North Michigan News

On February 27, 2024, Senator Chang and Senator Bellino voted on bills SB 57 and SB 58 regarding the banning of devices used to inhale nitrous oxide. Senator Chang explained his NO vote by stating, "I don’t believe banning these devices will affect people inhaling nitrous oxide, nor do I believe these bills could be enforced with big online retailers like Amazon. It also opens the door for the next step of government regulation." Despite his opposition, both bills passed with significant margins, SB 57 passing 87-18 and SB 58 passing 88-17.

On the same day, Representative Shannon's bill HB 5151, which aimed to rename a portion of M-53 as Officer Leroy Imus Memorial Highway, received a YES vote from Senator Chang. He justified his decision by stating, "This bill would commemorate the fallen police officer who gave his life in the line of duty to keep his community safe, and we should honor him as the hero he is." The bill passed unanimously with a vote of 105-0.

The following day, Senator Chang voted NO on HB 4279, a bill allowing local Independent School Districts to contract with other ISDs that offer career tech programs. He opposed the bill because, in his view, it would enable local ISDs to levy additional taxes. Despite his objection, HB 4279 passed with a vote of 100-6.

On February 29, 2024, Senator Chang voted NO on HB 4011, a bill presented by Representative Neyer. He explained his decision by stating, "This bill would give a legal definition to a family farm and could potentially open family farms to more government burdens if they are defined. Ultimately, MIOSHA should have NO jurisdiction over a family farm." The bill passed with a vote of 93-13.

Senator Chang's detailed explanations provide insight into his decision-making process regarding the legislative actions taken during the specified dates.