The late State Representative Russell "Rusty" Hellman of Dollar Bay used to make fun of the tendency in Lansing to belittle or exclude the Upper Peninsula. He wore a copper tie-clip depicting the Upper Peninsula with a small mitten dangling from St. Ignace. Many constituents still own one. It has taken a new state law to ensure that the Upper Peninsula is included in any illustration, image, or depiction of Michigan produced by state departments and agencies. The bill was introduced by Representative Michael Lahti of Hancock and signed into law Thursday, November 19, by Governor Jennifer Granholm. The law takes immediate effect, although items already printed with just lower Michigan can be used until the current supply is exhausted.

The bill reportedly was sparked by a series of advertisements that promoted business and economic opportunities in Michigan and included a diagram of the Lower Peninsula, but omitted the Upper Peninsula.

Now, state law requires all state and agency publications, including forms, brochures, maps, pamphlets, and commemorative items, to include both peninsulas.

"Publications sometimes leave off the Upper Peninsula in depiction of Michigan for the sake of convenience or target markets," wrote Patrick Affholter, a legislative analyst who reviewed the bill. "Depiction produced by the state, though, should get it right by including both peninsulas, especially in the case of efforts to promote business and travel opportunities in Michigan, such as the popular 'Upper Hand' and 'Pure Michigan' advertising campaigns."

"As someone who represents constituents in both peninsulas, this legislation really hit home," said Senator Jason Allen. "The Upper Peninsula is often overlooked and such omissions are unacceptable."

Representative Gary McDowell of Rudyard is among legislative sponsors of the bill.

The bill passed the House 106 to 0, and the Senate by 33 to 0 vote with three senators excused and one not voting.