HB 5147:  Eliminates the sunset on the Higher Education Authorization and Distance Education Reciprocal Exchange Act, which was previously extended under HB 4982 (PA 127’23).

Sponsor:  Rep. Rheingans (D)                     

Passage:  80-27 with Immediate Effect

Why I voted NO: Keeping the sunset in place will provide an opportunity for legislators to review the efficiency of the program and make adjustments, or let it expire, if deemed necessary.

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BILL PACKAGE SBs 415 & 416:  Allows a microbrewer licensed by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) to obtain a purchaser’s MLCC license number as identifying information for the purpose of claiming sales and use tax exemptions.

Sponsor:  Sen. Kleinfelt (D)                         

Passages:  101-6 with Immediate Effect

Why I voted YES: Microbrewers essentially perform the same sales functions as wholesalers – they should be able to use the same system for exemptions.

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HB 5462:  Designates a portion of Highway M-26 in Adams Township (Houghton County) as the “Wesley Vietti Karna Memorial Highway.”

Sponsor:  Rep. Markkanen (R)                   

Passage:  107-0 with Immediate Effect

Why I voted YES: This highway naming allows us to express our gratitude and appreciation for Private Wesley Vietti Karna and the ultimate sacrifice he made to protect our country.