STATE OF MICHIGAN
Journal of the Senate
101st Legislature
REGULAR SESSION OF 2021
Senate Chamber, Lansing, Wednesday, April 21, 2021.
10:00 a.m.
The Senate was called to order by the President pro tempore, Senator Aric Nesbitt.
The roll was called by the Secretary of the Senate, who announced that a quorum was present.
Alexander—present Hollier—excused Outman—present
Ananich—present Horn—present Polehanki—present
Barrett—present Irwin—present Runestad—present
Bayer—present Johnson—present Santana—present
Bizon—present LaSata—present Schmidt—present
Brinks—present Lauwers—present Shirkey—present
Bullock—present MacDonald—present Stamas—present
Bumstead—present McBroom—present Theis—present
Chang—present McCann—present VanderWall—present
Daley—present McMorrow—excused Victory—present
Geiss—present Moss—present Wojno—present
Hertel—present Nesbitt—present Zorn—present
Senator Ruth A. Johnson of the 14th District offered the following invocation:
Heavenly Father, as we gather here today to perform our work on behalf of the people of Michigan, we ask for one of Your most precious gifts—the gift of wisdom. James 3:17 tells us that, “The wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, free of hypocrisy.” We ask You to help us to find Your wisdom. Help us to lead by example that we may demonstrate wisdom not only in our words, but in our actions. For You have told us that true wisdom is free of hypocrisy.
John 3:18 tells us, “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” Help us to find the wisdom we need to take the actions that are best for the people we serve. Help us to take those wise actions that will make our state a better place to live, not only for ourselves and our neighbors, but also for the generations who will follow in our footsteps, that we may leave a legacy that is even greater than that which we inherited.
Matthew 7 says,
Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who builds his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall because it had been founded on rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.
As we lead this chamber, help us to build our foundation wisely upon the rock and not the sand, because we know that the rains and the winds will come. But support us, that we may build something that lasts. Guide us to make good decisions that will benefit the people of Michigan long after our time in this chamber. Show us Your wisdom so that not only in our words, but in Your day-to-day actions and our day-to-day actions we have left a legacy that will honor You. Let us build not for our own gain, but for those who have elected us and entrusted us to lead them. Guide both our hearts and minds with Your pure wisdom today and always.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
The President pro tempore, Senator Nesbitt, led the members of the Senate in recital of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Motions and Communications
The motion prevailed.
Senator Chang moved that Senators McMorrow and Hollier be excused from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
Senator Lauwers moved that Senator LaSata be temporarily excused from today’s session.
The motion prevailed.
The following communication was received and read:
Office of the Senate Majority Leader
April 21, 2021
Pursuant to Senate Rule 1.105, I hereby announce the following appointment for this, the 101st Legislature:
Joint Capital Outlay Subcommittee: Senator Michael MacDonald
If you have any questions regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Mike Shirkey
Senate Majority Leader
Michigan’s 16th Senate District
The appointment was approved, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The
communication was referred to the Secretary for record.
Senator Ananich entered the Senate Chamber.
Senate Resolution No. 42
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
Senator LaSata entered the Senate Chamber.
Messages from the Governor
The following message from the Governor was received on April 21, 2021, and read:
EXECUTIVE ORDER
No. 2021-5
Michigan Jail Reform Advisory Council
Department of Technology, Management and Budget
The Michigan Joint Task Force on Jail and Pretrial Incarceration, created by Executive Order No. 2019-10 and co-chaired by Michigan’s Lieutenant Governor and Chief Justice, issued its final report and recommendations in January of 2020. The Task Force found significant growth in county jail populations, costing taxpayers nearly half a billion dollars annually. Jail populations have been driven equally by pretrial and post-conviction incarceration, with limited guidance in state law on the preferred or presumed intervention. The Task Force recommended extensive state policy changes related to traffic violations, arrests, behavioral health diversion, pretrial release and detention, speedy trials, sentencing, probation and parole, financial barriers for system-involved individuals, victim services, and data collection.
The Michigan Legislature passed many of the Task Force recommendations with bipartisan support in December of 2020, which were signed into law on January 4, 2021. The legislature is considering other reforms, as well.
As a national leader in criminal justice reform, Michigan must prioritize the full and timely implementation of these jail reforms and track related outcomes. Interdisciplinary, inter-branch coordination is vital for implementing policy and practice changes, developing educational materials, supporting justice system practitioners, and monitoring performance measures.
Section 1 of article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 vests the executive power of the State of Michigan in the governor.
Section 8 of article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 places each principal department of state government under the supervision of the governor unless otherwise provided.
Section 8 of article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 also obligates the governor to take care that the laws be faithfully executed.
Acting under the Michigan Constitution of 1963 and Michigan law, I order the following:
1. Creating the Michigan Jail Reform Advisory Council
(a) The Michigan Jail Reform Advisory Council (“Council”) is created as an advisory body within the Department of Technology, Management, and Budget (“Department”), consisting of 19 members.
(b) The governor will appoint the following members:
(1) The secretary of state or the secretary of state’s designated representative from within the Office of Secretary of State of Michigan.
(2) The attorney general or the attorney general’s designated representative from within the Department of Attorney General.
(3) The director of the Michigan State Police or the director’s designated representative from within the Michigan State Police.
(4) The director of the Michigan Department of Corrections or the director’s designated representative from within the Michigan Department of Corrections.
(5) The
director of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services or the
director’s designated representative from within the Division of Victims
Services.
(6) An individual who is a public defender or criminal defense attorney for indigent clients, after soliciting and considering nominees from the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission.
(7) A county prosecutor, after soliciting and considering nominees from the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan.
(8) A member of a board of county commissioners, after soliciting and considering nominees from the Michigan Association of Counties.
(9) A county sheriff or jail administrator, after soliciting and considering nominees from the Michigan’s Sheriff’s Association.
(10) A police chief, after soliciting and considering nominees from the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police.
(11) A community mental health employee, after soliciting and considering nominees from the Community Mental Health Association of Michigan.
(12) A representative of community corrections or pretrial services.
(c) The following officers of the judicial branch of state government may participate as members of the Council:
(1) The chief justice of the Michigan Supreme Court or the chief justice’s designated representative from within the State Court Administrative Office or Michigan Supreme Court.
(2) A circuit court judge designated by the chief justice of the Michigan Supreme Court.
(3) A district court judge designated by the chief justice of the Michigan Supreme Court.
(d) The following officers of the legislative branch of state government may participate as members of the Council:
(1) A member of the Michigan Senate appointed from a list of three nominees submitted by the senate majority leader.
(2) A member of the Michigan Senate appointed from a list of three nominees submitted by the senate minority leader.
(3) A member of the Michigan House of Representatives appointed from a list of three nominees submitted by the speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives.
(4) A member of the Michigan House of Representatives appointed from a list of three nominees submitted by the house minority leader.
(e) A vacancy on the Council must be filled in the same manner as the original appointment.
(f) The Governor must name a chairperson of the Council.
2. Charge to the Council
(a) The Council must facilitate, assist with, monitor, and evaluate the successful implementation of jail reform legislation throughout the State of Michigan. In pursuit of these objectives, the Council’s work may include, but is not limited to, the following:
(1) Provide information to criminal justice system professionals by drafting and distributing guides explaining jail reform legislation and their corresponding effective dates.
(2) Collaborate with and support local and state agencies with implementation strategies.
(3) Identify training needs for government agencies, system stakeholders, and professional associations to comply with the law and provide support as needed, including subject matter expertise, presentations, and educational materials.
(4) Coordinate with government agencies and departments to develop and implement necessary changes in forms, technology, and website information.
(5) Recommend reasonable timelines for government agencies and key justice system practitioner groups to report on steps taken to implement the statutory and budgetary changes. Provide feedback on implementation plans to support compliance and enhance the likelihood of full and timely implementation.
(6) Identify data that can reasonably be collected or sampled to measure the outcomes of jail reform legislation and partner with key justice system practitioner groups to gather that data.
(b) The Council must report annually on or before the 15th of January to the Governor, Legislature, and Supreme Court on implementation of the jail reform legislation and measurable outcomes.
(c) The Council must disseminate accurate and reliable information about the jail reform legislation and its outcomes through public statements, background information and fact-checks for lawmakers, practitioners, and the media, and annual reports on the performance of the policy changes.
(d) The Council will dissolve on March 31, 2023, or such other time as the governor directs.
3. Operations of the Council
(a) By mutual
agreement, the State Court Administrative Office will provide personnel to
assist the Council in the performance of its duties. As needed, the department
must also assist the Council in the performance of its duties and provide
personnel to staff the Council. The budgeting, procurement, and related
management functions of the Council will be performed under the direction and
supervision of the Department.
(b) The Council must adopt procedures, consistent with this order and applicable law, governing its organization and operations.
(c) The Council must meet at the call of its chairperson and as otherwise provided in the procedures adopted by the Council.
(d) The Council may select from among its members a vice chairperson.
(e) The Council may select from among its members a secretary. Council staff must assist the secretary with recordkeeping responsibilities.
(f) The Council must comply with the Freedom of Information Act, 1976 PA 442, as amended, MCL 15.231 to 15.246.
(g) A majority of the members of the Council serving constitutes a quorum for the transaction of the business of the Council. The Council must act by a majority vote of its serving members.
(h) The Council may establish advisory workgroups composed of individuals or entities participating in Council’s activities or other members of the public as deemed necessary by the Council to assist it in performing its duties and responsibilities. The Council may adopt, reject, or modify any recommendations proposed by an advisory workgroup.
(i) The Council may, as appropriate, make inquiries, studies, and investigations, hold hearings, and receive comments from the public. The Council also may consult with outside experts to perform its duties, including their peers, justice-system practitioners and stakeholders, in-state and national experts, crime victims and those impacted by criminal justice systems in the state, community leaders and members of the public.
(j) The Council may hire or retain contractors, sub-contractors, advisors, consultants, and agents, and may make and enter into contracts necessary or incidental to the exercise of the powers of the Council and the performance of its duties as the Department deems advisable and necessary, consistent with this order and applicable law, rules, and procedures, subject to available funding.
(k) The Council may accept donations of labor, services, or other things of value from any public or private agency or person. Any donations must be received and used in accordance with law.
(l) Members of the Council must not receive additional compensation for participation on the Council. Members of the Council may receive reimbursement for necessary travel and expenses consistent with applicable law, rules, and procedures, subject to available funding.
(m) Members of the Council must refer all legal, legislative, and media contacts to the Executive Office of the Governor.
4. Implementation
(a) All departments, committees, commissioners, or officers of this state must give to the Council, or to any member or representative of the Council, any necessary assistance required by the Council, or any member or representative of the Council, in the performance of the duties of the Council so far as is compatible with their duties and consistent with this order and applicable law. Free access also must be given to any books, records, or documents in their custody relating to matters within the scope of inquiry, study, or review of the Council, consistent with applicable law.
(b) This order is not intended to abate a proceeding commenced by, against, or before an officer or entity affected by this order. A proceeding may be maintained by, against, or before the successor of any officer or entity affected by this order.
(c) Nothing in this order should be construed to change the organization of the executive branch of state government or the assignment of functions among its units, in a manner requiring the force of law.
(d) If any portion of this order is found to be unenforceable, the rest of the order remains in effect.
(e) This order is effective upon filing. Given under my hand and the Great Seal of the State of Michigan.
Date: April 21, 2021
Time: 8:00 a.m.
Gretchen Whitmer
[SEAL] Governor
By the Governor:
Jocelyn Benson
Secretary of State
The executive order was referred to the Committee on Government Operations.
Senator Geiss entered the Senate Chamber.
Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate recess subject to the call of the Chair.
The motion prevailed, the time being 10:08 a.m.
The Senate was called to order by the President pro tempore, Senator Nesbitt.
During the recess, Senator Moss entered the Senate Chamber.
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of
Resolutions
Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate proceed to consideration of the following resolution:
Senate Resolution No. 42
The motion prevailed.
A resolution to recognize April 2021 as Natural Gas and Electric Service Workers Appreciation Month.
(This resolution was reported by the Committee on Energy and Technology on Tuesday, April 20. See p. 520.)
The question being on the adoption of the resolution,
By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of
General Orders
The motion prevailed, and the President pro tempore, Senator Nesbitt, designated Senator MacDonald as Chairperson.
After some time spent therein, the Committee arose; and the President pro tempore, Senator Nesbitt, having resumed the Chair, the Committee reported back to the Senate, favorably and without amendment, the following bills:
A bill to create the Michigan first-time home buyer savings program; to provide for first-time home buyer savings accounts; to prescribe the powers and duties of certain state agencies, boards, and departments; to allow certain tax deductions; and to provide for penalties and remedies.
A bill to amend 1967 PA 281, entitled “Income tax act of 1967,” by amending section 30 (MCL 206.30), as amended by 2020 PA 65.
The bills were placed on the order of Third Reading of Bills.
Senate Bill No. 248, entitled
A bill to amend 1967 PA 281, entitled “Income tax act of 1967,” by amending sections 325, 687, and 701 (MCL 206.325, 206.687, and 206.701), section 325 as amended and section 687 as added by 2011 PA 38 and section 701 as amended by 2011 PA 311, and by adding chapter 18.
Substitute (S-1).
Senate Bill No. 155, entitled
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” by amending sections 17703, 17708, 17751, and 17757 (MCL 333.17703, 333.17708, 333.17751, and 333.17757), section 17703 as amended by 2016 PA 528, section 17708 as amended by 2020 PA 4, section 17751 as amended by 2020 PA 136, and section 17757 as amended by 2016 PA 383, and by adding section 17744f.
Substitute (S-1).
Senate Bill No. 156, entitled
A bill to amend 1956 PA 218, entitled “The insurance code of 1956,” by amending section 3406o (MCL 500.3406o), as amended by 2016 PA 276, and by adding section 3406v.
Substitute (S-3).
House Bill No. 4067, entitled
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” by amending sections 16605 and 16608 (MCL 333.16605 and 333.16608), section 16605 as amended by 2018 PA 463 and section 16608 as amended by 2002 PA 643.
Substitute (S-1).
During the Committee of the Whole, Senator Bullock entered the Senate Chamber.
By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of
Third Reading of Bills
The following bill was read a third time:
House Bill No. 4469, entitled
A bill to make, supplement, and adjust appropriations for certain capital outlay projects for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2021; to provide for expenditure of the appropriations; and to prescribe certain conditions for the appropriations.
The question being on the passage of the bill,
The bill was passed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 92 Yeas—34
Alexander Daley McBroom Schmidt
Ananich Geiss McCann Shirkey
Barrett Hertel Moss Stamas
Bayer Horn Nesbitt Theis
Bizon Irwin Outman VanderWall
Brinks Johnson Polehanki Victory
Bullock LaSata Runestad Wojno
Bumstead Lauwers Santana Zorn
Chang MacDonald
Nays—0
Excused—2
Hollier McMorrow
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The question being on concurring in the committee recommendation to give the bill immediate effect,
The recommendation was concurred in, 2/3 of the members serving voting therefor.
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 157, entitled
A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” by amending sections 16103, 16109, 16181, 16303, 16323, and 20950 (MCL 333.16103, 333.16109, 333.16181, 333.16303, 333.16323, and 333.20950), section 16103 as amended by 1993 PA 80, section 16109 as amended by 1991 PA 58, section 16181 as amended by 2014 PA 148, section 16303 as added by 1988 PA 462, section 16323 as amended by 2018 PA 463, and section 20950 as amended by 2013 PA 165, and by adding section 16186a.
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. 93 Yeas—34
Alexander Daley McBroom Schmidt
Ananich Geiss McCann Shirkey
Barrett Hertel Moss Stamas
Bayer Horn Nesbitt Theis
Bizon Irwin Outman VanderWall
Brinks Johnson Polehanki Victory
Bullock LaSata Runestad Wojno
Bumstead Lauwers Santana Zorn
Chang MacDonald
Nays—0
Excused—2
Hollier McMorrow
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The Senate agreed to the title of the
bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 312, entitled
A bill to amend 1980 PA 299, entitled “Occupational code,” by amending sections 103, 104, 105, 213, and 2404b (MCL 339.103, 339.104, 339.105, 339.213, and 339.2404b), section 103 as amended by 1994 PA 257, section 104 as amended by 2020 PA 372, section 105 as amended by 2016 PA 502, section 213 as amended by 2014 PA 149, and section 2404b as amended by 2014 PA 175, and by adding section 217.
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. 94 Yeas—34
Alexander Daley McBroom Schmidt
Ananich Geiss McCann Shirkey
Barrett Hertel Moss Stamas
Bayer Horn Nesbitt Theis
Bizon Irwin Outman VanderWall
Brinks Johnson Polehanki Victory
Bullock LaSata Runestad Wojno
Bumstead Lauwers Santana Zorn
Chang MacDonald
Nays—0
Excused—2
Hollier McMorrow
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
The following bill was read a third time:
Senate Bill No. 134, entitled
A bill to amend 1931 PA 328, entitled “The Michigan penal code,” (MCL 750.1 to 750.568) by adding section 410c.
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. 95 Yeas—33
Alexander Daley McBroom Schmidt
Ananich Geiss McCann Shirkey
Barrett Hertel Moss Stamas
Bayer Horn Nesbitt Theis
Bizon Johnson Outman VanderWall
Brinks LaSata Polehanki Victory
Bullock Lauwers Runestad Wojno
Bumstead MacDonald Santana Zorn
Chang
Nays—1
Irwin
Excused—2
Hollier McMorrow
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The Senate agreed to the title of the bill.
By unanimous consent the Senate returned to the order of
Messages from the House
A bill to amend 1893 PA 206, entitled “The general property tax act,” (MCL 211.1 to 211.155) by adding section 9p.
(This bill was returned from the House on Tuesday, April 13, with a House substitute (H-1), immediate effect and full title, and was laid over under the rules. See Senate Journal No. 29, p. 470.)
The question being on concurring in the substitute made to the bill by the House,
Senator Nesbitt offered the following substitute to the House substitute:
Substitute (S-3).
The substitute was adopted, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The question being on concurring in the House substitute as substituted,
The substitute was concurred in, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 96 Yeas—19
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Theis
Bizon LaSata Outman VanderWall
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad Victory
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Zorn
Horn McBroom Stamas
Nays—14
Alexander Bullock Irwin Polehanki
Ananich Chang McCann Santana
Bayer Geiss Moss Wojno
Brinks Hertel
Excused—2
Hollier McMorrow
Not Voting—1
Shirkey
In The Chair: Nesbitt
The President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist, assumed the Chair.
Senator Lauwers moved to reconsider the vote by which the House substitute was concurred in.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
The question being on concurring in the House substitute as substituted,
The substitute was concurred in, a majority of the members serving voting therefor, as follows:
Roll Call No. 97 Yeas—20
Barrett Johnson Nesbitt Stamas
Bizon LaSata Outman Theis
Bumstead Lauwers Runestad VanderWall
Daley MacDonald Schmidt Victory
Horn McBroom Shirkey Zorn
Nays—14
Alexander Bullock Irwin Polehanki
Ananich Chang McCann Santana
Bayer Geiss Moss Wojno
Brinks Hertel
Excused—2
Hollier McMorrow
Not Voting—0
In The Chair: President
By unanimous consent the Senate proceeded to the order of
Introduction and Referral of Bills
Senators Geiss, Wojno, Polehanki and Bullock introduced
A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled “The revised school code,” (MCL 380.1 to 380.1852) by adding section 1160.
The bill was read a
first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Education and
Career Readiness.
Senators Bayer, Bullock, Wojno, Polehanki and Brinks introduced
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.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Environmental Quality.
Senators Hertel, Shirkey, Hollier, Bullock, McCann, Polehanki, Wojno, Alexander, Horn, Brinks, Geiss, Bayer, Santana, VanderWall, Bizon and Schmidt introduced
A bill to create the child abuse offenders database; to prescribe the powers and duties of certain departments and agencies in connection with that database; and to prescribe penalties and sanctions.
The bill was read a first and second time by title.
Senator Lauwers moved that rule 3.203 be suspended and that the bill be referred to the Committee of the Whole and placed on the order of General Orders.
The motion prevailed, a majority of the members serving voting therefor.
Senators Horn, Hollier, Lauwers and Schmidt introduced
A bill to amend 1991 PA 179, entitled “Michigan telecommunications act,” by amending section 309 (MCL 484.2309), as amended by 2011 PA 58.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Energy and Technology.
Senators Brinks, Moss, Bayer, Geiss, McCann, Polehanki, Wojno, Bullock, Chang, Hollier, Irwin and Alexander introduced
A bill to amend 1931 PA 328, entitled “The Michigan penal code,” by amending section 520l (MCL 750.520l), as amended by 1988 PA 138.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety.
Senator Nesbitt introduced
A bill to amend 1990 PA 187, entitled “The pupil transportation act,” by amending section 5 (MCL 257.1805), as amended by 2006 PA 107, and by adding section 32.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Senators Santana, Chang, Wojno and Polehanki introduced
A bill to amend 1978 PA 390, entitled “An act to regulate the time and manner of payment of wages and fringe benefits to employees; to prescribe rights and responsibilities of employers and employees, and the powers and duties of the department of labor; to require keeping of records; to provide for settlement of disputes regarding wages and fringe benefits; to prohibit certain practices by employers; to prescribe penalties and remedies; and to repeal certain acts and parts of acts,” by amending section 8 (MCL 408.478).
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety.
Senator Wojno introduced
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.
The bill was read a
first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Transportation
and Infrastructure.
Senator Wojno introduced
A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “Michigan vehicle code,” by amending sections 682, 907, and 909 (MCL 257.682, 257.907, and 257.909), section 682 as amended by 2012 PA 263, section 907 as amended by 2020 PA 382, and section 909 as amended by 2000 PA 94.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Senators Runestad, Nesbitt, MacDonald, Horn, Schmidt, LaSata, Barrett and VanderWall introduced
A bill to amend 1967 PA 281, entitled “Income tax act of 1967,” (MCL 206.1 to 206.713) by adding section 254.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Finance.
Senators Nesbitt, Barrett, Horn, Victory, Outman, Lauwers, McBroom and Bumstead introduced
A bill to amend 1951 PA 51, entitled “An act to provide for the classification of all public roads, streets, and highways in this state, and for the revision of that classification and for additions to and deletions from each classification; to set up and establish the Michigan transportation fund; to provide for the deposits in the Michigan transportation fund of specific taxes on motor vehicles and motor vehicle fuels; to provide for the allocation of funds from the Michigan transportation fund and the use and administration of the fund for transportation purposes; to promote safe and efficient travel for motor vehicle drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians, and other legal users of roads, streets, and highways; to set up and establish the truck safety fund; to provide for the allocation of funds from the truck safety fund and administration of the fund for truck safety purposes; to set up and establish the Michigan truck safety commission; to establish certain standards for road contracts for certain businesses; to provide for the continuing review of transportation needs within the state; to authorize the state transportation commission, counties, cities, and villages to borrow money, issue bonds, and make pledges of funds for transportation purposes; to authorize counties to advance funds for the payment of deficiencies necessary for the payment of bonds issued under this act; to provide for the limitations, payment, retirement, and security of the bonds and pledges; to provide for appropriations and tax levies by counties and townships for county roads; to authorize contributions by townships for county roads; to provide for the establishment and administration of the state trunk line fund, local bridge fund, comprehensive transportation fund, and certain other funds; to provide for the deposits in the state trunk line fund, critical bridge fund, comprehensive transportation fund, and certain other funds of money raised by specific taxes and fees; to provide for definitions of public transportation functions and criteria; to define the purposes for which Michigan transportation funds may be allocated; to provide for Michigan transportation fund grants; to provide for review and approval of transportation programs; to provide for submission of annual legislative requests and reports; to provide for the establishment and functions of certain advisory entities; to provide for conditions for grants; to provide for the issuance of bonds and notes for transportation purposes; to provide for the powers and duties of certain state and local agencies and officials; to provide for the making of loans for transportation purposes by the state transportation department and for the receipt and repayment by local units and agencies of those loans from certain specified sources; to investigate and study the tolling of roads, streets, highways, or bridges; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,” by amending section 18b (MCL 247.668b), as amended by 2002 PA 498.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
A bill to amend 1961 PA 236, entitled “Revised judicature act of 1961,” by amending section 8512 (MCL 600.8512), as amended by 2014 PA 384.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a
first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Judiciary and
Public Safety.
A bill to amend 1990 PA 187, entitled “The pupil transportation act,” by amending section 59 (MCL 257.1859), as amended by 1996 PA 170.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
A bill to amend 1949 PA 300, entitled “Michigan vehicle code,” by amending section 682 (MCL 257.682), as amended by 2012 PA 263.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
A bill to amend 1990 PA 187, entitled “The pupil transportation act,” by amending section 33 (MCL 257.1833), as amended by 2018 PA 422.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
A bill to amend 1990 PA 187, entitled “The pupil transportation act,” (MCL 257.1801 to 257.1877) by adding section 20.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
A bill to amend 1980 PA 300, entitled “The public school employees retirement act of 1979,” by amending section 41 (MCL 38.1341), as amended by 2018 PA 512.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
A bill to amend 1943 PA 240, entitled “State employees’ retirement act,” by amending sections 7, 20g, 38, 49, and 68b (MCL 38.7, 38.20g, 38.38, 38.49, and 38.68b), section 20g as amended by 1987 PA 241, section 38 as amended and section 68b as added by 2011 PA 264, and section 49 as amended by 2018 PA 336.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
A bill to amend 1992 PA 234, entitled “The judges retirement act of 1992,” by amending sections 301, 305, 509, 604, 714, and 719 (MCL 38.2301, 38.2305, 38.2509, 38.2604, 38.2664, and 38.2669), sections 305 and 714 as amended by 2002 PA 95, section 604 as amended by 2018 PA 335, and section 719 as added by 1996 PA 523, and by adding sections 509a and 714a.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
A bill to amend 1986 PA 182, entitled “State police retirement act of 1986,” by amending sections 11 and 14 (MCL 38.1611 and 38.1614), as amended by 2018 PA 674.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a
first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
A bill to regulate the labeling of certain portable fuel containers as made in and for use in Michigan; and to make findings that, under certain circumstances, portable fuel containers have not entered or substantially affected interstate commerce.
The House of Representatives has passed the bill and ordered that it be given immediate effect.
The bill was read a first and second time by title and referred to the Committee on Environmental Quality.
Statements
The motion prevailed.
Senator Geiss’ statement is as follows:
I just wanted to take a moment along with some of our other colleagues to acknowledge the sigh of relief that I think many of us experienced with yesterday’s verdict of the guilty charges in the murder of George Floyd. It has been a year of trauma, a year—just related to that particular trial—a year of trauma, it has been a year of frustration and I think for many of us when we got the news alert saying a verdict had been reached and it was going to be announced, many of us had the thought that we’ve seen this movie before and we know how it ends. Luckily, yesterday, the justice system proved us wrong.
That does not mean, though, that in this measure of accountability that was delivered, that we don’t all have to work together to actually see justice occur in all of these areas and the policing of Black and brown communities and the response and different levels of response to when there’s police involvement and to how members of law enforcement are handled in these situations. Unfortunately, shortly after that verdict yesterday we learned of another fatal shooting of a young woman just in the state to the south of us, a couple short hours from here, a young woman named Ma’Khia. We shouldn’t have to have another hashtag or set of hashtags.
From 1955 when it was Emmett Till not receiving justice, all the way through Breonna Taylor, all the way through whatever might happen with Ma’Khia, what we saw happen with Daunte Wright, there are so many instances, and those are just the ones whose names we know. I implore all of us that as we revel in the sigh of relief from yesterday’s deliverance of accountability, that all of us work much better and more fervently towards achieving justice, the very liberty and justice that we believe everyone should have.
Senator Irwin’s statement is as follows:
I wanted to rise to talk about two issues today. One, I feel that I have to remark after the powerful words of my colleagues on what happened yesterday and, at the risk of reiterating, just say that while yesterday we did see accountability in Minneapolis, what we did not see was justice. It’s our responsibility here in this chamber to work together to provide that kind of justice for the future here in Michigan. While last year we came together on a number of important criminal justice issues in a bipartisan way—and I think got a lot done—we did not put a single piece of legislation on the Governor’s desk that would improve the practice of policing in our state. I’m hopeful that together in the wake of this accountability, we can work on that legislation and we can make sure that this year we do not miss that opportunity again and that we put legislation on the Governor’s desk that can improve policing in our state so we can get to that justice that I hope we all want.
The other issue
I wanted to speak with you all today about is to remind you that on my desk
today for co‑sponsorship is a four-bill package of legislation that is
bipartisan legislation we introduced last fall that I think is very
important and I want to highlight. I want to invite all of my colleagues to
join me in co‑sponsoring this legislation. I know we all care about
literacy. I think we all know that reading is perhaps the most fundamental
aspect of education in our state, but one of the things I learned several years
ago was that in my opinion Michigan wasn’t doing a very good job of helping to
identify students who exhibit characteristics of dyslexia. As a result, there
are many, many, many students who are falling through the cracks and aren’t
getting the help they need. That’s why, together with three of my colleagues in
a bipartisan fashion, we’ve worked together to put together a package that’s
now on my desk and I would invite you to co-sponsor that will improve literacy
in Michigan, that will help identify the kids who have characteristics of
dyslexia and provide the support they need early on so they can get back on
track and be successful in school. I’m hopeful we can get that done this year
as well.
These are two issues where we can come together, where we can have real bipartisan action that can help our people. There’s going to be fights—we’re going to fight about a lot of things here in this chamber—but when we find these ideas like improving policing or improving literacy, let’s put down the swords. Let’s work together, let’s get something done in here, so that when we go back to our people at the end of the year, we can say we worked together for justice in education and for justice in courts in Michigan. Thank you for the opportunity, and I welcome any conversations about this important legislation.
Senator Runestad’s statement is as follows:
I wanted to concur with Senator Irwin’s sentiments about this bill package. I don’t think many people even in this chamber are aware that nationally Michigan is considered the absolute worst state in the nation for students with dyslexia. There is no state in the nation that is worse, that does less for our students. So we have a ranking at the very bottom of reading literacy. We are spending millions and millions and millions not dealing with an issue that’s up to—20 percent of all of students have dyslexia. When you have those individuals suffering down at the lower levels not getting any help, they are not going to improve. They are not going to overcome this. This has to be conquered early. I’ve talked to so many people that have moved to Michigan—people I know that have lived in another state that had dyslexic children—and said, My God, Jim, there is nothing. And in these other states they test the kids early. They find out what their issues are and they get early intervention. They said, My God, there is nothing. We found that, in our own family, that there is nothing for dyslexic students. So if we’re going to bring Michigan from near the bottom of the barrel in terms of reading literacy, we have to get something like this package going. I really hope that you’ll support it.
Announcements of Printing and Enrollment
House Bill Nos. 4184 4201 4202 4203 4204 4263 4264 4265 4266 4272
The Secretary announced that the following bills were printed and filed on Tuesday, April 20, and are available on the Michigan Legislature website:
Senate Bill No. 368
House Bill Nos. 4658 4659 4660 4661 4662 4663 4664 4665 4666 4667 4668
Committee Reports
The Committee on Energy and Technology reported
Senate Resolution No. 42.
A resolution to recognize April 2021 as Natural Gas and Electric Service Workers Appreciation Month.
(For text of resolution, see Senate Journal No. 31, p. 486.)
With the recommendation that the resolution be adopted.
Dan Lauwers
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Lauwers, Horn, LaSata, Nesbitt, Barrett, Bumstead, Bizon, Schmidt, McCann, Brinks and Bullock
Nays: None
The resolution was placed on the order of Resolutions.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Energy and Technology submitted the following:
Meeting held on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, at 2:00 p.m., Senate Hearing Room, Ground Floor, Boji Tower
Present: Senators Lauwers (C), Horn, LaSata, Nesbitt, Barrett, Bumstead, Bizon, Schmidt, McCann, Brinks and Bullock
Excused:
Senator McMorrow
The Committee on Environmental Quality reported
Senate Bill No. 319, entitled
A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled “Natural resources and environmental protection act,” by amending sections 5202 and 5301 (MCL 324.5202 and 324.5301), section 5202 as amended by 2012 PA 511 and section 5301 as amended by 2012 PA 560.
With the recommendation that the substitute (S-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.
The committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Rick Outman
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Outman, Daley, VanderWall, McBroom, Bayer and Brinks
Nays: None
The bill and the substitute recommended by the committee were referred to the Committee of the Whole.
The Committee on Environmental Quality reported
Senate Bill No. 320, entitled
A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled “Natural resources and environmental protection act,” by amending section 19708 (MCL 324.19708), as amended by 2012 PA 562.
With the recommendation that the bill pass.
The committee further recommends that the bill be given immediate effect.
Rick Outman
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Outman, Daley, VanderWall, McBroom, Bayer and Brinks
Nays: None
The bill was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Environmental Quality submitted the following:
Meeting held on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, at 1:00 p.m., Harry T. Gast Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building
Present: Senators Outman (C), Daley, Johnson, VanderWall, McBroom, Bayer and Brinks
The Committee on Oversight reported
Senate Joint Resolution G, entitled
A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the state constitution of 1963, by adding section 9 to article XI, to protect certain communications with members of the legislature.
With the recommendation that the joint resolution be adopted.
Ed McBroom
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators McBroom, Theis, Bizon and Irwin
Nays: None
The joint resolution was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Oversight submitted the following:
Meeting held on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, at 2:00 p.m., Room 403, 4th Floor, Capitol Building
Present: Senators
McBroom (C), Theis, Bizon and Irwin
The Committee on Regulatory Reform reported
Senate Bill No. 230, entitled
A bill to amend 1998 PA 58, entitled “Michigan liquor control code of 1998,” by amending sections 233 and 525 (MCL 436.1233 and 436.1525), section 233 as amended by 2020 PA 126 and section 525 as amended by 2016 PA 434.
With the recommendation that the substitute (S-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.
Aric Nesbitt
Chairperson
To Report Out:
Yeas: Senators Nesbitt, Theis, Lauwers, VanderWall and Zorn
Nays: None
The bill and the substitute recommended by the committee were referred to the Committee of the Whole.
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Committee on Regulatory Reform submitted the following:
Meeting held on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, at 3:00 p.m., Harry T. Gast Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building
Present: Senators Nesbitt (C), Theis, Johnson, Lauwers, VanderWall, Zorn, Moss, Polehanki and Wojno
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation submitted the following:
Meeting held on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, at 12:00 noon, Harry T. Gast Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building
Present: Senators Schmidt (C), Victory, MacDonald, Zorn, Hollier and Bayer
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor and Economic Opportunity/MEDC submitted the following:
Meeting held on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, at 3:00 p.m., Room 1200, Binsfeld Office Building
Present: Senators Horn (C), Schmidt and Hertel
COMMITTEE ATTENDANCE REPORT
The Appropriations Subcommittee on Natural Resources and Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy submitted the following:
Meeting held on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, at 3:00 p.m., Room 1100, Binsfeld Office Building
Present: Senators Bumstead (C), Bizon, Victory, McCann and Bayer
Subcommittees –
Agriculture and Rural Development – Thursday, April 22, 3:00 p.m., Room 1300, Binsfeld Office Building (517) 373-2768
Community Health/Human
Services – Thursday, April 22, 3:00 p.m., Senate Hearing Room,
Ground Floor, Boji Tower (517) 373-2768
K-12 and Michigan Department of Education – Thursday, April 22, 8:00 a.m., Harry T. Gast Appropriations Room, 3rd Floor, Capitol Building (517) 373-2768
Licensing and Regulatory Affairs/Insurance and Financial Services – Thursday, April 22, 8:30 a.m., Room 1300, Binsfeld Office Building (517) 373-2768
Military and Veterans Affairs/State Police – Thursday, April 22, 1:00 p.m., Room 1300, Binsfeld Office Building (517) 373-2768
Health Policy and Human Services – Thursday, April 22, 1:00 p.m., Senate Hearing Room, Ground Floor, Boji Tower (517) 373-5323
Senator Lauwers moved that the Senate adjourn.
The motion prevailed, the time being 11:05 a.m.
The President, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist, declared the Senate adjourned until Thursday, April 22, 2021, at 10:00 a.m.
MARGARET O’BRIEN
Secretary of the Senate