Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

Michigan Senate Bill SJRH

Introduced
11/1/23  

Caption

Legislature: sessions; part-time legislature; provide for. Amends sec. 13, art. IV of the state constitution.

Impact

The proposed changes are expected to significantly alter the way the Michigan legislature operates. By capping the session length, the bill seeks to minimize prolonged legislative sessions that often lead to last-minute decision-making and rushed legislative processes. This could promote a more organized and focused approach to lawmaking and ensure that lawmakers prioritize their agenda more effectively within the limited time frame. Moreover, the proposal includes a provision to carry over any pending business or bills from odd-numbered year sessions to the next regular session, ensuring that critical legislative work is not abruptly halted due to time constraints.

Summary

Senate Joint Resolution H proposes an amendment to the Michigan State Constitution, specifically targeting Section 13 of Article IV. The resolution aims to limit the duration of legislative sessions to a maximum of 90 consecutive days starting in the year 2025. It establishes that the legislature will convene at noon on the second Wednesday of January each year and will adjourn without a set date on a day designated by concurrent resolution. This amendment reflects a shift towards a more structured legislative calendar, aiming for efficiency in the legislative process.

Contention

The amendment, however, is not without its opponents. Critics may argue that limiting the legislative session could hinder the legislature's ability to respond swiftly to urgent issues or crises that arise unexpectedly throughout the year. By restricting the time for deliberation, this amendment could lead to situations where important legislative matters are either neglected or inadequately addressed, potentially affecting the functioning of state government. Moreover, it raises questions about the balance of power and the legislature's capacity to serve constituents effectively under a more rigid framework.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MI HJRH

Legislature: sessions; part-time legislature; provide for. Amends sec. 13, art. IV of the state constitution.

MI HJRI

Legislature: sessions; part-time legislature; provide for. Amends sec. 13, art. IV of the state constitution.

MI HJRK

Legislature: sessions; part-time legislature; provide for. Amends sec. 13, art. IV of the state constitution.

MI SJRA

Legislature: sessions; part-time legislature; provide for. Amends sec. 13, art. IV of the state constitution.

MI HJRD

Legislature: sessions; part-time legislature; provide for. Amends sec. 13, art. IV of the state constitution.

MI HJRJ

Legislature: legislators; salary for legislators; reduce after sine die. Amends sec. 12, art. IV of the state constitution.

MI HB250

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides that the timing and duration of regular sessions of the legislature may be set by joint rule of the legislature (OR +$1,288,800 GF EX See Note)

MI HJRA

Legislature: legislators; requirements for bill passage; modify. Amends sec. 26, art. IV of the state constitution.

MI HJRQ

Legislature: legislators; requirements for bill passage; modify. Amends sec. 26, art. IV of the state constitution.

MI SJRB

Legislature: other; legislative approval for rules created by state departments; require. Amends sec. 37, art. IV of the state constitution.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.