Sec. 3.

The preservation of history, culture, and related public education are declared to be public purposes. In fulfillment of these purposes, the department may administer a Michigan historical marker program. After formal consultation with the commission, the department may enter into an agreement to assist with administration of the Michigan historical marker program. Using modern professional practices, the center shall ensure that the Michigan historical marker program meets the following goals:

(a) Identify and locate historic sites, events, objects, subjects, and persons having historic significance to this state.

(b) Educate the public about significant people, places, events, and things in Michigan history and thereby develop the public's knowledge of the importance of Michigan history.

(c) Encourage the public to preserve historic resources and to develop a sense of identity as Michiganders.

(d) Enhance cultural tourism in this state by encouraging residents and visitors to investigate historic resources and this state's heritage sites.

(e) Unite people from various regions of this state through improved dissemination of information about historic resources and this state's heritage and cultural resources.

History: Add. 2002, Act 488, Imd. Eff. June 28, 2002 ;-- Am. 2017, Act 185, Eff. Feb. 19, 2018 Compiler's Notes: For transfer of powers and duties relating to promotion of history and the preservation of the state's historical resources to the department of natural resources, see E.R.O. No. 2009-26, compiled at MCL 399.752.