Rep. Polidori offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 285.

A resolution to encourage the Office of Financial and Insurance Regulations to work cooperatively with all stakeholders to facilitate the offering of insurance discounts for alternative energy vehicles in Michigan.

            Whereas, The nation and the state are facing historical energy challenges. Gasoline prices are skyrocketing, and concerns over global warming are deepening. The once vibrant manufacturing economy in Michigan and other Midwest states is worsening. The increased use of alternative energy vehicles can provide a way to meet our energy challenges and stimulate Michigan's economy; and

            Whereas, Alternative energy vehicles can decrease our dependence on imported petroleum and reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Alternative energy vehicles include hybrid electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, as well as vehicles fueled with ethanol, biodiesel, and propane. These vehicles use little or no gasoline and have substantially fewer greenhouse gas emissions; and

            Whereas, Auto insurance discounts offer an innovative way to spur the purchase of alternative energy vehicles and spur growth in the alternative energy industry. At least two insurance companies, Travelers and Farmers Insurance Group, offer auto insurance discounts for people who own alternative energy vehicles. This type of policy can provide an added incentive for consumers to help spur the purchase of alternative energy vehicles. Increasing the number of alternative energy vehicles driven increases the market for renewable fuels, benefits our environment, and creates jobs; and

            Whereas, The Office of Financial and Insurance Regulations is responsible for regulating insurance companies and protecting the interests of Michigan consumers. Travelers and Farmers Insurance Group are only two of the many insurance companies that provide insurance in Michigan. Clearly, the interests of consumers would be better served if more regulated insurance companies in Michigan were to offer an alternative energy vehicle discount; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we encourage the Office of Financial and Insurance Regulations to work cooperatively with all stakeholders to facilitate the offering of insurance discounts for alternative energy vehicles in Michigan; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Commissioner of the Office of Financial and Insurance Regulations.