No. 4456, entitled

Substitute (S-1).

The Senate agreed to the substitute recommended by the Committee of the Whole, and the bill as substituted was placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.

The Committee of the Whole reported back to the Senate, favorably and with amendments, the following bill:

House Bill No. 4461, entitled

A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled “Natural resources and environmental protection act,” (MCL 324.101 to 324.90106) by adding subpart 11 to part 115.

The following are the amendments recommended by the Committee of the Whole:

1. Amend page 2, line 26, after “counties.” by striking out the balance of the subsection.

2. Amend page 16, line 18, after “ordinances” by striking out the balance of the subdivision and inserting a comma and “to the extent that the ordinances regulate noise, litter, odor, dust, and other site nuisances at a materials management facility, in addition to landscaping, screening, other ancillary construction details, and hours of operation at a materials utilization facility; do not regulate the development or other operational aspects of a materials management facility or the location of a disposal area; and are not more stringent than the requirements of part 115.”.

3. Amend page 24, line 9, after “municipality,” by striking out “all” and inserting “both”.

4. Amend page 24, line 13, by striking out all of subdivision (b) and relettering the remaining subdivisions.

5. Amend page 24, line 21, by striking out all of subdivision (d).

6. Amend page 27, line 19, after “statute” by striking out the balance of the line through “county.” on line 23 and inserting “is not enforceable if any of the following apply:

(a) It conflicts with part 115.

(b) It prohibits or regulates the location or development of a materials management facility and is not part of or not consistent with the materials management plan for the county.” and relettering the remaining subdivision.

The Senate agreed to the amendments recommended by the Committee of the Whole, and the bill as amended was placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.

By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of

Motions and Communications

Senator Lauwers moved that the rules be suspended and that the following bills, now on Third Reading of Bills, be placed on their immediate passage:

House Bill No. 4454

House Bill No. 4455

House Bill No. 4456

House Bill No. 4457

House Bill No. 4458

House Bill No. 4459

House Bill No. 4460

House Bill No. 4461

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of

Third Reading of Bills

Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate proceed to consideration of the following bills:

House Bill No. 4454

House Bill No. 4455

House Bill No. 4456

House Bill No. 4457

House Bill No. 4458

House Bill No. 4459

House Bill No. 4460

House Bill No. 4461

The motion prevailed.

House Bill No. 4454, entitled

Senator Bayer offered the following substitute:

Substitute (S-3).

The question being on the adoption of the substitute,

Recess

Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate recess subject to the call of the Chair.

The motion prevailed, the time being 6:52 p.m.

7:21 p.m.

The Senate was called to order by the President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist.

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.

The substitute was not adopted, a majority of the members serving not voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 515 Yeas—14

Ananich Chang Irwin Moss

Bayer Geiss McCann Polehanki

Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno

Bullock Hollier

Nays—18

Barrett Johnson Runestad Theis

Bumstead Lauwers Schmidt VanderWall

Daley McBroom Shirkey Wozniak

Horn Nesbitt Stamas Zorn

Huizenga Outman

Excused—6

Alexander LaSata Santana Victory

Bizon MacDonald

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 516 Yeas—22

Ananich Horn Nesbitt Stamas

Brinks Huizenga Outman VanderWall

Bullock Lauwers Polehanki Wojno

Daley McBroom Schmidt Wozniak

Hertel McCann Shirkey Zorn

Hollier Moss

Nays—10

Barrett Chang Johnson Runestad

Bayer Geiss McMorrow Theis

Bumstead Irwin

Excused—6

Alexander LaSata Santana Victory

Bizon MacDonald

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

“An act to protect the environment and natural resources of the state; to codify, revise, consolidate, and classify laws relating to the environment and natural resources of the state; to regulate the discharge of certain substances into the environment; to regulate the use of certain lands, waters, and other natural resources of the state; to protect the people’s right to hunt and fish; to prescribe the powers and duties of certain state and local agencies and officials; to provide for certain charges, fees, assessments, and donations; to provide certain appropriations; to prescribe penalties and provide remedies; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,”

The Senate agreed to the full title.

Senators Bayer and Irwin asked and were granted unanimous consent to make statements and moved that the statements be printed in the Journal.

The motion prevailed.

Senator Bayer’s statement is as follows:

I have to say, I was really excited to see the solid waste management bills come up. These bills really do show how the Michigan Legislature can do incredible work, no matter how long it takes sometimes. What an amazing accomplishment for all of the legislators, the staff, the stakeholders from outside, everyone who worked on this bill for all those years, thank you.

Today’s substitutions however take us away from our mission to serve the communities and people of Michigan. My substitute returns the solid waste bills back to their original state from this morning as supported by the House of Representatives, the business community, and environmental stakeholders. It removes the terms “chemical recycling,” “chemical recycling facility,” “hydrogenation,” and the changes to the term “gasification.” It removes the just-added ability for a manufacturer to burn plastic to create a feedstock for manufactured products, allowing them to avoid proper environmental controls and oversight required for solid waste management, required for the safety of our people and the communities. It returns the bills to their intent—to finding the safe management of solid waste, and it returns this package of bills to where we are serving our communities and our constituents.

Senator Irwin’s statement is as follows:

I’d like to request to speak to the whole package at once so you don’t have to hear me multiple times.

I rise to oppose this legislation because this legislation is burning hot garbage. Now that’s not just said to insult the work product here that’s in front of us and that has been substituted so hastily to take what was once a good bill to promote recycling and twist it into burning hot garbage, but that’s what we have here today. What we’re talking about is redefining burning hot garbage as chemical recycling as part of a greenwashing campaign and it defines these processes as including pyrolysis and gasification. What is that? It’s burning hot garbage. If you look at House Bill No. 4455, the next bill in this package, it literally defines pyrolysis as burning hot garbage. It’s a manufacturing process in which polymers are heated in the absence of oxygen until melted and thermally decomposed. What wonderful sanitized language for us to consider today about the process of burning hot garbage. I would just ask you before you vote on this legislation, to think about the people downwind from that burning hot garbage. What is it they’re going to have to breathe? Think about the people who live in that neighborhood near that burning hot garbage and then ask yourself if you really want to continue to support this burning hot garbage.

House Bill No. 4455, entitled

Senator Bayer offered the following substitute:

Substitute (S-2).

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.

The substitute was not adopted, a majority of the members serving not voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 517 Yeas—14

Ananich Chang Irwin Moss

Bayer Geiss McCann Polehanki

Brinks Hertel McMorrow Wojno

Bullock Hollier

Nays—18

Barrett Johnson Runestad Theis

Bumstead Lauwers Schmidt VanderWall

Daley McBroom Shirkey Wozniak

Horn Nesbitt Stamas Zorn

Huizenga Outman

Excused—6

Alexander LaSata Santana Victory

Bizon MacDonald

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 518 Yeas—22

Ananich Horn Nesbitt Stamas

Brinks Huizenga Outman VanderWall

Bullock Lauwers Polehanki Wojno

Daley McBroom Schmidt Wozniak

Hertel McCann Shirkey Zorn

Hollier Moss

Nays—10

Barrett Chang Johnson Runestad

Bayer Geiss McMorrow Theis

Bumstead Irwin

Excused—6

Alexander LaSata Santana Victory

Bizon MacDonald

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

Senator Bayer asked and was granted unanimous consent to make a statement and moved that a statement be printed in the Journal.

The motion prevailed.

Senator Bayer’s statement is as follows:

I just want to remind everyone this substitute again returns us back to the intent of the original bill this morning, just like the last one did. I appreciate your vote on this, by the way, for the people and the communities’ safety in our state.

House Bill No. 4456, entitled

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 519 Yeas—27

Ananich Geiss McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hertel McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Hollier Moss VanderWall

Bullock Horn Nesbitt Wojno

Bumstead Huizenga Outman Wozniak

Chang Lauwers Polehanki Zorn

Daley McBroom Schmidt

Nays—5

Barrett Johnson Runestad Theis

Irwin

Excused—6

Alexander LaSata Santana Victory

Bizon MacDonald

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 4457, entitled

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 520 Yeas—28

Ananich Geiss McBroom Schmidt

Bayer Hertel McCann Shirkey

Brinks Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Bullock Horn Moss VanderWall

Bumstead Huizenga Nesbitt Wojno

Chang Irwin Outman Wozniak

Daley Lauwers Polehanki Zorn

Nays—4

Barrett Johnson Runestad Theis

Excused—6

Alexander LaSata Santana Victory

Bizon MacDonald

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 4458, entitled

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 521 Yeas—27

Ananich Geiss McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hertel McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Hollier Moss VanderWall

Bullock Horn Nesbitt Wojno

Bumstead Huizenga Outman Wozniak

Chang Lauwers Polehanki Zorn

Daley McBroom Schmidt

Nays—5

Barrett Johnson Runestad Theis

Irwin

Excused—6

Alexander LaSata Santana Victory

Bizon MacDonald

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 4459, entitled

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 522 Yeas—27

Ananich Geiss McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hertel McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Hollier Moss VanderWall

Bullock Horn Nesbitt Wojno

Bumstead Huizenga Outman Wozniak

Chang Lauwers Polehanki Zorn

Daley McBroom Schmidt

Nays—5

Barrett Johnson Runestad Theis

Irwin

Excused—6

Alexander LaSata Santana Victory

Bizon MacDonald

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 4460, entitled

A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled “Natural resources and environmental protection act,” (MCL 324.101 to 324.90106) by adding subpart 10 to part 115.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 523 Yeas—26

Ananich Hertel McMorrow Shirkey

Bayer Hollier Moss Stamas

Brinks Horn Nesbitt VanderWall

Bullock Huizenga Outman Wojno

Chang Lauwers Polehanki Wozniak

Daley McBroom Schmidt Zorn

Geiss McCann

Nays—6

Barrett Irwin Runestad Theis

Bumstead Johnson

Excused—6

Alexander LaSata Santana Victory

Bizon MacDonald

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 4461, entitled

A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled “Natural resources and environmental protection act,” (MCL 324.101 to 324.90106) by adding subpart 11 to part 115.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 524 Yeas—26

Ananich Hertel McMorrow Shirkey

Bayer Hollier Moss Stamas

Brinks Horn Nesbitt VanderWall

Bullock Huizenga Outman Wojno

Chang Lauwers Polehanki Wozniak

Daley McBroom Schmidt Zorn

Geiss McCann

Nays—6

Barrett Irwin Runestad Theis

Bumstead Johnson

Excused—6

Alexander LaSata Santana Victory

Bizon MacDonald

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

Recess

Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate recess subject to the call of the Chair.

The motion prevailed, the time being 7:40 p.m.

8:37 p.m.

The Senate was called to order by the President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist.

By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of

Motions and Communications

Senator Lauwers moved that the rules be suspended and that the following bills, now on Third Reading of Bills, be placed on their immediate passage:

House Bill No. 6129

House Bill No. 6130

House Bill No. 5777

House Bill No. 6042

House Bill No. 4378

House Bill No. 4379

House Bill No. 6297

House Bill No. 6298

House Bill No. 6299

House Bill No. 6300

House Bill No. 6301

House Bill No. 6302

House Bill No. 6303

House Bill No. 4733

House Bill No. 4188

House Bill No. 5488

House Bill No. 5489

House Bill No. 6261

House Bill No. 4416

House Bill No. 4184

House Bill No. 6370

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of

Third Reading of Bills

Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate proceed to consideration of the following bills:

House Bill No. 6370

House Bill No. 6129

House Bill No. 6130

House Bill No. 5777

House Bill No. 6042

House Bill No. 4378

House Bill No. 4379

House Bill No. 6297

House Bill No. 6298

House Bill No. 6299

House Bill No. 6300

House Bill No. 6301

House Bill No. 6302

House Bill No. 6303

House Bill No. 4733

House Bill No. 4188

House Bill No. 5488

House Bill No. 5489

House Bill No. 6261

House Bill No. 4416

House Bill No. 4184

The motion prevailed.

House Bill No. 6370, entitled

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 525 Yeas—30

Barrett Hertel McCann Schmidt

Bayer Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Horn Moss Theis

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Irwin Outman Wojno

Chang Johnson Polehanki Wozniak

Daley Lauwers Runestad Zorn

Geiss McBroom

Nays—0

Excused—6

Alexander LaSata Santana Victory

Bizon MacDonald

Not Voting—2

Ananich Shirkey

In The Chair: President

The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.

House Bill No. 6129, entitled

A bill to amend 2020 PA 84, entitled “Michigan reconnect grant act,” by amending sections 1, 3, and 5 (MCL 390.1701, 390.1703, and 390.1705) and by adding section 5a.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 526 Yeas—22

Barrett Horn Moss Shirkey

Brinks Huizenga Nesbitt Stamas

Bumstead Lauwers Outman VanderWall

Daley McBroom Polehanki Wozniak

Hertel McCann Schmidt Zorn

Hollier McMorrow

Nays—8

Bullock Geiss Johnson Theis

Chang Irwin Runestad Wojno

Excused—6

Alexander LaSata Santana Victory

Bizon MacDonald

Not Voting—2

Ananich Bayer

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

“An act to establish certain financial aid programs for certain residents of this state seeking associate degrees or industry-recognized certificates or credentials from certain educational and jobs training programs; to provide for the administration of the financial aid programs; and to prescribe certain powers and duties of certain state officers, agencies, and departments,”

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 6130, entitled

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 527 Yeas—24

Barrett Hollier McMorrow Shirkey

Brinks Horn Moss Stamas

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Lauwers Outman Wojno

Daley McBroom Polehanki Wozniak

Hertel McCann Schmidt Zorn

Nays—7

Bayer Geiss Johnson Theis

Chang Irwin Runestad

Excused—6

Alexander LaSata Santana Victory

Bizon MacDonald

Not Voting—1

Ananich

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 5777, entitled

A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled “The revised school code,” (MCL 380.1 to 380.1852) by adding section 1705.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 528 Yeas—29

Barrett Hertel McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Horn Moss Theis

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Johnson Outman Wojno

Chang Lauwers Polehanki Wozniak

Daley McBroom Schmidt Zorn

Geiss

Nays—2

Irwin Runestad

Excused—6

Alexander LaSata Santana Victory

Bizon MacDonald

Not Voting—1

Ananich

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

“An act to provide a system of public instruction and elementary and secondary schools; to revise, consolidate, and clarify the laws relating to elementary and secondary education; to provide for the organization, regulation, and maintenance of schools, school districts, public school academies, intermediate school districts, and other public school entities; to prescribe rights, powers, duties, and privileges of schools, school districts, public school academies, intermediate school districts, and other public school entities; to provide for the regulation of school teachers and certain other school employees; to provide for school elections and to prescribe powers and duties with respect thereto; to provide for the levy and collection of taxes; to provide for the borrowing of money and issuance of bonds and other evidences of indebtedness; to establish a fund and provide for expenditures from that fund; to make appropriations for certain purposes; to provide for and prescribe the powers and duties of certain state departments, the state board of education, and certain other boards and officials; to provide for licensure of boarding schools; to prescribe penalties; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,”

The Senate agreed to the full title.

Senator Chang moved that Senator Ananich be excused from the balance of today’s session.

The motion prevailed.

House Bill No. 6042, entitled

A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled “The revised school code,” by amending section 1308 (MCL 380.1308), as amended by 2016 PA 363.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 529 Yeas—31

Barrett Hertel McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Horn Moss Theis

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Irwin Outman Wojno

Chang Johnson Polehanki Wozniak

Daley Lauwers Runestad Zorn

Geiss McBroom Schmidt

Nays—0

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 4378, entitled

A bill to amend 1893 PA 206, entitled “The general property tax act,” by amending sections 14a, 27, and 34d (MCL 211.14a, 211.27, and 211.34d), section 14a as amended by 2021 PA 164, section 27 as amended by 2022 PA 156, and section 34d as amended by 2019 PA 117.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 530 Yeas—31

Barrett Hertel McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Horn Moss Theis

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Irwin Outman Wojno

Chang Johnson Polehanki Wozniak

Daley Lauwers Runestad Zorn

Geiss McBroom Schmidt

Nays—0

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

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.

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

“An act to provide for the assessment of rights and interests, including leasehold interests, in property and the levy and collection of taxes on property, and for the collection of taxes levied; making those taxes a lien on the property taxed, establishing and continuing the lien, providing for the sale or forfeiture and conveyance of property delinquent for taxes, and for the inspection and disposition of lands bid off to the state and not redeemed or purchased; to provide for the establishment of a delinquent tax revolving fund and the borrowing of money by counties and the issuance of notes; to define and limit the jurisdiction of the courts in proceedings in connection with property delinquent for taxes; to limit the time within which actions may be brought; to prescribe certain limitations with respect to rates of taxation; to prescribe certain powers and duties of certain officers, departments, agencies, and political subdivisions of this state; to provide for certain reimbursements of certain expenses incurred by units of local government; to provide penalties for the violation of this act; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,”

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 4379, entitled

A bill to amend 1995 PA 24, entitled “Michigan economic growth authority act,” by amending section 3 (MCL 207.803), as amended by 2010 PA 272.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 531 Yeas—31

Barrett Hertel McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Horn Moss Theis

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Irwin Outman Wojno

Chang Johnson Polehanki Wozniak

Daley Lauwers Runestad Zorn

Geiss McBroom Schmidt

Nays—0

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

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.

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

“An act to promote economic growth and job creation within this state; to create and regulate the Michigan economic growth authority; to prescribe the powers and duties of the authority and of state and local officials; to assess and collect a fee; to approve certain plans and the use of certain funds; and to provide qualifications for and determine eligibility for tax credits and other incentives for authorized businesses and for qualified taxpayers,”

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 6297, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” by amending section 1301 (MCL 500.1301), as amended by 2020 PA 16.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 532 Yeas—31

Barrett Hertel McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Horn Moss Theis

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Irwin Outman Wojno

Chang Johnson Polehanki Wozniak

Daley Lauwers Runestad Zorn

Geiss McBroom Schmidt

Nays—0

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

“An act to revise, consolidate, and classify the laws relating to the insurance and surety business; to regulate the incorporation or formation of domestic insurance and surety companies and associations and the admission of foreign and alien companies and associations; to provide their rights, powers, and immunities and to prescribe the conditions on which companies and associations organized, existing, or authorized under this act may exercise their powers; to provide the rights, powers, and immunities and to prescribe the conditions on which other persons, firms, corporations, associations, risk retention groups, and purchasing groups engaged in an insurance or surety business may exercise their powers; to provide for the imposition of a privilege fee on domestic insurance companies and associations and the state accident fund; to provide for the imposition of a tax on the business of foreign and alien companies and associations; to provide for the imposition of a tax on risk retention groups and purchasing groups; to provide for the imposition of a tax on the business of surplus line agents; to provide for the imposition of regulatory fees on certain insurers; to provide for assessment fees on certain health maintenance organizations; to modify tort liability arising out of certain accidents; to provide for limited actions with respect to that modified tort liability and to prescribe certain procedures for maintaining those actions; to require security for losses arising out of certain accidents; to provide for the continued availability and affordability of automobile insurance and homeowners insurance in this state and to facilitate the purchase of that insurance by all residents of this state at fair and reasonable rates; to provide for certain reporting with respect to insurance and with respect to certain claims against uninsured or self-insured persons; to prescribe duties for certain state departments and officers with respect to that reporting; to provide for certain assessments; to establish and continue certain state insurance funds; to modify and clarify the status, rights, powers, duties, and operations of the nonprofit malpractice insurance fund; to provide for the departmental supervision and regulation of the insurance and surety business within this state; to provide for regulation over worker’s compensation self-insurers; to provide for the conservation, rehabilitation, or liquidation of unsound or insolvent insurers; to provide for the protection of policyholders, claimants, and creditors of unsound or insolvent insurers; to provide for associations of insurers to protect policyholders and claimants in the event of insurer insolvencies; to prescribe educational requirements for insurance agents and solicitors; to provide for the regulation of multiple employer welfare arrangements; to create an automobile theft prevention authority to reduce the number of automobile thefts in this state; to prescribe the powers and duties of the automobile theft prevention authority; to provide certain powers and duties upon certain officials, departments, and authorities of this state; to provide for an appropriation; to repeal acts and parts of acts; and to provide penalties for the violation of this act,”

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 6298, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” by amending section 1326 (MCL 500.1326).

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 533 Yeas—31

Barrett Hertel McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Horn Moss Theis

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Irwin Outman Wojno

Chang Johnson Polehanki Wozniak

Daley Lauwers Runestad Zorn

Geiss McBroom Schmidt

Nays—0

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 6299, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” by amending section 1325a (MCL 500.1325a), as added by 2015 PA 244.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 534 Yeas—31

Barrett Hertel McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Horn Moss Theis

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Irwin Outman Wojno

Chang Johnson Polehanki Wozniak

Daley Lauwers Runestad Zorn

Geiss McBroom Schmidt

Nays—0

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 6300, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” by amending section 1355 (MCL 500.1355), as amended by 2015 PA 244.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 535 Yeas—31

Barrett Hertel McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Horn Moss Theis

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Irwin Outman Wojno

Chang Johnson Polehanki Wozniak

Daley Lauwers Runestad Zorn

Geiss McBroom Schmidt

Nays—0

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 6301, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” (MCL 500.100 to 500.8302) by adding section 1325b.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 536 Yeas—31

Barrett Hertel McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Horn Moss Theis

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Irwin Outman Wojno

Chang Johnson Polehanki Wozniak

Daley Lauwers Runestad Zorn

Geiss McBroom Schmidt

Nays—0

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 6302, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” (MCL 500.100 to 500.8302) by adding section 1325c.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 537 Yeas—31

Barrett Hertel McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Horn Moss Theis

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Irwin Outman Wojno

Chang Johnson Polehanki Wozniak

Daley Lauwers Runestad Zorn

Geiss McBroom Schmidt

Nays—0

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 6303, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” (MCL 500.100 to 500.8302) by adding section 1341a.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 538 Yeas—31

Barrett Hertel McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Horn Moss Theis

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Irwin Outman Wojno

Chang Johnson Polehanki Wozniak

Daley Lauwers Runestad Zorn

Geiss McBroom Schmidt

Nays—0

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 4733, entitled

A bill to amend 1943 PA 240, entitled “State employees’ retirement act,” by amending section 58 (MCL 38.58), as added by 1996 PA 487.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 539 Yeas—23

Barrett Huizenga Outman Theis

Bayer Johnson Polehanki VanderWall

Bumstead Lauwers Runestad Wojno

Chang McBroom Schmidt Wozniak

Daley McMorrow Shirkey Zorn

Horn Nesbitt Stamas

Nays—8

Brinks Geiss Hollier McCann

Bullock Hertel Irwin Moss

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

“An act to provide for a state employees’ retirement system; to create a state employees’ retirement board and prescribe its powers and duties; to establish certain funds in connection with the retirement system; to require contributions to the retirement system by and on behalf of members and participants of the retirement system; to create certain accounts and provide for expenditures from those accounts; to prescribe the powers and duties of certain state and local officers and employees and certain state departments and agencies; to prescribe and make appropriations for the retirement system; and to prescribe penalties and provide remedies,”

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 4188, entitled

A bill to amend 1980 PA 300, entitled “The public school employees retirement act of 1979,” by amending section 127 (MCL 38.1427), as amended by 2017 PA 92.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 540 Yeas—23

Barrett Huizenga Outman Theis

Bayer Johnson Polehanki VanderWall

Bumstead Lauwers Runestad Wojno

Chang McBroom Schmidt Wozniak

Daley McMorrow Shirkey Zorn

Horn Nesbitt Stamas

Nays—8

Brinks Geiss Hollier McCann

Bullock Hertel Irwin Moss

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

“An act to provide a retirement system for the public school employees of this state; to create certain funds for this retirement system; to provide for the creation of a retirement board; to prescribe the powers and duties of the retirement board; to prescribe the powers and duties of certain state departments, agencies, officials, and employees; to authorize and make appropriations for the retirement system; to prescribe penalties and provide remedies; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,”

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 5488, entitled

A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” by amending sections 16317, 16343, and 18201 (MCL 333.16317, 333.16343, and 333.18201), section 16317 as added by 1993 PA 80 and section 16343 as added by 1993 PA 79, and by adding section 18211a.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 541 Yeas—31

Barrett Hertel McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Horn Moss Theis

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Irwin Outman Wojno

Chang Johnson Polehanki Wozniak

Daley Lauwers Runestad Zorn

Geiss McBroom Schmidt

Nays—0

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

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 not concurred in, 2/3 of the members serving not voting therefor.

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

“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,”

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 5489, entitled

A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” (MCL 333.1101 to 333.25211) by adding section 16190.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 542 Yeas—31

Barrett Hertel McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Horn Moss Theis

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Irwin Outman Wojno

Chang Johnson Polehanki Wozniak

Daley Lauwers Runestad Zorn

Geiss McBroom Schmidt

Nays—0

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

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 not concurred in, 2/3 of the members serving not voting therefor.

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 6261, entitled

A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” by amending section 2080 (MCL 500.2080), as amended by 2008 PA 513.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 543 Yeas—30

Barrett Hertel McMorrow Shirkey

Bayer Hollier Moss Stamas

Brinks Horn Nesbitt Theis

Bullock Huizenga Outman VanderWall

Bumstead Johnson Polehanki Wojno

Chang Lauwers Runestad Wozniak

Daley McBroom Schmidt Zorn

Geiss McCann

Nays—1

Irwin

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 4416, entitled

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 544 Yeas—31

Barrett Hertel McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Horn Moss Theis

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Irwin Outman Wojno

Chang Johnson Polehanki Wozniak

Daley Lauwers Runestad Zorn

Geiss McBroom Schmidt

Nays—0

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

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 of the bill.

House Bill No. 4184, entitled

A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled “Revised judicature act of 1961,” by amending section 8512 (MCL 600.8512), as amended by 2014 PA 384.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 545 Yeas—31

Barrett Hertel McCann Shirkey

Bayer Hollier McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Horn Moss Theis

Bullock Huizenga Nesbitt VanderWall

Bumstead Irwin Outman Wojno

Chang Johnson Polehanki Wozniak

Daley Lauwers Runestad Zorn

Geiss McBroom Schmidt

Nays—0

Excused—7

Alexander Bizon MacDonald Victory

Ananich LaSata Santana

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

“An act to revise and consolidate the statutes relating to the organization and jurisdiction of the courts of this state; the powers and duties of the courts, and of the judges and other officers of the courts; the forms and attributes of civil claims and actions; the time within which civil actions and proceedings may be brought in the courts; pleading, evidence, practice, and procedure in civil and criminal actions and proceedings in the courts; to provide for the powers and duties of certain state governmental officers and entities; to provide remedies and penalties for the violation of certain provisions of this act; to repeal all acts and parts of acts inconsistent with or contravening any of the provisions of this act; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,”

The Senate agreed to the full title.

By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of

General Orders

Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate resolve itself into the Committee of the Whole for consideration of the General Orders calendar.

The motion prevailed, and the President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist, designated Senator McBroom as Chairperson.

House Bill No. 4823, entitled

A bill to amend 2019 PA 152, entitled “Lawful internet gaming act,” by amending section 15 (MCL 432.315).

Substitute (S-1).

The Senate agreed to the substitute recommended by the Committee of the Whole, and the bill as substituted was placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.

The Committee of the Whole reported back to the Senate, favorably and with a substitute therefor, the following bill:

House Bill No. 4824, entitled

A bill to amend 2019 PA 149, entitled “Lawful sports betting act,” by amending section 15 (MCL 432.415).

Substitute (S-1).

The Senate agreed to the substitute recommended by the Committee of the Whole, and the bill as substituted was placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.

The Committee of the Whole reported back to the Senate, favorably and with a substitute therefor, the following bill:

House Bill No. 4762, entitled

A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” (MCL 333.1101 to 333.25211) by adding section 10251.

Substitute (S-5).

The Senate agreed to the substitute recommended by the Committee of the Whole, and the bill as substituted was placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.

The Committee of the Whole reported back to the Senate, favorably and with a substitute therefor, the following bill:

House Bill No. 4316, entitled

A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” by amending sections 21903, 21905, 21907, 21909, 21911, 21913, 21915, 21919, 21921, and 21923 (MCL 333.21903, 333.21905, 333.21907, 333.21909, 333.21911, 333.21913, 333.21915, 333.21919, 333.21921, and 333.21923), as added by 2017 PA 172, and by adding sections 21912, 21916, 21918, and 21920.

Substitute (S-2).

The Senate agreed to the substitute recommended by the Committee of the Whole, and the bill as substituted was placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.

By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of

Motions and Communications

Senator Lauwers moved that the rules be suspended and that the following bills, now on Third Reading of Bills, be placed on their immediate passage:

House Bill No. 4762

House Bill No. 4823

House Bill No. 4824

House Bill No. 4316

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

Senator Chang moved that Senators Geiss and Bullock be excused from the balance of today’s session.

The motion prevailed.

By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of

Third Reading of Bills

Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate proceed to consideration of the following bills:

House Bill No. 4823

House Bill No. 4824

House Bill No. 4762

The motion prevailed.

House Bill No. 4823, entitled

A bill to amend 2019 PA 152, entitled “Lawful internet gaming act,” by amending section 15 (MCL 432.315).

The bill was defeated, a majority of the members serving not voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 546 Yeas—18

Barrett Johnson Outman Theis

Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall

Daley McBroom Schmidt Wozniak

Horn Moss Shirkey Zorn

Huizenga Nesbitt

Nays—0

Excused—9

Alexander Bullock LaSata Santana

Ananich Geiss MacDonald Victory

Bizon

Not Voting—11

Bayer Hertel McCann Stamas

Brinks Hollier McMorrow Wojno

Chang Irwin Polehanki

In The Chair: President

Senator Lauwers moved to reconsider the vote by which the bill was defeated.

The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.

Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate proceed to consideration of the following bill:

House Bill No. 4762

The motion prevailed.

House Bill No. 4762, entitled

A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” (MCL 333.1101 to 333.25211) by adding section 10251.

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 547 Yeas—28

Barrett Hollier McCann Shirkey

Bayer Horn McMorrow Stamas

Brinks Huizenga Moss Theis

Bumstead Irwin Nesbitt VanderWall

Chang Johnson Outman Wojno

Daley Lauwers Polehanki Wozniak

Hertel McBroom Schmidt Zorn

Nays—1

Runestad

Excused—9

Alexander Bullock LaSata Santana

Ananich Geiss MacDonald Victory

Bizon

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.

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

The Senate agreed to the full title.

By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of

Messages from the House

Senate Bill No. 727, entitled

A bill to amend 1967 PA 281, entitled “Income tax act of 1967,” by amending section 527a (MCL 206.527a), as amended by 2018 PA 309.

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.

Senate Bill No. 783, entitled

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 520, 522, and 524 (MCL 206.520, 206.522, and 206.524), sections 520 and 522 as amended by 2015 PA 179 and section 524 as amended by 1987 PA 254, and by adding section 521.

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 pursuant to Joint Rule 20, inserted the full title.

Pursuant to rule 3.202, the bill was laid over one day.

Senate Bill No. 1084, entitled

A bill to amend 1893 PA 206, entitled “The general property tax act,” by amending section 7b (MCL 211.7b), as amended by 2013 PA 161.

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.

Pursuant to rule 3.202, the bill was laid over one day.

Recess

Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate recess subject to the call of the Chair.

The motion prevailed, the time being 10:00 p.m.

10:24 p.m.

The Senate was called to order by the President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist.

By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of

Third Reading of Bills

Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate proceed to consideration of the following bills:

House Bill No. 4823

House Bill No. 4824

The motion prevailed.

By unanimous consent the Senate returned to consideration of the following bill:

House Bill No. 4823, entitled

A bill to amend 2019 PA 152, entitled “Lawful internet gaming act,” by amending section 15 (MCL 432.315).

(This bill was defeated earlier today and the vote reconsidered. See p. 1999.)

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 548 Yeas—22

Barrett Johnson Polehanki Theis

Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall

Daley McBroom Schmidt Wojno

Hertel Moss Shirkey Wozniak

Horn Nesbitt Stamas Zorn

Huizenga Outman

Nays—6

Bayer Chang McCann McMorrow

Brinks Irwin

Excused—9

Alexander Bullock LaSata Santana

Ananich Geiss MacDonald Victory

Bizon

Not Voting—1

Hollier

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

“An act to create the lawful internet gaming act; to require licensure for persons to offer internet gaming; to impose requirements for internet gaming; to provide for the powers and duties of the Michigan gaming control board and other state and local officers and entities; to impose fees; to impose tax and other payment obligations on the conduct of licensed internet gaming; to create the internet gaming fund; to prohibit certain acts in relation to internet gaming and to prescribe penalties for those violations; to require the promulgation of rules; and to provide remedies,”

The Senate agreed to the full title.

House Bill No. 4824, entitled

A bill to amend 2019 PA 149, entitled “Lawful sports betting act,” by amending section 15 (MCL 432.415).

The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:

Roll Call No. 549 Yeas—23

Barrett Huizenga Outman Theis

Bumstead Johnson Polehanki VanderWall

Daley Lauwers Runestad Wojno

Hertel McBroom Schmidt Wozniak

Hollier Moss Shirkey Zorn

Horn Nesbitt Stamas

Nays—6

Bayer Chang McCann McMorrow

Brinks Irwin

Excused—9

Alexander Bullock LaSata Santana

Ananich Geiss MacDonald Victory

Bizon

Not Voting—0

In The Chair: President

Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:

“An act to create the lawful sports betting act; to require licensing of persons to engage in sports betting via the internet, including through mobile applications; to impose requirements for such sports betting; to impose tax and other payment obligations on the conduct of licensed sports betting; to create the internet sports betting fund; to prohibit certain acts in relation to sports betting and to prescribe penalties for those violations; to require the promulgation of rules; and to provide remedies,”

The Senate agreed to the full title.

By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of

Messages from the House

Senate Bill No. 183, entitled

A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” by amending sections 20145, 22201, 22207, 22208, 22209, and 22221 (MCL 333.20145, 333.22201, 333.22207, 333.22208, 333.22209, and 333.22221), section 20145 as amended by 2015 PA 104, section 22201 as added by 1988 PA 332, sections 22207, 22209, and 22221 as amended by 2002 PA 619, and section 22208 as amended by 2011 PA 51.

The House of Representatives has substituted (H-4) the bill.

The House of Representatives has passed the bill as substituted (H-4), 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 20145, 21501, 21513, 21551, 22201, 22207, 22208, 22209, and 22221 (MCL 333.20145, 333.21501, 333.21513, 333.21551, 333.22201, 333.22207, 333.22208, 333.22209, and 333.22221), section 20145 as amended by 2015 PA 104, section 21501 as amended by 2018 PA 384, section 21513 as amended by 2002 PA 125, section 21551 as amended by 1990 PA 331, section 22201 as added by 1988 PA 332, sections 22207, 22209, and 22221 as amended by 2002 PA 619, and section 22208 as amended by 2011 PA 51.

Pending the order that, under rule 3.202, the bill be laid over one day,

Senator Lauwers 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. 550 Yeas—26

Barrett Hollier McMorrow Shirkey

Bayer Horn Moss Stamas

Brinks Huizenga Nesbitt Theis

Bumstead Johnson Outman VanderWall

Chang Lauwers Polehanki Wozniak

Daley McBroom Runestad Zorn

Hertel McCann

Nays—1

Irwin

Excused—9

Alexander Bullock LaSata Santana

Ananich Geiss MacDonald Victory

Bizon

Not Voting—2

Schmidt Wojno

In The Chair: President

Senator Chang moved that Senator Wojno be excused from the balance of today’s session.

The motion prevailed.

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.

Senate Bill No. 195, entitled

A bill to amend 1967 PA 281, entitled “Income tax act of 1967,” by amending section 691 (MCL 206.691), as amended by 2014 PA 14.

The House of Representatives has substituted (H-3) the bill.

The House of Representatives has passed the bill as substituted (H-3), 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 Lauwers 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. 551 Yeas—20

Barrett Johnson Outman Stamas

Bumstead Lauwers Polehanki Theis

Daley McBroom Runestad VanderWall

Horn McCann Schmidt Wozniak

Huizenga Nesbitt Shirkey Zorn

Nays—8

Bayer Chang Hollier McMorrow

Brinks Hertel Irwin Moss

Excused—10

Alexander Bullock MacDonald Victory

Ananich Geiss Santana Wojno

Bizon LaSata

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 not concurred in, 2/3 of the members serving not voting therefor.