Elections: presidential primary; presidential primary election date; revise. Amends sec. 613a of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.613a).
Impact
The bill particularly impacts the participation of political parties in presidential primaries. It specifies that a political party which received 5% or less of the total vote cast nationwide for the presidency in the last election will not be permitted to participate in the upcoming presidential primary. This could potentially limit the participation of smaller parties in the electoral process, significantly affecting their visibility and influence in Michigan politics.
Summary
House Bill 4029 seeks to amend section 613a of the Michigan election law concerning the scheduling of statewide presidential primary elections. The proposed changes stipulate that presidential primaries will occur on February 27, 2024, followed by elections on the second and fourth Tuesdays in March of every presidential election year thereafter. This amendment is aimed at establishing clear dates for the presidential primaries in Michigan, ultimately contributing to a more organized electoral process.
Contention
There may be notable contention surrounding this bill, particularly concerning voting rights and the representation of minor political parties. Critics may argue that restricting participation based on previous voting percentages could marginalize smaller parties further, limiting voters' choices in the primary elections. Proponents may counter that this measure is necessary to streamline the primary process and focus electoral attention on larger, more viable candidates.
Elections: school; millage elections; limit to November elections. Amends secs. 312, 641 & 821 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.312 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4583'25
Elections: other; contesting post-certification presidential election results; provide for. Amends sec. 13 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.13) & adds sec. 845a.
Urges Congress to enact "Presidential Security Resources Reimbursement Act of 2024" to reimburse State and local units for public safety expenses incurred during major presidential and vice presidential candidates' visits.