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HR 294

A resolution to declare April 24, 2026, as Arbor Day in the state of Michigan.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kelly Breen and 10 co-sponsors

Michigan designates April 24, 2026 as Arbor Day and urges the Governor and DNR/EGLE to support tree planting, forestry, and conservation efforts.

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Bill Summary · HR 294

Summary of House Resolution 294 (2025-2026) – Michigan

Purpose

  • Declare April 24, 2026, as Arbor Day in the state of Michigan.
  • Encourage support for tree planting, forestry, and conservation efforts by state leadership and agencies.

Key Provisions

  • Formal declaration: The Michigan House of Representatives designates April 24, 2026, as Arbor Day in Michigan.
  • Encouragement to action: Urges the Governor of Michigan and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to support tree planting, forestry activities, and other conservation efforts.
  • Official transmission: Requires that copies of the resolution be sent to the Governor and to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).

Background and Rationale (as presented in the resolution)

  • Arbor Day has historical roots in Michigan; the state legislature previously established a day dedicated to tree planting.
  • Arbor Day is described as an international observance recognizing the value of trees for the environment, economy, and community well-being.
  • The resolution highlights several benefits of trees:
    • Environmental: reduce soil erosion, improve air quality, produce oxygen, provide wildlife habitat.
    • Economic and practical: renewable resources (wood and paper), potential savings on heating and cooling, enhancement of property values, economic vitality of urban areas, and beautification of communities.
    • Social: trees provide joy and renewal in communities.

Who/What is Affected

  • State-level recognition and messaging; the resolution itself does not create new mandates or funding, but it calls attention to Arbor Day and encourages state agencies and leadership to support related efforts.
  • Potential downstream impact on public perception and prioritization of tree planting and forestry programs administered by state agencies (notably DNR and EGLE).

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Introduced and processed in April 2026:
    • Introduced by Representative Kara Hope.
    • Co-sponsors listed (including Angela Witwer and several others).
    • A substitute amendment (H-1) was adopted on April 28, 2026, and the resolution was adopted on the same day.
  • No fiscal impact details are provided in the resolution text; it functions as a ceremonial proclamation and exhortation.

Practical Takeaways

  • The bill is a ceremonial resolution recognizing Arbor Day in Michigan for 2026.
  • It emphasizes the value of trees and requests active support from the Governor and DNR/EGLE for tree-related and conservation initiatives.
  • It serves to promote public awareness and may align with existing state conservation priorities and environmental education efforts.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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