Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

Michigan Senate Bill SB0240

Introduced
4/22/25  
Refer
4/22/25  
Report Pass
4/24/25  
Refer
4/24/25  
Report Pass
4/30/25  
Engrossed
5/6/25  

Caption

Elections: local; term of office start date for township officers; modify. Amends secs. 362 & 370 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.362 & 168.370).

Impact

The modifications proposed in SB 240 are expected to reshape local election practices in Michigan. By altering the start date for township officer terms, the bill intends to streamline the process by which officials assume their responsibilities, addressing potential gaps in governance that may occur during transitions. Additionally, the bill outlines the procedure for filling vacancies, emphasizing appointments by township boards and the timing for special elections, which could influence how local elections are conducted in response to unexpected vacancies.

Summary

Senate Bill 240 introduces amendments to the Michigan election law, specifically targeting the terms of office for township officers. With respect to the existing legislation, the bill stipulates that all township officers, with some exceptions, will have their terms commence at noon on December 1, following their election after 2024. This change aims to standardize the start dates for terms across different township officials, enhancing uniformity in local governance. By clarifying these commencement dates, the bill seeks to mitigate any confusion concerning the timeline for new officers taking office, ensuring a smoother transition between outgoing and incoming officials.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB 240 appears to be supportive among stakeholders who favor clearer regulations and processes in local governance. Advocates argue that the bill's amendments will promote efficiency and clarity in township operations. However, concerns may arise among those wary of reduced flexibility in addressing local governance issues or those who prefer more tailored approaches to election procedures. Public discussions may reflect mixed feelings about the uniformity imposed by the legislation versus the unique needs of different townships.

Contention

While SB 240 aims to establish clear rules regarding township officer terms and vacancies, it has potential areas of contention. Some critics may argue that the specified commencement dates and appointment processes could limit local boards' responsiveness in managing changes within their ranks, especially in small townships where elected positions can be highly variable. There might also be debates regarding the adequacy of the provisions for special elections, particularly in how quickly vacancies can be filled and how this impacts local governance continuity.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MI HB5699

Elections: local; term of office start date for township officers; modify. Amends secs. 362 & 370 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.362 & 168.370).

MI HB5701

Elections: local; term of office for elected officials; modify. Amends secs. 4, 5 & 13, of ch. II & sec. 3, of ch. V of 1895 PA 3 (MCL 62.4 et seq.).

MI SB0385

Elections: election officials; electronically submitting precinct election inspector applications; allow. Amends sec. 677 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.677).

MI SB0573

Elections: other; precinct size; modify. Amends sec. 661 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.661).

MI HB5565

Elections: judicial; incumbency designation for judges; eliminate. Amends secs. 409b, 409l, 424, 424a, 433, 444, 467b, 467c, 467m, 561 & 696 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.409b et seq.) & repeals sec. 435a of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.435a).

MI HB4860

Townships: charter; conflict of interest policy for township officials; require. Amends sec. 7 of 1947 PA 359 (MCL 42.7).

MI SB0374

Elections: other; precinct size; modify, and require candidates for office to file financial disclosure report before assuming office. Amends secs. 658 & 661 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.658 & 168.661) & adds sec. 847a. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0614'23

MI SB0572

Elections: other; precinct size; modify. Amends sec 658 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.658).

MI SB0470

Elections: absent voters; electronic return of absent voter ballots by uniformed services voters; amend start date. Amends sec. 759a of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.759a).

MI HB5700

Elections: local; term of office for elected officials; modify. Amends 1909 PA 279 (MCL 117.1 - 117.38) by adding sec. 3c.

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