Title
Resolution Opposing the Secure MI Vote Petition and Any Other Efforts Aimed at Restricting Voter Access and Voter Rights
Memorandum
The Secure MI Vote initiative essentially aims to use a portion of the Michigan Constitution to enact initiated legislation, without voter approval at an election. This is allowed under Article II, Section 9 of the Michigan Constitution. Under these provisions, registered voters sign a petition requesting a ballot proposal, but the proposal can simply be approved by the Legislature, in lieu of a vote of the people. Legislation passed in this manner is not subject to veto by the Governor. This would allow less than 400,000 voters to approve an initiative that may not be supported by a majority of Michigan voters.
The Secure MI Vote initiative consists of many of the most restrictive portions of a 39-bill election reform package introduced earlier this year in the Legislature. The Michigan Association of Municipal Clerks Board of Directors voted to oppose many of these bills because of the undue burden placed on both voters and election officials in carrying out their duties. A survey of the MAMC membership showed that an overwhelming majority of clerks oppose this petition.
MAMC is currently working on a campaign to educate the public regarding the petition and the fact that signing it simply to "let the voters decide" or to "get it on the ballot" may actually result in helping to initiate laws with a very small minority of voters weighing in.
Approval of this resolution by City Council is requested to further inform Ann Arbor voters about the impacts of signing the petition and the restrictions on voter rights as a result of it becoming law.
Staff
Prepared by: Jacqueline Beaudry, City Clerk
Reviewed by: John Fournier, Assistant City Administrator
Sponsored by: Council Policy Agenda Committee
Body
Whereas, The citizens of Michigan deserve to have their voices heard at the ballot box;
Whereas, State constitutio...
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