LANSING (WKZO-AM) — The 99th Session of the Michigan State Legislature met for the first time Wednesday and while the day was mostly ceremonial, House members got a chance to think about what they wanted to accomplish in the next two years.
Newly elected Speaker Tom Leonard expressed some hope that there could be a return to civility, after a year where there was precious little of it in politics.
Kalamazoo Democrat Jon Hoadley says he is all for civility if it means democrats aren’t punished for speaking out, as he says they were last year. He claims Republicans would cancel hearings on democratic bills and commit other acts of retaliation for Democrats who spoke out forcefully.
Battle Creek Republican, Dr. John Bizon says like it or not, healthcare is going to be an issue. He says with his medical background, he hopes to be of some assistance in formulating a better healthcare system.
Allegan County’s Mary Whiteford says expanding access to broadband in rural areas and the Kalamazoo River are her two priorities.
Sturgis Rep. Aaron Miller says he is looking forward to getting to know the new members.
