Great Lakes Wire

LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson appeared before the House Ethics and Oversight Committee to endorse the Bringing Reforms in Integrity, Transparency and Ethics (BRITE) Act. The Act aims to enhance disclosure requirements for political funds, limit the movement of legislators transitioning to lobbyists, and broaden gift disclosures for elected officials.

During the hearing, Nessel emphasized the importance of closing loopholes in campaign finance laws to prevent undisclosed political influence. She warned against the detrimental effects of "dark money" on the integrity of elected officials and called for increased transparency in Michigan politics. Nessel highlighted the BRITE Act as a crucial initial step towards rebuilding public trust in the state's political landscape.

Nessel, known for her advocacy for government ethics and transparency, criticized the current statutes governing political funds and donor disclosures in Michigan. She stressed the necessity of establishing a transparent and accountable system to eliminate corruption and uphold ethical standards in government.

The legislative package, which includes House Bills 5580, 5581, 5582, 5583, 5584, 5585, and 5586, was discussed during the committee meeting. Nessel specifically addressed HBs 5583 and 5586, urging the lawmakers to implement essential safeguards to restore faith in the political process. She urged the committee members, now under a Democratic majority, to seize the opportunity to rectify the flaws in the system and prioritize the interests of Michigan citizens.

In a powerful plea to the legislators, Nessel stated, "None of you here in elected office now created this unseemly state of affairs... you now have the chance to repair it. I ask that you not squander this opportunity to do what’s right for Michigan."

The video of Attorney General Nessel's testimony is available for viewing online.