Holland Reporter

In legislative actions for the week of Jan. 15, two key bills were addressed in the Michigan State Legislature, each with its own outcome and reasoning behind the votes cast.

House Bill 4845, sponsored by Rep. Bruck (R), passed with a vote of 104-0 with Immediate Effect. The bill designates a portion of highway M-125 in Monroe County as the “Captain Joseph M. Liedel Memorial Highway.” A legislator expressed their support for the bill by stating, "Why I voted YES: This highway naming allows us to express our gratitude and appreciation for Captain Joseph M. Liedel for his services to the state."

On the other hand, Senate Bill 227, sponsored by Sen. Lauwers (R), faced a different fate as it failed with a vote of 52-52. The bill aimed to require that emergency safety intervention through physical management in child caring institutions comply with standards under the Mental Health Code and any associated administrative rules. A legislator opposed to the bill explained their stance by saying, "Why I voted NO: The use of seclusion or restraint should not be allowed under any circumstances."

The contrasting outcomes of these two bills highlight the diverse perspectives and considerations that legislators bring to the decision-making process in the Michigan State Legislature.