On Tuesday, January 27, 2009, close to 300 members and guests participated in the 20th Annual MSAE Legislative Conference. With a new president in office and a great many changes and challenges at the state and national levels, there was much to discuss.

The half-day event kicked off with an introduction from former co-speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives, Paul Hillegonds. Hillegonds is now senior vice president, corporate affairs, for DTE Energy. A lively debate—moderated by Chris Holman, Michigan’s Small Business Advocate-- ensued with a panel discussing Michigan's changing economy. Panelists included James Epolito, chair, Michigan Economic Corporation; Pat Anderson, principal, the Anderson Economic Group; and Doug Drake, Public Policy Associates.

Other panels discussed health care, political ads from the 2008 campaign, and new faces in the House of Representatives. Epolito's comments were covered by local media and featured several times the next day on the air waves. A news clip was aired on WLNS that evening, as well.
The highlight of the afternoon was a panel discussion among members of the Michigan House and Senate leadership: Speaker Andy Dillon (D- Redford ); Minority Leader Kevin Elsenheimer (R-Bellaire ); Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop (R-Rochester Hills); Senate Minority Leader Mike Prussie (D-Ishpeming); and moderated by Senior Capitol Correspondent Tim Skubick.
Immediately after the conference, attendees enjoyed a well-attended legislative reception; the informal networking is always a good benefit for MSAE members and their officers.

A follow-up survey indicates that 98% felt the speakers were knowledgeable about the topics presented; 93% indicated the speakers were effective in expressing their views; and 99% felt the location was excellent or good and that their experience with MSAE staff was excellent.

Copies of handouts and more information on the speakers are available at left. MSAE members interested in serving on the 2009 Legislative Conference Committee, please contact Nichole Tilma, CMP.

Editor’s note: MSAE thanks Deborah Zannoth for reporting on the Legislative Conference highlights.

12:30 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Registration
Sponsored by MGM Grand

1:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Welcome and Keynote
Debbie Zannoth, Special Consultant/ Balance Concierge
Legislative Conference Task Force

Keynote Presentation
Paul Hillegonds, Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs, DTE Energy

1:30 p.m. – 3:10 p.m.
Rolling Panel Discussions

Panel 1: Michigan’s Economy
Moderator: Chris Holman, Editor, Greater Lansing Business Monthly
Panelists: Patrick Anderson, Principal and CEO, Anderson Economic Group
Jim Epolito, President & CEO, Michigan Economic Development Corporation
Douglas Drake, Director of Health, Human Services, and Philanthropy, Public Policy Associate

Panel 2: An Insightful Review of the Advertising Used in the 2008 Election
Bob Kolt, Owner, Kolt Communications

Panel 3: The Future of Healthcare in Michigan: A Blend of Access and Technology
Valerie Glesnes-Anderson, Executive Director, Capital Area Health Alliance
William Strampel, DO, Dean, Michigan State University-College of Osteopathic Medicine
Richard Murdock, Executive Director, Michigan Association of Health Plans

3:10 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Refreshment Break
Sponsored by The Engineering Society of Detroit

3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. 
The House and Senate Leadership – Agenda for 2009
Listen to the leaders of the Michigan Legislature as they provide insight on the upcoming agenda of the House and Senate.
Facilitator: Tim Skubick, Senior Capitol Correspondent
Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop, R, Rochester
Senate Minority Leader Michael Prusi, D, Ishpeming
Speaker of the House Andy Dillion, D, Redford Township
House Minority Leader Kevin Elsenheimer, R, Kewadin

4:30 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.
New Faces in the House of Representatives
This informative session will familiarize you with the up and coming representatives in the House.
Kyle Melinn, News Editor, Michigan Information & Research Service (MIRS)

5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Legislative Reception
Sponsored by Automation Alley
Invited guests include individuals from the Michigan Congressional Delegation, State Senators, State Representatives, Governor’s staff and State Department Directors.

*schedule as of 1/23/09