PAAdvisory Briefs

Drones May be Banned by Capitol Commission

A policy to ban unmanned aerial vehicles from flying on Capitol property is under consideration by the Michigan State Capitol Commission. The commission argued that the ban should be passed for multiple reasons, such as the possibility of drones malfunctioning and falling onto the Capitol lawn possibly causing injury and the issue of drones flying into the building and causing damage to the exterior. The commission also pointed out that Capitol Square is within the controlled airspace of Capital Regional International Airport, making drone flights against Federal Aviation Administration rules.

Avian Flu Found in Geese

The avian flu has been detected in three geese in Sterling Heights; however, at this time there are no signs that the influenza has spread to domesticated birds or humans. The discovery of the geese makes Michigan the 21^st state to report a positive finding of avian influenza. The Department of Natural Resources’ action plan will now take effect, meaning a management zone of Macomb and Oakland counties will be instituted.

Sylvia Santana to Run for 9^th House District

Representative Harvey Santana’s wife, Sylvia Santana, has launched a campaign committee to succeed her husband as the Representative for the 9^th District. Representative Santana will be term limited in 2016, leaving the seat open. He said that his wife would focus on the development of small business and the advocacy of young girls. Ms. Santana is in the process of developing her campaign message.

House of Representatives to Break for the Summer

Outside of six tentatively scheduled session days, the House of Representatives plans to adjourn for the summer at the end of next week. House Speaker Kevin Cotter (R-Mount Pleasant) had previously stated breaking for the summer was not on his mind; however, he added that if the full House remaining in session would not advance a road funding deal the chamber would adjourn. Last month, Senate Majority Floor Leader Mike Kowall (R-White Lake) stated that the Senate would hold Session days throughout the summer and into the fall; it is unclear if those days will require attendance.

posted by PAA Online , Friday, June 12, 2015 10:05 AM
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