AMVETS MEMORIAL SCENIC DRIVE S.B. 564 (S-1): FIRST ANALYSIS
Senate Bill 564 (Substitute S-1 as enrolled)
Sponsor: Senator Jim Barcia
Committee: Transportation
Date Completed: 6-28-05
RATIONALE
American Veterans, or AMVETS, is a service organization that provides support for veterans in the form of free counseling, claims assistance, and legislative advocacy, and sponsors various programs to benefit local communities. Since portions of highways throughout the State are named in honor of particular individuals and groups, including veterans, it has been suggested that a portion of highway in Sanilac County be dedicated to AMVETS members in recognition of their service to the nation.
CONTENT
The bill would amend the Michigan Memorial Highway Act to name the portion of M-46 between M-24 in Tuscola County and M-53 in Sanilac County the "AmVets Memorial Scenic Drive".
Proposed MCL 250.1097
ARGUMENTS
(Please note: The arguments contained in this analysis originate from sources outside the Senate Fiscal Agency. The Senate Fiscal Agency neither supports nor opposes legislation.)
Supporting Argument
Members of AMVETS have made great sacrifices through their military service to this country, and continue to serve other members of the armed forces, as well as local communities, upon discharge. The organization provides information and claims counseling to all honorably discharged veterans and their dependents regarding numerous issues, including disability compensation, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pension, education, and Veterans Affairs regulations, entitlements, policies, and procedures. Additionally, members devote thousands of hours to spending time with hospitalized veterans. The organization is active in promoting public policy related to national defense, services for homeless and disabled veterans, and funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs. American Veterans also awards $40,000 in scholarships every year and is involved in various national and local programs to improve the quality of life for all citizens.
Currently, portions of highways in Kalamazoo County and near Escanaba are named in honor of AMVETS, and I-96 from Wayne County to Muskegon County is named the "AmVets Memorial Highway". The dedication of a portion of highway in Sanilac County would be another fitting acknowledgement of the invaluable contributions veterans have made to the nation, both during and after their military service.
Legislative Analyst: Julie Koval
FISCAL IMPACT
The bill would have no fiscal impact on State or local government.
Fiscal Analyst: Craig ThielAnalysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent. sb564/0506