Capitol Capsule Figure After the Murder of His 6-Year-Old Daughter Jonbenet Eight Years Ago

QUOTE OF THE DAY: “Yeah, with all of them.”

— Rep. Gary NEWELL (R-Saranac) when asked if he’s formed an alliance with any of the House Speaker candidates. Michigan Information & Research Service, Inc.

Tuesday, May 11, 2004 Web Site: http://www.mirsnews.com Volume XXII, Issue 090

Ramsey became a famous, and controversial, Capitol Capsule figure after the murder of his 6-year-old daughter JonBenet eight years ago. The unsolved murder It Should Be A Lively Summer has been the subject of tabloid press speculation When all was said and done, in regard to ever since. He can expect his name ID to be today’s 4 p.m. filing deadline for primary elections, relatively high. Reportedly he will be appearing on most of what people said might be done was done. the Larry KING Live national Television show Wednesday evening. - John RAMSEY (R-Charlevoix), father of 6- year-old JonBenet RAMSEY, whose 1996 Bradstreet is among the Republicans in the murder in Colorado has become a standard District 105th who are alarmed at the prospect that tabloid subject, is running for 105th District Ramsey’s campaign might be successful. House seat against five other Republicans. “I’ve read about 1,500 pages about Mr. - Former House Democratic Leader Sen. Buzz Ramsey over the past month,” Bradstreet said. THOMAS (D-Detroit) has filed to run against “Let’s put it this way, the more you look at him, incumbent U.S. Rep. John CONYERS, Jr. (D- the more questions you have.” th Detroit) in the 14 Congressional District race. Bradstreet said there might be a need for those Whether he stays in the race is yet to be seen. in the district opposed to Ramsey to conduct a - All six Republican candidates filed and are “massive” public relations campaign to “clarify officially entered in the 7th Congressional some information.” District GOP primary race. Others Republicans in the race include Jack - Former Rep. Jerry VANDER ROEST (R- APOL of Charlevoix, Kevin A. ELSENHEIMER Galesburg) is running against House Tax Policy of Bellaire, Jeff F. GARFIELD of Gaylord, Committee Chair Lorence WENKE (R-Richland) Bonnie M. NOTHOFF of Kewadin and Craig RYAN of Gaylord. - However, at least as of the MIRS press deadline, Rep. Ken DANIELS (D-Detroit) had not filed to The Democrats are Greg A. DEAN of Elmira run for a 4th term in the House in order to set a and Jim McKINNEY of Kewadin. potential court challenge to term limits. A quick look at some of the key races: 105th House District MIRS Inside 4 Gov Goes After Legislature On Permitting Bills He may not win the GOP primary, but John 6 Sikkema: The State Worker Can Do It Ramsey will steal the press coverage in this 6 Republicans Talk Cig. Tax Hike Northern Lower Peninsula district, which includes 7 MEAP Scores Show Minority Improvement Antrim, Charlevoix and Otsego counties and part 8 What’s The Protocol? of Cheboygan County. 8 ‘Our Beaches Are Still Weedy’ 9- Cox’s PAC Bigger Than Guv’s Ramsey is one of six Republicans in the HOUSE ACTION REPORT primary vying for the seat currently held by term SENATE ACTION REPORT limited Rep. Ken BRADSTREET (R-Gaylord). 910 Ottawa St • PO Box 19303 • Lansing, MI 48901-9303 • Phone (517) 482-2125 • FAX (517) 374-0949 • E-Mail [email protected] If You Don’t Read Us - You Just Don’t Get It! Page 2 MIRS Capitol Capsule Tuesday, May 11, 2004

14th Congressional Today, in typical Macomb county fashion, additional names were added to the list of GOP There’s apparently some bad blood between primary candidates, they are Linda MILLER of Congressman John Conyers, Jr. and Buzz Thomas. Macomb and Colleen SAPUTO of Macomb. Perhaps it dates back to 2002 when Conyers’ wife That’s a lot from Macomb. Monica CONYERS ran against Thomas for his current Senate seat. This one’s a freebie for Tho- The Democratic candidates are Gary E. mas, but that doesn’t mean he won’t try to win. He CYNOWA of Macomb Township and Marquis has until Friday at 4 p.m. to drop out. DENNINGS of Warren. Eronica PEDRAZA (R-Dearborn) is the 63rd House District Republican candidate. House Tax Policy Chair Lorence Wenke also 7th Congressional may have made himself vulnerable in the GOP primary by voting against the gay marriage ban. After watching some key endorsements defy However, some of the positions he has taken on political pundit speculation as the filing deadline tax policy issue may undermine his bid for re- approached, no one was willing to drop out of a election in the Republican primary, as well. race where the unpredictable twists and turns might give them victory. Most likely former Rep. Jerry Vander Roest held off on officially entering the contest until he The 7th District consists of Eaton, Jackson, could be certain that he could count on various Calhoun, Branch, Hillsdale, Lenawee and part of groups to lend his campaign a hand here and there. Washtenaw counties. It is currently represented by U.S. Rep. Nick SMITH (R-Addison), who is not There are two other Republicans in the primary seeking re-election. The district is considered to be race as well, Charles CRENSHAW of Richland a safe Republican seat, where the winner of the and James GEARY of Richland. Wenke is from GOP primary will be favored in November. Richland, too. Vander Roest is from Galesburg. That’s a lot of candidates from Richland. The current leaders in the race appear to be former Sen. John SCHWARZ (R-Battle Creek) Thirty-seven House members can’t run for re- and Rep. Clark BISBEE (R-Jackson). Rep Gene election due to term limits. This opens up pros- DeROSSETT (R- Manchester) and Smith’s son, pects for the Democrats to possibly catch up a Brad SMITH (R-Jackson) may not be far behind, little on the Republican’s 63-46 majority, or for if they’re behind at all. the Republicans to build on their advantage. Here’s a quick look at some key House races: Former Reps. Paul DeWEESE (R-Eaton Rapids) and Tim WALBERG (R-Tipton) appear The five most likely Democratic pick-ups are: to be candidates hoping for the next unpredictable th twist to favor them. 15 District, currently held by Rep. Gary WORONCHAK (R-Dearborn) 33rd House District Seven Republicans are vying for the seat. They Incumbent Rep. Leon DROLET (R- St. Clair are: Glipper J. GARDAI, Gary GARDNER, Shores) may have made himself a vulnerable Edward GARY, Betty GARRETT, Bill HALE, target when he sided with his “libertarian” in- Mary NAMETH, Doug THOMAS, and Duane stincts and against his right wing colleagues by WILLIAMS, all of Dearborn. voting against the gay marriage ban resolution. Six Democrats are vying in the other pri- Maria CARL (R-Macomb), wife of the late Sen. mary. They are: Lisa ANNEBERG, Michael Doug CARL, has picked up the marriage ban issue BERRY, Sharon DULMAGE, George OLDS, and is challenging Drolet whose major fear appears Giulio PANICCIA, and Gino POLIDORI, all to be Aug. 3 voter apathy (by his supporters) versus of Dearborn. voter activism by those who support Carl. Tuesday, May 11, 2004 MIRS Capitol Capsule Page 3

52nd District, currently held by blue collar Only two candidates are vying on the Demo- Republican Gene DeRossett cratic side. They are: Mike POWERS of Durand and Rosemary REED of Perry. Two Republicans are vying in the GOP primary, Alicia PING, of Saline and Joseph The five most likely Republican pick-ups are: YEKULIS, Jr. of Chelsea. 26th District, currently held by Rep. David Four candidates are competing in the Demo- WOODWARD (D-Royal Oak) cratic primary, they are: Pontoni BRENNAN of Ann Arbor, Pam BYRNES of Chelsea, Scott This is a district that’s become more conservative. SCHLIMMER of Ann Arbor and Philip Carlo P. GINOTTI of Royal Oak will run ZAZOVE of Ann Arbor. uncontested in the GOP primary. He will face 55th District either Marie DONIGAN of Royal Oak or Paul J. KUBICEK of Royal Oak.

Some say incumbent Matt MILOSCH (R- st Lambertville) may have voted more conservatively 31 District, currently held by Rep Paul than his constituents might be comfortable with. GIELEGHEM (D-Clinton Twp.) But there will be no contested primaries. One Democrat, Fred MILLER of Mount Milosch will face Kathy ANGERER of Dundee in Clemens, will wait to see which Republican the fall. emerges from the GOP primary. The primary has three entrants. They are James KORONA of 56th District, Dems say “Goodbye Randy” Clinton Township, William A MORELLI of Fraser and Diane ZONTINI of Clinton Township. For the past five and a half years the 56th House District in Monroe has had the distinction The 57th District, currently held by Rep. Doug of being the district with the highest Democratic SPADE (D-Adrian) base to be represented by a Republican. The Republican was House Majority Floor Leader This is always a toss up when no incumbents Randy RICHARDVILLE (R-Monroe). It’s a are on the ballot. Spade was about as close as they cinch bet that the Democrats aren’t sorry that come to being a “blue-nose” Democrat. Richardville termed out. Three Republicans are vying in the GOP Four candidates are in the GOP primary race. primary. They are David ABRAHAM of They are Yann IANMUCCI, Jason Alan KITTS, Tecumseh, Judy ACKLEY of Palmyra, and Jeff John MANOR, and Dean PATTEN, all of Monroe. VOTZKE of Cement City. Only two candidates are vying on the Demo- Two candidates are in the democratic primary, cratic side of the street. They are: Jeff ANDRING Kevin MOLTER of Adrian and Spade’s brother of Newport and Herb KEHRL of Monroe, who Dudley SPADE of Tipton. ran against Richardville last time. The 103rd District, currently held by Rep. Dale The 85th District, currently held by Rep. Larry SHELTROWN (D-Gladwin) JULIAN (R-Lennon) Here’s another conservative-leaning district, Back in 1998, Julian barely won this district, the GOP is targeting. which had been held by former Rep. Chuck Sheltrown’s brother, Joel SHELTROWN of HARDER (D-Owosso). West Branch, will wait to see which of three Four candidates are vying in the GOP primary. Republicans he’ll face in the fall. The GOP trio is They are: Richard BALL, of Laingsburg, who was Ronald BAZUIN of McBain, Bruce RENDON of Julian’s top nemesis in the ’98 primary, Diane Lake City and Susan VICK of St. Helen. CAREY of Owosso, Avery WEAVER or Corunna, and Tom FORD of Owosso. Page 4 MIRS Capitol Capsule Tuesday, May 11, 2004

The 106th District, a possible turn-over “As I’ve said to the leadership in the House and the Senate, I really don’t want Lansing to be a Republicans believe Rep. Matt GILLARD (D- replica of Washington D.C.,” Granholm remarked. Alpena) may be vulnerable. There’s no contested th “I think we have so much in common and that the primary in the 106 . Gillard will face Richard citizens expect us to work together.” FORTIER of Alpena in the general election. As reported in MIRS on Monday, Granholm Afterthoughts held a press conference at 10 a.m. Tuesday to Former Rep. LeMar LEMMONS III (D- highlight progress on the one-stop permit initiative Detroit) has apparently filed in House districts 1, she called for in her State of the State Address. 2, and 3. Either that or there are other candidates Using both public and private funds, that share the same name. Based on Lemmons’ Granholm is making more than $1 million in former address, he lives in District 2. He is eli- grants available for 12 Regional Skills Alliances. gible to run. Also, the state received 148 applications for her Gabe LELAND (D-Detroit), son of Sen. cool cities initiative, which will eventually provide Burton LELAND (D-Detroit) has filed to run in access to a host of programs and resources for 12 the 10th House District, along with an array of individual finalist projects. other Democratic candidates. Granholm also announced that on Friday some 17th District, No Handy 30 businesses gathered to preview and provide input on the state’s new streamlined permitting system. Earlier this year Rep. Daniel PALETKO (D- Dearborn Heights) resigned his seat to become At 11 a.m., Senate Majority Leader Ken Mayor of Dearborn Heights. Four candidates are SIKKEMA (R-Grandville) and Speaker Rick in the Democratic primary, and the field does not JOHNSON (R-LeRoy) announced as part of their include Miles HANDY, who was believed to be Jobs II package, a plan that would force state potentially the strongest candidate. departments to issue a state permit in six months or the applicant would get the permit free that year The Democratic candidates are Ned APIGIAN and a 15 percent discount the next year. of Dearborn Heights, Tom DOWDY of Redford, Daniel O’HARRAN of Redford and Gary WIL- The state would have to tell an applicant SON of Redford. within 10 days if the business filed an incomplete application. Originally, the idea was to allow a This is good news for the lone Republican permit or license to be automatically granted if a candidate Darryl HUSK of Redford. deadline is missed, in certain circumstances, but Sikkema said that idea has been scrapped for now because he doesn’t want to jeopardize public Gov Goes After Legislature On health and safety by “cavalierly” issuing permits. Permitting Bills The only penalties now will be the financial ones. Gov. Jennifer GRANHOLM sent a clear Following her remarks this morning, Granholm message to GOP legislative leaders this morning was quick to point out that Johnson and Sikkema — it’s time for greater cooperation and less parti- never bothered to tell her during their weekly san sniping. meetings that they were preparing this package. Asked to comment today on Republican “Not one time was it ever mentioned to me legislative leaders’ call for the state to approve all that 29 bills were being drafted to tell the execu- permits within six months, Gov. Jennifer tive branch to do something the executive branch GRANHOLM said the state is already working is already doing,” Granholm said. toward that goal and she went on to make her feelings clear. If lawmakers want to pass bills to help the economy, Granholm suggested they start by sending the message that Michigan is fiscally fit. Tuesday, May 11, 2004 MIRS Capitol Capsule Page 5

“If the Legislature is looking for bills to pass, I “I would hope the governor didn’t mean this, would suggest that the strongest message they but I believe that working day and night to im- could send to the business community at this prove the economy of this state so people have moment is that they are ready to pass a budget and good, high-paying jobs is a not waste of legislative make some tough calls to demonstrate the state is resources,” Sikkema said. fiscally responsible,” Granholm said. Granholm’s permit speed-up plan is called After intervening questions, Granholm re- Michigan Timely Application and Permit Service turned to the 29-bill package, noting that not every (MiTAPS). It will be a one-stop, web-based, 24- good idea must be written into state statute. hour outlet for businesses seeking permits from state departments. It should start spitting out its “Because we’re already doing this regarding first permits by the end of the summer. permit time collapsing, I guess the question that should be raised is, ‘Do you need a new law for In its first phase, MiTAPS will automate more everything that is being undertaken?’” Granholm than 32 different manufacturing permits and asked. “I think there are plenty of areas that we licenses, totaling a combined processing volume can work on together and not everything requires a of more than 220,000 permits a year. The first 14 new law, a new piece of legislation.” of these permits will go on-line in June. Asked about the high number of bills she Sikkema said he welcomed Granholm’s ideas vetoed and how that plays with greater bi-partisan- and said he looked forward to the executive and ship, Granholm again went after legislative leaders. legislative branches working together to speed up the issuance of the permits. “When legislation comes to me that has no Democratic support, when legislation comes to me “I don’t think anybody’s got a monopoly on after we’ve tried to amend it to make it more good ideas when it comes to improving our climate palatable, that adds to the bottom line of the state for job growth,” he said. “I think it’s refreshing that or has technical errors, I’m going to veto it,” the whole idea of regulatory reform is something Granholm said. “I don’t think that the citizens the governor believes needs to be done.” would expect anything else.” A few Democratic members of the Legislature If legislators want a bill signed into law, not allegedly will be sponsoring bills in the 29-bill just to make political points or statements, package, even though none were among the 40- Granholm said all they have to do is sit down with plus senators and House members that crowded the administration and work on the bill in a bipar- behind Sikkema and Johnson at the podium today. tisan fashion. And at the end of the day, there will be a bi- partisan plan to speed up the permit-issuing “I just worry about the waste of resources that process, Sikkema said. is being applied to partisan efforts,” Granholm said. “Twenty-nine bills being drafted by staff Sikkema and Johnson’s approach is based on people. How much time? How many taxpayer the compromise version of SB 252, the bill that dollars are being spent in an effort to make politi- created the new National Pollution Discharge cal points as opposed to working on public policy? Environmental System (NPDES) permit. Why put I want to work on public policy.” it into law? People expect a certain level of service from the private sector and the public sector When quizzed more by reporters about should be held to some standards. By putting Granholm’s pledge to veto the Legislature’s 29-bill economic penalties into statue, the state is assured Red Tape Package and whether the rhetorical back- that policies to speed up permit processing aren’t and-forth between the branches was a waste of time lost into obscurity years later. when Michiganders are getting laid off, Sikkema said working to create an economic environment to Johnson stressed that permit reform needs to create jobs is never a waste of time. happen now. He said a business needed to wait 18 months before it was permitted to move a spray Page 6 MIRS Capitol Capsule Tuesday, May 11, 2004 gun from one end of its facility to another. An- same amount of work quicker a couple years other Michigan business owner told him the removed from a massive early out and several permitting process in Alabama, for example, is so across-the-board funding cuts. easy, the issue “never reaches his desk.” Sikkema said he doesn’t see the issue as being a Finally, Johnson said 30 minutes before the staffing issue. Rather, these permits have never been press conference, he talked to folks in Marquette the priority they should be. A lot of permits are who said a Department of Environmental Quality issued within six months, but many others are not. (DEQ) permit cost them an expansion in Marquette and Escanaba. “Where you make it a priority, somehow you get it done quicker,” Sikkema said. “It’s a matter Among the army of House members and of making the timely issuance of business permits Senators who showed up at today’s press confer- a priority.” ence, Sen. Alan SANBORN (R-Richmond) and Rep. Clark BISBEE (R-Jackson) both spoke at the He pointed out that when the National Pollu- well-attended press conference. The two were co- tion Discharge Environment Service (NPDES) fee chairs of a legislative economic development task was established, the Department of Environmental force that held eight hearings across the state. Quality (DEQ) didn’t ask for more funding or more staff. The Michigan Chamber of Commerce also today released a 17-page study that offers its ideas But will the work be sloppily done as state on what should be done to speed up state permits. regulators are rushed to rule on a permit? It also suggests a legislative mandate that air “I have a lot of confidence that the state worker permits be issued within six months. It asks the can get it done,” Sikkema said. “I think they would DEQ to use private sector contractors to facilitate welcome a clear sense that this is a top priority.” the permit review process. How did this problem develop? Sikkema said The chamber wants to the state to adopt federal the regulatory environment only recently exploded air pollutant standards and get the DEQ out of the on the scene in the last few decades and the air toxic review business. It wants to increase the Legislature has never focused on the issue of how number of general permits authorized by the DEQ quickly these permits were turned around. and adopt new source review changes proposed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Finally, it calls for a report card on a time Republicans Talk Cig. Tax Hike frame for issuing air permits. Today, as the primary filing deadline expired, House Republicans were attending a closed caucus “The recommendations in this report will where they discussed HB 5632, the proposed 75 provide meaningful reforms for all Michigan cents per pack cigarette tax hike. businesses, not just a select few,” said Chamber environmental policy director Doug ROBERTS Jr. Gov. Jennifer GRANHOLM based her recommended 2004-05 balanced budget, in part, on the tax increase polls show would not be unpopular. Sikkema: The State Worker Can Do It House Speaker Rick JOHNSON (R-LeRoy) Senate Majority Leader Ken SIKKEMA (R- has made no secret of the fact that he supports the Wyoming) said today he’s not concerned about hike. Movement of the cigarette tax increase is quality being compromised if a scaled-down (and also believed to be linked to a potential deal on the arguably underfunded) state bureaucracy is ordered racino package. by law to turn around a state permit in six months. Few would have anticipated that the cigarette Speaking after today’s press conference on the tax hike, or the proposed liquor tax hike, would Red Tape Reduction Package, Sikkema was asked have moved early on in the budget process. How- how the state bureaucracy is expected to do the Tuesday, May 11, 2004 MIRS Capitol Capsule Page 7 ever, a new phase of budget process can be said to “We know that the emphasis of the federal No have started after the filing deadline passed today. Child Left Behind law is reading and math, but our children need writing skills and social studies It seems possible that Johnson is beginning the knowledge,” she said. “To be successful in this process of preparing his caucus for a vote on HB 21st Century global economy, our children must be 5632. It also seems likely that he will demand that aware of the world around them and be able to Granholm deliver certain number of Democrats clearly communicate their thoughts and ideas.” support the measure as part of his price for bringing the issue up. To investigate the decline and generate ideas to instigate improvement, the Department of Educa- Reportedly, the result of today’s caucus was tion will establish a Social Studies Task Force inconclusive. made up of social studies teachers and testing experts. Rep. Doug HART (R-Rockford), a former history and civics teacher for a middle MEAP Scores Show Minority Improvement school, will chair the task force. The big winners from today’s release of last When MIRS asked Watkins whether the cre- winter’s Michigan Educational Assessment Pro- ation of the task force was in any part a response to gram (MEAP) scores for 4th and 8th graders were the possible elimination of the high school MEAP African American students and the Department of in favor of the ACT, which features no social Education (DOE), in general, for getting the science evaluation, Watkins responded by saying scores out on time. that Michigan has some of the highest academic The DOE touted today score improvement for standards in the nation and that MEAP is a rigorous African American students, which in some instances form of assessment for those standards. surpassed gains by other test takers. Fourth grade Department of Education officials said they African American students’ scores met or exceeded also plan to create a similar body to address state standards by 10 percentage points while scores writing skills. The Department of Education may for white students increased by six points. also change the test by offering it in the fall in- African American students in eight grade saw stead of spring. Watkins said that the Department math scores jump 13 percentage points while of Education would come to a decision on testing scores for white students increased by 11 percent- dates next week. age points. The Department of Education touted not only “Much more improvement is needed, but it’s the improved scores, but also the more timely promising to see these gaps narrowing,” said State release of the score report after last year’s delays. Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom WATKINS. Watkins attributed the speediness of the score processing to Ed ROEBER, director of the Office Score improvements by African American of Educational Assessment and Accountability, students helped drive a significant increase in th th who ran MEAP from 1976 to 1991 and returned to general scores in 4 and 8 grade math. The num- the Department of Education last fall. ber of 8th graders who met or exceeded Michigan standards for the math tests jumped 11 percentage “Roeber has come in and done a remarkable points while the number of fourth graders who met job in improving the processes and systems in the or exceeded these standards jumped eight points. MEAP office to get us back to where we need to be,” Watkins said. While gains in the seven of the 10 tests have given cause for the Department of Education to Gov. Jennifer GRANHOLM delegated the rejoice, officials in the body also said that they are responsibility of score assessment to the Depart- concerned about drops in 7th grade writing and 8th ment of Education after last year’s snafu when the grade social studies. State Board of Education private company, Measurement Incorporated, President Kathleen STRAUS expressed particular working through the Department of Treasury, concern about these drops. submitted insufficient reports three months late. Page 8 MIRS Capitol Capsule Tuesday, May 11, 2004

Sen. Wayne KUIPERS (R-Holland), the Today, Jeff’s Spokesman Ben KOHRMAN Senate Education Committee Chair who held made the following statement about the apparently numerous committee hearings on the late tests last open meetings. summer, applauded the Department of Education for the timely release of scores. “We’re appreciative of the open invitation, we weren’t aware of that bit of protocol, but there are “Tom Watkins and Ed Roeber deserve credit a number of issues on the agenda that will have for fixing last year’s mess with a private contrac- significant impact on the citizens of Michigan and tor,” Kuipers said. “Because of their work, local will affect the ability of MDOT to deliver a com- education leaders now will be able to make cur- prehensive and coordinated transportation sys- riculum changes to ensure Michigan school tem,” Kohrman said. children are receiving a world-class education.” In other action, the Subcommittee took testi- mony on mass and public transit. What’s The Protocol? Gordon MACKAY, of Indian Trails, told the The meeting that many around the capitol subcommittee that his company’s ability to provide expected to generate the most sparks on Tuesday inter-city transportation service is being hampered merely sputtered along after Department of Trans- by Amtrak, which is undercutting bus fairs. At the portation (MDOT) Director Gloria JEFF didn’t rate Amtrak is being subsidized by state and federal testify to the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee taxpayers, that makes the sledding rough. on Transportation. “Indian Trails lost 70,000 riders the first year While Jeff wasn’t present, her spokesman and Amtrak was offered,” Mackay said. Without the legislative liaison were present. state subsidy it now gets, Mackay said his company would have stopped serving the state long ago. The problem appears to be a difference of opinion on protocol. Brian O’CONNELL, chief Of late, Mackay said he is concerned about of staff for Senate Appropriations Chair and overly aggressive tactics by Amtrak. Transportation Subcommittee Chair Shirley “I’m a little alarmed when Amtrak is soliciting JOHNSON, when asked if Jeff was going to our riders in an inter-modal facility,” Mackay said. testify at today’s meeting, said the hearing was “That doesn’t make our payroll next Friday.” open to the public, and like the public, Jeff was welcome to testify. The Indian Trails official said he’s not anti- train and thinks his firm can work in cooperation When asked whether department heads usually with Amtrak to the benefit of both entities and the get invited to testify, O’Connell said that subcom- riding public. “I think the train plays a vital role mittee meetings are posted a month and a half out in our transportation future.” and “they [departments] usually say when they’re going to come down.” If you recall, three weeks ago Jeff was listed on ‘Our Beaches Are Still Weedy’ the subcommittee agenda (04/20/04). That meeting, A year after the Legislature passed a bill that however, was cancelled because Johnson was so makes it easier for beachfront owners to mow upset over action earlier that day by the State Admin- weeds off their beaches, several property owners istrative Board to approve some $5 million for told a Senate committee today that because of “replacement vehicles” or “new vehicles” (depend- bureaucratic coercion, their beaches are still weedy. ing on your point of view) for MDOT’s fleet. Representatives from Save Our Shores (SOS) Last week, Jeff held a round table with report- and other beachfront owners showed the Senate ers to talk about the budget after Johnson’s staff Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs notified her that she would not be given a chance Committee pictures of what a weedy commercial to present her budget. Traverse City beach looks like compared to a Tuesday, May 11, 2004 MIRS Capitol Capsule Page 9 completely mowed groomed Sandusky, Ohio thing” by sprouting weeds and giving nesting loca- beach off Lake Erie. tions to several species of birds and fish. Not one single vegetation beach has been Lake levels tend to go in 30-year cycles, he cleaned since P.A. 14 of 2003 went into effect and said, and if land owners get over-ambition and start the state’s commercial beach industry is still tearing down weeds it could inadvertently hurt the suffering as a result said, SOS’ Dave POWERS. fishing industry and the state’s bird population. “Ducks are more important than grandkids Natural sandy beaches exist in Michigan, he said. playing on the beaches,” said Jerry BAARMAN They are wave-swept sand that doesn’t have satu- of Holland who lives off Lake Macatawa. rated soil meant for plant growth. Every piece of property that touches water is not a beach, he said. The reason, SOS claims that the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), the Department of Sen. Patty BIRKHOLZ (R-Saugatuck), chair Natural Resources (DNR) and the U.S. Army of the committee, held today’s meeting for infor- Corps of Engineers have used bureaucratic “proce- mational purposes and has not promoted any piece dure and delays to accomplish what they couldn’t of legislation to adjust the state’s current weedy do legislatively.” beach law at this point. Meanwhile, Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Director Steve CHESTER told the committee that the new processes set up through Cox’s PAC Bigger Than Guv’s P.A. 14 of 2003 has worked fine. Property own- Attorney General Mike COX has raised more ers, with some exception are allowed to level sand money for his political action committee (PAC) and groom. than any non-federal public official in Michigan, outraising Gov. Jennifer GRANHOLM’s Leader- The department’s new pilot program in ship Fund, $369,900 to $231,300. Traverse City and the Bay City region has made asking permission to do some beach maintenance The Cox 5200 Club has raised more than twice activities easier, something Powers attested to as of any other leadership PAC from Jan. 1, 2003 to being true. Chester added that out of 22 requests April 4, 2004, including those of Lt. Gov. John to the DEQ for selected beach maintenance, 16 CHERRY’s ($162,000), Detroit Mayor Kwame were given the authority to proceed without a KILPATRICK ($150,000) and Speaker Rick permit, two were allowed to do so without a JOHNSON (R-LeRoy) ($130,700 combined). permit, one was denied, two requests were with- Kilpatrick’s entire amount came from his drawn and another is still in negotiation. mayoral campaign committee. Johnson has two But while the administrative process is work- PACs, his Common Cents I PAC, which has ing and should not be changed by amending the $162,000 in it, and his Common Cents II PAC, new law, Chester made it clear that his department which contains $13,700, $10,000 of which came was not a property owner’s rubber stamp when from Hazel Park Raceway Partners Herbert genuine environmental problems were at issue. TYNER and Bernard HARTMAN. “We cannot lose sight of our primary duty of An interesting total from the spring filings that protecting Michigan’s environmental resources were listed today by the Michigan Campaign and its public health,” Chester said. “I will not Finance Network, was the PAC of Macomb allow us to compromise a few extra feet of County Public Works Director Anthony beachfront at the expense of our environment.” MARROCCO, whose has $168,000 in his PAC, putting him below only Cox and Granholm. Backing up Chester at today’s meeting was Marrocco’s money appears to be coming from the Douglas WILCOX of the U.S. Geological Survey developers he regulates, a point not lost on the (USGS), who brought some pictures of his own. Just Detroit Free Press, which recently did an article because land is touching water doesn’t make the land on this fact. a beach, he said. In some cases “nature is doing its Page 10 MIRS Capitol Capsule Tuesday, May 11, 2004

As for as House Speaker candidates, Rep. everything else that is on there,” said Takai, who Craig DeROCHE’s (R-Novi) leadership PAC is along with State Police Director Col. Tad leading the charge with $74,000 in the bank. He’s STURDIVANT made today’s presentation to the followed closely by Rep. Jerry KOOIMAN (R- Senate Judiciary Committee. Grand Rapids) and his $63,080. Committee Chair Alan CROPSEY (R-DeWitt) Michigan Campaign Network pointed out had called for the meeting out of frustration he was today that half of the $60,000 DeRoche raised in hearing from local police agencies and a concern this campaign cycle came from Detroit business- that the state bureaucracy was dragging its feet in man Anthony SOAVE and manufactured housing implementing the governor’s executive order. developer Arnold ARONOFF. The subject of local law enforcement agencies Rep. Mike NOFS’ (R-Battle Creek) PAC is being able to hang their equipment on the new State third biggest with $33,000, of which $20,000 is Police towers has been an issue almost since the new money Nofs loaned his own PAC. Rep. Bill state police system was built in the 1990s. The HUIZENGA (R-Zeeland) has $14,000. Rep. Barb Legislature passed a bill last year that required the VANDER VEEN (R-Allendale) has $12,000 and State Police to cooperate with the locals, but the Rep. Judy EMMONS (R-Sheridan) has $4,600. governor vetoed it a few weeks prior because she Rep. Brian PALMER’s MGOPAC has $3,100. signed an executive directive that basically did the same thing. The directive was issued April 17, 2003. Last week, Crospey, a member of the Joint House Radio Towers Coming On Line and Senate Capitol Outlay Committee succeeded in A pair of state department directors told a convincing his fellow Republicans to hold up a re- Senate committee they’ve drawn up a process bonding request for the state towers until he was told local police departments can follow if they want to why it had taken more than a year since the E.D. and hang their communications equipment on State still no local law enforcement on the towers. Police towers, but it didn’t appear like locals are exactly falling over each other to jump on board. The meeting also gave senators a chance to pick on the State Police tower system and the fact It’s taken the state bureaucracy nearly a year to that it isn’t as advanced as one that has been put in implement the procedure locals need to follow place in Oakland County and that it, still, does not under Gov. Jennifer GRANHOLM’s Executive cover the entire state of Michigan. Directive 2003-12 and 2003-13, said Department of Information and Technology Director Teri TAKAI. “I’m frustrated because the thing that we’ve heard in the last four years is that we need to talk to each And, so far, only the Allegan County Sheriff’s other, but it doesn’t seem we’ve come any closer at Department has applied to take advantage of the all,” said Sen. Michael BISHOP (R-Rochester). system and a few other counties have expressed interest in applying. Takai said the state is meet- Sturdivant defended the system by saying that is ing with Allegan County officials next week to served the state well during last year’s blackout, the iron out some final technical problems with the Upper Peninsula flood and other emergency situa- county’s application. tions. No, the system isn’t able to handle data transmissions, yet, like the Oakland county system, However, now that the technical, legal and but they are working toward offering that capability. financial structure is in place, it shouldn’t take an interested county more than three months to latch onto the State Police towers. She didn’t predict McLelland on Engler: Back Off how many law enforcement groups would take advantage of the opportunity. It’s the story that won’t go away. “A certain protocol is in place so the equip- When reports first surfaced over a year ago ment that is hung doesn’t hurt our systems and about former Gov. John ENGLER being a prime Tuesday, May 11, 2004 MIRS Capitol Capsule Page 11 candidate for the presidency at Michigan State Johnson will be vying for the office against University (MSU), the speculation was the talk of another Republican, a Democrat and a Libertarian. the town. “This is about serving the public efficiently and Then in January when it was reported that using the taxpayers’ dollars wisely,” Johnson said. indeed MSU President Peter McPHERSON “And, of course it will also be about accountability.” would leave, the Engler story got new legs. Now with the official announcement from McPherson that he’ll depart at the end of the year, the Saginaw Crow Has West Nile Engler name has been bandied about in most of the The Department of Community Health (DCH) media spec pieces on whom will replace McPherson. reported today that the first dead crow found infected with the West Nile Virus in 2004 was Enter long-time Engler friend Richard picked up in Saginaw County on May 5. McLELLAND advising the media to “back off” the story. Quizzed outside his office this week, DCH officials are reluctant to say whether this McLelland concedes the media interest in this is first case prognosticates for this year an outbreak off the charts. similar to the one in 2002. That summer, 644 human cases were reported, including 51 deaths. “The town loves the story, and I think report- That gave Michigan the nation’s second-highest ers like you are stirring it up when there really is number of cases. The state was hit significantly no story. The media ought to back off and let the less hard last year, with only 19 cases reported. university Board of Trustees start a process to pick the next president...It won’t be John Engler.” “We are about where we expect to be when we find a West Nile Virus infected bird around this But could it be former Gov. Jim BLANCHARD? time,” said DCH Spokesman T.J. BUCHOLZ. Look for the ex-democratic governor to ad- “This is an interesting and intricate disease in that dress his level of interest soon. Blanchard, like we don’t have enough information to find out Engler, is a graduate of MSU and has maintained what it might do.” close ties to the university. DCH Director Janet OLSZEWSKI said that Using his influence with the Clinton adminis- the unpredictable nature of the disease mandates tration, Blanchard worked with McPherson to land that her department continue its efforts in surveil- President Bill Clinton as a commencement speaker lance, mosquito control, and public education. in 1995. Although humans can contract the disease Some believe Blanchard would fit well in the from mosquitoes if the insect bites them after office if he could get the votes from a GOP- biting an infected bird, the West Nile Virus rarely dominated board. results in serious illness or death. There is no question the former governor is Michigan can report sightings of sick animals interested. It’s a question of how far he will go in at www.michigan.gov/westnilevirus. underscoring that interest and work to determine that is going on supposedly this week. A Second Search Is About To Start A wide scale search for a new State Personnel Johnson Running For Oakland Clerk Director moved another step closer today when Today, Rep. Ruth JOHNSON (R-Holly) filed the Finance & Claims Committee of the State to run for Oakland County Clerk – Register of Administrative Board recommended approval of a Deeds. The Holly Republican, who may best be short-term contract to a Troy-based firm to pro- known for her probe into possible corruption at vide executive search services to the Department Oakland Intermediate School District (ISD), can’t of Civil Services. seek re-election to the House due to term limits. Page 12 MIRS Capitol Capsule Tuesday, May 11, 2004

The full Ad Board is expected to give final The Commissioner, as court ordered rehabilita- approval to Harvey Hohauser and Associates for a tor in charge of The Wellness Plan, has overseen $40,000 four-and-one-half month contract to all post-rehabilitation payments to providers for recruit candidates to replace John LOPEZ, who health care services, under a Rehabilitation Order retired at the beginning of the year. issued by Ingham County Circuit Court Judge William COLLETTE. Initially, the Civil Service Commission con- ducted its own search through a state posting and In other news today, Ingham County Circuit Court narrowed the list of candidates to two last year. The Judge James GIDDINGS approved Watters’ plan to Commission, however, couldn’t agree on one of the sell the assets of OmniCare to Coventry Health Care. two candidates. Now, a search firm has been Watters is the rehabilitator of OmniCare. selected and the process begins again. Meanwhile, Chief Deputy Director Janet McCLELLAND is “As rehabilitator, I welcome the court’s ruling serving as acting state personnel director. as an opportunity to move forward toward the goal of ensuring continuity of care to OmniCare members and maximizing the payment of claims to providers,” Watters said. “I expect that Coventry Health Care Company Pulls Out Health Care will implement a smooth transition Amerigroup, the Virginia-based managed health process that will reassure both members and care company that had agreed to purchase The providers,” she added. Wellness Plan, is pulling out after the state apparently decline to renegotiate its bid price after the fact, according to Office of Financial and Insurance Bond Bills Moves In Senate Services (OFIS) Commissioner Linda WATTERS. Legislation making it easier for out-of-state Amerigroup had signed a letter of intent on bail bondsmen to start up in Michigan passed the April 1, but now that the company has pulled out, Senate today, 33-4, over the objection of the OFIS will be asking anyone with a current Michi- Office of Financial and Insurance Services (OFIS), gan HMO license to once again make its best offer. claiming that the bill would create two different industry standards. ”Not only has (Amerigroup’s) conduct resulted in unnecessary disruption, but it also has wasted Currently, a bail bondsman needs $7.5 million valuable time and resources that could have been in the bank to open shop in Michigan to cover the better spent pursuing serious offer,” Watters said. losses caused when a bonded criminal suspect skips town and can’t be tracked down. The al- Watters has instructed the deputy rehabilitators leged problem is that this high threshold is a running The Wellness Plan to have a bid ready for disincentive for out-of-state bondsmen and at least submission to the Department of Community one Michigan-based holding company, according Health by May 17. to the House Fiscal Agency. “As I’ve stated throughout this process, as HB 5281, sponsored by Rep. Mickey rehabilitator, my focus continues to be on ensuring MORTIMER (R-Horton), lets companies only both continuity of care to plan members and have $4.5 million in the bank as long as they have providing reimbursement to the provider commu- $3 million in bond guarantees and securities in nity,” said Watters. “We will take whatever steps another state. necessary to ensure that this process goes as smoothly as possible.” The industry claims it doesn’t have a problem with the lower threshold because losses are low, Watters petitioned to have the court approve anyway. Unlike other insurance companies, Amerigroups’s offer to purchase the assets of the bondsmen typically demand land or a house as Wellness plan on Friday. After hearings on the collateral before they give someone bond. matter, the court approved the sale to Amerigroup on April 30. Tuesday, May 11, 2004 MIRS Capitol Capsule Page 13

In House committee, OFIS spoke out against SBs 1023 -1024 would amend Part 525 (Dis- the bill, saying Michigan citizens would be better posal of Timber from State Lands) and Part 505 served with a $7.5 million floor because it protects (Michigan Forest Finance Authority) of the Natu- taxpayers from fly-by-night, under funded bonds- ral Resources and Environmental Protection Act to men. OFIS in February said it doesn’t accept do the following: guarantees as a matter of doing business, having been burned by them before. OFIS also claimed it — Require the Department of Natural Resources didn’t like setting two different sets of standards (DNR) to manage the State forest in a manner for out-of-state companies. consistent with principles of sustainable forestry. Sens. Virg BERNERO (D-Lansing), Deb — Require the DNR to seek and maintain third- CHERRY (D-Burton), Buzz THOMAS (D- party certification that the management of the Detroit) and Bob EMERSON (D-Flint) voted no State forest satisfied the sustainable forestry on the bill. standards of a credible, nonprofit, nongovernmental certification program. — Require the DNR to adopt a forestry development, conservation, and recreation Sustainable Forestry Bills Move management plan for the State forest. Today, with no dissenting votes, the House Agriculture Committee reported out SBs 1023 — Require that proceeds from timber sales be and 1024, which are portions of an overall sus- deposited in the Forest Development Fund. tainable forestry package currently moving — Allow money in the Fund to be used for obtaining through the Legislature. and maintaining sustainable forest certification, in The bills are on the agenda to be taken up by addition to the Fund’s current uses. the full House later this week. — Require the DNR to establish four forest pilot Anne WIOWODE, of the Sierra Club, testi- project areas, two in the Lower Peninsula and two fied against the bills. However, she said the Sierra in the Upper Peninsula, to demonstrate cost-saving Club now supports HB 5554, which is part of the techniques and improved forest health. (This package, after the changes the Senate made to it. requirement would be repealed after five years.) Basically, she said SBs 1023 and 1024 are like HB — Expand the Michigan Forest Finance Authority 5554 was before the Senate “fixed” it. board and require appointed members to “We believe the bills before you today present represent particular interests. The bills are tie- the question of where the public fits in with the barred to each other. management of forests,” Wiowode said. “The bills Following the meeting, Casperson told MIRS before you do not address the need for public input.” there are couple amendments the administration Wiowode continued to explain her argument that wants, which will be added on the House floor, residents who may return to an area year-in, year-out and then the bills should be “good to go.” over a period of decades, have no way of voicing their He said he’s optimistic that Gov. Jennifer concerns in the process. The example she used was a GRANHOLM will sign the legislation. family that returns to a spot for blueberry picking. Rep. Tom CASPERSON (R-Escanaba), a leading proponent of the sustainable forestry package Bernero Bill Gets 23 Co-sponsors and the sponsor of HB 5554, asked what level of Sen. Virg BERNERO (D-Lansing) scored a input Wiowode considered to be reasonable. minor political victory today when he introduced “I can understand this whole concept of public his “no junk food in schools” bill with 23 co- participation in terms of a hiker using the natural sponsors, including eight Republicans senators. resource, but should the hiker be testifying about That’s the good news for him. forest management?” Casperson asked rhetorically. Page 14 MIRS Capitol Capsule Tuesday, May 11, 2004

The bad news for him is that the bill was The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) referred to the Senate Education Committee, reported today that the Utica Community Schools chaired by Sen. Wayne KUIPERS (R-Holland), District agreed that the Jeremiah passage that who has basically poo-pooed the idea as being a Abbey MOLER of Sterling Heights wanted run matter of local control. If parents have a problem under her picture as part of the “wants to pass on” with what their children are eating at school, they quote basically should have run. can take it up with the local school board. The Utica School District also will tell the The bill would prohibit the sale of junk food in Stevenson High School staff not to censor reli- most public schools and require all Michigan gious or political entries in the “wants to pass on” school districts to adopt school nutrition policies section and will provide in-service training and that ensure students receive healthier meals. advice to school staff on free speech and religious freedom issues. “While it is true that schools may not constitu- Scott To Receive Honor tionally promote religion, they also must be very Sen. Martha G. SCOTT (D-Highland Park) careful not to suppress the private religious ex- will receive the prestigious Eleanor Roosevelt pression of their students,” said Michael Award as part of the Party’s annual Jefferson- STEINBERG of the ACLU. “This was a case Jackson Day celebration on May 15 from the where a high school created a forum for student Women’s Democratic Caucus within the Michigan expression, yet censored a student’s speech be- Democratic Party. cause it was religious in nature.” Former New Hampshire Gov. Jeanne Moler wanted the following phrase under her SHAHEEN is the scheduled keynote speaker. picture, “I would like to share a favorite verse that She currently serves as national Chairperson for shapes my life and guides me from day to day, presidential candidate John KERRY. ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, “The award is a wonderful tribute to Sen. Scott,” plans to give you hope and a future,’ Jeremiah said Virgie ROLLINS, event chair and the National 29:11 (New International Bible).” Chairperson of the Women’s Democratic Caucus. “She has worked tirelessly throughout her career to better the lives of her community, constituents and all the women in the state of Michigan.” DNR Can’t Ban Pistols The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Past award winners include former Lt. Gov. would not be able to write a rule that prohibits Martha GRIFFITHS, civil rights activist Millie folks from bringing their pistol on DNR property, JEFFREY and sitting Detroit City Council presi- under a bill that passed the Senate today, 34-4. dent Maryann MAHAFFEY. HB 4867, sponsored by Rep. James KOETJE (R-Walker), is companion bill of SB 221, which Bible Verse Gets In After All allows pistol owners to carry their properly licensed and concealed weapon on DNR property, A Biblical passage that the Stevenson High whether that person has a hunting license or not. School yearbook staff refused to run in their 2001 yearbook under the picture of a graduating senior Sens. Liz BRATER (D-Ann Arbor), Irma will be placed in the school’s official yearbook CLARK-COLEMAN (D-Detroit), Gilda copy and the school district will apologize to the JACOBS (D-Huntington Woods) and Martha G. student for not running the quote under a settle- SCOTT (D-Highland Park) voted no on the bill. ment reached today. Tuesday, May 11, 2004 MIRS Capitol Capsule Page 15

Women’s Economic Club To Open Michigan Early Stage Venture Lansing Chapter Investment Corporation Lansing-area businesswomen have a new Douglass DIGGS, of Grosse Pointe Park, was place to find information and make professional appointed to represent the general public for a term connections with the new Lansing Area Chapter of starting May 6, 2004, and expiring May 6, 2005 the Women’s Economic Club (WEC). Thomas KINNEAR, of Ann Arbor, was With the intention of promoting more ad- appointed to represent statewide organizations vanced roles for working women, the WEC offers exempt from taxation for a term starting May 6, its members the chance to interact with other 2004, and expiring May 6, 2007 entrepreneurs to share ideas about business. Charles ROTHSTEIN, of West Bloomfield, was Former WEC President Paula Blanchard STONE appointed to represent the general public for a term led other businesswomen in their attempt to starting May 6, 2004 and expiring May 6, 2006 establish a Lansing chapter for the group. State Plumbing Board “‘We look forward to bringing to Lansing the same high caliber speakers, leadership development pro- Richard GABER, of White Lake, was reap- grams and networking opportunities that have made pointed to represent licensed journey plumbers the WEC a business powerhouse and a strong voice for with 10 years of experience for a term expiring advancing women in the workplace,” Stone said. June 30, 2006 WEC President Terry BARCLAY said that Lansing was just the first city to receive its own chapter and that individuals from Grand Rapids On This Day In Michigan History and Port Huron have expressed interest. On May 11, 1973, Margaret Ann BREWER from Durand became the Marine Corps’ first WEC will inaugurate its new chapter on May woman brigadier general. 26 at the Country Club of Lansing. Tower Auto- motive President Kathleen LIGOCKI will be the Source: Mich-Again’s Day. keynote speaker.

Governor’s Appointments Gov. Jennifer GRANHOLM today announced the following appointments: Michigan Merit Award Board Penelope BAILER, of Detroit, was appointed to succeed Clark DURANT, whose term expired, to represent the general public for a term expiring Sept. 30, 2007 Carolyn HART, of Rockford, was appointed to succeed Kathleen BARCLAY, whose term has expired, to represent the general public for a term expiring Sept. 30, 2007. She is the wife of Rep. Doug HART (R-Rockford).

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