Title
Discussion and possible adoption of a resolution pertaining to HB 5039
Body
Whereas, last October, House Bill 5039 was introduced in the Michigan State Legislature as a proposed amendment to the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act. As introduced, HB 5039 would disallow local governments from adopting any ordinance, rule, regulation or policy that includes as a "protected class" any classification not specifically included under the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act; and
Whereas, some residents of the City of Rochester Hills have requested that the Rochester Hills City Council pass a resolution taking a formal position on this state legislation; and
Whereas, the Rochester Hills City Council deems the fundamental human rights and civil liberties guaranteed in the United States and Michigan Constitutions and protected through federal and state civil rights laws, and the ability to freely exercise and enjoy those rights and liberties, are essential to the public health, safety and welfare of the City and its residents and visitors; and
Whereas, the community is enriched by the diversity of its residents and the people who visit and do business in the City.
Therefore, It Is Resolved, the Rochester Hills City Council:
1. Reaffirms its support for the human rights and civil liberties of all people in Rochester Hills, and the free exercise and enjoyment of any and all human rights, civil liberties and privileges under the U.S. and Michigan Constitutions and federal and state civil rights laws, and calls upon all City officials and employees and all residents and businesses in the City to respect the human rights, privileges and dignity of all persons in the community;
2. Does not take a formal position supporting or opposing HB 5039, but does recognize the ability of individual citizens to make a difference regarding the passage or failure of state legislation and encourages their continued involvement at the state level.