This week the Senate move forward with legislation that would amend two of the citizens’ initiatives passed by Michigan’s voters in last month’s general election. “Although they were voted into law by residents on the ballot, the legislature can follow their process to amend the law; needing a majority approval in both chambers and the approval of the Governor,” explained Tony Des Chenes of MLC.

The Senate passed legislation introduced by Senator Phil Pavlov (R-Saint Clair) amending Proposal 2, which creates the Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission. The legislation requires the Secretary of State to create rules and procedures for how residents can apply to be on the commission and how they will be selected to serve. The bill also includes provisions regarding the partisan makeup of the commission with the goal of ensuring those who state they are either Democrats, Republicans, or Independents are in fact affiliated with those parties. Providing false information on an application could result in a $500 fine. The bill has been referred to the House Elections and Ethics Committee for consideration.

The Senate also passed a five-bill package making amendments to Proposal 3. The proposal, as approved by Michigan voters, allows for straight ticket voting, no-reason absentee voting, allows for same day voter registration, and states a resident would automatically be registered to vote when obtaining a driver’s license or personal identification card. This week, the committee reported several changes to the proposal. The first adds a requirement on those registering to vote within a 14-day window prior to an election; they must register in person and provide proof of residency. Additionally, a citizen would be automatically registered to vote when obtaining a driver’s license or personal identification card, but there would be an option to opt-out. The bills have been referred to the House Elections and Ethics Committee for consideration.

During debate on the bills, opponents of the legislation stated the it undermines the will of voters who recently approved the two proposals. However, those in support of the legislation state that legislation is needed in order to implement the proposals.

At the request of Senate Majority Leader Arlan Meekhof (R-West Olive), this week Attorney General Bill Schuette issued an opinion stating the legislature is not barred from amending a citizens’ initiative during the same session for which the initiative was approved by voters.

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