Snyder signs bills supporting wetlands preservation

LANSING, Mich. – Gov. Rick Snyder recently signed legislation authorizing the creation of a fundraising license plate for Ducks Unlimited.

Gov. Rick Snyder signed legislation sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville (pictured right) and state Rep. Dale Zorn (pictured left) that authorizes the creation of a funding license plate for Ducks Unlimited. Secretary of State Ruth Johnson, Department of Natural Resources Director Keith Creagh and others also attended the bill signing.

“Michigan’s wetlands play a crucial role in the life cycles of our plants and animals, reduce flooding and provide natural recreation,” Snyder said. “These Ducks Unlimited plates will support the preservation of our wetlands.”

Revenue raised by sales of the plates will go toward the Ducks Unlimited Fund in the Department of Treasury, and only will be used for maintenance of Michigan wetlands. Ducks Unlimited will pay $15,000 upfront to defray plate production costs.

The two-bill package includes Senate Bill 234, sponsored by state Sen. Randy Richardville, and House Bill 4337, sponsored by state Rep. Dale Zorn. They now are Public Acts 6 and 7 of 2013.

Michigan also offers fundraising plates for its 15 universities and a number of other causes. Each costs $35 in addition to registration fees, of which $25 goes toward the cause. Renewing the plate costs $10 extra.

Visit www.legislature.mi.gov for more information on the bills.