Reps. Vander Roest, Spade, Raczkowski, Kuipers, Patterson, Mans, Birkholz, Howell, Julian, Lipsey, Jelinek, Stewart, Mead, Vear, Vander Veen, Faunce, Meyer, DeVuyst, Neumann, Wojno, Rocca, Toy, Ehardt, Bogardus, Newell, DeRossett, Richardville, Cassis, Rich Brown, Scranton, Hale, Woronchak, Switalski, DeWeese, Voorhees, Shackleton, Kowall, Clarke and Sanborn offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 238.

A resolution to urge the Governor to establish a director of homeland security for Michigan.

Whereas, With the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, it has become clear that our nation faces difficult new challenges as we work to ensure domestic tranquility and provide for the common defense of our people. Subsequent threats and spreading reports of anthrax infections only amplify the need for new strategies of communication, vigilance, and protection; and

Whereas, President Bush has taken swift actions to address the complex issues before us. His creation of a cabinet-level post of the Office of Homeland Security is an important step and a most appropriate recognition of the new realities facing our nation. Several states have established offices to coordinate emergency plans and strengthen public health and safety resources; and

Whereas, The idea of a state director of homeland security may be an appropriate response in Michigan as well. While we have every confidence in the professionalism and dedication of the men and women in local and state public health and safety agencies, it is clear that our state faces unique challenges. As a border state that includes some of the busiest crossing points between the United States and Canada and as a state with expansive natural and man-made resources and facilities, Michigan faces strategic challenges that are particularly important. At the least, all options need to be thoroughly considered; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we urge the Governor to establish a director of homeland security for Michigan; and be it further Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the Office of the Governor.

The resolution was referred to the Committee on House Oversight and Operations.

Referred to Committee on House Oversight and Operations on October 18, 2001.