Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

Michigan Senate Bill SB0604

Introduced
10/24/23  
Refer
10/24/23  
Report Pass
3/21/24  
Refer
3/21/24  
Report Pass
4/18/24  
Engrossed
4/30/24  
Refer
4/30/24  
Report Pass
5/21/24  
Enrolled
6/18/24  
Chaptered
7/30/24  

Caption

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for certain Michigan election law violations dealing with recounts; modify. Amends sec. 11d, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.11d). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0603'23

Impact

By establishing enhanced penalties for certain election-related misdemeanors, SB 604 seeks to deter misconduct and promote compliance with election laws. The bill's provisions touch upon a wide range of election offenses, including false statements, ballot tampering, and voter intimidation, thereby creating a stricter legal framework surrounding electoral processes. The inclusion of specific felonies and their corresponding penalties outlines a definitive approach by the state legislature to fortify the electoral system against potential manipulations.

Summary

Senate Bill 604 aims to amend existing criminal procedure laws in Michigan by specifically modifying the sentencing guidelines related to various election law violations. The modifications are expected to impact laws regarding the conduct associated with elections, focusing on offenses that undermine public trust, like voting fraud and ballot tampering. This bill is tied to Senate Bill 603, indicating that its provisions are part of a broader legislative effort to address election integrity and accountability.

Sentiment

The reception of SB 604 has been mixed among legislators and stakeholders. Supporters argue that increasing penalties for election law violations sends a strong message regarding the importance of maintaining election integrity and protecting the democratic process. Conversely, critics argue that such measures may discourage voter participation and are seen as an overreach that may disproportionately affect certain demographics. The debate surrounding the bill reflects broader concerns about voting rights and access versus the need for stringent oversight to uphold democratic standards.

Contention

Notable points of contention include discussions on whether the increased severity of punishments aligns with the proportionality of offenses. Critics have voiced concerns that tightening the sentencing guidelines may lead to excessive punishment for minor infractions, disproportionately affecting individuals who may unintentionally violate electoral laws. Additionally, the potential chilling effect of these amendments on voter engagement points to deeper implications regarding the balance between ensuring election integrity and facilitating access to voting.

Companion Bills

MI SB0603

Same As Elections: recounts; recount process and recount filing fees; modify, modify the ballot canvassing deadlines under certain circumstances and require an expedited ballot canvass under certain circumstances. Amends secs. 2, 822, 825, 827, 828, 842, 861, 862, 863, 865, 866, 867, 868, 869, 870, 871, 872, 873, 874, 875, 876, 878, 879, 880, 880a, 881, 882, 883, 884, 887, 888, 889, 890 & 892 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.2 et seq.); adds secs. 861a & 883a & repeals secs. 871a, 877, 885, 886 & 891 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.871a et seq.).

Previously Filed As

MI HB4696

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for certain Michigan election law violations; provide for and update. Amends sec. 11d, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.11d). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0367'23, SB 0370'23

MI SB0505

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for certain Michigan election law violations dealing with intimidating an election official; provide for. Amends sec. 11d, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.11d).

MI SB0371

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for certain Michigan election law violations; update references. Amends sec. 11d, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.11d). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0367'23, SB 0370'23

MI SB0368

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for certain early voting violations under the Michigan election law; provide for. Amends sec. 11d, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.11d). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0367'23

MI SB0386

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for certain Michigan election law violations; update references. Amends sec. 11d, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.11d). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0387'23

MI HB4130

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for certain Michigan election law violations dealing with intimidating an election official; provide for. Amends sec. 11d, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.11d). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4129'23

MI HB4701

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for certain Michigan election law violations; update references. Amends sec. 11d, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.11d). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4700'23

MI HB4755

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for certain Michigan election law violations; update references. Amends sec. 11d, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.11d). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4756'23

MI HB6054

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for certain early voting violations under the Michigan election law; update references. Amends sec. 11d, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.11d). TIE BAR WITH: HB 6055'24

MI HB4726

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for certain Michigan election law violations dealing with absent voter ballot applications; provide for. Amends sec. 11d, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.11d). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4725'23

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