STATE OF MICHIGAN
JOURNAL
OF THE
House of Representatives
102nd Legislature
REGULAR SESSION OF 2023
House Chamber, Lansing, Thursday, March 23, 2023.
12:00 Noon.
The House was called to order by the Speaker.
The roll was called by the Clerk of the House of Representatives, who announced that a quorum was present.
Aiyash—present Dievendorf—present Markkanen—present Schriver—present
Alexander—present Edwards—present Martin—present Schuette—present
Andrews—present Farhat—present Martus—present Scott—present
Aragona—present Filler—present McFall—present Shannon—present
Arbit—present Fink—present McKinney—present Skaggs—present
Beeler—present Fitzgerald—present Meerman—present Slagh—present
BeGole—present Fox—present Mentzer—present Smit—present
Beson—present Friske—present Miller—present Snyder—present
Bezotte—present Glanville—present Morgan—present St. Germaine—present
Bierlein—present Grant—present Morse—present Steckloff—present
Bollin—present Green, P.—present Mueller—present Steele—present
Borton—present Greene, J.—present Neeley—present Stone—present
Brabec—present Haadsma—present Neyer—present Tate—present
Breen—present Hall—present O’Neal—present Thompson—present
Brixie—present Harris—present Outman—present Tisdel—present
Bruck—excused Hill—present Paiz—present Tsernoglou—present
Byrnes—present Hoadley—present Paquette—present VanderWall—present
Carra—present Hood—present Pohutsky—present VanWoerkom—present
Carter, B.—present Hope—excused Posthumus—present Wegela—present
Carter, T.—present Hoskins—present Prestin—present Weiss—present
Cavitt—present Johnsen—present Price—present Wendzel—present
Churches—present Koleszar—present Puri—present Whitsett—present
Coffia—present Kuhn—present Rheingans—present Wilson—present
Coleman—present Kunse—present Rigas—present Witwer—present
Conlin—present Liberati—present Rogers—present Wozniak—present
DeBoer—present Lightner—present Roth—present Young—present
DeBoyer—present MacDonell—present Schmaltz—present Zorn—present
DeSana—present Maddock—present
e/d/s = entered during session
Rep. Bradley Slagh, from the 85th District, offered the following invocation:
“Our Heavenly Father, we come before You knowing that we’re not worthy, but knowing that You’ve asked us to step in front of You on a daily basis. You’ve asked us to honor You with our thoughts and our attitudes. Lord, we know that we don’t live perfectly and so we ask for Your forgiveness. Lord, we know that there are lots of ways that we fail; we continue to seek Your guidance and Your direction, especially for this body. Lord, we ask that You would give us wisdom to govern well, to be able to decide clearly what needs to be done. Lord, we ask for Your hand to be in everything that we do. We ask this in Your powerful name, Amen.”
______
The Speaker called the Speaker Pro Tempore to the Chair.
______
Rep. Aiyash moved that Reps. Bruck and Hope be excused from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
Motions and Resolutions
The motion prevailed.
Reps. Farhat, Aiyash, Koleszar, Arbit, Glanville, Conlin, Wegela, Rheingans, Tyrone Carter, O’Neal, Brenda Carter, Pohutsky, Byrnes, Miller, Dievendorf, Hope, Snyder, Mentzer, Price, Martus, Morse, Fitzgerald, Coleman, Outman, Skaggs, Shannon, Andrews, Churches, Liberati, McFall, Tsernoglou, Steckloff, Brixie, Wilson, Breen, McKinney, Haadsma, Neeley, Young, Hill, Paiz, Bierlein, Hood, Hoskins, Rogers, Schuette and Weiss offered the following resolution:
House Resolution No. 63.
A resolution to declare April 2023 as Arab-American Heritage Month in the state of Michigan.
Whereas, At least 200,000 Arab-Americans reside in the state of Michigan; and
Whereas, Michigan is home to the highest concentration of Arab-Americans in the United States; and
Whereas, Our state is proud to celebrate the diverse cultures and traditions of all its residents and recognizes the essential role played by Arab-Americans in the growth and prosperity of the state; and
Whereas, Arab-Americans have been an integral part of the state of Michigan since their migration to the United States in the early 1900’s in search for a destination that will better provide political, economic, and religious freedom; and
Whereas, The Arab-American community has a rich heritage, embodying the traditions and values of their ancestral homelands, and lending their own unique perspectives and innovations to the American experience; and
Whereas, The vast contributions of the Arab-American community in the fields of academia, business, medicine, science, and social justice continue to make our state a better place to live; and
Whereas, The working class population of this community has played a pivotal role in the establishment of industrial force that our state is known for today; and
Whereas, National Arab-American Heritage Month was officially recognized by the United States Congress in April of 2005, to honor and celebrate the contributions of Arab Americans to American society and culture; and
Whereas, The people of Michigan are
encouraged to participate in events and activities that celebrate and recognize
the achievements and contributions of Arab-Americans throughout history and to
cultivate a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the
Arab-American community; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare April 2023 as Arab-American Heritage Month in the state of Michigan.
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
The resolution was adopted.
By unanimous consent the House considered House Resolution No. 65 out of numerical order.
House Resolution No. 65.
A resolution to declare March 23, 2023, as Tuskegee Airmen Day in the state of Michigan.
Whereas, In 1925, the United States Army War College issued a grossly inaccurate and disparaging official report intending to relegate African-Americans to menial duty positions in the military; and
Whereas, By the time the United States was drawn into World War II (WWII), more African-Americans were receiving higher education and aspiring for more meaningful jobs in the military, including airplane pilots; and
Whereas, The rapid expansion of aircraft production to meet the demand for air power during WWII created a need for military pilots; and
Whereas, The public outcry from the African-American population, media, and fair-minded people of all races resulted in the United States Department of War extending the opportunity to fly airplanes to all military members, regardless of race; and
Whereas, The War Department’s Civilian Pilot Training (CPT)Program authorized colleges and universities to train civilian students to increase the number of civilian pilots, thereby contributing to military preparedness; and
Whereas, The Tuskegee Institute in Alabama was one of six African-American colleges and universities chosen to participate in the CPT Program, and helped open the door for the first African American military pilots; and
Whereas, During WWII, from January 1941-July 1949, both men and women participated in the Tuskegee Experience in Tuskegee, Alabama; and
Whereas, The Tuskegee Airmen flew more than 15,000 sorties, destroyed over 1,000 German aircraft, received hundreds of Air Medals, more than 150 Distinguished Flying Crosses, and lost very few bomber aircraft to enemy air action during escort missions; and
Whereas, The Tuskegee Airmen’s outstanding performance record was unprecedented in military aviation history and disproves every adverse and prejudiced contention barring African Americans from becoming pilots; and
Whereas, The Tuskegee Airmen overcame segregation and prejudice to become one of the most prestigious, decorated, and respected fighting groups of WWII; and
Whereas, The Tuskegee Airmen of the 332nd Fighter Group were based at Selfridge Field in Mt. Clemens and Oscoda Army Air Field. Fifteen Tuskegee Airmen pilots lost their lives on training exercises in Michigan; and
Whereas, More than 52 service members from Michigan served as Tuskegee Airmen during WWII; and
Whereas, From August 11-13, 1972, the Tuskegee Airmen Organization was formed in the basement of the original Tuskegee Airmen, Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Jefferson in Detroit; and
Whereas, In the United States, there are 62 Tuskegee Airmen chapters. On March 6, 1973, the Detroit chapter became the founding incorporated chapter. In 2012, an additional chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen was formed in West Bloomfield, Michigan to reach youth in Detroit; and
Whereas, In Michigan, on August 6, 1986, the Tuskegee Airmen National Historical Museum was incorporated; and
Whereas, March was the month the first cadets received their silver wings, the first maintenance crew began training at Chanute Field, Illinois, and the 99th Pursuit Squadron was activated. On March 29, 2007, President George W. Bush also presented the Tuskegee Airmen the Congressional Gold Medal; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare March 23, 2023, as Tuskegee Airmen Day in the state of Michigan. We encourage citizens to commemorate the heroic men and women who served as Tuskegee Airmen.
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
The resolution was adopted.
House Resolution No. 64.
A resolution to memorialize the federal government to continue to stand with the Burmese people against the military coup in Burma.
Whereas, Two years ago, on February 1, 2021, the military of Burma carried out a coup against the nation’s government. On the day when a newly elected parliament was scheduled to convene, the military deposed the government in defiance of the will of the people, falsely claiming there had been widespread voter fraud. State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, who has worked to democratize Burma for decades and is the leader of the ruling National League for Democracy (NLD) party, was detained on spurious charges. She has since been found guilty of several crimes in closed trials and sentenced to decades in prison. Her lawyers were forbidden from discussing the case. Other prominent members of the NLD party, including President Win Myint, were also detained. Those who might pose a threat to the regime in future elections have been killed, jailed, subjected to violence, or forced to flee the country; and
Whereas, The military regime in Burma has engaged in a campaign of violence and oppression against the Burmese people. At least 2,940 people have been killed by the military or their affiliates, and at least 17,572 people have been detained. Health workers, medical supplies, and stocks of food have been targeted for destruction, leaving approximately 40 percent of the population in poverty. Even in areas with no active fighting, civilians are not safe; soldiers have burned homes, cattle, and people. Since the coup, 1.3 million people have been internally displaced, and the United Nations estimates that 17.6 million people, nearly one-third of the population, will be in need of humanitarian aid in 2023. In attempts to hide their atrocities and suppress dissent, the regime has required the registration of non-governmental organizations and threatened harsh prison sentences for those supporting anti-military armed groups on social media; and
Whereas, Despite threats to their health and safety, the people of Burma have stood against this assault on their democracy. Even as protesters were shot in the streets, the people launched a Civil Disobedience Movement, refusing to bow to tyrants; and
Whereas, Michigan has been a place of refuge for the Burmese people for years. Over the period 2008 to 2014, Michigan took in the tenth-largest population of Burmese refugees in the United States. The Burma Center was established in Springfield in 2014, offering health, wellness, and education services to the local Burmese population. Since the coup in 2021, the Burma Center has been crucial in helping Burmese Michiganders cope with fears for their loved ones and with reminders of their own flights from the military regime decades ago; and
Whereas, The United States government has taken important steps to oppose the military takeover in Burma. Just days after the coup d’état, the United States President declared a national emergency to deal with the threat posed by the situation, blocking transactions in property in the United States by various persons related to the Burmese military and suspending entry of these persons into the United States. Within the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023, Congress expanded the executive branch’s authority to impose sanctions to help bring about the restoration of civilian government in Burma by enacting the Burma Unified through Rigorous Military Accountability (BURMA) Act of 2022. The United States continues to impose sanctions on individuals and entities that support or attempt to legitimize the military regime, though the nation could be even more proactive in its Burma policy; and
Whereas, Continued solidarity of the United States with the Burmese people will be crucial in returning democracy to Burma. While the United Nations Security Council recently adopted a resolution expressing its deep concern with the situation and demanding an immediate end to the violence, the United Nations has continued to have limited access to Burma for reporting, oversight, and humanitarian aid. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has been unable to exert sufficient pressure to end the violence, with opposition to the military regime varying between member nations. As the leader of the free world, it is the duty of the United States to use its influence to advocate for an end to military rule in Burma; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we memorialize the federal government to continue to stand with the Burmese people against the military coup in Burma; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, the President of the United States Senate, and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.
The resolution was referred to the
Committee on Government Operations.
House Resolution No. 66.
A resolution to urge the United States federal government to take action to expand pathways for legal immigration, help Michigan fill legal immigrant positions, and increase access to nonimmigrant work visas.
Whereas, Migrant and seasonal farm workers are vital to Michigan’s agricultural and economic growth. It is estimated that Michigan farmers employ approximately 46,000 migrant and seasonal farm workers during peak season and 10,000 workers during non-peak season; and
Whereas, The H-2A temporary agricultural workers program is a federal program intended to help American farmers fill employment gaps by hiring workers from other countries. Known as the H-2A visa program, it allows farmers who cannot find labor to hire nonimmigrant workers for seasonal or temporary work that lasts no longer than one year. American farmers who want to participate in the program must apply for and obtain temporary labor certification for H-2A workers from the United States Department of Labor. Prospective migrant workers must apply for H-2A visas and admission to work in the United States. United States Citizen and Immigration Services may extend migrant workers’ H-2A classifications for qualifying employment in increments of up to one year for a maximum stay of three years. After three years, nonimmigrant workers must depart and remain outside the United States for an uninterrupted period of three months before seeking readmission as an H-2A nonimmigrant; and
Whereas, There has been a steady increase in applications to the H-2A visa program in recent years. The number of H-2A visa applications has increased 157 percent in the past five years and quadrupled in the last decade. In fiscal year 2022, the Department of Labor certified 371,619 H-2A positions, an increase of 17 percent from fiscal year 2021 and an increase of nearly 100,000 positions from fiscal year 2020. In Michigan, the Great Lakes Ag Labor Services (GLALS) reported a 50 percent increase in the number of new clients requesting administrative support services to utilize the H-2A visa program in 2022; and
Whereas, Michigan farmers rely on the H-2A visa program to address labor shortages. Experts have cited numerous factors for the farm worker labor shortage, including the dwindling rural population spurred by growing opportunities away from the farm. These factors are leaving a void in the workforce that cannot be filled by United States citizens alone; and
Whereas, While the H-2A visa program helps to fill labor shortages, the program has significant flaws that prevent it from effectively achieving its purpose. Instead of having a consistent workforce, farmers are forced to watch their workers repeatedly renew their visas and leave the United States for months at a time. Workers are at higher risk of suffering serious abuses, such as paying exorbitant fees to labor recruiters, being underpaid and overworked, discovering that the jobs they applied for do not exist, and, in some instances, becoming victims of human trafficking. Because employers control workers’ visa statuses, many workers feel powerless to defend and enforce their rights. Expanding pathways to legal immigration would provide employers with a consistent workforce and give workers a mechanism to protect their rights; and
Whereas, The Farm Bill is due for renewal this year. Enacted in 2018, the current Farm Bill provides support, certainty, and stability to our nation’s farmers, ranchers, and forest managers by enhancing farm support programs, improving crop insurance, maintaining disaster programs, and promoting and supporting voluntary conservation. When it debates the Farm Bill this year, Congress has the opportunity to take action to improve the H-2A visa program and expand pathways for legal immigration; and
Whereas, Taking action to expand pathways for legal immigration and work visas is an appropriate way to recognize National Farm Workers Day and the dedication of the hired workforce on America’s farms. Celebrated annually on March 31st, National Farm Workers Day pays tribute to the unsung heroes on America’s farms: the hired workforce that plays a pivotal role in bringing crops to fruition and fresh produce to our tables. Employed on low wages, they work day and night to ensure farmers can grow, maintain, and harvest crops on a large scale; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we urge the United States federal government to take action to expand pathways for legal immigration, help Michigan fill legal immigrant positions, and increase access to nonimmigrant work visas; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.
The
resolution was referred to the Committee on Agriculture.
Rep. Aiyash moved that Rule 71 be suspended and the resolution be considered at this time.
The motion prevailed, 3/5 of the members present voting therefor.
House Resolution No. 67.
A resolution to extend best wishes to Muslims in Michigan, the United States, and worldwide, for a joyous and meaningful observance of Ramadan, a holy month of prayer, fasting, charity, and reflection.
Whereas, This occasion is observed in commitment to the Islamic principles and in remembrance of the month in which the holy Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH); and
Whereas, This month of sacrifice and contemplation begins on the evening of Wednesday, March 22, 2023, based on the visual sightings of the crescent moon. Ramadan continues until the evening of Thursday, April 20, 2023, with Eid al-Fitr, the celebration of the completion of the month; and
Whereas, Muslims in Michigan, our nation, and around the world will observe Ramadan by fasting, emphasizing self-discipline, worship, charity, and reading the holy Quran to improve patience, humility, and spirituality; and
Whereas, During Ramadan, Muslims spend this period in reflection and prayer while strengthening the bonds of family, friendship, and community. Ramadan is considered the most sacred month of the Islamic calendar; and
Whereas, The Muslim population has been growing in the United States and today’s Muslim American population is a tapestry of ethnic, racial, linguistic, social, and economic groups; and
Whereas, One of the largest populations of Muslims in the United States resides in Michigan and makes meaningful contributions to our state; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body extend best wishes to Muslims in Michigan, the United States, and worldwide, for a joyous and meaningful observance of Ramadan, a holy month of prayer, fasting, charity, and reflection.
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
The resolution was adopted.
Reports of Standing Committees
The Committee on Insurance and Financial Services, by Rep. Brenda Carter, Chair, reported
Senate Bill No. 101, entitled
A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” by amending sections 5228, 5230, and 5245 (MCL 500.5228, 500.5230, and 500.5245), as amended by 2020 PA 266.
Without amendment and with the recommendation that the bill pass.
The bill was referred to the order of Second Reading of Bills.
Favorable Roll Call
To Report Out:
Yeas: Reps. Brenda Carter, McFall, Coleman, Stone, Breen, Rogers, Scott, Young, Fitzgerald and Grant
Nays: None
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The following report, submitted by Rep. Brenda Carter, Chair, of the Committee on Insurance and Financial Services, was received and read:
Meeting held on: Thursday, March 23, 2023
Present: Reps. Brenda Carter, McFall, Coleman, Stone, Breen, Rogers, Scott, Young, Fitzgerald, Grant, Harris, Markkanen, Bezotte, Aragona, Bruck, Neyer and Smit
House Bill No. 4083, entitled
A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled “Natural resources and environmental protection act,” (MCL 324.101 to 324.90106) by adding subpart 3 to part 147.
With the recommendation that the substitute (H-2) be adopted and that the bill then pass.
The bill and substitute were referred to the order of Second Reading of
Bills.
Favorable Roll Call
To Report Out:
Yeas: Reps. Pohutsky, Hill, Shannon, Arbit, McFall, Paiz and Prestin
Nays: Reps. Martin and Schriver
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The following report, submitted by Rep. Pohutsky, Chair, of the Committee on Natural Resources, Environment, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation, was received and read:
Meeting held on: Thursday, March 23, 2023
Present: Reps. Pohutsky, Hill, Shannon, Arbit, McFall, Paiz, Martin, Prestin and Schriver
The Committee on Health Policy, by Rep. Rogers, Chair, reported
House Bill No. 4224, entitled
A bill to amend 1939 PA 280, entitled “The social welfare act,” by repealing sections 107a and 107b (MCL 400.107a and 400.107b).
Without amendment and with the recommendation that the bill pass.
The bill was referred to the order of Second Reading of Bills.
Favorable Roll Call
To Report Out:
Yeas: Reps. Rogers, Whitsett, Brenda Carter, Haadsma, Neeley, Glanville, Coffia, Conlin, Farhat, Fitzgerald, Miller and Rheingans
Nays: Reps. VanderWall, Filler, Mueller, VanWoerkom, Roth, Schmaltz and Thompson
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The following report, submitted by Rep. Rogers, Chair, of the Committee on Health Policy, was received and read:
Meeting held on: Thursday, March 23, 2023
Present: Reps. Rogers, Whitsett, Brenda Carter, Haadsma, Neeley, Glanville, Coffia, Conlin, Farhat, Fitzgerald, Miller, Rheingans, VanderWall, Filler, Mueller, VanWoerkom, Roth, Schmaltz and Thompson
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The following report, submitted by Rep. Byrnes, Chair, of the Committee on Ethics and Oversight, was received and read:
Meeting held on: Thursday, March 23, 2023
Present: Reps. Byrnes, Breen, Churches, Wegela, Kunse, Wozniak and Harris
Absent: Reps. Hope and Hoskins
Excused: Reps. Hope and Hoskins
Second Reading of Bills
Senate Bill No. 101, entitled
A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” by amending sections 5228, 5230, and 5245 (MCL 500.5228, 500.5230, and 500.5245), as amended by 2020 PA 266.
The bill was read a second time.
Rep. Aiyash moved that the bill be placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.
The
motion prevailed.
A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled “The revised school code,” (MCL 380.1 to 380.1852) by adding section 1138a.
The bill was read a second time.
Rep. Coleman moved that the bill be placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.
The motion prevailed.
By unanimous consent the House returned to the order of
Third Reading of Bills
Rep. Aiyash moved that House Bill No. 4157 be placed on its immediate passage.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
House Bill No. 4157, entitled
A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled “The revised school code,” (MCL 380.1 to 380.1852) by adding section 1138a.
The bill was read a third time.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
Rep. Aiyash moved that consideration of the bill be postponed temporarily.
The motion prevailed.
By unanimous consent the House returned to the order of
Motions and Resolutions
Rep. Aiyash moved that there be a Call of the House.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members present voting therefor.
Proceedings Under the Call
The roll of the House was called by the Clerk and Reps. Bruck and Hope were reported absent.
______
Rep. Aiyash moved that the House proceed with the business under the Call.
The motion prevailed.
Rep. Aiyash moved that Rule 71 be suspended and the resolution be considered at this time.
The motion prevailed, 3/5 of the members present voting therefor.
Reps. Steckloff, Arbit, Breen, Fitzgerald, Hood, Hoskins, Koleszar, Price, Rheingans, Rogers, Shannon, Weiss and Young offered the following resolution:
House Resolution No. 68.
A resolution to condemn divisive rhetoric that invokes inappropriate, repugnant Holocaust comparisons as an ideological political ploy meant to polarize the populous.
Whereas, Reprehensible Holocaust comparisons and analogies have become all too commonplace as a means of furthering political agendas, and, thus, dividing Americans; and
Whereas, A substantial number of Republican leaders and other public figures in Michigan and across the United States have compared the Holocaust as a means to criticize gun control measures, to protest against abortion laws, and speak in favor of denying women access to reproductive health care; and
Whereas, Such comparisons are outrageous
political fodder that results in further pulling our state, country, and
citizens apart; causes the corrosion of historical record; and proliferates
antisemitic sentiments; and
Whereas, Such comparisons may be profoundly hurtful to Jews, many of whom lost family members during the Holocaust or carry deep generational memories of the trauma suffered by their parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents during the destruction of European Jewry; and
Whereas, Modern day comparisons of the systematic murder of six million Jews and millions of others by the Nazis and their collaborators during World War II are rooted in efforts to garner political gains and poach media attention; and
Whereas, These offensive and inappropriate comparisons draw a clear line between right and wrong. On one side is respect for Jewish heritage, respect for those who were murdered during or who survived the Holocaust, respect for historic truths, and respect for an ethical moral code of conduct. On the other side is the dishonorable trivialization of the Holocaust, dishonor of those who suffered at the hands of Hitler and the Nazis, as well as those who fought valiantly against the Nazis during World War II, and dishonor for an ethical moral code of conduct; now, therefore be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislation body condemn divisive rhetoric that invokes inappropriate, repugnant Holocaust comparisons as an ideological political ploy meant to polarize the populous. We stand on the right side of the moral line of history by condemning divisive rhetoric to conjure despicable and dishonorable Holocaust comparisons as an ideological and political marketing maneuver. It comes from great necessity that we stand up for what is right; and be it further.
Resolved, We explicitly recognize the true function of this ridiculous rhetoric and these abhorrent analogies for what they are — purposefully fissuring fictitious comparisons meant to advance conservative agendas, however, shamefully result in the erosion of the true history and trauma that occurred during and resulted from the atrocities of the Holocaust; and be it further
Resolved, We stand against inexcusable divisive rhetoric and stand up for what is right and for Jewish people today and for those six million individuals exterminated by genocide during the Holocaust.
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
Rep. Steckloff moved to substitute (H-1) the resolution as follows:
Substitute for House Resolution No. 68.
A resolution to condemn divisive rhetoric that invokes inappropriate, repugnant Holocaust comparisons as an ideological political ploy meant to polarize the populous.
Whereas, Reprehensible Holocaust comparisons and analogies have become all too commonplace as a means of furthering political agendas, and, thus, dividing Americans; and
Whereas, A substantial number of leaders and other public figures in Michigan and across the United States have compared the Holocaust as a means to criticize gun control measures, to protest against abortion laws, and speak in favor of denying women access to reproductive health care; and
Whereas, Such comparisons are outrageous political fodder that results in further pulling our state, country, and citizens apart; causes the corrosion of historical record; and proliferates antisemitic sentiments; and
Whereas, Such comparisons may be profoundly hurtful to Jews, many of whom lost family members during the Holocaust or carry deep generational memories of the trauma suffered by their parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents during the destruction of European Jewry; and
Whereas, Modern day comparisons of the systematic murder of six million Jews and millions of others by the Nazis and their collaborators during World War II are rooted in efforts to garner political gains and poach media attention; and
Whereas, These offensive and inappropriate comparisons draw a clear line between right and wrong. On one side is respect for Jewish heritage, respect for those who were murdered during or who survived the Holocaust, respect for historic truths, and respect for an ethical moral code of conduct. On the other side is the dishonorable trivialization of the Holocaust, dishonor of those who suffered at the hands of Hitler and the Nazis, as well as those who fought valiantly against the Nazis during World War II, and dishonor for an ethical moral code of conduct; now, therefore be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislation body condemn divisive rhetoric that invokes inappropriate, repugnant Holocaust comparisons as an ideological political ploy meant to polarize the populous. We stand on the right side of the moral line of history by condemning divisive rhetoric to conjure despicable and dishonorable Holocaust comparisons as an ideological and political marketing maneuver. It comes from great necessity that we stand up for what is right; and be it further.
Resolved, We explicitly recognize the true function of this ridiculous rhetoric and these abhorrent analogies for what they are — purposefully fissuring fictitious comparisons meant to advance conservative agendas, however, shamefully result in the erosion of the true history and trauma that occurred during and resulted from the atrocities of the Holocaust; and be it further
Resolved, We stand against inexcusable
divisive rhetoric and stand up for what is right and for Jewish people today
and for those six million individuals exterminated by genocide during the
Holocaust.
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
The resolution was adopted.
______
Rep. Aiyash moved that House Committees be given leave to meet during the balance of today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
The motion prevailed.
______
Rep. Aiyash moved that the Call of the House be lifted.
The motion prevailed.
Announcement by the Clerk of Printing and Enrollment
The Clerk announced that the following bills had been reproduced and made available electronically on Wednesday, March 22:
House Bill Nos. 4317 4318 4319 4320 4321 4322 4323 4324 4325 4326
Senate Bill Nos. 225 226 227 228 229 230 231 232 233
The Clerk announced the enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor on Thursday, March 23, for her approval of the following bills:
Enrolled House Bill No. 4004 at 12:03 p.m.
Enrolled House Bill No. 4007 at 12:05 p.m.
The Clerk announced that the following Senate bills had been received on Thursday, March 23:
Senate Bill Nos. 43 129 130 131 132
Introduction of Bills
Reps. Arbit and Steckloff introduced
House Bill No. 4327, entitled
A bill to amend 1976 PA 453, entitled “Elliott-Larsen civil rights act,” by amending the title and sections 102, 103, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 209, 210, 301, 302, 302a, 402, 501, 502, 504, 505, 506, and 507 (MCL 37.2102, 37.2103, 37.2202, 37.2203, 37.2204, 37.2205, 37.2206, 37.2207, 37.2209, 37.2210, 37.2301, 37.2302, 37.2302a, 37.2402, 37.2501, 37.2502, 37.2504, 37.2505, 37.2506, and 37.2507), the title as amended by 1992 PA 258, sections 102, 502, 504, 505, and 506 as amended by 1992 PA 124, sections 103 and 301 as amended by 1999 PA 202, section 202 as amended by 2009 PA 190, section 302a as added by 1992 PA 70, and section 402 as amended by 1993 PA 216.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
House Bill No. 4328, entitled
A bill to amend 1998 PA 58, entitled “Michigan liquor control code of 1998,” by amending section 531 (MCL 436.1531), as amended by 2014 PA 135.
The
bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on
Regulatory Reform.
House Bill No. 4329, entitled
A bill to amend 1846 RS 66, entitled “Of estates in dower, by the curtesy, and general provisions concerning real estate,” by amending the title and sections 35 and 36 (MCL 554.135 and 554.136) and by adding section 36a.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Local Government and Municipal Finance.
House Bill No. 4330, entitled
A bill to amend 1893 PA 206, entitled “The general property tax act,” by amending sections 7u and 53b (MCL 211.7u and 211.53b), section 7u as amended by 2020 PA 253 and section 53b as amended by 2022 PA 141, and by adding section 7yy.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Tax Policy.
House Bill No. 4331, entitled
A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” by amending section 2227 (MCL 500.2227), as amended by 2014 PA 509.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Insurance and Financial Services.
House Bill No. 4332, entitled
A bill to amend 1909 PA 279, entitled “The home rule city act,” by amending section 4q (MCL 117.4q), as amended by 2013 PA 188.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Local Government and Municipal Finance.
House Bill No. 4333, entitled
A bill to amend 2000 PA 92, entitled “Food law,” by amending sections 1105, 1111, and 4102 (MCL 289.1105, 289.1111, and 289.4102), section 1105 as amended by 2014 PA 516, section 1111 as amended by 2018 PA 92, and section 4102 as amended by 2012 PA 178.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Agriculture.
House Bill No. 4334, entitled
A bill to amend 1967 PA 281, entitled “Income tax act of 1967,” (MCL 206.1 to 206.847) by adding section 280.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Tax Policy.
House Bill No. 4335, entitled
A bill to amend 1979 PA 94, entitled “The state school aid act of 1979,” (MCL 388.1601 to 388.1896) by adding section 22e.
The
bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on
Appropriations.
House Bill No. 4336, entitled
A bill to amend 1967 PA 150, entitled “Michigan military act,” (MCL 32.501 to 32.851) by adding section 203.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Military, Veterans and Homeland Security.
House Bill No. 4337, entitled
A bill to amend 2001 PA 142, entitled “Michigan memorial highway act,” by amending section 103 (MCL 250.1103), as added by 2021 PA 76.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Transportation, Mobility and Infrastructure.
House Bill No. 4338, entitled
A bill to amend 1893 PA 206, entitled “The general property tax act,” by amending section 9o (MCL 211.9o), as amended by 2021 PA 150.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Tax Policy.
Reps. Hall, Martin, DeBoyer, Schuette, Borton, Thompson, Bierlein and Kunse introduced
House Bill No. 4339, entitled
A bill to amend 1931 PA 328, entitled “The Michigan penal code,” (MCL 750.1 to 750.568) by adding section 222b.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.
House Bill No. 4340, entitled
A bill to amend 1973 PA 116, entitled “An act to provide for the protection of children through the licensing and regulation of child care organizations; to provide for the establishment of standards of care for child care organizations; to prescribe powers and duties of certain departments of this state and adoption facilitators; to provide penalties; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,” by amending section 1 (MCL 722.111), as amended by 2022 PA 208, and by adding section 3i.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Health Policy.
House Bill No. 4341, entitled
A bill to create a program to assist certain child care centers and schools with the acquisition, installation, and maintenance of certain filtered water stations and faucets; to provide for the sampling and testing of water from certain water outlets; to create certain funds; and to provide for the duties of certain state departments and officers.
The
bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Health
Policy.
House Bill No. 4342, entitled
A bill to amend 1973 PA 116, entitled “An act to provide for the protection of children through the licensing and regulation of child care organizations; to provide for the establishment of standards of care for child care organizations; to prescribe powers and duties of certain departments of this state and adoption facilitators; to provide penalties; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,” (MCL 722.111 to 722.128) by adding sections 3j, 3k, and 3l.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Health Policy.
House Bill No. 4343, entitled
A bill to amend 2005 PA 244, entitled “Deferred presentment service transactions act,” by amending section 51 (MCL 487.2171).
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Insurance and Financial Services.
By unanimous consent the House returned to the order of
Messages from the Senate
House Bill No. 4138, entitled
A bill to amend 1927 PA 372, entitled “An act to regulate and license the selling, purchasing, possessing, and carrying of certain firearms, gas ejecting devices, and electro-muscular disruption devices; to prohibit the buying, selling, or carrying of certain firearms, gas ejecting devices, and electro-muscular disruption devices without a license or other authorization; to provide for the forfeiture of firearms and electro-muscular disruption devices under certain circumstances; to provide for penalties and remedies; to provide immunity from civil liability under certain circumstances; to prescribe the powers and duties of certain state and local agencies; to prohibit certain conduct against individuals who apply for or receive a license to carry a concealed pistol; to make appropriations; to prescribe certain conditions for the appropriations; and to repeal all acts and parts of acts inconsistent with this act,” by amending sections 1, 2, 2a, 2b, 12, and 14a (MCL 28.421, 28.422, 28.422a, 28.422b, 28.432, and 28.434a), section 1 as amended by 2017 PA 95, section 2 as amended by 2015 PA 200, section 2a as amended by 2016 PA 301, section 2b as amended by 2014 PA 205, section 12 as amended by 2010 PA 209, and section 14a as added by 2010 PA 295.
The Senate has passed the bill.
The bill was referred to the Clerk for enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor.
House Bill No. 4142, entitled
A bill to amend 1931 PA 328, entitled “The Michigan penal code,” by amending sections 223 and 232a (MCL 750.223 and 750.232a), section 223 as amended by 2012 PA 242 and section 232a as amended by 1990 PA 321.
The Senate has passed the bill and pursuant to Joint Rule 20, inserted the full title.
The House agreed to the full title.
The bill was referred to the Clerk for enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor.
House Bill No. 4143, entitled
A bill to amend 1927 PA 175, entitled “The code of criminal procedure,” by amending sections 11b and 16m of chapter XVII (MCL 777.11b and 777.16m), section 11b as amended by 2016 PA 234 and section 16m as amended by 2018 PA 637.
The Senate has substituted (S-1) the bill.
The Senate has passed the bill as substituted (S-1) and pursuant to Joint Rule 20, inserted the full title.
The Speaker announced that pursuant to Rule
42, the bill was laid over one day.
A bill to amend 1917 PA 165, entitled “An act to authorize highway officials to close roads under construction, improvement or repair, or any portion of a highway whereon a bridge is being constructed or repaired; to require such officials to place in good repair and to mark by proper signs suitable detours around roads, or portions of roads, which are closed hereunder; to provide suitable barriers, and lights shall be maintained at the end of such roads or portions of roads which are thus closed and at the intersections thereof with other roads; to require the removal of signs and barriers located and placed hereunder; and to provide a penalty for a violation of the provisions hereof,” by amending section 1 (MCL 247.291) and by adding sections 1a and 1b.
The Senate has passed the bill.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Transportation, Mobility and Infrastructure.
A bill to amend 1996 PA 381, entitled “Brownfield redevelopment financing act,” by amending the title and sections 2, 8, 8a, 13, 13b, 13c, 14, 14a, 15, and 16 (MCL 125.2652, 125.2658, 125.2658a, 125.2663, 125.2663b, 125.2663c, 125.2664, 125.2664a, 125.2665, and 125.2666), the title as amended by 2003 PA 259, section 2 as amended by 2022 PA 178, sections 8, 13, 13b, 15, and 16 as amended by 2020 PA 259, section 8a as amended by 2017 PA 46, sections 13c and 14a as amended by 2021 PA 138, and section 14 as amended by 2016 PA 471.
The Senate has passed the bill.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Economic Development and Small Business.
A bill to amend 1893 PA 206, entitled “The general property tax act,” by amending section 7gg (MCL 211.7gg), as added by 2003 PA 261.
The Senate has passed the bill.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Tax Policy.
A bill to amend 1937 PA 94, entitled “Use tax act,” by amending section 4dd (MCL 205.94dd), as added by 2017 PA 49.
The Senate has passed the bill.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Tax Policy.
A bill to amend 1933 PA 167, entitled “General sales tax act,” by amending section 4d (MCL 205.54d), as amended by 2017 PA 48.
The Senate has passed the bill.
The bill was read a first time by its title and referred to the Committee on Tax Policy.
______
Rep. Smit moved that the House adjourn.
The motion prevailed, the time being 2:10 p.m.
The Speaker Pro Tempore declared the House adjourned until Tuesday, April 11, at 1:30 p.m.
RICHARD J. BROWN
Clerk of the House of Representatives