Great Lakes Wire

Before legislators head off for summer break, Common Cause Michigan is urging lawmakers to ensure the full pro-democracy agenda is passed and sent to the governor’s desk. The organization emphasizes that several bills need immediate action before legislators leave to campaign:

- Michigan Voting Rights Act (SB 401-404), which would enact state-level protections for voters of color as the federal Voting Rights Act has been eroded.

- National Popular Vote (HB 4156/4440), which would ensure Michigan’s electoral college votes are awarded to the winner with the most individual voters nationally.

- BRITE Act transparency bills (HB 5583-5586), aimed at ending the lawmaker-to-lobbyist pipeline, tightening disclosure and lobbying laws, among other reforms.

“In recent years, Michigan lawmakers have listened to the people to pass important democracy reforms, but that work is far from being finished. Michigan voters have spoken time and time again that they want our state to be one of the most ethical and transparent governments in the nation with the BRITE Act, that the right to vote is an important freedom we must protect for ALL communities through a Michigan Voting Rights Act, and that they want all voices heard in elections through National Popular Vote,” said Quentin Turner, Common Cause Michigan Executive Director.

“It’s vital the legislature passes these pro-democracy bills into law completely before taking off for summer break to continue Michigan’s ascent into being a national leader in voting and ethics,” Turner added.

Lawmakers will return to finish the legislative session after the 2024 elections.