2017 House Bill 5012 / 2018 Public Act 128

Revise election recount detail

Introduced in the House

Sept. 26, 2017

Introduced by Rep. Jim Lilly (R-89)

To make more rigorous the definition of “aggrieved candidate” in the law that authorizes recounts of elections where the vote margin isn't close. The bill reflects court rulings after the 2016 Green Party presidential candidate (reportedly with the assistance of Democratic Party operatives) orchestrated a statewide recount, even though this candidate received less than 2 percent of the Michigan vote.

Referred to the Committee on Elections and Ethics

Oct. 26, 2017

Reported without amendment

Without amendment and with the recommendation that the bill pass.

Nov. 1, 2017

Passed in the House 98 to 10 (details)

Received in the Senate

Nov. 7, 2017

Referred to the Committee on Elections and Government Reform

Feb. 27, 2018

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the bill pass.

April 18, 2018

Passed in the Senate 27 to 8 (details)

To make more rigorous the definition of “aggrieved candidate” in the law that authorizes recounts of elections where the vote margin isn't close. The bill reflects court rulings after the 2016 Green Party presidential candidate (reportedly with the assistance of Democratic Party operatives) orchestrated a statewide recount, even though this candidate received less than 2 percent of the Michigan vote.

Signed by Gov. Rick Snyder

May 2, 2018