March 12, 2010

To better deliver state aid to Michigan families in need, I am supporting legislation to prevent waste, fraud and abuse in the state's welfare system.

The reform initiative helps stop fraud in the state's bridge cards, which are like food stamps that work as debit cards. The bills require college students who apply for a card to show proof they cannot be claimed as a dependant on someone else's tax returns, and prohibits using the cards for tobacco products, any items or beverages containing alcohol or lottery tickets

We must do all we can to prevent abuse of our welfare system to help make sure that the money is going only to people who desperately need it. We've heard widespread reports about bridge card fraud, and this legislation will help prevent misuse of taxpayer dollars.

The legislation also would stop prisoners from receiving bridge cards, require merchants to verify identification of the card holder, and create random drug testing for recipients.

* * *

Feral swine have been sighted in Livingston County and many other Michigan counties over the last few years. To help eradicate this destructive invasive species, I voted this week to allow anyone with a valid hunting license or concealed pistol permit to kill the wild pigs on sight.

The legislation allows feral swine to be harvested on public land or on private land with the landowner's permission. It also prohibits farmers from allowing swine livestock to graze on state-owned land.

Feral swine can destroy crops and hurt the livelihoods of area farmers. These aggressive pigs also could pose a threat to people.

Feral swine can grow to more than 600 pounds and five feet long. They travel in packs, carry disease and cause serious erosion to river banks. It is estimated that there are more than 5,000 feral swine in Michigan.

The bills now go to the Senate for consideration.

* * *

As Congress attempts to force through a massive overhaul of the country's health care system despite intense objections from the public, I am supporting legislation to create a special legislative panel in an attempt to limit the federal government.

The landmark initiative, House Joint Resolution YY, creates the bipartisan Joint Federalism Commission to stop any action by the federal government that usurps powers reserved to the states under the 10th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

The commission, consisting of five state senators and five representatives, would investigate the constitutionality of specific acts, orders, statutes and regulations dictated by the federal government.

If the commission finds it unconstitutional, it would introduce a bill to declare the federal action null and void. The bill would go directly to the House or Senate floor, bypassing the committee process. It then must be considered within 10 session days, under the legislation.

Much like the current Michigan Legislative Council, the House speaker and Senate majority leader would appoint members to the new Joint Federalism Commission. The governor and attorney general also would each appoint a nonvoting member to provide insight and opinions.

HJR YY, a constitutional amendment, will now be considered by the Michigan Legislature. If approved, the amendment also must be approved by Michigan voters.

* * *

If you have any questions or need assistance with any state issues, please contact me toll free at 866-828-4863 or via e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .