Michigan Senate Bill SB0319

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/3/23
• Refer: 5/3/23

Caption

Appropriations: other; appropriation bill process; require legislators to submit to transparency. Amends 1984 PA 431 (MCL 18.1101 - 18.1594) by adding sec. 364.

Impact

The implementation of SB 319 is likely to enhance public accountability in the appropriations process, ensuring that specific funding requests are clearly justified and publicly scrutinized. By establishing a framework for community support and transparency, supporters believe it could prevent misuse of taxpayer funds and foster more responsible fiscal management within the state legislature. This could lead to more informed decision-making by both legislators and constituents, who will have the opportunity to review and provide feedback on the proposed spending items.

Summary

Senate Bill 319 seeks to amend the Michigan management and budget act by introducing new requirements for appropriations bills that include legislatively directed spending items. The bill mandates that a legislator sponsoring such spending must provide a comprehensive written statement detailing the recipient, the purpose of the funding, justification as an appropriate use of taxpayer funds, evidence of community support, and a certificate confirming no financial interest from the sponsoring legislator or their immediate family. These statements must also be made available to the public online for at least 48 hours prior to the bill's passage, promoting transparency in the legislative process.

Contention

Despite the support for increased transparency, there may be concerns among legislators regarding the practical implications of documenting every spending item. Critics argue that the extensive requirements could slow down the legislative process, making it cumbersome to pass necessary funding during critical periods. Additionally, the requirement for a written statement of community support could pose challenges, as it may not always be straightforward to gauge community backing for various projects, especially in densely populated or diverse areas. Thus, while aiming for transparency, the bill may encounter resistance based on potential bureaucratic obstacles and concerns over its impact on prompt legislative action.