Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

Michigan House Bill HR0266

Introduced
3/19/26  

Caption

A resolution to declare March 22, 2026, as Michigan Water Day and World Water Day in the state of Michigan.

Summary

House Resolution 266 is a commemorative resolution that designates March 22, 2026, as both Michigan Water Day and World Water Day in the state of Michigan. The resolution recognizes the United Nations’ World Water Day observance, highlights the cultural significance of water in Anishinaabek teachings, and emphasizes Michigan’s identity as a water-rich state bordered by the Great Lakes. The resolution also states that freshwater is essential for drinking water, agriculture, industry, recreation, tourism, and healthy ecosystems, and it frames water protection as important to the state’s health, environment, and economic prosperity. It encourages residents to recognize the importance of clean water and support efforts to protect and conserve water resources, and it directs that copies be sent to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.

Impact

This resolution does not amend or create state law, impose regulatory requirements, or appropriate funds. Its legal effect is ceremonial and expressive: it establishes an official state observance for March 22, 2026, and publicly affirms support for clean water, conservation, and freshwater stewardship. The primary affected parties are Michigan residents, environmental stakeholders, and state agencies involved in water and natural resource policy, especially the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.

Sentiment

The available text suggests broad, positive sentiment around the resolution. The bill is framed in celebratory and educational terms, with bipartisan-style public-interest themes centered on water awareness, conservation, and Michigan’s natural identity. There are no recorded committee transcripts or votes indicating opposition, amendment, or controversy.

Contention

No notable points of contention are reflected in the available materials. Because the resolution is nonbinding and commemorative, it appears unlikely to have generated substantive policy disagreement. The only potentially distinct emphasis is its inclusion of Anishinaabek cultural teachings and the role of women as water protectors, but no opposition or debate on that point is documented in the provided record.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MI HR0046

A resolution to declare March 22, 2025, as Michigan Water Day and World Water Day in the state of Michigan.

MI SR0023

A resolution to recognize March 22, 2025, as Michigan Water Day.

MI HR0156

A resolution to declare August 2025 as Water Quality Month in the state of Michigan.

MI HR0068

A resolution to declare April 22, 2025, as Earth Day in the state of Michigan.

MI HR0122

A resolution to declare May 31-June 8, 2025, as Great Lakes and Fresh Water Week in the state of Michigan.

MI SR0123

A resolution to recognize May 13, 2026, as Older Michiganians Day.

MI HR0050

A resolution to declare March 21, 2025, as Rosie the Riveter Day in the state of Michigan.

MI HR0294

A resolution to declare April 24, 2026, as Arbor Day in the state of Michigan.

MI HR0049

A resolution to declare March 21, 2025, as Abolitionist Day in the state of Michigan.

MI HR0267

A resolution to declare March 21, 2026, as Abolitionist Day in the state of Michigan.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.