Rep. Schutimaker offered the following concurrent resolution:

            House Concurrent Resolution No. 27.

            A concurrent resolution to urge the Michigan Women's Commission to ensure that its programs and activities are strictly nonpartisan.

            Whereas, The Michigan Women's Commission was created by 1968 PA 1 within the executive branch of government. Since that time, the commission, which has been within the Department of Civil Rights since 1991, has worked to enhance the status and opportunities for women throughout our state. Its responsibilities, which are set forth in MCL § 10.73, center around overcoming discrimination and identifying avenues for fuller participation by women in the economy, education, and government; and

            Whereas, The Michigan Women's Commission has been an effective advocate for women. Its members and programs have contributed to success in the workplace and in many aspects of society; and

            Whereas, Recent activities of the Michigan Women's Commission, however, have drawn criticism from those who feel that some of its efforts have had a partisan tone. Specifically, campaign workshops designed to encourage women to consider running for public office at all levels have drawn attention. Some observers feel that the Michigan Women's Commission may have exerted influence significantly beyond an acceptable level for a public entity; and

            Whereas, While we recognize the difficult challenge of avoiding all hints of partisanship, doing so is an important matter for public entities; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That we urge the Michigan Women's Commission to ensure that its programs and activities are strictly nonpartisan; and be it further

            Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the Michigan Women's Commission.