STATE OF MICHIGAN
Journal of the Senate
102nd Legislature
REGULAR SESSION OF 2024
Senate Chamber, Lansing, Tuesday, October 8, 2024.
10:00 a.m.
The Senate was called to order by the President pro tempore, Senator Jeremy Moss.
The roll was called by the Secretary of the Senate, who announced that a quorum was present.
Albert—present Hauck—present Moss—present
Anthony—present Hertel—present Nesbitt—present
Bayer—present Hoitenga—present Outman—present
Bellino—present Huizenga—present Polehanki—present
Brinks—present Irwin—present Runestad—present
Bumstead—present Johnson—excused Santana—present
Camilleri—present Klinefelt—present Shink—present
Cavanagh—present Lauwers—present Singh—present
Chang—present Lindsey—present Theis—excused
Cherry—present McBroom—present Victory—present
Daley—present McCann—present Webber—present
Damoose—present McDonald Rivet—present Wojno—present
Geiss—present McMorrow—present
Senator Kevin Daley of the 26th District offered the following invocation:
O God of creation, You have blessed us with the changing of the seasons. As we embrace these autumn months, may the earlier setting of the sun remind us to take time to rest. May the crunch of the leaves beneath our feet remind us of the brevity of this earthly life. May the steam of our breath in the cool air remind us that it is You who give us Your breath of life. May the movement of the squirrels and the birds remind us that You call on us to follow Your will. We pray for Your goodness forever and ever. Amen.
The President pro tempore, Senator Moss, led the members of the Senate in recital of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Motions and Communications
The motion prevailed.
Senator Lauwers moved that Senators Theis and Johnson be excused from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Singh moved that Senators Cavanagh and Irwin be temporarily excused from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
Messages from the Governor
The following message from the Governor was received:
Date: October 3, 2024
Time: 2:18 p.m.
To the President of the Senate:
Sir—I have this day approved and signed
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 834 (Public Act No. 128), being
An act to amend 2004 PA 46, entitled “An act to provide compensation and other benefits to dependents of public safety officers who are killed or who are permanently and totally disabled in the line of duty; to create the public safety officers benefit fund; to prescribe the duties and responsibilities of certain state officers; and to make an appropriation,” by amending section 4 (MCL 28.634).
(Filed with the Secretary of State on October 3, 2024, at 3:08 p.m.)
Respectfully,
Gretchen Whitmer
Governor
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of
Introduction and Referral of Bills
Senators Hertel, Damoose and Singh introduced
Senate Bill No. 1030, entitled
A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” (MCL 500.100 to 500.8302) by adding section 3406pp.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Finance, Insurance, and Consumer Protection.
Senator Hertel introduced
Senate Bill No. 1031, entitled
A bill to amend 1976 PA 390, entitled “Emergency management act,” (MCL 30.401 to 30.421) by amending the title, as amended by 2006 PA 267, and by adding section 11b.
The
bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on
Appropriations.
Senator Webber introduced
Senate Bill No. 1032, entitled
A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled “The revised school code,” (MCL 380.1 to 380.1852) by adding section 1308c.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
Senator Webber introduced
Senate Bill No. 1033, entitled
A bill to amend 1979 PA 94, entitled “The state school aid act of 1979,” by amending section 11 (MCL 388.1611), as amended by 2024 PA 120, and by adding section 97h.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
Senators Lindsey, Bellino, Johnson and Runestad introduced
Senate Bill No. 1034, entitled
A bill to amend 1954 PA 116, entitled “Michigan election law,” by amending sections 523, 523a, 813, and 829 (MCL 168.523, 168.523a, 168.813, and 168.829), section 523 as amended by 2018 PA 129 and sections 523a, 813, and 829 as amended by 2018 PA 603.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Elections and Ethics.
By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of
General Orders
Senator Cavanagh entered the Senate Chamber.
The motion prevailed, and the President pro tempore, Senator Moss, designated Senator Shink as Chairperson.
After some time spent therein, the Committee arose; and the President pro tempore, Senator Moss, having resumed the Chair, the Committee reported back to the Senate, favorably and without amendment, the following bills:
House Bill No. 4929, entitled
A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled “Revised judicature act of 1961,” by amending sections 8379 and 8396 (MCL 600.8379 and 600.8396), section 8379 as amended by 2000 PA 93 and section 8396 as added by 1994 PA 12.
A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “Michigan vehicle code,” by amending section 803f (MCL 257.803f), as amended by 2022 PA 143.
A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled “Natural resources and environmental protection act,” by amending section 43525c (MCL 324.43525c), as amended by 2021 PA 6.
A bill to amend 2000 PA 92, entitled “Food law,” by amending section 4105 (MCL 289.4105), as amended by 2016 PA 188.
The bills were placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.
House Bill No. 4928, entitled
A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “Michigan vehicle code,” by amending sections 682, 741, 742, 907, and 909 (MCL 257.682, 257.741, 257.742, 257.907, and 257.909), section 682 as amended by 2021 PA 50, section 741 as amended by 2006 PA 298, section 742 as amended by 2008 PA 171, section 907 as amended by 2023 PA 40, and section 909 as amended by 2000 PA 94.
Substitute (S-5).
House Bill No. 4930, entitled
A bill to amend 1990 PA 187, entitled “The pupil transportation act,” by amending sections 5 and 20 (MCL 257.1805 and 257.1820), section 5 as amended by 2006 PA 107 and section 20 as added by 2021 PA 52.
Substitute (S-1).
Senate Bill No. 860, entitled
A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled “Natural resources and environmental protection act,” (MCL 324.101 to 324.90106) by adding section 40503.
Substitute (S-1).
During the Committee of the Whole, Senators Runestad and McBroom entered the Senate Chamber.
By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of
Motions and Communications
Senate Bill No. 999, entitled
A bill to amend 1975 PA 238, entitled “Child protection law,” by amending section 7 (MCL 722.627), as amended by 2023 PA 305.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, and the bill was placed on the order of General Orders.
Senator Singh moved that the bill be referred to the Committee on Housing and Human Services.
The motion prevailed.
House Bill No. 5127
Senate Bill No. 803
Senate Bill No. 860
Senate Bill No. 882
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of
Resolutions
Senate Resolution No. 142
Senate Resolution No. 143
The motion
prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
Senator Cavanagh offered the following resolution:
Senate Resolution No. 142.
A resolution to designate September 15-October 15, 2024, as Hispanic Heritage Month.
Whereas, There has been a long and important presence of Hispanic and Latino Americans in North America and the United States of America; and
Whereas, This month represents the anniversary of independence for Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and Nicaragua; and
Whereas, Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month by celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America; and
Whereas, The United States recognizes the economic, cultural, and social contributions that Spanish-speaking people have brought to our nation, including the gifts of law, religion, agriculture, art, music, education, technology, architecture, cuisine, theater, and exploration; and
Whereas, Throughout our nation’s history, time and again, Hispanic-Americans have faithfully defended the principles of freedom and a representative government; and
Whereas, Hispanic Heritage Week was approved by President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period from September 15 to October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, as Public Law 100-402; and
Whereas, Michigan is fortunate to count among its population a large concentration of citizens of Spanish and Latin American descent. Those who have lived in this state for generations as well as new residents contribute to our economy and society through their commitment to professions, commerce, family, and the arts; and
Whereas, During this month, Michigan’s Hispanic-American community celebrates through a series of special programs featuring Hispanic history, food, dance, and art; and
Whereas, Hispanic Heritage Month is the period of time in the United States when people recognize the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans and celebrate their varied heritage, background, and culture; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body designate September 15-October 15, 2024, as Hispanic Heritage Month.
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
Senators Geiss, Moss and Santana were named co-sponsors of the resolution.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Camilleri’s statement, in which Senators Cavanagh and Geiss concurred, is as follows:
I am proud to rise here today with my colleagues in the Latino Caucus here in Michigan. We rise today in support of this resolution to declare September 15 through October 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month here in the state of Michigan.
Every year, when we honor our community, we do so with the belief and the hope that our efforts will shed light on the impact that the Latino/Hispanic community makes here in Michigan. In fact, our community is the fastest growing in Michigan with between 500,000 and 600,000 residents who call our state home. Some of our community members have been here for generations, and others are newcomers seeking refuge.
On my mother’s side of the family, I come from the Quiroz family, a family who started their journey to America from Monterrey, Mexico, and from Texas—when Texas was Mexico. In Texas, our family ran and worked in small businesses, including an auto body shop and restaurant, and eventually made their way from San Antonio to Detroit in the 1940s in search of economic prosperity and jobs. They found jobs in the auto industry and with the UAW. We made our American dreams come true. We are proud Americans, and we are also proud Latinos.
But I have to admit that it has been a really hard decade for Latinos in America. From the time that Trump rode down his golden escalator and launched his campaign for president, while calling all Mexicans rapists and criminals, to his recent racist rhetoric saying that immigrants are poisoning the blood of our nation, to the frequent racist fearmongering we hear from our colleagues in this chamber on the U.S.-Mexico border, our community is constantly under attack in the political arena. This disdain for our people does not go unnoticed. Being Latino in America is more than just about border policies and immigration status.
We love our families; we are people of
strong faith; we work hard. We are in every community in Michigan, from small
towns like Coldwater and Tecumseh, to large cities like Grand Rapids and
Detroit. We are in thriving suburbs in Downriver and Redford Township, and in
rural townships in the north. We work in politics, business, schools, farms,
factories, and everything in between. Yes, many are newcomers to Michigan and
America, but many of us have been here before you landed here from Europe.
I am proud to be Latino. I am proud of my ancestors. The Latino community is not a tool to be used for political game. Please remember that the next time you go to your Taco Tuesday. Happy Hispanic Heritage Month to our community. Adelante.
Senator Irwin entered the Senate Chamber.
Senator Runestad asked and was granted unanimous consent to make a statement.
Point of Order
Senator Singh raised the Point of Order that the speaker needs to speak to the resolution.
The President pro tempore, Senator Moss, ruled that it is noted and any additional comments should be saved for Statements.
Point of Order
Senator Singh raised the Point of Order that the speaker is out of order.
The President pro tempore, Senator Moss, ruled that the Senator is out of order.
Senator Anthony offered the following resolution:
Senate Resolution No. 143.
A resolution to recognize October 2024 as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month.
Whereas, Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are non-cancerous growths that form in or around the uterus or pelvic cavity that can lead to significant pelvic pain, reproductive dysfunction, abnormal uterine bleeding, miscarriages, and infertility; and
Whereas, Uterine fibroids can vary in number, size, and severity depending on the location and will sometimes lead to the distortion of the inside and outside of the uterus, or in some cases, can cause extreme pain when a fibroid outgrows its blood supply and starts to die, ultimately leading to more serious health complications; and
Whereas, The pain, discomfort, stress, and other physical and emotional symptoms of living with fibroids may interfere with a woman’s quality of life, affecting their personal and professional life, as well as their overall health and well-being; and
Whereas, Uterine fibroids are one of the most common medical conditions among women, affecting an estimated 26 million women in the United States during their reproductive years, with the likelihood of developing the condition increasing with age; and
Whereas, Despite the prevalence of uterine fibroids, statistics on this condition are often underestimated, as many women remain undiagnosed or do not seek medical care for their symptoms. This is due to limited knowledge regarding fibroids and normal menstruation that may lead to a distorted view of what is normal with regard to uterine bleeding; and
Whereas, Uterine fibroids disproportionately impact women of color, as Black women are diagnosed with fibroids roughly three times as frequently as Caucasian women, with women of color being more prone to develop the condition earlier in life and also tend to experience larger and more numerous fibroids that cause more severe symptoms; and
Whereas, The diagnosis of fibroids starts with detection during a routine pelvic exam, but can lead to more complex testing, including a pelvic ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), hysterosalpingography, or a hysteroscopy; and
Whereas, A woman’s fertility can be affected by uterine fibroids in a variety of ways, including the possibility of the fibroids growing and blocking the uterus or fallopian tubes, making it harder to become pregnant. Other negative impacts include miscarriage, abnormal attachment of the placenta, increased likelihood of delivery by cesarean section, and postpartum hemorrhage; and
Whereas, Treatments for uterine fibroids
range from medicinal to surgical approaches, depending on the severity of the
case, symptoms, location and size of the fibroids, age, medical history, and a
woman’s health goals. Medicinal approaches include anti-inflammatory
painkillers and hormonal treatments like oral contraceptive pills or
progesterone-containing agents. Surgical approaches include a myomectomy, a procedure during which the fibroids are removed
but the uterus stays intact to preserve a women’s fertility; and
Whereas, A hysterectomy, or removal of the entire uterus, is among the most common surgical treatments for uterine fibroids. Fibroids are the number one reason for hysterectomies in the United States, which are major surgeries that can be more extensive depending on the size of the uterine fibroids; and
Whereas, Uterine fibroids were estimated to cost the United States $5.9 to $34.4 billion annually with an estimated annual lost work cost of $1.55 to $17.2 billion annually, due to the absenteeism and short-term disability among women ages 25-54; and
Whereas, Public awareness and education about uterine fibroids is critical to increase knowledge about this condition and improve prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment methods; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body recognize October 2024 as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month. We recognize the disparities in incidence rates for Black and Hispanic uterine fibroid patients and urge greater research, data collection, treatment, and care options for uterine fibroids.
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
Senators Geiss, Moss and Santana were named co-sponsors of the resolution.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Anthony’s statement is as follows:
I rise today offering a resolution to declare October 2024 as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month in the state of Michigan. Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in and around the uterus and they can vary from very small and undetectable to large masses. They often cause symptoms like menstrual bleeding, debilitating pain, and can even lead to complications of fertility and pregnancy. Fibroids are not just a medical condition; they are a lived reality for millions of women across this country—including myself. So many women—roughly 26 million in the United States—suffer from the pain of fibroids and the stress and anxiety that comes with a medical condition that is often overlooked and misdiagnosed. For many, the road to diagnosis is long and filled with uncertainty, often resulting in delayed treatment and more severe outcomes.
This is not only an issue of health care but is also an issue of health equity. Uterine fibroids disproportionately impact women of color. Studies consistently show that Black women are diagnosed with fibroids roughly three times as frequently as Caucasian women, and women of color are more likely to develop fibroids earlier in life and tend to experience larger and more numerous fibroids. Awareness is just the beginning to address the significant health care gaps, particularly for women of color. We need systemic change. We need to work on identifying the drivers of these disparities. We need to continue advocating for improved access to care, eliminating disparities in diagnosis and treatment, and reducing the stigma surrounding reproductive health care.
Today I stand in solidarity with the millions of women who have suffered in silence, the health care professionals fighting to amplify our voices, and everyone working to ensure that uterine fibroids do not define our health or limit our futures. Let’s make this month and every month not just about raising awareness but taking meaningful action—action that drives better health outcomes and creates a future where no woman suffers in pain.
By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of
Third Reading of Bills
Recess
Senator Singh moved that the Senate recess subject to the call of the Chair.
The motion prevailed, the time being 10:28 a.m.
The
Senate was called to order by the President pro tempore, Senator Moss.
Senator Singh moved that the Senate proceed to consideration of the following bill:
House Bill No. 4924
The motion prevailed.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4924, entitled
A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled “Revised judicature act of 1961,” by amending section 3304 (MCL 600.3304) and by adding chapter 34.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 367 Yeas—35
Albert Cherry Klinefelt Polehanki
Anthony Daley Lauwers Runestad
Bayer Damoose McBroom Santana
Bellino Geiss McCann Shink
Brinks Hauck McDonald Rivet Singh
Bumstead Hertel McMorrow Victory
Camilleri Hoitenga Moss Webber
Cavanagh Huizenga Nesbitt Wojno
Chang Irwin Outman
Nays—1
Lindsey
Excused—2
Johnson Theis
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Moss
Senator Singh moved that the Senate proceed to consideration of the following bill:
House Bill No. 5127
The motion prevailed.
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 5127, entitled
A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “Michigan vehicle code,” by amending section 803f (MCL 257.803f), as amended by 2022 PA 143.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 368 Yeas—35
Albert Cherry Klinefelt Polehanki
Anthony Daley Lauwers Runestad
Bayer Damoose McBroom Santana
Bellino Geiss McCann Shink
Brinks Hauck McDonald Rivet Singh
Bumstead Hertel McMorrow Victory
Camilleri Hoitenga Moss Webber
Cavanagh Huizenga Nesbitt Wojno
Chang Irwin Outman
Nays—1
Lindsey
Excused—2
Johnson Theis
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Moss
Pursuant to Joint Rule 20, the full title of the act shall be inserted to read as follows:
“An act to provide for the registration, titling, sale, transfer, and regulation of certain vehicles operated upon the public highways of this state or any other place open to the general public or generally accessible to motor vehicles and distressed vehicles; to provide for the licensing of dealers; to provide for the examination, licensing, and control of operators and chauffeurs; to provide for the giving of proof of financial responsibility and security by owners and operators of vehicles; to provide for the imposition, levy, and collection of specific taxes on vehicles, and the levy and collection of sales and use taxes, license fees, and permit fees; to provide for the regulation and use of streets and highways; to create certain funds; to provide penalties and sanctions for a violation of this act; to provide for civil liability of manufacturers, the manufacturers of certain devices, the manufacturers of automated technology, upfitters, owners, and operators of vehicles and service of process on residents and nonresidents; to regulate the introduction and use of certain evidence; to regulate and certify the manufacturers of certain devices; to provide for approval and certification of installers and servicers of certain devices; to provide for the levy of certain assessments; to provide for the enforcement of this act; to provide for the creation of and to prescribe the powers and duties of certain state and local agencies; to impose liability upon the state or local agencies; to provide appropriations for certain purposes; to repeal all other acts or parts of acts inconsistent with this act or contrary to this act; and to repeal certain parts of this act on a specific date,”
The Senate agreed to the full title.
Protest
Senator Lindsey, under his constitutional right of protest (Art. 4, Sec. 18), protested against the passage of House Bill No. 5127.
Senator Lindsey’s statement is as follows:
This bill is in regards to registration plates for disabled veterans and I was the only “no” vote on this. I just want to make it clear that I am deeply supportive of our veteran community. I myself am a veteran; I myself actually would qualify under this bill to get a new benefit, I guess, from the state level. I read the legislation, I reached out to a bunch of people who were working on it and was trying to figure out what problem is being solved and how is this working and it seems like this was just a really flawed approach. Why are we passing legislation? The current model is that if you’re 100 percent disabled, you get a certain financial benefit and you’re forced then into putting a disabled veteran plate on your vehicle, which a lot of disabled veterans don’t actually want to do. They might want to say thank you to the state for giving me the opportunity to have a slightly lower fee on something like this, but they might not want to go out and broadcast to the public that they’re disabled veterans.
Now we expand that up to people who are 50 percent disabled and up. They don’t actually get the full financial benefit but if they want to opt into this program, they can get a plate that says “disabled veteran” on it. If people in this chamber—this came from the House—are really serious about saying, Let’s tackle problems for disabled veterans, why don’t we actually sit down and say what’s actually going to help with that. As I said, I myself am a disabled veteran. I know there are several people in the House who are too. I don’t think from reaching out to them and having these conversations anybody sat down and said, How can we actually help the people of Michigan?
I voted “no” because this is something that strikes me as something somebody ran a bill so we can go out and have some publicity saying we’re helping disabled veterans without actually doing so.
Senator Singh moved that the Senate proceed to consideration of the following bill:
Senate Bill No. 803
The motion prevailed.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 803, entitled
A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled “Natural resources and environmental protection act,” by amending section 43525c (MCL 324.43525c), as amended by 2021 PA 6.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 369 Yeas—35
Albert Cherry Klinefelt Outman
Anthony Daley Lauwers Runestad
Bayer Damoose Lindsey Santana
Bellino Geiss McBroom Shink
Brinks Hauck McCann Singh
Bumstead Hertel McDonald Rivet Victory
Camilleri Hoitenga McMorrow Webber
Cavanagh Huizenga Moss Wojno
Chang Irwin Nesbitt
Nays—1
Polehanki
Excused—2
Johnson Theis
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Moss
The Senate agreed to the title of the
bill.
Senator Polehanki under her constitutional right of protest (Art. 4, Sec. 18), protested against the passage of Senate Bill No. 803 and moved that she be permitted to submit, in writing, her reasons for voting “no” for inclusion in a subsequent Journal.
The motion prevailed.
Senators McBroom and Polehanki asked and were granted unanimous consent to make statements and moved that the statements be printed in the Journal.
The motion prevailed.
Senator McBroom’s statement is as follows:
I rise to support this legislation. A few years ago we put this in place, and to just briefly speak to members about why this isn’t canned hunting. The facts of the matter are, we stock numerous species around this state that citizens then enjoy and utilize for outdoor recreation, and we’ve been doing this for decades. The trout in the Great Lakes, you’re all paying for them. The whole country is paying for those, and we stock millions of them. The state of Michigan is paying for the stocking of walleye, some in the Great Lakes, some in inland lakes. We’re doing many different species that then people go out and enjoy for hunting, and they aren’t canned hunts.
In this situation, we’re purchasing these birds, the pheasants, that are then taken to state land where citizens who’ve purchased the right to hunt come and hunt on that state land and the program is extensively promoted to beginners who’ve never hunted before and to children who are getting out for their first time hunting with a mentor. These are exceptional programs that get people outside and enjoying the great outdoors and state land in Michigan, as well as understanding the process of conservation of species and the value of hunting in the conservation of those species. The state even plants big species like moose and wolves and other things around this state over the years that then sometimes end up having a season and sometimes don’t as we try to manage those species according to Proposal G in the sound science way.
These aren’t canned hunts, but I will say a word even then. If they were canned hunts, so what? We eat beef, we eat chicken, we eat many other animals that are raised on farms and then are processed for us for food. How are those any different? The manner in which an animal is raised then processed and harvested in particular is not what’s at question and shouldn’t be at question. This program—back to this program specifically—is a very valuable asset to this state, as it promotes first-time hunting experiences in a small way for people to decide whether or not they want to do larger-scale hunting in the future. I’m very proud of the part I played in getting this program into place and grateful to the sponsor of this bill for extending the sunset on it. Please vote “yes.”
Senator Polehanki’s statement is as follows:
Mr. President, I’d like to point out, through you to the Senator from the 38th District, we don’t all eat meat. I myself have not eaten meat for over 25 years, and just want to correct the record.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 860, entitled
A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled “Natural resources and environmental protection act,” (MCL 324.101 to 324.90106) by adding section 40503.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 370 Yeas—30
Anthony Daley McBroom Polehanki
Bayer Damoose McCann Santana
Brinks Geiss McDonald Rivet Shink
Bumstead Hertel McMorrow Singh
Camilleri Huizenga Moss Victory
Cavanagh Irwin Nesbitt Webber
Chang Klinefelt Outman Wojno
Cherry Lauwers
Nays—6
Albert Hauck Lindsey Runestad
Bellino Hoitenga
Excused—2
Johnson Theis
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Moss
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The motion prevailed.
Senator McBroom’s statement is as follows:
I rise to speak in support of this legislation; however, I want to point out that I think we could accomplish the ends of this legislation, which is to have a report on what we need to do for the habitat of woodcock a lot more cheaply, because I can give you what the answer is. It’s to promote young growth forests; it’s to promote harvesting of timber and the timber industries; it’s to not fall into the trap of putting all of our state forest lands into carbon credits, which lead to old growth forests. Woodcocks need young growth forests. They like young aspen stands, that’s where they want to be. While I support doing this study, I’d like my remarks printed in the Journal so that it can be verified in a few years when the report comes out that for the cost of getting Ed McBroom to the Senate, we could have already had the answer.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 882, entitled
A bill to amend 2000 PA 92, entitled “Food law,” by amending section 4105 (MCL 289.4105), as amended by 2016 PA 188.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 371 Yeas—36
Albert Cherry Klinefelt Outman
Anthony Daley Lauwers Polehanki
Bayer Damoose Lindsey Runestad
Bellino Geiss McBroom Santana
Brinks Hauck McCann Shink
Bumstead Hertel McDonald Rivet Singh
Camilleri Hoitenga McMorrow Victory
Cavanagh Huizenga Moss Webber
Chang Irwin Nesbitt Wojno
Nays—0
Excused—2
Johnson Theis
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Moss
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
Senator Singh moved to reconsider the vote by which the following bill was passed:
House Bill No. 4924, entitled
A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled “Revised judicature act of 1961,” by amending section 3304 (MCL 600.3304) and by adding chapter 34.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 372 Yeas—36
Albert Cherry Klinefelt Outman
Anthony Daley Lauwers Polehanki
Bayer Damoose Lindsey Runestad
Bellino Geiss McBroom Santana
Brinks Hauck McCann Shink
Bumstead Hertel McDonald Rivet Singh
Camilleri Hoitenga McMorrow Victory
Cavanagh Huizenga Moss Webber
Chang Irwin Nesbitt Wojno
Nays—0
Excused—2
Johnson Theis
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Moss
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 proceeded to the order of
Statements
The motion prevailed.
Senator Albert’s statement is as follows:
Last session, I gave a statement about the need for changes to Michigan’s new court-ordered minimum wage and paid sick leave laws before they take effect next February. My comments sparked a colleague of mine from Ann Arbor to speak on the topic as well, and I believe my colleague is well intentioned and I have heard the same arguments before. I believe it’s important to respond.
These government mandates have real-world negative consequences for hardworking Michiganders. I don’t want to spend a lot of time relitigating why we are in this mess. I can say for certain it was not Republicans who caused this issue by traversing this state and collecting signatures to enact these problematic laws. For what it’s worth, I voted against adopting these measures in 2018, and I did support the later amended language to improve these policies. That all being said, if we really want to assign blame, I would argue it rests with angles and marks who propagated the false ideology that the employer is inherently exploiting the worker, and the only way to fix this class conflict is by the heavy hand of fallible central planners. All that being said, we owe it to the people of Michigan to look forward and fix this problem before it is too late.
My colleague pointed out that this legislation is not taking effect immediately. This process beings in February and there is a phase-in over the next few years. This is true for the minimum wage, but it is not true for the paid sick leave laws. It is accurate to think businesses are not all going to immediately collapse in February, that’s not what I’m trying to argue. What I’m saying is that the employers are going to make significant changes ahead of time. They may delay as long as possible, but eventually they will make decisions in response to these new laws to avoid going belly up. For example, a restaurant owner will likely wait until the end of this year to look at the new higher costs that are around the corner. They will then increase prices, implement a reduction in employee hours, or even start layoffs. As time moves on, the screws are wound tighter and the phase-in increases, and this will get worse. Restaurants and other businesses are not going to stay the status quo and wait to see how things look in 2027 or 2029.
There is one other point my colleague and others make that I feel I must respond to. It is the idea that everyone should have what is often referred to as a living wage. I do agree that everyone who works should be compensated justly. In my faith, it is a grave sin to defraud a laborer of their wages. The problem with this ideology is that everyone having one fair wage is ignoring the fact that life is not uniform. Not everyone in a workforce is there with a goal of fully supporting themselves or their families. When I was 17 years old working at the Double R Ranch in Smyrna, I didn’t need to support a family. What I needed was a job to earn gas money, save for college, and learn the value of a hard day’s work. Someone might just need a part-time job to earn some extra grocery money. A developmentally disabled person may be able to work a low-skill job like cleaning counters or emptying trash. We should not seek one fair wage where everybody is paid the same, but many fair wages. Artificially increase wages too high and these opportunities go away.
On top of that is the fairness issue. Why should someone who is waiting six tables get paid the same as someone is waiting one? I am not against a minimum wage, but I am against one that eliminates the tip credit and prices good jobs out of the market, eliminating them entirely. I am not against paid sick leave, but I am against one that does not exempt small businesses and makes it impossible for employers to reliably schedule shifts.
Time is short and I’ve put out a solution. If my colleagues have an alternative plan, I ask that it be put out into the public, or start moving my bills through the legislative process.
Senator Bellino’s statement is as follows:
Mr. President, last week federal charges were brought against five Chinese nationals who were allegedly spying on Camp Grayling during large military drills. I guess the Pure Michigan logo is working in China today. That’s wonderful. If confirmed, this will be the latest in a long line of alarming incidents perpetrated by China which national security experts have repeatedly warned us is the biggest and gravest threat to the United States. They utilize tactics ranging from traditional spying to cyber crimes and increasingly to industrial espionage. Incidents of Chinese espionage far outnumber those of any other foreign adversaries, including the masters of collusion, Russia.
In light of this threat, security experts from both sides of the aisle have warned against the following companies with ties to Communist China. Earlier this year, former Clinton and Obama CIA director and Defense Secretary Leon Panetta warned specifically of Michigan’s pending agreement with Gotion saying, and I quote, “I don’t think there’s any question that they are going to take advantage of that situation. They will establish a manufacturing unit. … They will use that for their own intelligence purposes.” With this use they will be “able to gain the kind of advantages that are counter, frankly, to the interests of the United States.” Let me repeat that—counter to the interests of the United States.
Despite this dire warning from a man who recently spoke at the Democratic National Convention, the majority in this chamber—the so-called trifecta—hasn’t just welcomed Gotion to Michigan, they’ve given them hundreds of millions of dollars to locate here. Michigan Democrats haven’t just welcomed the fox to the henhouse, we’re paying the fox to move in. Mr. President, this threat to our national security has been made crystal clear, yet the majority here still refuses to press the pause button on this dangerous relationship. At some point someone must ask why. After all, the FBI warned, “The Chinese government is employing tactics that seek to influence lawmakers and public opinion to achieve policies that are more favorable to China.”
The Chinese Communist Party must be elated by how these tactics have apparently worked here in Michigan.
Announcements of Printing and Enrollment
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 834 at 4:05 p.m.
The Secretary announced the enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor on Monday, October 7, for her approval the following bills:
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 790 at 10:56 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 791 at 10:58 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 150 at 11:00 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 351 at 11:02 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 366 at 11:04 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 701 at 11:06 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 716 at 11:08 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 817 at 11:10 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 926 at 11:12 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 928 at 11:14 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 929 at 11:16 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 931 at 11:18 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 932 at 11:20 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 933 at 11:22 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 934 at 11:24 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 935 at 11:26 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 744 at 11:28 a.m.
The Secretary announced the enrollment printing and presentation to the Governor on Tuesday, October 8, for her approval the following bills:
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 567 at 9:10 a.m.
Enrolled Senate Bill No. 568 at 9:12 a.m.
The Secretary announced that the following bills were printed and filed on Wednesday, October 2, and are available on the Michigan Legislature website:
Senate Bill Nos. 1020 1021 1022 1023 1024 1025 1026 1027 1028 1029
Committee Reports
The Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety reported
Senate Bill No. 870, entitled
A bill to amend 1976 PA 267, entitled “Open meetings act,” by amending section 3a (MCL 15.263a), as amended by 2023 PA 214.
With the recommendation that the substitute (S-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.
Stephanie Chang
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Chang, Shink, Wojno, Irwin and Santana
Nays: None
The bill and the substitute recommended by the committee were referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety reported
Senate Bill No. 922, entitled
A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled “Revised judicature act of 1961,” (MCL 600.101 to 600.9947) by adding section 2950p.
With the recommendation that the substitute (S-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.
Stephanie Chang
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Chang, Shink, Wojno, Irwin, Santana, Runestad and Johnson
Nays: None
The bill and the substitute recommended by the committee were referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety reported
Senate Bill No. 923, entitled
A bill to amend 1931 PA 328, entitled “The Michigan penal code,” by amending section 159g (MCL 750.159g), as amended by 2022 PA 174.
With the recommendation that the bill pass.
Stephanie Chang
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Chang, Shink, Wojno, Irwin, Santana, Runestad and Johnson
Nays: None
The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety reported
Senate Bill No. 924, entitled
A bill to amend 1931 PA 328, entitled “The Michigan penal code,” by amending section 174a (MCL 750.174a), as amended by 2013 PA 34.
With the recommendation that the bill pass.
Stephanie Chang
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Chang, Shink, Wojno, Irwin, Santana, Runestad and Johnson
Nays: None
The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety reported
Senate Bill No. 925, entitled
With the recommendation that the bill pass.
Stephanie Chang
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Chang, Shink, Wojno, Irwin, Santana, Runestad and Johnson
Nays: None
The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety submitted the following:
Meeting held on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., Room 1200, Binsfeld Office Building
Present: Senators Chang (C), Shink, Wojno, Irwin, Santana, Runestad and Johnson
The Committee on Health Policy reported
Senate Bill No. 542, entitled
A bill to prescribe the types of opioid antagonists distributed to certain persons or governmental entities in this state; and to provide for the powers and duties of certain state officers and entities.
With the recommendation that the bill pass.
Kevin Hertel
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Hertel, Santana, Wojno, Cherry, Klinefelt, Geiss, Webber, Hauck, Huizenga and Runestad
Nays: None
The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Health Policy submitted the following:
Meeting held on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 12:30 p.m., Room 1100, Binsfeld Office Building
Present: Senators Hertel (C), Santana, Wojno, Cherry, Klinefelt, Geiss, Webber, Hauck, Huizenga and Runestad
Finance, Insurance, and Consumer Protection – Wednesday, October 9, 1:00 p.m., Room 1200, Binsfeld Office Building (517) 373-5314
Health Policy – Wednesday, October 9, 12:30 p.m., Room 1100, Binsfeld Office Building (517) 373-5323
Oversight – Wednesday, October 9, 10:15 a.m., Room 1200, Binsfeld Office Building (517) 373-5314
Regulatory Affairs – Wednesday, October 9, 11:00 a.m., Room 1100, Binsfeld Office Building (517) 373-1721
Senator Singh moved that the Senate adjourn.
The motion prevailed, the time being 11:31 a.m.
The President pro tempore, Senator Moss, declared the Senate adjourned until Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at 10:00 a.m.
DANIEL OBERLIN
Secretary of the Senate