Autism Bills Begin House Action
The House Families, Children and Seniors Committee began hearing testimony on the three-bill package requiring private insurers to cover treatment for autism. Senate Bills 414, 415, and 981 sponsored by Senators Mike Green (R-Mayville), Tupac Hunter (D-Detroit), and Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville (R-Monroe), respectively, passed the Senate last week and will continue action in the House next Tuesday.
Proposal Opens State Fair Land To Development
House Bill 4803 passed the House of Representatives Thursday and provides the State Administrative Board with the authority to convey or transfer the land to the Land Bank Fast Track Authority. The measure is sponsored by Representative Jimmy Womack (D-Detroit). The large property at Woodward Avenue and Eight Mile Road has been discussed for retail and housing development.
Legislature Supports FRIB Funding
Two members of the House of Representatives from the greater Lansing area announced their support Thursday for a resolution urging Congress to provide full funding for the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) at Michigan State University. The State Senate unanimously approved a resolution on Wednesday. The proposed federal budget for fiscal year 2013 includes funding levels of less than half that which is necessary to maintain the facility.
Senate Republicans Rally Behind Richardville
Amid calls from certain local Tea Party activists to remove Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville (R-Monroe) from his post, all 25 other members of the Senate Republican Caucus delivered a standing ovation in a sign of support and unity this week. The Majority Leader is reportedly considering legal options based on the perceived threats by the activists.