Senators Kahn, Richardville and Birkholz offered the following concurrent resolution:

            Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 9.

            A concurrent resolution to memorialize the Congress of the United States to enact legislation to provide funding for the continuing restoration and protection of the Great Lakes.

            Whereas, The Great Lakes constitute a resource of the utmost importance, connecting the American Midwest to the international community. Domestic and foreign vessels ship raw materials, industrial products, and food among ports on the Great Lakes and the rest of the world. In addition, the Great Lakes hold 20 percent of the world’s fresh surface water and 95 percent of the United States’ fresh surface water. The quality and quantity of this fresh water treasure are vital to the health and commercial well-being of millions of Americans; and

            Whereas, Despite Michigan’s efforts, the Great Lakes are ailing from a multitude of stressors, including aquatic invasive species, toxic contamination of river and lake sediments, partially or inadequately treated sewage discharges, pollution from nonpoint sources, and coastal habitat loss. Combined, these stressors will have long-lasting effects on the Great Lakes, Michigan’s economy, and our way of life; and

            Whereas, In the past, the Congress of the United States has provided support for numerous projects to protect and conserve our natural resources. Most prominently, Congress enacted legislation to fund the restoration of the Everglades and the South Florida ecosystem, including several billion dollars in funding to the state of Florida. While the Everglades and the South Florida ecosystem are clearly a unique resource, the Great Lakes have even greater national and international economic significance; and

            Whereas, With the Great Lakes at the heart of American industrial and agricultural production and the source of recreation for millions of people, the United States of America must do all it can to ensure the viability and health of the lakes; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), That we memorialize the Congress of the United States to fund the restoration and protection of the Great Lakes with similar appropriations that have been afforded the Florida Everglades and the South Florida ecosystem; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, the members of the Michigan congressional delegation, and the United States Secretary of the Interior.