The Michigan House today approved a bill that would solve an issue brought to Rep. Pat Outman (R-Six Lakes) by a local Christian children’s summer camp located in Gowen, Michigan.

Camp Concordia, established in 1957, is one of just 13 organizations left that was created under an 1889 summer resort incorporation act. According to the camp’s board of directors, the outdated law is quite difficult to comply with in modern times. The group reached out to the representative about the hurdles presented by the antiquated act.

The solution was simple. A commonsense amendment to state law could allow organizations like Camp Concordia to reorganize as a non-profit, alleviating the day-to-day challenges they endure. 

Outman’s House Bill 4977 allows, but does not require, organizations created under the old law to reconfigure their corporate structure and bylaws to conduct business more efficiently.

“I’m pleased to be able to come to this solution that will positively impact Camp Concordia and the children who go there,” Outman said. “This simple alteration to state law will ensure this organization, and others like it, may survive and thrive for years to come.”

The bill received overwhelming bipartisan support and now moves to be considered by the state Senate.