I usually use this column to talk about legislation I am working on and other serious topics related to the state budget crisis and Michigan’s economy, but I thought this week it would be fun to share some of the more amusing, interesting and silly things going on at the capitol.

Outdated laws repealed
Periodically, lawmakers vote to remove old laws that are still on the books even though they are no longer needed because they are obsolete or covered by other areas of law.

This week, the House is slated to repeal the law making it a crime to “take a woman and compel her to marry” since this is already considered kidnapping.  Lawmakers are also supposed to repeal the law that outlaws dueling, since the courts have decided dueling counts as murder or attempted murder and is therefore already a crime.  Even still, I’d watch out for Aaron Burr.

Bill redefines Indiana/ Michigan border

If you ever saw the “West Wing” episode where it turns out Donna may have actually been a Canadian citizen because the border moved, you’ll enjoy this:

Lawmakers are working on remonumentation legislation to redefine the Indiana/ Michigan border since the original monuments were made of wood and have since deteriorated or been lost altogether.  The legislation is needed so the state can make sure crimes are prosecuted in the proper jurisdiction and taxes are paid to the proper state.
Feral swine bill passes House

When a freshman lawmaker’s first bill is passed, it is a tradition in the House that the lawmaker must purchase a small gift for the others.  To celebrate the passage of my feral swine legislation, I bought cookies shaped like a pig with pink frosting and a target on them from the Fernwood Cafe in Niles, and a bottle of wine from the Tabor Hill Winery and Restaurant in Buchanan.

I look forward to hearing your comments on these important issues.  Please feel free to contact me by calling (888) 373-0078 or e-mailing sharontyler@house.mi. gov.