Michigan House Bill HR0089

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/6/25
• Refer: 5/6/25

Caption

A resolution to affirm the constitutional right of the people of Michigan to propose amendments to the Michigan Constitution and to approve or reject those amendments, including constitutional amendments that impact federal elections, such as Proposal 3 of 2018 and Proposal 2 of 2022.

Impact

If passed, this resolution serves to reaffirm the state constitution's provisions which empower residents to amend laws regarding the electoral process. It aims to protect the achievements made in recent years towards making voting more accessible and fair. By emphasizing the constitutional right to direct democracy, it seeks to deter any legislative attempts to undermine these rights through judicial or executive measures, particularly in light of recent controversies regarding the integrity of federal election processes.

Summary

HR0089 is a resolution proposed in the Michigan House of Representatives to affirm the right of Michiganders to propose and approve amendments to the Michigan Constitution, specifically in relation to federal elections. It highlights the mechanisms established in the Michigan Constitution that allow voters to active participation in governance through direct democracy. The resolution underscores the importance of maintaining the constitutional rights already affirmed by the voters through proposals like 2018's Proposal 3 and 2022's Proposal 2, both of which made significant changes to Michigan's voting framework.

Contention

The resolution arises amidst increasing pressure from various legislators and federal initiatives that threaten to dismantle voter-approved reforms. Notably, there are ongoing legal challenges, such as the Lindsey v. Whitmer case, which attempts to invalidate voter-approved amendments asserting that only state legislatures can regulate federal election processes. This potential shift towards constraining voter rights is met with considerable opposition, concerned that it could lead to increased barriers for voter registration and participation, particularly among marginalized groups who may face challenges in obtaining required documentation.