LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – After canceling session yesterday, the House of Representatives met today for the first time since the shooting on Michigan State University’s campus. 

Session began by introducing House Resolution 36, a memorial bill and resolution of tribute to express the condolences of the legislature for the shooting that took place on the campus of MSU Monday night. 

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The bill not only recognized the police, and other first responders by recognizing their “heroism and resolve demonstrated by those who lead us through times of tragedy,” but it also paid a tribute to those who lost their lives during the shooting. 

“We must never forget the individuals whose lives were taken on February 13. Arielle Anderson. Alexandria Verner. Brian Fraser. This Chamber mourns with your friends and family. We dedicate ourselves, in your honor, to work toward a better world – a world where Michiganders can feel safe in their communities,” House Speaker Joe Tate (D-Detroit) said, “A world where families can send their loved ones to receive an education without fearing the worst might befall them. A world where we embrace each other in joy, not in grief. This Chamber – your Chamber – will not forget you. Your state will not forget you. Your country will not forget you; now, therefore, be it Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we express our condolences for the tragic shooting at Michigan State University.” 

The House of Representatives observed a moment of silence following Speaker Tate reading the memorial tribute before recognizing some of the first responders who worked during the night of the school shooting, as well as the 9/11 operators who took the many calls.  

“I don’t believe any of us in this chamber expected to serve in the midst of such tragedy,” Speaker Tate said, “No student should fear for their safety on campus, of one of our universities, and no parent should ever have to wonder if their child would return alive once they sent them off to college.” 

Following Speaker Tate’s remarks, Representative Julie Brixie (D-Okemos) was the first of many representatives who rose in support of the resolution and offered their condolences. 

“The grief our community feels for Brian, for Arielle, and Alexandria is beyond words,” Representative Brixie said, “The pain for the five students fighting for their lives at Sparrow Hospital is too raw.  The tens of thousands of students and staff traumatized by these tragic events is awful and it’s not okay.”  

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Brixie continued by stating that while the legislature had failed you in the past looking up to the MSU students in the gallery, we will not make that mistake again. 

The first Republican to offer remarks was Minority Leader Byran Posthumus (R-Cannon Township) 

“I rise in support of this resolution in honor and respect for those who lost their lives,” Posthumus said, “For the first responders who stepped up and saved countless more.  For the medical personnel that acted diligently and continued to fight as long as they could and help as many people as they could.  This is a story that starts in tragedy, but I hope can continue on in healing and recognition of heroism and finally with hope.” 

Posthumus also called on the power of prayer to aid in healing of the community, the chance of unity, and for the hope of tomorrow. 

Representatives Jamie Thompson (R-Thompson) and Brenda Carter (D-Carter) both shared how their lives had been drastically changed by similar circumstances, and how they could personally relate to those who survived the shooting, since both had lost family members to shooting instances. 

A tribute came from Rep. Graham Filler (R-DeWitt) who admitted how shaken he and his wife are, as she also works at Sparrow Hospital. 

“Today we’re shaking because parent they had to make the call, the call to make sure your child is safe, and that is a very painful call and it sticks with you,” Filler said, “I refuse to let the grief thrust on us by the perpetrator dominate and overwhelm and continue to harm this community.  I will not let that individual win, so let us recognize a couple things: there are heroes among us and they deserve our honor and our gratitude.” 

While there were several calls for gun reform, no new legislation was introduced on that topic.  The House adjourned until Feb. 22 at 1:30 p.m.