Whereas, Life insurance is an essential part of a sound financial plan; and,

Whereas, Life insurance provides financial security for families in the event of a premature death by helping surviving family members meet immediate and long-term financial obligations and objectives; and,

Whereas, Nearly 50 million Americans say they lack life insurance coverage needed to ensure a secure financial future for their loved ones; and,

Whereas, Recent studies have found that when a premature death occurs, insufficient life insurance coverage on the part of the insured results in three-fourths of surviving family members' having to take drastic measures to make ends meet, such as working two jobs or longer hours, borrowing money, and drawing down savings and investment accounts, and, in many cases, being forced to move to smaller, less expensive housing because of financial constraints; and,

Whereas, Individuals, families and businesses can benefit greatly from professional insurance and financial planning advice, including the assessment of their life insurance needs; and,

Whereas, The Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education, the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, and a coalition representing hundreds of leading life insurance companies and organizations have designated September 2007 as "Life Insurance Awareness Month," with a goal to make consumers more aware of their life insurance needs, seek professional advice, and take the actions necessary to achieve the financial security of their loved ones; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim September 2007, as Life Insurance Awareness Month in Michigan.