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Bill

HR 186

A resolution to declare October 16, 2025, as Community Dispute Resolution Day in the state of Michigan.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Karl Bohnak and 5 co-sponsors

Declares Oct 16, 2025 as Community Dispute Resolution Day in Michigan; a symbolic, nonbinding recognition of ADR centers, boosting awareness and volunteer support with no funding.

adopted
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Bill Summary · HR 186

Summary — HR 186 (Michigan)

A resolution to declare October 16, 2025, as Community Dispute Resolution Day in the state of Michigan

Purpose and intent

HR 186 is a ceremonial, non‑binding resolution that recognizes and promotes the value of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in Michigan. It designates October 16, 2025, as “Community Dispute Resolution Day” to raise public awareness of mediation, arbitration, facilitation, restorative practices, collaborative decision‑making, and related conflict‑management methods.

Key provisions

  • Declares October 16, 2025, as Community Dispute Resolution Day in Michigan.
  • Recognizes the role of community‑based dispute resolution programs in resolving neighborhood and other community conflicts fairly and at lower cost than litigation.
  • Cites Michigan Public Act 260 of 1988 (the Community Dispute Resolution Act), under which Community Dispute Resolution Centers operate under the oversight of the Michigan Supreme Court and the Michigan Community Mediation Association.
  • Notes that the State Court Administrative Office’s Office of Dispute Resolution oversees and supports 16 community mediation centers statewide.
  • Specifically recognizes the Marquette Alger Resolution Service and the other fifteen mediation centers for 32 years of service to Michigan citizens.
  • Expresses appreciation for the thousands of professionals and volunteers who serve as mediators, facilitators, and conciliators.

Who is affected

  • The resolution is primarily symbolic. It publicly acknowledges:
    • Michigan’s community dispute resolution centers and their staff/volunteers;
    • Courts, parties, schools, businesses, and community organizations that use ADR;
    • The broader public by encouraging awareness and use of non‑litigation conflict resolution methods.

Legal effect and timeline

  • HR 186 is a house resolution (ceremonial). It does not create or change legal rights, duties, or funding.
  • Introduced: January 3, 2025 (Rep. Karl Bohnak).
  • Adopted/Enacted: Adopted by the House (documentation shows adoption in early March 2025).
  • Designated observance date: October 16, 2025.

Context and potential impact

  • The resolution highlights Michigan’s existing ADR infrastructure and encourages public recognition of mediation as a cost‑effective alternative to courts. While it carries no statutory or budgetary mandates, such proclamations can help boost public education, volunteer recruitment, and community support for dispute resolution programs.

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

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