House advances bill to transfer vacant Standish prison for local reuse

The Michigan House passed House Bill 4011 on Wednesday to authorize the Department of Technology, Management and Budget to convey or transfer state‑owned property in Arenac County that includes the formerly operated Standish prison.

Representative Hoadley, the bill's sponsor, described the site and argued for repurposing the vacant facility. "For 19 years, Standish housed long term incarcerated prisoners...Since October 2009, the prison has been deserted," Hoadley said, framing the measure as an opportunity to reuse state property for community benefit amid needs for mental‑health and housing resources.

Floor amendments were offered and adopted during consideration. Representative Bolin offered a series of amendments identified as amendment number 1; the amendment was adopted. A later amendment (identified as amendment number 2) offered by Representative Dievendorf did not receive support.

After debate, the bill passed by recorded vote. The clerk announced a tally of 62 ayes and 47 nays, and the House ordered immediate effect.

The bill's passage authorizes conveyance subject to the terms set out in the enacted language; local governments and potential purchasers would need to follow conveyance procedures administered by the Department of Technology, Management and Budget.

Representative Hoadley urged colleagues to "transfer this property and give opportunity to make the old new again," noting the potential to address state needs for mental‑health resources and housing.

The House record shows recorded support during the vote and adoption of at least one amendment prior to final passage.