State: symbol; stonefly; designate as the official state insect. Creates new act.
Summary
House Bill 4519 designates the stonefly (Pteronarcys sp.) as the official insect of the State of Michigan. The bill is very short and creates a new act for that purpose, adding the stonefly to Michigan’s list of official state symbols.
The measure does not appear to change regulatory policy, tax law, or program eligibility. Its legal effect is limited to state symbolism and nomenclature, with the main practical consequence being the formal recognition of the stonefly in state law and any associated educational, ceremonial, or promotional uses by public entities.
Impact
HB4519 would amend Michigan law by creating a new act establishing an official state insect. It affects only the state’s symbolic designations and does not impose duties, penalties, or spending requirements on residents, agencies, or businesses. The primary affected party is the State of Michigan itself, which would be authorized to recognize the stonefly as an official state symbol.
Sentiment
No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of debate or opposition. Based on the bill’s narrow scope and ceremonial nature, the measure appears to be noncontroversial and likely intended as a symbolic designation rather than a substantive policy change.
Contention
There are no documented points of contention in the provided materials. Because the bill only designates a state insect, any disagreement would likely be limited to whether the stonefly is the appropriate symbol or whether the legislature should prioritize symbolic bills over other matters, but no such objections are shown in the record provided.