to adopt the meeting minutes from May 14, 2024.
Representative Rogers moved to adopt the meeting minutes from May 14, 2024. There being no objection, the motion prevailed by unanimous consent. The Chair laid HB 5276, HB 5277, HB 5279, HB 5280 and HB 5720 before the committee: HB 5276 (Rep. Conlin) A bill to create the office of mental health and suicide prevention in the Michigan veterans affairs agency and provide for its powers and duties; and to provide for the powers and duties of certain state governmental officers and entities. HB 5277 (Rep. Morse) A bill to amend 1967 PA 150, entitled "Michigan military act," (MCL 32.501 to 32.851) by adding section 322. HB 5279 (Rep. Brabec) A bill to amend 1967 PA 150, entitled "Michigan military act," (MCL 32.501 to 32.851) by adding section 323. HB 5280 (Rep. Bruck) A bill to amend 1967 PA 150, entitled "Michigan military act," (MCL 32.501 to 32.851) by adding section 321. HB 5720 (Rep. Bezotte) A bill to require the department of military and veterans affairs to make certain mental health and wellness resources available to members of the Michigan National Guard and other military servicemembers. Brett Waters, representing Reason for Hope, testified in support of HBs 5276, 5277, 5279, 5280, and 5720. Tim Poxson, Legislative Chair for the American Legion Department of Michigan, testified in support of HBs 5276, 5277, 5279, 5280, and 5720. Questions and discussion followed. TJ Pierce, representing the National Guard Association of Michigan, testified in support of HBs 5276, 5277, 5279, 5280, and 5720. Director Brian Love and Acting Deputy Director Todd Butler, Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency, testified in support of HBs 5276, 5277, 5279, 5280, and 5720. Questions and discussion followed. Representative Bruck testified in support of HBs 5276, 5277, 5279, 5280, and 5720. The following people submitted a card in support of HB 5276, HB 5277, HB 5279, HB 5280 and HB 5720, but did not wish to speak: Heather Feurstein, representing the Michigan Department of Military and Veteran Affairs. Stephanie Johnson, representing the Mental Health Association of Michigan. There being no further business before the committee, Chair Conlin adjourned the meeting at 12:40 PM. Representative Jennifer Conlin, Chair Nicholas Gewirtz Committee Clerk ngewirtz@house.mi.gov