Highways: memorial; portion of M-50; designate as the "Animal Control Officer Darrian Young Memorial Highway." Amends 2001 PA 142 (MCL 250.1001 - 250.2092) by adding sec. 6d.
Summary
Senate Bill 69 amends the Michigan Memorial Highway Act to designate a specific segment of M-50 in Monroe County as the "Animal Control Officer Darrian Young Memorial Highway." The named portion runs from the intersection with South Raisinville Road east to the intersection with Herr Road. The bill is a commemorative highway designation and does not create a new program, regulatory scheme, or funding mechanism.
By adding section 6d to 2001 PA 142, the bill expands the list of memorial highway designations recognized under Michigan law. Its practical effect is limited to official signage and public recognition of Animal Control Officer Darrian Young on the designated stretch of roadway. The bill affects state transportation and highway naming records, and it may require the Michigan Department of Transportation or local authorities to install and maintain memorial markers consistent with the act.
The available voting history suggests broad support and little controversy. The bill was reported favorably without amendment in committee and then passed the Senate unanimously, 36-0. No committee transcripts were provided, and there is no indication of opposition or substantive debate over the measure.
Any contention appears minimal and likely limited to the general question of whether memorial highway designations are an appropriate use of state highway naming authority, rather than to the specific designation itself. Because the bill is narrowly focused on honoring a local public servant, the discussion and votes indicate a largely ceremonial measure with bipartisan or unanimous approval.
Impact
The bill adds a new memorial highway designation to the Michigan Memorial Highway Act, specifically naming a segment of M-50 in Monroe County the "Animal Control Officer Darrian Young Memorial Highway." This changes state law only by inserting a new section into 2001 PA 142 and authorizing the official recognition of that roadway segment; it does not alter traffic rules, funding, or enforcement powers. The main affected parties are the Michigan Department of Transportation, local officials responsible for signage, and the community honoring Darrian Young.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SB0069 appears strongly positive and noncontroversial. It was reported favorably without amendment in committee and passed the Senate 36-0, indicating unanimous support. The lack of recorded debate or dissent suggests the bill was viewed as a respectful commemorative measure rather than a policy dispute.
Contention
There is no recorded substantive opposition in the available materials. The only possible point of contention would be the broader practice of using state law to create memorial highway designations, which can sometimes raise concerns about proliferation of honorary names or signage costs. However, no such objections are reflected in the committee or floor votes for this bill, and the measure itself appears to have been treated as a straightforward tribute to Animal Control Officer Darrian Young.