SE Grand Rapids News

Rep. Smit explained his votes for multiple bills considered during the week of April 29. He supported HB 4029, requiring hunting and trapping orders to be adopted by June 1st each year. Rep. Smit stated his "YES" vote was due to the necessity for timely information to be accessible both electronically and in printed formats.

The representative also voted affirmatively for a package of bills (HBs 4027-4028) that remove certain zoning authorities from the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) concerning renewable energy projects. Rep. Smit emphasized community decision-making for large renewable energy facilities, saying, "Residents should have the ability to decide whether they want a large renewable energy facility in their community or not."

Another bill package (HBs 4338-4339 & 4342) prohibiting sanctuary policies was also backed by Rep. Smit. He explained his vote with the view that the package encourages collaboration with federal immigration authorities and aims to enhance national security.

For the bill prohibiting illegal immigrants from receiving welfare and housing benefits (HBs 4340-4341), Rep. Smit expressed his support, stating, "These bills prevent Michigan from becoming a welfare magnet for illegal immigrants."

Rep. Smit supported HB 4288, which mandates merit-based hiring for state agency employees, asserting it would "strengthen the state workforce by prioritizing relevant education and work experience."

Lastly, he voted for a constitutional amendment (HJR B) to require the verification of U.S. citizenship to vote in elections. Despite its failure, Rep. Smit reasoned, "Someone can simply use a student ID and sign an affidavit saying they’re a US Citizen, with no further verification of that statement."