OK, nothing really unexpected from what I have scanned over in my free (somewhat limited ) time. The expected plays from the left and a couple of different ideas on how to handle perceived issues. I have a couple of select legislative pushes here that don't raise too much on the surprise meter. Perhaps we will see a few attempts in differing ways to move these first couple along, as they are likely to be shot down (can I say 'shot' anymore?) at first glance.
It seems we are always looking at ways of reducing the cost of operating our schools in Michigan, so lets be especially ingenious and put additional burdens on the schools themselves. That ALWAYS works:
February 1, 2011, Introduced by Rep. Nathan and referred to the Committee on Education.
A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled "The revised school code," by amending section 1278 (MCL 380.1278), as amended by 2004 PA 596, and by adding section 1164.
THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF MICHIGAN ENACT:
Sec. 1164. Beginning in the 2011-2012 school year, the board of a school district or board of directors of a public school academy shall ensure that all pupils in grades K to 12 are provided with instruction in at least 1 foreign language.
Yeah, I know, we should have language skills.. Lets make sure those kids have English mastered first perhaps? The problem in this country is NOT the lack of a second language, but rather the inability for immigrants legal or otherwise to speak the native tongue. For sure he wants our schools to straighten those heads full of mush up, and maybe make em a little less mushy [physically] OUTWARDLY. Nathan also wants those little fatties in grade school to pay attention to their calorie counts as well.. in HB 4180 of 2011.
Cause kids are just too big.. Like some cities.
Yep.. and Detroit's recent size shrink has brought about a new way to change presumption of causality.. below the fold...
Remember how city size determined the management for the DPS system? Remember how the law was changed to allow ONE particular city to operate differently than other systems in the state? Perhaps the 1,000,000 number change is an excuse to move forward the next wave of redistribution?
HB 4181 of 2011
February 1, 2011, Introduced by Reps. Brown, Dillon, Ananich, Nathan, Tlaib, Byrum and Oakes and referred to the Committee on Commerce. A bill to amend 1969 PA 317, entitled "Worker's disability compensation act of 1969,"
Eliminate the 1,000,000 population limit, and sneak in a "prove it wasn't caused by.." clause. Brilliant. Setting up for the 'treatment paid by taxpayers' protection for anyone who has ever worked as a public employee.. forever.
Lets just call it entitlement fever.
Fortunately those guys are NOT in power any longer. There IS HOPE!
SB 0095 of 2011
February 1, 2011, Introduced by Senators MEEKHOF, BRANDENBURG, HILDENBRAND, COLBECK, JANSEN, MARLEAU, WALKER, ROBERTSON, SCHUITMAKER and PAVLOV and referred to the Committee on Economic Development.
A bill to repeal 1965 PA 166, entitled "An act to require prevailing wages and fringe benefits on state projects; to establish the requirements and responsibilities of contracting agents and bidders; and to prescribe penalties," (MCL 408.551 to 408.558).
THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF MICHIGAN ENACT:
Enacting section 1. 1965 PA 166, MCL 408.551 to 408.558, is repealed effective July 4, 2012.
I really don't need to explain this do I ? Thought not.
A resolution to declare February 6, 2011, as Ronald Reagan Day in the state of Michigan.
Whereas, President Ronald Wilson Reagan, a man of humble background, worked throughout his life serving freedom and advancing the public good, having been employed as an entertainer, union leader, corporate spokesman, governor of California and President of the United States; and
Whereas, Ronald Reagan served with honor and distinction for two terms as the 40th President of the United States of America; the second of which he earned the confidence of 3/5 of the electorate and was victorious in 49 of the 50 states in the general election, a record unsurpassed in the history of American presidential elections; and
Whereas, In 1981, when Ronald Reagan was inaugurated as President, he inherited a disillusioned nation shackled by rampant inflation and high unemployment; and
Whereas, During Mr. Reagan's presidency, he worked in a bipartisan manner to enact his bold agenda of restoring accountability and common sense to government which led to an unprecedented economic expansion and opportunity for millions of Americans; and
Whereas, Mr. Reagan's commitment to an active social policy agenda for the nation's children helped lower crime and drug use in our neighborhoods; and
Whereas, President Reagan's commitment to our armed forces contributed to the restoration of pride in America, her values and those cherished by the free world, and prepared America's armed forces to meet 21st century challenges; and
Whereas, President Reagan's vision of "peace through strength" led to the end of the Cold War and the ultimate demise of the Soviet Union, guaranteeing basic human rights for millions of people; and
Whereas, February 6, 2011, will be the 100th anniversary of Ronald Reagan's birth, and the seventh since his passing; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare February 6th, 2011, as Ronald Reagan Day in the state of Michigan.
Again, I'll pull these down as I can, but the links are pretty easy to follow through from when posted. Hack away!