Michigan House Bill HB4777

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/15/23
• Refer: 6/15/23

Caption

Agriculture: associations and commissions; certain references in the potato industry commission; make gender neutral. Amends sec. 8 of 1970 PA 29 (MCL 290.428). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'23

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 4777 are designed to enhance governance over the potato industry in Michigan by making the assessment processes more democratic and transparent. The bill mandates referenda when a significant number of shippers or growers either petition for termination of assessments or seek to adopt an increase. This approach reflects an understanding that those directly involved in the industry are best positioned to make decisions affecting their economic interests, promoting greater accountability within the potato commission.

Summary

House Bill 4777 seeks to amend the existing Michigan statute governing the potato industry, originally established by PA 29 of 1970. This amendment focuses primarily on updating the provisions related to the potato commission and its associated assessment processes, particularly in regard to managing shippers and growers. A key feature of this bill is its outline for conducting referenda among stakeholders to either establish new assessments or terminate existing ones, ensuring that industry participants have a direct voice in these financial matters.

Contention

While HB 4777 is largely administrative in its updates, potential points of contention could arise around the thresholds needed to initiate referenda. The bill stipulates that 33.3% of shippers can petition for assessment termination, while 25% of growers can petition for an assessment increase. This division could lead to debates regarding representation and the influence of larger agribusiness entities versus smaller growers, impacting the sense of equity within the industry. Additionally, the requirement for a tie-in with concurrent constitutional amendments adds an extra layer of complexity that may provoke discussions on legislative timing and prioritization.