Michigan Votes Forum

Introduced in the House on February 7, 2007, to require that all state buildings and facilities open to the public have recycling receptacles for glass, plastic, and aluminum beverage containers. Buildings leased by the state would also be subject to this if the building can accomodate it, and future state leases would require this. The bill would require that recycling services be competively bid, and require the vendor to provide the recycling receptacles "if it is in the best economic interest of the state"

The vote was 94 in favor, 15 opposed and 1 not voting

(House Roll Call 535 at House Journal 60)

Click here to view bill details.

Rep. Elsenheimer, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement: “Mr. Speaker and members of the House: This is a fine concept, but it is estimated that it will cost up to $350,000 per year to implement. Where does the majority intend to come up with the resources for this proposal? At a time that we are raising taxes, and yet face a $400 million dollar budget shortfall for 2009, how can we be talking about adding a $350,000 expense to state government?”

Rep. Sheen, having reserved the right to explain his protest against the passage of the bill, made the following statement: “Mr. Speaker and members of the House: I don’t support mandates which drive up the cost of the private sector, I don’t support mandates which drive up the cost of government, which the tax payer is paying for.”