Michigan House Bill HB4751

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/14/23
• Refer: 6/14/23

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 HB 4751 would have a significant impact on the appropriations process within the Michigan legislature. It would necessitate greater accountability from legislators proposing spending items, as they would be required to publicly disclose the purpose and need for funding, as well as confirm no personal financial interest in the matter. This step is expected to foster a more transparent legislative environment. Additionally, the requirement for community support may strengthen the relationship between lawmakers and their constituents, as community needs and opinions would be formally recognized in the allocation of funds.

Summary

House Bill 4751 seeks to amend the Management and Budget Act by introducing stricter regulations on appropriations that contain legislatively directed spending items. The bill stipulates that no such spending item can be passed by the House of Representatives or its committees unless specific requirements are met. These include sponsorship by a legislator, submission of a detailed written statement to the appropriate committees and councils, and ensuring community support for the proposed spending. This initiative aims to enhance transparency in the appropriations process and ensure that taxpayer funds are used responsibly.

Contention

However, the bill may also give rise to contention regarding the definitions of 'community support' and the additional bureaucratic layers introduced into the spending approval process. Critics might argue that the requirements could slow down the appropriations process, potentially stifling urgent funding needs. Furthermore, the clarity of what constitutes sufficient community backing may lead to disagreements among legislators regarding the appropriateness of funding proposals, leading to significant legislative debates and potential pushback on individual appropriations that do not clear the new threshold.